10 Pro Tips for Seamless Production Travel

October 9, 2023

Traveling for video production is a thrilling yet demanding endeavor that filmmakers, videographers, and production teams regularly face. From capturing breathtaking landscapes to conducting interviews in far-flung locations, the challenges and rewards of production travel are unparalleled. After an exciting summer of travel, we’re sharing some essential tips and insights to help you embark on your journeys, capture stunning footage, and create captivating stories.

  1. Research and Preparation:

Before you set off for your production adventure, thorough research is key. Familiarize yourself with the location, culture, climate, and any regulations that may affect your shoot. Plan your shooting schedule, including call times, locations, and contact information for your team.

  1. Gear Selection:

Selecting the right gear is crucial. Your equipment should be versatile, durable, and suitable for the specific demands of your project. Choose cameras, lenses, and accessories that can adapt to various shooting scenarios, from bustling cityscapes to remote wilderness.

  1. Travel Light and Smart:

Traveling with an entire arsenal of equipment isn’t always practical. Prioritize essential gear, opting for lightweight and versatile options where possible. Consider investing in travel-sized versions of your equipment to minimize bulk and weight.

  1. Protective Cases:

Invest in high-quality, protective cases designed for your equipment. These cases should provide excellent protection against impacts, dust, and moisture. Custom foam inserts can help you organize and safeguard your gear during transit.

  1. Know Airline Policies:

Different airlines have varying policies when it comes to carrying production equipment. Check baggage allowances, fees, and any specific restrictions related to oversized items and batteries.

  1. Carry-On Must-Haves:

Your most critical gear, such as cameras, lenses, hard drives, and laptops, should always be in your carry-on bag. This ensures that even if your checked luggage is lost or delayed, you can continue the shoot without disruption (and with a possible Walmart trip).

7.  Label Your Gear:

Label all your equipment with your name, contact information, and identification numbers. This makes it easier to recover your gear if it’s lost or misplaced during your travels.

8. Power and Connectivity:

Different countries have varying power outlets and voltages. Invest in universal power adapters and voltage converters to ensure you can charge your equipment anywhere in the world. And always carry backup batteries for your cameras, lights, etc. Trust us on this one…

9. Research Local Regulations:

Before filming in a new location, research local regulations, permits, and licenses. Ignoring these rules can lead to fines or legal complications. Stay informed and obtain the necessary permits to operate within the law.

10. Backup Your Data:

Regularly back up your data while on the road. Use portable hard drives or cloud storage to ensure you don’t lose precious footage. Data loss due to equipment failure or loss can be a devastating setback.

Traveling for video production opens up a world of creative possibilities, but it also comes with unique challenges. With the help of a trusted production partner you can ensure a smooth and successful filming experience no matter where it takes it!