Travelling with film equipment is always an adventure, filled with both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. Our recent journey took us to the bustling streets of Lagos, the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City, and the rich traditions of Surabaya. Each destination brought its own flavour to our filmmaking experience, making the trip as rewarding as it was demanding.
Embracing Different Cultures
One of the most exciting aspects of our travels was immersing ourselves in diverse cultures. In Lagos, we were welcomed by the warm and friendly locals, whose vibrant energy added life to our footage. The bustling markets, lively music, and colourful attire made every shot a visual feast.
Ho Chi Minh City offered a different kind of vibrancy, with its blend of modernity and tradition. The people were incredibly hospitable. Capturing the essence of this dynamic city was a lots of fun, though the sweltering heat often tested our endurance.
Surabaya, was out final destination With its rich history and cultural heritage, it was a shame we saw very little outside of the hotel and shopping mall.
The Weather and Its Challenges
Filming in hot and humid conditions was a constant battle. In all three cities, the weather was intensely hot, which not only drained our energy but also caused frequent condensation on our camera lenses. Each time we stepped out of an air-conditioned space, we had to wait for the lenses to acclimatise, wiping them down repeatedly to clear the fog. It was a small price to pay for capturing such incredible footage, but it certainly tested our patience.
Travelling with a Minimal Kit
Travelling light was essential but challenging. Our core kit consisted of the Lumix S5II and S5IIX cameras, the DJI RS3 gimbal for smooth B-roll shots, and the Rode Wireless Go II microphone system for interviews. These choices were strategic, aimed at maximising our capabilities while minimising bulk.
Packing everything into carry-on luggage was not just a matter of convenience but a necessity. Airlines have stringent regulations about carry-on sizes and weights, and ensuring our equipment met these criteria was a constant concern. Additionally, flying with lithium-ion batteries required careful planning, as each airline has its own set of rules regarding their transportation.
Keeping Track of Our Gear
To keep our equipment safe and easily locatable, we used Apple AirTags. These small devices gave us peace of mind by allowing us to track our gear in real-time, ensuring that nothing was left behind or misplaced. Before embarking on our journey, we also confirmed with our insurance company, Hiscox, that our equipment was fully covered. This provided an additional layer of security, allowing us to focus on our creative work without constant worry.
Our Top Tips for Travelling Light with Video Camera Equipment
Choose Versatile Gear: Opt for equipment that offers multiple functionalities without compromising on quality. Our Lumix S5II and S5IIX cameras were perfect for our video needs.
Invest in Lightweight Accessories: Travel tripods and compact rigs can save significant space and weight. While they may not offer the same stability as full-sized options, they are highly effective in the right scenarios.
Stay Organised: Use tracking devices like Apple AirTags to keep tabs on your equipment. This ensures you always know where your gear is, reducing the risk of loss or theft.
Check Airline Regulations: Before every flight, review the airline's regulations on carry-on sizes, weights, and battery transportation to avoid last-minute hassles.
Keep Your Insurance Updated: Verify with your insurance provider that your equipment is covered throughout your travels. This provides peace of mind and financial protection against potential mishaps.
Travelling with film equipment through Lagos, Ho Chi Minh City, and Surabaya was a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience. By planning meticulously and adapting to each location's unique demands, we managed to capture stunning footage while enjoying the rich cultures and warm hospitality of each destination. With the right preparation and mindset, the challenges of travelling with film equipment can be transformed into opportunities for creativity and adventure.
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