SouthState Bank
Entering the Tampa Market with Impact
Case Study:
The video Big Wave Productions produced for SouthState Bank’s Tampa transition and new regional headquarters.
The Challenge
SouthState Bank has been rapidly expanding into new markets across the U.S. When they entered Tampa, Florida, they wanted more than just a new office—they wanted to make a statement. Their new regional headquarters in Rivergate Tower was a major milestone, symbolizing their commitment to the region and to the communities they serve.
SouthState needed to tell this story — the transition, the growth, and the significance of this moment — in a way that connected with employees, customers, and community leaders. They sought a production partner who could combine cinematic visuals with compelling storytelling to capture this transformation.
A photo documenting SouthState’s sign installation in Atlanta, as part of their transition in Georgia. Big Wave documented this transition with photos and video.
The Solution
Big Wave Productions was referred to SouthState by the electric sign company who manufactured and installed the iconic signage on Rivergate Tower. With more than five years of experience documenting large-scale signage installations, Big Wave was uniquely positioned to capture the story of this major rebrand.
We designed a comprehensive storytelling solution that included:
Timelapse, Aerial & Ground Video Production: Documenting the installation of SouthState’s new signage in 4k from every angle — showcasing Tampa’s skyline and the bank’s bold new presence.
Executive & Community Interviews: Filming conversations in 8k with the SouthState CEO, the Mayor of Tampa, the West Florida Divisional Bank President, and the President of the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council to highlight the impact on the local community.
Post-Production Storytelling: Editing the footage into a 6k dynamic, visually engaging video that celebrated SouthState’s arrival in Tampa and reinforced its brand narrative.
A photo of SouthState’s signage at their new regional headquarters in McKinney, as part of their transition in Texas. Big Wave documented this with a series of photos.
The Results
The final video became a centerpiece of SouthState’s communications strategy:
Website & Social Media: Shared across digital channels to amplify the message of growth and community commitment.
Grand Opening Event: Played on SouthState’s new 40-foot ultrawide display at the Rivergate Tower headquarters grand opening.
Permanent Display: Continues to loop at their headquarters for visitors, employees, and community stakeholders.
The success of this project led to an ongoing partnership. Big Wave Productions has since been engaged to document SouthState’s growth in Atlanta, Texas, and Colorado — including a soon-to-be-released video featuring a professional football running back.
A photo of SouthState’s signage at their new regional headquarters in Tampa, as part of their transition in Florida. Big Wave produced the photos and video.
Why it Matters
For financial institutions like SouthState, expansion isn’t just about new locations — it’s about building trust, celebrating progress, and strengthening community ties. By combining documentary-style storytelling with cinematic visuals, Big Wave Productions helped SouthState turn a milestone moment into a powerful brand statement.
A photo of SouthState’s signage in Greeley, as part of their transition in Colorado. Big Wave documented this with a series of photos.