Filming abroad can be an exciting experience.
As a Cameraman, we are lucky to have the opportunity to travel, see and do many things we otherwise would never have had the chance to do.
However, lack of preparation and even forgetting the simplest thing can be a nightmare when shooting abroad and lead to Page One mistakes! Here are 12 tips for filming abroad...
1) Take a short four way.
Hotel rooms don't tend to have too many plug sockets.
If you take a 4 way especially for charging you can then ensure you will be able to charge your camera batteries, monitor batteries, phone and power your lap top.
All without having to sacrifice unplugging the TV...
2) Take 2x a multi power block.
Keep one for additional charging and one in your run bag in case you need two extra sockets whilst on location.
3) Take 3x multi power block for mixed UK, Euro and USA.
4) Always have white camera tape and a sharpie pen.
So you can number boxes, secure cables and give the talent marks.
5) Always carry the equivalent of £50 of the local currency - this way you will always be able to get a taxi, a drink and make a phone call.
6) Always carry your drivers license with you (both parts for UK residents) 7) Good idea to apply for International Drivers License (very in-expensive) 8) Have equipment manuals downloaded on your laptop and USB Stick for quick reference 9) When you check into a hotel take their business card with the address on it.
This way you will never get lost.
10) When checking in, write down all the other crew (you need to be in contact with) hotel room numbers.
This will ease communication 11) Request a hotel room near the lift.
This will save you valuable time, especially if you are taking kit up and down.
12) Keep your rushes safe.
Label them neatly and keep them in a secure safe place.
Happy Shooting!