PPSV Monthly Meeting - The Art of Storytelling - Corey McDonald

• The Art of Storytelling
  with 
  Corey McDonald

  
  Agenda:

  • 6:00-6:30 pm: Networking (with a simple/light dinner provided)
  • 6:30-7:00 pm: New Member Intros/Announcements/Business
  • 7:00-9:30 pm: Speaker

• • Free to PPSV Members
  • $45 Guest Fee for Non-Members

  
  

  Storytelling is what turns an image into an experience — in this immersive presentation, attendees will see firsthand how powerful visual narrative can be.

  This presentation features a curated collection of approximately 30 original artworks, shown in a cinematic, movie-style format. Rather than viewing images in isolation, attendees experience selected recorded image sequences — strategically excerpted to fit the 90-minute format — that demonstrate how layered visuals can evoke emotion, create tension, and guide the viewer through a story.

  By engaging the audience through strong visual stimulation, this presentation helps attendees retain what they see, understand why it works, and apply those principles to their own creative process.

  What Attendees Will Learn & Why It Matters

• Visual Storytelling Through Sequenced Artwork
  See how individual images connect to form a larger narrative that captures attention and keeps viewers emotionally engaged.
• Why Visual Stimulation Improves Learning & Retention
  Understand how storytelling through imagery helps your audience remember your work—and your message.
• Advanced Photoshop Story-Building Techniques
  Learn how landscapes, architecture, elements, and subjects are composited to support a story rather than distract from it.
• Creating Epic Scenes with Purpose
  Discover how to design scenes that feel intentional, immersive, and believable—so every element serves the narrative.
• Translating Inspiration Into Your Own Work
  Walk away with a clearer framework for telling your own stories, not just creating visually impressive images.

• 
  Why This Presentation Resonates

• Cinematic, immersive experience—not a slideshow
• Story-first approach to compositing and digital artistry
• Inspiration paired with practical insight
• Designed to spark new creative direction

Who This Presentation Is For

This presentation is ideal for photographers and digital artists who want to:

• Move beyond single “wow” images and create deeper meaning
• Strengthen emotional connection in their work
• Elevate compositing with intention and narrative
• Develop a clearer artistic voice

By the end of this presentation, attendees won’t just see powerful storytelling — they’ll understand how to build it, shape it, and apply it to their own creative journey.

Speaker Bio:

Corey is an international award-winning photographer and digital artist from the southeast United States. He’s a writer and is the best at grilling and smoking BBQ. When he’s not doing any of the previous, he’s focused on clients. 
Corey’s philosophy is portraits are not just pictures, they’re proof that someone mattered, and they deserve to live where you can see them.  He holds the following PPA credentials: Master Photographer, Master Artist, Photographic Craftsman, and Certified Professional Photographer.  Plus, Accredited Professional of Animal Imagery from Animal Image Maker.