Varsity Trip
Client
Varsity Trip
Services
Photo & Video Production
Year
2023
This was an off-piste project for us. But our love for the outdoors and skiing meant we couldn’t resist a trip to Tignes with Varsity Trip in December 2023.
Varsity Trip, the annual ski and snowboard event for Oxbridge students, brings 3,000 snowsport enthusiasts to the Alps each year. It is not your typical ski trip; it offers renowned festival-style parties and on the mountain après-ski. With over 100 years of history and a lineup of internationally acclaimed acts, Varsity Trip stands as an iconic winter trip that you would not want to miss out on.
As passionate skiers who have done multiple seasons, we also recognise the importance of sustainability in skiing to preserve the sport and environment for future generations. Please check out Protect Our Winters to see what you can do to minimise your impact ❄️.
Brief
01
Dynamic Storytelling
Varsity Trip reached out to Floom seeking an engaging storytelling journey through the lens of film and photography.
02
Capturing Varsity Thrills
The mission was to encapsulate the event’s exhilarating energy, moving beyond the typical ski trip documentation.
03
Strategy Change
Varsity Trip aimed to redefine its video strategy, incorporating a narrative that would resonate with participants and convey the vibrant spirit of the trip.
Approach
01
Evoking Emotion Through Storytelling
We aimed to transform Varsity Trip's video approach, moving away from documenting the trip to crafting a narrative that captivated Oxbridge students. The Yeti was born: a mystical and lively figure that quickly became a cherished icon among trip-goers.
02
Capturing Every Thrill, Every Laugh
We committed to showcasing the full range of events Varsity Trip has to offer, from festival-style parties to on-the-mountain après-ski. The lens wasn't confined to scripted moments; we skillfully captured the spontaneity, laughter, and genuine camaraderie that defines the uniqueness of Varsity Trip. Through a combination of planned shoots and candid captures, we portrayed the event's vibrant pulse and energy.
03
Setting the Stage
The 'Welcome Video' was more than an introduction; it built anticipation for the upcoming week of excitement. This welcoming teaser became a crucial part of our first seven days in Tignes.
Challenges
01
Battling the Elements
Filming in -19 degrees is a lot harder than we imagined. Subzero temperatures demanded complex logistics, durable equipment and expert handling of low-light conditions.
02
Filming on the Slopes
Capturing thrilling action whilst skiing on the slopes of Tinges required dynamic on-the-move filming, close-up shots, and aerial perspectives. Our team's skiing ability through multiple on-going ski seasons helped here. Skiing backwards and getting the right shot was something that had to be done but it tested our skiing ability with holding 5kg+ of camera equipment.
03
Capturing the Festivities
Filming Varsity Trips festival-style parties required navigating dense crowds, adjusting to varying lighting conditions, and managing logistics with multiple venues all resulting in capturing the event's vibrant essence.
Results
01
Yeti’s Cinematic Success
Meticulous planning and on-the-ground coverage produced a cinematic experience that celebrated the historic Varsity Trip. The Yeti embodied the adventurous spirit of the event and its participants. The audience was captivated by the visual representation of the trip's energy and camaraderie.
02
Brand Awareness 40K + Views
The final video gained immense attention, amassing over 40,000 views on social media. This widespread attention amplified Varsity Trip's reach and cemented its appeal to a broad audience. Our strategic storytelling and dynamic coverage played a pivotal role in achieving this huge milestone, showcasing the power of visual storytelling in connecting with diverse audiences.
03
Beyond the Slopes
Our coverage went beyond capturing moments; it showcased a new light on the trip in a new location for the first time in 10 years. The real-time engagement and posting on Varsity’s social media channels solidified the event's presence and ensured the trip's videos and brand were at the forefront of people's minds, which Varsity will use to attract more people to the 2024 trip.
Conclusion
With our team leading the project, Varsity Trip showcased its vibrant ski and snowboard event as the largest uni ski trip in the world to a wider audience. Stunning visuals and engaging videos highlighted the trips excitement, inclusivity, and winter sports excellence. This approach greatly boosted engagement and strengthened the event’s unique identity. It crafted a compelling narrative that makes Varsity Trip a standout in its unique 100 plus years of history.
As the climate crisis worsens and human activity in ski resorts increases, recognising the importance of sustainability in snowsports is becoming increasingly important. Emphasising eco-friendly practices and raising awareness can help preserve these environments for future generations and ensure the sport’s longevity. Protect Our Winters, a climate action charity for the outdoor community, influences policy to protect the places we love. Visit their website to learn how you can minimise your impact on the slopes.
