Behind the Documentary: Rich With Love | Taylor Brown 31 LLC
In a world flooded with quick clips and social content, documentary filmmaking still holds a unique power — it preserves truth, emotion, and purpose. As a professional videographer based in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, I’ve always believed that every project should do more than just capture footage; it should capture meaning. That belief guided my work on “Rich With Love”, a documentary produced in partnership with the Social Justice Alliance — a collaboration between Bowie State University and the University of Maryland — and the 2nd Lt. Richard Collins III Foundation.
This film was created to honor the life and legacy of 1st Lt. Richard W. Collins III, a Bowie State graduate whose story continues to inspire reflection, unity, and progress.
The Vision Behind the Documentary
When I began pre-production, my goal was simple: to create something authentic. I wanted every frame to feel honest — not overly staged or dramatic, but real. The Collins family and the Social Justice Alliance shared that vision. They wanted a piece that could educate students, inspire communities, and continue conversations about leadership and justice.
That’s what filmmaking is about: impact that lasts beyond the screen.
How We Brought the Story to Life
From the beginning, my approach was rooted in storytelling and preparation. We spent time gathering archival photos, interview footage, and b-roll from both universities, combining past and present visuals to create a seamless timeline. My team and I filmed multi-camera interviews, incorporated drone footage for cinematic perspective, and used natural lighting where possible to preserve emotional tone.
Some of the equipment we used included:
- Sony a7 III and Sony a7S III cameras for rich color and clarity
- RØDE wireless microphones to capture clean dialogue
- Ronin gimbal for fluid motion shots
- Portable lighting kits for soft, balanced illumination
Every detail mattered — from the grip setup to the editing workflow. The result was a film that not only told a story but felt like one.
Editing With Purpose
Post-production is where the heart of a documentary comes together. I layered the visuals with ambient music, natural sound, and subtle transitions to maintain flow and emotion. The edit wasn’t just about pacing — it was about tone. Each sequence was designed to pull the viewer deeper into the story while respecting the family’s voice and message.
This is where the difference between casual video editing and professional videography becomes clear. When a story carries emotional weight, every second of timing, color, and audio balance makes an impact.
Why This Project Matters
“Rich With Love” is more than a documentary — it’s a reminder of what storytelling can do when handled with care. It shows how cinematography can drive change, start conversations, and connect people across generations.
For me, this project reaffirmed why I do what I do: using my camera to give meaning to moments that matter. Whether it’s a family legacy piece, a university collaboration, or a brand story, professional videography helps preserve purpose in a way that words alone cannot.
Serving Upper Marlboro & the DMV
I work with families, brands, and organizations across Upper Marlboro, Bowie, and the DMV area to produce cinematic content that blends heart and professionalism. From event coverage and family documentaries to corporate storytelling, every project I take on is built with that same level of intention and care.
If your story deserves to be told on film, I’d love to help bring it to life.