Film Gear: The Unexpected Must-Haves for Remote Filming

Venturing out into the wild unknown to capture those breathtaking shots is an absolute thrill, isn't it? The allure of shooting in remote locations can be irresistible for filmmakers who are passionate about their craft. However, shooting in such challenging environments often requires more than your standard camera gear. As filmmakers, we need to be prepared for anything nature might throw at us. So, let's dive into the less obvious, but equally important equipment you'll need when filming in remote locations.

From battling the elements to keeping your gear safe, and ensuring you're self-sufficient, there's a lot that goes into a successful shoot in the middle of nowhere. Sure, your camera, lenses, and tripods are all essential, but you'd be surprised by some of the other items that can make or break your remote filming endeavors. 

In this piece, we're going to explore some unexpected, yet crucial, pieces of gear that you should consider packing before you head out on your next adventure. This list goes beyond the usual suspects, shedding light on the unsung heroes of remote location filmmaking, which often go unnoticed but are indispensable in their own right. 

You might find some of these items a tad unconventional, but they could potentially save your shoot, or even your life, when you're out in the wild. So let's gear up, think outside the box and get ready to conquer those remote filming locations like a pro.

Beyond the Camera: Unusual Gear for Filming in Remote Places

1. Camera Equipment for Off-the-Beaten-Path Productions

When filming in remote locations, it's crucial to have camera equipment that is versatile, portable, and performs well in a variety of conditions. Here are a few essentials to consider:

• Mirrorless Cameras: These lightweight cameras offer the same image quality as DSLRs but are less cumbersome, making them ideal for remote shoots. Models like Sony's alpha series or the Canon EOS R series are popular choices for their compact design and excellent performance. 

• Stabilization Tools: To compensate for uneven terrain, the use of gimbal stabilizers or lightweight tripods is essential to maintain smooth, professional footage. Tools like the DJI Ronin series or Manfrotto tripods come in various models suited for different camera sizes and weights.

• Drones: Capturing aerial perspectives in remote locations can add an unparalleled cinematic quality to your footage. Consider drones like the DJI Mavic 2 Pro, which offers outstanding image quality in a compact, foldable design for easy transportation.

2. Power Management on the Go

Reliable power sources are critical for extended film shoots in remote locations. Here's what you'll need to keep your gear running:

• Portable Battery Packs: High-capacity battery packs, such as the Anker PowerCore series or Goal Zero Sherpa, can recharge camera batteries, drones, and other electronic devices multiple times before needing a recharge themselves.

• Solar Chargers: In areas with limited access to electricity, solar chargers can be a sustainable solution to keep devices powered. Products like the Goal Zero Nomad series feature foldable, weather-resistant solar panels that connect to compatible battery packs for continuous power generation.

3. Communication and Safety Essentials

Effective communication and safety precautions are vital when filming off the beaten path. Here's some gear to help ensure your team stays connected and safe:

• Satellite Phones: For locations without reliable cellular reception, satellite phones are indispensable for maintaining communication between team members and coordinating logistics. The Garmin inReach Explorer+ and Iridium Extreme 9575 satellite phones are popular choices that offer global coverage and durable construction.

• GPS Maps and Navigation: Smartphone apps like Gaia GPS or dedicated handheld GPS devices like the Garmin GPSMAP series will assist your team in navigating unfamiliar terrain without relying on cell reception.

• First Aid Kits and Safety Gear: Emergencies can happen even on well-planned shoots. A comprehensive first-aid kit, complete with necessary medications and supplies catered to your team's needs, should be on hand at all times. Additionally, safety gear like emergency blankets, whistles, and headlamps should be part of your essentials list.

4. Storage and Transportation Solutions for Remote Shoots

Transporting gear to remote locations requires durable and protective storage solutions. Here are some options to safeguard your valuable equipment:

• Padded Cases with Dividers: Customizable reinforced cases, like Pelican cases or SKB cases, offer adjustable padded dividers to organize camera bodies, lenses, and other delicate equipment securely while protecting them from impact and harsh weather conditions.

• Backpacks and Carry-On Cases: Ergonomic camera backpacks such as the Lowepro Pro Trekker series or the Think Tank Airport series cater to airline travel, fitting airline carry-on size requirements, and ensuring you can keep your most valuable gear close during transit.

5. Weather Protection and Adaptability

Unpredictable weather is a common challenge when filming in remote locations. Adequate protection for gear and crew is crucial in these situations:

• Waterproof Camera Covers and Gear Protection: For wet or dusty conditions, use protective camera covers and rain sleeves to shield your equipment. Products like Think Tank Hydrophobia or LensCoat RainCoat provide reliable weather protection without inhibiting camera operation.

• Appropriate Gaffer's Accessories: Gaffer's tape, bungee cords, and waterproof storage bags come in handy for securing equipment, protecting cables, and immediately addressing any on-site issues that arise due to weather or terrain challenges.

• Layered Clothing: Crew members should dress in lightweight, quick-drying materials that can be easily layered for changing weather conditions. Additionally, waterproof boots and jackets are essential gear to keep your team comfortable and focused on their work.

Prioritizing versatile camera equipment, power management solutions, communication and safety essentials, storage and transportation, and weather adaptability will truly set your production apart, making the most of your unique surroundings. With thorough preparation and foresight, there are no limits to the visual stories you can create in extraordinary locations around the world.

Unlock the Potential of Remote Filming with Après Visuals

So, while the idea of filming in a remote location might seem daunting at first, with the right preparation and equipment, it can turn into an experience of a lifetime. It's all about understanding the terrain, anticipating the challenges, and equipping yourself with the right tools to not just survive, but thrive and capture some truly unforgettable footage.

The experts at Après Visuals understand the unique demands of remote production and utilize our extensive experience to create powerful content for top brands and agencies. If you're looking to tackle a remote shoot and create incredible visual stories in these or other remote locations, contact our cinematic commercial cinematographers today to experience the benefits of working with a production company that excels at turning challenges into opportunities for creative success!