shaun fenn for sap

Tech giant SAP recently hired Shaun Fenn to shoot culturally relevant lifestyle photography for the company’s digital library in Colombia and China.

Shaun’s team photographed some 40 talent during the two-week shoot against a huge range of backdrops, from inside a swimming pool and a commuter train in Colombia, to the top of a skyscraper and the kitchen of a popular restaurant in Shanghai. The goal was to make every image look as though it happened naturally.

The assignment came via art producer Mark Pepin at RAPP, who not only coordinated the effort, but according to Shaun was really instrumental throughout the job.

The team also included local producers who helped with language, logistics, and permitting—the team was shooting in a variety of urban places and needed access to iconic buildings and popular landmarks.

“Working on a global campaign for a company as large as SAP requires consistent imagery which can hold up across multiple platforms. We were focused on embracing different cultural environments while trying to stay true to the brand,” says Shaun. “I think with the help of a strong collaborative team approach we succeeded”

Each country had such a beautiful aesthetic while presenting a fresh set of challenges. Shaun adds, “we were well prepared to maximize our shooting schedule and make sure we exceeded expectations.”

The first phase of this project produced over 100 images. The two sides are currently discussing where to shoot the second phase in the coming year.

A big thank you to Marc for the awesome project.