Furman is often recognized for its vibrant and charming atmosphere, even being named as one of the most beautiful college campuses in the US by Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler. Additionally, we have a diverse student body that represents 45 states and 29 countries, a plethora of student organizations and many opportunities for learning outside the classroom. Nathan Gray and Owen Withycombe, Multimedia Content Creators on the University Communications team, play a significant role in capturing this Furman experience and sharing it with the world.
Withycombe and Gray’s past experiences in media inform their different approaches to content creation. Gray is drawn to a photojournalistic approach, appreciating its basis in reality. His passion for media ignited when he took a black-and-white film class in high school. Originally using a film camera, he didn’t have the chance for touch ups, which helped him focus on the authenticity of moments.
“Using that to portray what’s in front of you is always kind of the draw and the challenge,” Gray said.
This approach is reflected in his photojournalism experience, ranging from “The Progress,” the student newspaper at Eastern Kentucky University, to shooting media for the “Greenville News.”
On the other hand, Withycombe grew his skills during the rise of social media, where heavy editing and exaggeration was a must to “go viral” and receive engagement. He originally started experimenting with a cheap GoPro and iMovie in 2014.
Withycombe worked several jobs in media during college, and after graduating, he worked to capture promotional material for a lake and golf community in Greensboro, Georgia. In a competitive marketing environment where viral sensations drive engagement, Withycombe has mastered this kind of advertisement. However, he emphasizes that while making Furman visually appealing is a priority, the goal is to maintain authenticity.
On a deeper level, both Gray and Withycombe have similar views on the power of visual media. Where words fail, powerful media creations are able to convey the core and spirit of a message. Withycombe emphasizes authenticity in his work, saying, “Its power lies in its blatant truth. It is just what you see.”
Gray adds to this idea from a marketing perspective, mentioning that visual media is an effective way of catching people’s attention. Especially in a world of shortening attention spans, this tool is essential in getting a message across.
“That’s why newspapers have a big image on the front page of their paper,” Gray said. “Headlines are one thing, but people walk by and say ‘What’s on the front page? What’s that picture?’”
While the duo’s job is to provide digital media for Furman’s marketing efforts, this team does much more than that — they add to the sense of community on campus. Whether it be mentoring students interested in media, covering community stories and events or just connecting with people across campus, they are a valuable contribution to campus life.
The unique perspective Withycombe and Gray bring to Furman is more than just photos and footage, it is reflective of the community, spirit and heart of Furman. From big events to every-day spontaneous interactions, they are telling the stories of Furman students to the world.
To see more, check out their Instagram accounts, @o.witty and @nathangrayphoto, and for more Furman-oriented media, check out @fu.photovideo. Also, give a friendly smile and wave if you see them around!
