Flame de la Liberté

This was a moment steeped in history and symbolism. The Eternal Flame, carried by hand-selected French students, represented a living link between generations and nations. The event itself — held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier — was attended by high-ranking U.S. military personnel, French officials, and other dignitaries. And while the message was clear, the production conditions were anything but simple.

With minimal pre-production and a tight turnaround, we were tasked with creating a compelling short-form video that captured the gravity of the ceremony. Coordination involved multiple stakeholders: the State Department, Arlington National Cemetery, the French Embassy, and the civic organizations behind the flame’s journey. We were operating in a highly choreographed environment — one where you can’t interrupt, re-stage, or miss a moment.

Our approach was grounded in sensitivity and speed. We moved lightly through the crowd, anticipating key beats, capturing emotional moments, and leaning into visual storytelling — from slow-motion footage of the flame’s arrival to sweeping shots of the amphitheater under clear skies. Interviews were limited, but our fluency in both French and English allowed us to work fluidly with participants and speakers, ensuring we captured essential soundbites and remarks as potential narrative anchors in the edit.

The final piece was delivered as an Instagram Reel within hours of the event — a same-day turnaround designed to align with the D-Day anniversary. Though short, the video conveyed the full emotional arc of the ceremony: reverence, remembrance, and the power of international friendship.

Stakeholders at the State Department praised the piece for its elegance and emotional clarity. Partners at the French Embassy responded warmly, recognizing the video as a respectful tribute that underscored the shared values between the U.S. and France. While the event was intimate and tightly orchestrated, the video extended its reach — allowing others to witness a powerful act of remembrance that spanned continents.