Summary In this conversation, Jerry Vinci interviews Thomas Sanders, a renowned photographer and filmmaker specializing in senior living photography. They discuss the power of storytelling through photography and filmmaking in the senior living industry. Sanders shares his attraction to the industry and how he started by photographing seniors in a living community. They also discuss the evolution of visual storytelling in senior living and the need for more authentic and diverse imagery. Sanders emphasizes the importance of showcasing physical activities and modern lifestyles to appeal to the baby boomer generation. He also shares some unique storytelling moments and projects he has worked on. In this conversation, Tom Sanders discusses the importance of authenticity in photography and filmmaking for senior living communities. He emphasizes the need to accurately represent the community and its residents, avoiding virtue signaling or misrepresentation. Sanders explains how his approach differs based on the type of senior living environment, such as independent living or memory care. He highlights the significance of natural light, showcasing residents near windows to create a more positive and vibrant atmosphere. Sanders also discusses the coordination and pre-production involved in photo shoots, including the importance of resident preparation and attention to detail.

Visit his website https://www.seniorlivingphotography.com/

Photo & Video Credits - All Photos and Videos Property of Tom Sanders Photography

Takeaways

• Photography and filmmaking play a crucial role in marketing senior living communities, as authentic imagery can influence prospective residents' decision-making process.
• The senior living industry needs to catch up in terms of visual storytelling, with more communities incorporating interesting short films and using less stock photos.
• There is a need for more diverse and modern imagery in senior living marketing, showcasing physical activities and hip clothing to appeal to the baby boomer generation.
• Unique storytelling moments and projects in senior living include photographing veterans, centenarians, and individuals with inspiring stories.
• Authentic imagery that features real residents and represents ethnic diversity can create a sense of authenticity and inclusivity for prospective residents.
• Authenticity is crucial in photography and filmmaking for senior living communities to accurately represent the community and its residents.
• Photographing residents near windows and using natural light can create a more positive and vibrant atmosphere.
• Coordination and pre-production are essential in planning photo shoots, including resident preparation and attention to detail.
• Integrating modern technology into marketing efforts should be done while maintaining a personal touch.
• Telling the personal stories of residents and creating short films can enhance senior living marketing and engage potential residents.
• Slowing down and taking the time to capture high-quality, well-framed photos for social media is important. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:34 The Attraction to Senior Living and Working with Veterans 06:55 The Evolution of Visual Storytelling in Senior Living 09:53 The Visual Storytelling Approach for Baby Boomers 14:18 Unique Storytelling Moments and Projects 21:12 The Influence of Authentic Imagery on Decision-Making 24:11 Approach to Capturing Different Senior Living Environments 27:23 The Significance of Storytelling in Senior Living Marketing 28:50 Preparation and Coordination for Photo Shoots 33:50 The Power of Authentic Imagery 34:48 Integrating Modern Technology without Losing the Personal Touch 38:30 Future Trends or Innovations in Senior Living Storytelling 41:33 Creating Authentic Images for Social Media 43:55 How to Connect with Tom Sanders Photography