Framing Narratives: SUSS Production Interest Group Showcases Creativity at SAFRA’s Creator of the Year Competition

Date: 15 Mar 2025

News Type:Highlights

School/Department: Office of Student Life

The Production Interest Group (PDIG) has embarked on its first-ever competition, participating in the SAFRA Creator of the Year 2025 competition and representing SUSS. Members were invited to participate in the competition’s Youth Category, which had a variety of themes, and the exclusive thematic shoots, allowing the students to push their creative boundaries in unique environments.  

In the lead-up to the main event on 15 March 2025, PDIG members attended two thematic shoots—Night Riders and K-Pop Grooves—at SAFRA Yishun and Punggol. The Night Riders shoot immersed students in car night photography under striking neon lights, which featured the Audi TT. Sneha shared, “The vehicles were bathed in vibrant neon lights, creating a contrast against the dark surrounding. I was able to appreciate the chance to take my time and perfect my compositions without feeling rushed—something I truly value in photography.” 

Playing around with reflection in the Audi TT at the Night Riders thematic shoot

 

Playing around with reflection in the Audi TT at the Night Riders thematic shoot. (Photo by: Gautier with Canon EOS R8, f/2, 1/40 sec, ISO-1250, 35mm) 

PDIG members at the Night Riders thematic shoot

 

PDIG members at the Night Riders thematic shoot. (Photo by: Sneha) 

Students were also given the chance to experiment with Nikon’s range of gear, including the Nikon Zf. “I got to try out different Nikon camera gear and explore their features, making the whole experience enriching,” said PDIG member Zhi Heng. Sneha also noted, “Compared to my Nikon Z6II, the Zf felt lightweight, vibrant, and packed with unique settings like monochrome mode… I was especially captivated by its sleek metallic body and advanced dials.” 

At the K-Pop Grooves shoot, students explored idol-style photography in vibrant lighting setups. “The dynamic dual neon lighting—pink and blue—created a dramatic effect, making the photos stand out,” said Sneha. “The dancers brought high energy to their performances and were incredibly cooperative, posing for us to capture the perfect shots.” Another member, Issac, shared, “Overall, it was a sensational experience for me to witness professional media crews upfront and also a good networking opportunity for me.” 

Experimenting with dual lighting at the K-Pop Grooves thematic shoot

 

Experimenting with dual lighting at the K-Pop Grooves thematic shoot. (Photo by: Sneha with Nikon Zf, f/1.8, 1/125 sec, ISO-1100, 85mm) 


On competition day at SAFRA Toa Payoh, students were welcomed warmly with thoughtful gift packs. Once the themes—Pulse of the City, The Hidden World, and Local Adventures—were revealed, teams scattered across Toa Payoh to capture both photos and videos in a limited time. “The competition themes were exciting, sparking creativity as we split into teams to explore Toa Payoh,” said Sneha. “It was an engaging and enriching experience, pushing us to think on our feet.” 

Members are seated to hear SAFRA’s welcome message

Members are seated to hear SAFRA’s welcome message. (Photo by: Jermine)  

Photo by SAFRA CCC

(Photo by: SAFRA CCC) 

PDIG members taking shots of one another
PDIG members taking shots of one another (Photo by: Jermine) 

While PDIG did not place in the final standings, students walked away with valuable insights and renewed drive. As Jermine reflected, “It was inspiring to see different perspectives and creative interpretations, which gave me new ideas and motivation to keep improving… I’m excited to keep exploring new ways to tell visual stories.” 

PDIG member Adam immersed in his phototaking
PDIG member Adam immersed in his phototaking (Photo by: Koh Yuan Ting) 

PDIG members on competition day

 

PDIG members on competition day (Photo by: Koh Yuan Ting) 

 

We would like to thank the SAFRA Content Creator Club for hosting this inspiring competition, and we look forward to diving into more competitions that will showcase and grow the skills of PDIG members.