Capturing Spokane

Behind the Lens at Riverfront Park

Written by Yogi Castor

April 12th, 2025

Creating this travel montage at Riverfront Park in Spokane was anything but straightforward. I went in without a shot list, relying instead on instinct, timing, and whatever the city decided to offer. The park is stunning — a blend of open space, urban energy, and quiet moments — but filming “in the wild” came with its own set of hurdles. Every shot had to be found in real time, every frame earned with patience or quick reflexes. I found myself constantly shifting angles, chasing light, and adjusting to the unpredictable rhythm of public space.

One of the most unexpected challenges was filming wildlife — especially the ducks in the river. The water itself was dark and difficult to work with, often swallowing reflections or dulling contrast. Every time I thought I had the perfect moment, either the lighting shifted, or a ripple ruined the shot. Then came the human factor. People in public spaces have a way of noticing the camera — and once they notice, they either freeze or stare directly into the lens. I lost more than a few great scenes that way, but it taught me a lot about subtlety, presence, and letting the moment unfold naturally.

In the end, the montage became less about perfection and more about process. It’s a glimpse into Spokane through my eyes — shaped by movement, surprise, and occasional awkwardness. I didn’t go out with a plan, but I came back with a piece of the city’s spirit. And as frustrating as it could be to work in such an uncontrolled environment, it reminded me why I love this kind of work: real moments, real light, and the challenge of making something beautiful out of whatever’s right in front of you.