T
he Challenge
Over the past seven years, we’ve watched the City of Bellflower’s event photography evolve from simple documentation to a cornerstone of public communication. With over 75 events covered and more than 10,000 photos delivered, our work now plays a direct role in shaping how the City tells its story. The Tripepi Smith team has provided evolving support to create stronger and more vast imagery to fulfill the growing needs of the City.
Our Approach
As photography coverage with Bellflower has evolved over the years, so have the methods used to plan, manage and execute each shoot. In the early stages of the partnership, the City typically worked with one liaison who coordinated directly with the designated Tripepi Smith photographer. Together, they would establish basic details: date, time, location and subject. For smaller events, like a summer concert, this streamlined approach worked well, providing the photographer enough structure to meet expectations while allowing creative freedom to explore unique imagery.
Over time, however, new ideas emerged across different City departments. What started as casual, smaller shoots gradually expanded into day-long productions involving multiple locations, subjects and visual goals. In response, Tripepi Smith adapted by assigning a project manager to each photoshoot. This role ensured the photographer could remain focused and flexible without interrupting City staff or event operations.
A prime example of this can be highlighted from Bellflower’s BRAVO Awards. For this event, the City provides a detailed timeline to a Tripepi Smith project manager, who then relays essential information—such as keynote speakers, award moments and networking opportunities—to the photographer. This process allows the photographer to work independently and confidently, while still meeting the event’s key visual needs.
One of the key benefits of working with a professional team over time is the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of what matters most to the client. Whether it’s spotlighting community leaders, supporting public safety or promoting sustainability, each city has its own priorities. Getting to know the client is essential. Through its long-standing partnership with the City of Bellflower, Tripepi Smith has gained insight not only into the values of City staff, but also into what resonates with the broader community.
By identifying and emphasizing the City’s most valued themes in its imagery, Tripepi Smith trains photographers and project managers to align with those goals. This supports the company’s “Always Be Learning” philosophy while also building a larger, more adaptable team. With multiple photographers and project managers available, the team can cover concurrent events more effectively, keep photographers focused on their craft and allow project managers to gain experience with various event types.
One example of a smaller but meaningful event style emerged during a period of business growth in Bellflower. For several years, the City’s Economic Development Department worked with Tripepi Smith photographers to document ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new businesses. Despite differences in business type, from large apartment complexes to children’s sports parks, a consistent visual style developed over time: capture the ribbon-cutting moment, highlight the participants’ enjoyment and showcase the City’s latest addition.
Another event type that has evolved is the Summer Streetfest concert series. As the festival has grown—with more artists and larger crowds—so has the photographic approach. What began with on-the-ground crowd shots has expanded to include aerial imagery captured by drones and higher vantage points. Both angles serve a purpose, but together they tell a compelling story: Bellflower knows how to host a vibrant, family-friendly event that brings the community together.
Results
In recent years, Tripepi Smith’s photography has significantly strengthened the City’s social media presence. A substantial photo catalog not only provides content for recapping past events but also helps promote future ones. For the past three years, the Parks and Recreation Department has consistently used two posts to announce and highlight their annual Tree Lighting Ceremony—each post surpassing 250 likes on Instagram and using photos from the event. When new programs need visibility, Tripepi Smith’s photos ensure the City is well-equipped: more than 15 posts have successfully boosted awareness of swim teams, fitness classes and other community offerings. A standout post came in 2024, when a recap for the Movie on the Rooftop event—featuring drone shots of the rooftop venue during a beautiful sunset—garnered over 850 likes. This consistent visual support has allowed the City to build momentum online, turning high-quality imagery into stronger community engagement and lasting digital impact.
