You might remember back in January when I photographed Deloitte's move to 555 Mission (blog post here) Well today was Deloitte's official Grand Opening at the new space!
And to help celebrate the occasion, in correlation with Deloitte's sponsorship of the US Olympic and Paralympic teams, Apolo Ohno!
He arrived and first met with the managing partners, leadership team and employees of The Arc in a room in Deloitte's office. The sound of a room, with standard height ceilings, so small, my 70-200mm couldn't focus from across the room, sounds like a photographer's worst nightmare.
But with floor to ceiling windows that light up the room and open the space, it was actually a great place to photograph!
Next, everyone went outside to join the rest of the Deloitte employees in the plaza of 555 Mission. Again, normally you would assume this to be industrial, and unappealing from a photographer standpoint. But the plaza is beautiful, full of bright colors, and greenery lines the walls, you wouldn't even know you were in downtown San Francisco. The day and the light was beautiful thanks to a gorgeous fall day in the city!
Apolo Ohno was just great! Gave a great/inspiring speech and helped ring in the new space which reflects the new culture of Deloitte.
Then he stuck around for a Q&A session. Including questions about his mirror-ball trophy winning season on Dancing with The Stars =)
And then signed autographs and took pictures with the employees.
It's funny because as much as I love shooting sports-related events, I enjoy keeping my work well rounded and also enjoy these corporate events. But when my corporate clients can include sports, and I'm outside (albeit planted nature), but also inside, on a wonderful evening in the beautiful bay area, I am just feeling so blessed! =)
