This was a fresh opportunity outside the retainer accounts I’d been working with. Here came my second reel for Pan Pacific. We aimed to highlight the fine dining brunch menu from one of the hotel’s signature restaurants, Hai Tien Lo.
I was responsible for communicating with the client, suggesting content ideas, handling prop logistics, and supervising the shoot. The assigned deadline was demanding, set at a week and a half. Like the previous deliverable, its contents were focused on the client’s products so much of the logistics would be provided by them.
With limited details provided, I had to conduct extensive independent research. I searched through libraries for an appropriate soundtrack while developing the content plan and storyboard. Thus, ensuring the tone and pacing would align with the planned concept.
In anticipation for the volatile nature of a kitchen environment, we prepared for many shots to be readapted. There were camera angles around the stove scenes that needed adjustment. Particularly, the truffle shaving scene needed the prop substitution of a microplane for a more visually captivating shot.
Executive Chef Ricky was an absolute delight to work with. While experimenting with extra shots, he was extremely sporting and proactive in sharing his culinary insights. He was even insistent on feeding our crew the dishes that were already shot.