"Reaching Stellar" Film

The Challenge:UIS needed a standout film for their "Reaching Stellar" fundraising campaign. We collaborated with their team to develop a style that was different from typical higher ed fundraising videos. The film had to inspire alumni and other donors by reminding them of the many opportunities found at this small school for students from every walk of life.

Our Approach:We brought the "Reaching Stellar" concept to life through cinematic documentary-style camera work that gave everyday campus moments dramatic weight. Shot with intentional composition, shallow depth of field, and natural light (with a little help when needed), we elevated students in labs, on athletic fields, and in a wide variety of campus activities that showed the depth and breadth of the UIS experience.

Rather than relying on talking heads, we let the visuals do the heavy lifting - close up detail shots of hands in action, hero compositions against campus landmarks, intimate portraits that let each person's true character come through whether they were student, faculty, or alumni.

The naturalistic footage paired with a carefully crafted voiceover to create urgency and purpose, showing not just what happens at UIS, but why it matters.

The Result:A fundraising film that feels more like a short film than a promotional video. By treating students cinematically instead of generically, we helped UIS make the case for giving without using statistics or stock footage. The film became the centerpiece of their "Reaching Stellar" campaign, giving the concept a visual identity that resonated with alumni and donors.