Turning Shoots Into a Vibe — EASL Media Day 2026

Media days have become predictable. Players walk in, suit up, stand in front of a white backdrop, take a few shots — and leave. But predictable doesn’t create impact. For the East Asia Super League, our challenge was deeper. Many Asian players are not used to high-energy, expressive shoots. The environment is often more reserved, making it difficult to capture authentic intensity on camera. If we wanted different results, we had to rethink the entire experience.

EASL Finals Macau 2026 Official Media Day

Most players hate photoshoots... We designed one they actually enjoyed.

THE BIG CHALLENGE

For most players, media day is just another obligation. They walk in, suit up, stand in front of a white backdrop, take a few shots — and leave.

But that process rarely captures real energy. Our challenge was even tougher. Many Asian players are not used to high-energy, expressive shoots. The vibe is often more reserved, more laid back — making it difficult to draw out authentic intensity on camera. If we wanted different results, we had to rethink the entire experience.

BUILDING A HIGH ENERGY ENVIRONMENT

Talking wasn’t going to change the outcome. Energy doesn’t come from instructions — it comes from atmosphere. So we built a set that did the work for us. A fusion of culture, music, and basketball that pushed players to respond. If we couldn’t force the energy, we created a space that made it inevitable.

Creative Direction: Hadrein Damalerio

Photography: Michael Reyes & Gelo Avendano
Videography: Elajah Alcoriza
Lights & Smoke: Darwin Cambe & Ralph Salcedo
Floor Managers: Benn Adorna & MacVincent Villaluna
Coordination: Gabby Herrera-Lim & Tyler Schiff

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