Newport Beach is known as Surf Town in some circles, so video and photo footage of the surf is almost mandatory. The surf on the West Coast is far different than the water on the East Coast. The water is a darker blue, with rougher swells. The waves seem to leap off of the water and onto my camera — where they look as vivid as they do in person.

As a professional videographer based on the West Coast, sometimes I feel like LA gets sold short. Not because the public doesn’t think it’s a great city. I feel as though LA gets simplified somehow. 

New York City.It’s impossible to say those words without conjuring up dreams of Broadway, fashion, and a thriving ever-changing metropolis. It’s no surprise that NYC is a videographer’s paradise. Everywhere I look, I see opportunities to capture dynamic shots full of vibrant color — shots that seem to sing.

As a professional videographer, I’m always on the hunt for luxury travel video opportunities. But what does “luxury” really mean? I imagine a lot us think of plushy beds, room service, massages, and lobster dinners. 

Miami is a city of contradictions. While it’s home to a ton of upscale shopping, restaurants, and clubs, it also houses a diverse community with a strong work ethic. Overlaying all of it is tropical weather, access to stunning beaches, and a thriving nightlife. Because of its unique population and its incredible location in south Florida, it offers a wide variety of shots for the luxury travel video industry. 

And when it comes to branded luxury video, context is important. We’re bombarded by so many meaningless messages — having a fully-formed message sticks in the viewers’ brain and creates a need for action.

Starting with the Mavic Pro (My Go To for travel) I took up on the “grassy knoll” that sits overlooking the whole area.  I have to say, I liked the birds eye view from there and had a lot of control over directions as well as my return to home.  Lots to see and the Ritz Carlton kinda gives it some shimmer in that area.