3 Tips To Power Your Next Outdoor Production.
Here are three quick tips to make your next outdoor shoot a breeze, from power, to set furniture, to communications. This guide will teach you how to shoot outdoors.
Tip #1 - Getting a Reliable Source of Power
From Cameras, to lights, to even your producer's phone charger. Virtually everything on set requires additional power. Here's how you can get it outdoors (without a generator):
Use Power Stations
Portable power stations like an Ecoflow Delta 2 Max provide plenty of on-set power for your production. Plug in via USB, USB-C or AC Power.
With 2000Wh of power, you could* :
Run an Aputure 600d for 6h at 50%.
Run a ARRI Alexa Mini for 20h
Charge x20 99wh Camera batteries
Charge your iPhone 161 times.
Charge your producer's laptop up to 40 times.
Brew 280 cups of coffee using your on-set coffee machine.
Tip #2 - Make Use of Set Furniture
After a long day on set, your crew will thank you for having the proper set furniture. Make sure to use folding tables, folding chairs, director's chairs, and even canopy tents for a hot summer day.
Tip #3 - Keep a Clear Line of Communication
Communication is key on any film set, but it's extra important on an outdoor production. With longer distances, and a more challenging production environment, having the correct communications equipment is important to keeping everyone in the loop.
Typically, 2 types of communications equipment are seen most frequently on set:
1. Walkie Talkies
Used for general crew members, such as production assistants, assistant directors, grip/lighting department, art department, etc. These allow for 2-way communication between crew members and departments.
2. Communications Headsets
Used for departments that typically require a large volume of hands-free synchronous communication, such as a camera team, grip/lighting team, or between assistant directors.
Multiple people are able to talk at the same time on these headsets – think of these as your typical group call.
The Bottom Line
Outdoor shoots are tough, but they can feel like a breeze when you have a well-thought out plan, and the correct equipment on set. If you're planning your next outdoor shoot, and are looking for these 3 key pieces of equipment, check out our website to book everything you need by clicking on the button below!