Portrait of a Lesser Brother

Portrait of a Lesser Brother

2024

Scroll to View More

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.
Footer Background

Design by people, for people.

Good design is good communications.

This philosophy is not limited by medium; it is a discipline applied to every touchpoint where your message meets its audience. Whether it is a comprehensive brand identity, a high-stakes campaign, or the internal communications that align your team, the objective remains the same: the removal of friction.

Copyright 2026 Adam Thom © All Rights Reserved.

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