MAD Academy & Sympoisum
For the past couple of years, I’ve been documenting the incredible work of MAD photographing their Academy programs and most recently serving as lead photographer for MAD 7, the landmark Symposium that brought together over 700 people from around the world. In the days leading up to the main event, I captured a series of intimate gatherings and special events that built momentum for what became a powerful and inspiring celebration of ideas, community, and change within hospitality and beyond.
As my role at MAD as grown, I’m proud to visually tell the story of their mission through candid moments, energetic crowd scenes, and thoughtful portraits.
Earlier in our collaboration, I also directed and filmed a student experience video for MAD Academy, highlighting a week of immersive learning through classroom sessions, group projects, outdoor excursions, and interviews with both students and guest teachers. The piece reflects the collaborative spirit and dynamic atmosphere that defines the Academy.
Lisa Abend-MAD Communications Director & Award-Winning Journalist
“Emily has worked with MAD for a couple of years now, shooting everything from intimate portraits of our students and faculty to lively images that beautifully capture the convivial feel of our public events. Her photos are expressive, luminous, and energetic; even in difficult surroundings (like the insides of a very tiny, very crowded kitchen!) she somehow manages to bring out the inner light in everyone and everything she shoots. She’s also a dream to work with, not only because she is reliable and hard-working, but because she brings deep creativity and a never-ending flow of great ideas to every job.
