Portrait of a Lesser Brother

Portrait of a Lesser Brother

2024

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Portrait of a Lesser Brother

Client: Ordinary Times / Holy Spirit Province—Saint Espirit Franciscans of Canada

A short documentary about the life of the lesser brothers of Saint Francis of Assisi in the 21st century, told through the lens of a 95 year old friar, Fr. Robert (Bob) Mitchell.

A documentary-style portrait of an elderly gentleman with glasses and a warm smile, wearing a textured dark sweater and a carved wooden cross necklace. Slatted natural light casts intentional shadows across his face and torso. In this case study, this portrait exemplifies human-centered visual storytelling, using genuine expression and intimate lighting to communicate warmth, personal history, and the profound dignity of ordinary people.
A documentary-style portrait of an elderly gentleman with glasses and a warm smile, wearing a textured dark sweater and a carved wooden cross necklace. Slatted natural light casts intentional shadows across his face and torso. In this case study, this portrait exemplifies human-centered visual storytelling, using genuine expression and intimate lighting to communicate warmth, personal history, and the profound dignity of ordinary people.
A close-up, black-and-white documentary photograph focusing on the weathered hands of an elderly person seated in a chair, quietly holding a beaded rosary in their lap. In the context of this case study, this image acts as a study in visual literacy, using the contrast of light and texture to communicate a profound narrative of stillness, faith, and lived experience without a single word.
A close-up, black-and-white profile portrait of an elderly gentleman with glasses, captured in a moment of quiet contemplation. The soft, directional lighting highlights the textures of his face and the subtle drape of his dark sweater. Within this case study, this portrait exemplifies human-centered visual storytelling, using natural light and an unposed, authentic profile to communicate profound dignity, wisdom, and lived experience.
A close-up, black-and-white profile portrait of an elderly gentleman with glasses, captured in a moment of quiet contemplation. The soft, directional lighting highlights the textures of his face and the subtle drape of his dark sweater. Within this case study, this portrait exemplifies human-centered visual storytelling, using natural light and an unposed, authentic profile to communicate profound dignity, wisdom, and lived experience.

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Copyright 2026 Adam Thom © All Rights Reserved.

Adam Thom is a creative director living in
Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, working globally.