Our filming Equipment.
All pictures used on this blog are unedited this is the quality of the camaras we use
Embarking on adventure filmmaking has been a rewarding journey for us, culminating in accolades such as The Golden Axe award 2024 at the Fort William Film Festival and a Judges Special Mention women in adventure 2023 at the Kendal Mountain Film Festival . As amateur filmmakers, we've navigated this realm with no formal training, relying instead on self-teaching and research to guide us.
Our equipment selection was driven by portability and ease of use, recognizing the challenges of remote filming. While our gear is capable of filming in 4K, we've opted for 2K resolution to conserve memory and battery power—a crucial consideration in off-grid locations where charging options are limited.
In our filmmaking journey, editing software plays a vital role, and we've found PowerDirector to be a reliable tool for bringing our adventures to life on screen. While editing presents its own challenges, we've chosen to focus on our equipment choices in this discussion.
Mobile Phones
Mobile phones are our trusty companions on every adventure, offering unparalleled convenience and versatility. While the quality of footage varies depending on the phone model, we've found them particularly handy for interviews, thanks to their impressive audio quality without the need for external microphones.
GoPro hero 11
The GoPro camera has proven to be indispensable for our adventures in rugged and wet terrain. While not the most economical option, its durability and performance make it a worthwhile investment. We experimented with cheaper alternatives but found their quality lacking in comparison.
One of the standout features of the GoPro is its extensive range of mounts, both official and third-party, making it adaptable to virtually any activity. In our film 'Endurance,' we particularly appreciated its ability to capture underwater footage without the need for additional cases—a feature that added an exciting dimension to our storytelling, even if we occasionally ended up filming ducks instead of our subject!
Despite its compact size, the GoPro packs a punch with a multitude of pre-loaded settings that simplify the filming process. Whether it's capturing stunning stills or immersive video footage, the camera's capabilities exceed expectations. Additionally, online tutorials abound, offering valuable insights into maximizing its potential.
Here are just a few of the impressive features:
Large image sensor for an immersive field of view
Cinematic video resolutions up to 5.3K60 and 2.7K240, along with high-resolution photos
Emmy® Award-winning HyperSmooth 5.0 video stabilization with Horizon Lock
Waterproof up to 33ft and built tough for rugged environments
While GoPro continues to evolve, we remain thoroughly impressed with the current model and have no plans to upgrade anytime soon. In fact, we're so satisfied that we're considering adding a second camera to our kit in the near future. With the GoPro by our side, we're equipped to continue capturing thrilling adventures and sharing them with the world
Our eye in the sky the drone (Derek I/II)
It's essential to understand that drone regulations vary from one country to another, necessitating thorough research and obtaining appropriate licenses for each location you intend to visit.
Our journey with drones began with a modest £60 investment in a basic model. However, initial attempts at flight were fraught with challenges, leading to frustration and abandonment. Recognizing the importance of quality equipment, we upgraded to the DJI Mini 2 SE (affectionately named Derek I), which proved to be a game-changer. This compact drone effortlessly captured stunning aerial shots, transforming mundane scenes into cinematic masterpieces. While lacking advanced features like object tracking and obstacle avoidance, its simplicity and cost-effectiveness made it an ideal choice for novice filmmakers.
Here are some standout features of the DJI Mini 2 SE:
User-friendly operation, with simplified controls and a 'Return to Home' function for added peace of mind.
Impressive 10km video transmission range, enabling exploration and capturing footage from greater distances.
Intelligent modes such as QuickShots, facilitating professional-looking aerial shots with ease.
Extended 31-minute flight time, allowing for longer and more immersive aerial experiences.
Reliable stability in winds up to 38kph, ensuring smooth and steady footage even in challenging conditions.
DJI Mini 4 Pro (Derek II), our latest companion in aerial filmmaking adventures. While the Mini 2 SE served us well with its budget-friendly design, our evolving pursuits demanded a drone with advanced capabilities. Enter the Mini 4 Pro, a powerhouse packed with features tailored to elevate our filmmaking endeavors.
Here's why the Mini 4 Pro stands out:
Stunning Vertical Videos in 4K/60fps HDR: Capture breathtaking scenes with unparalleled clarity, whether it's the brilliance of a sunrise, the serenity of a sunset, or the allure of nighttime landscapes. Share your videos instantly, straight from the camera, without the need for extensive post-processing.
Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing: With precise detection capabilities in all directions, fly with confidence knowing that obstacles will be detected and avoided effortlessly. Say goodbye to collision worries, even for first-time users, as you navigate through diverse environments.
Extended Battery Life for Uninterrupted Flights: Experience longer flight times, allowing for uninterrupted exploration of vast landscapes and extended filming sessions. Bid farewell to battery anxiety and seize every opportunity to capture stunning aerial footage.
Immersive Real-time Aerial Footage: Enjoy lag-free image transmission with a 20km Full HD video transmission range. Immerse yourself in real-time aerial views like never before, capturing every moment with stunning clarity and precision.
Customizable Intelligent Tracking with ActiveTrack 360°: Take control of your drone's tracking trajectory, achieving complex and seamless operation effects effortlessly. Whether you're a seasoned filmmaker or a beginner, capturing smooth, professional-quality videos has never been easier.
With the DJI Mini 4 Pro, we've only scratched the surface of its capabilities, yet it has already proven to be a game-changer in our filmmaking pursuits. From its ability to film in horizontal orientation for social media posts to its advanced features like ActiveTrack and obstacle sensing, this drone empowers us to push the boundaries of creativity and storytelling in our adventures.
In Summary
While investing in high-quality filmmaking equipment can be a significant expense, it's important to highlight that our gear collection wasn't assembled overnight. We've adopted a gradual approach, acquiring items over time to suit our evolving needs and budget.
Our GoPro camera remains a staple in our kit, thanks to its versatility and ability to thrive in any environment. Its rugged design allows us to capture stunning footage without worrying about the elements. As for our mobile phones, we limit their use in wild environments, reserving them for emergencies to ensure we're always connected when needed most.
As for our drone, it's undeniably a remarkable piece of equipment, capable of capturing breathtaking aerial shots that add depth and perspective to our films. However, we're mindful of its limitations, particularly in adverse weather conditions. While it excels in optimal weather, we exercise caution and avoid flying it in inclement weather to prevent damage.
By investing wisely and prioritizing essential items like the GoPro, we've built a reliable filmmaking arsenal that allows us to document our adventures with confidence and creativity, regardless of the challenges we encounter along the way.
Here are some top tips for maximizing filming:
Consider your platform: Decide whether your video will be shared on platforms like YouTube or screened on larger displays, in which case filming horizontally is optimal. For social media platforms like Instagram, vertical filming (e.g., reels) may be more suitable.
Capture the moment: Keep your camara easily accessible in your pocket or backpack, ensuring you're always ready to capture spontaneous moments and interviews on the go.
Experiment with settings: Explore the settings on your camera app to adjust resolution, frame rate, and other parameters to achieve the desired look and feel for your footage.
Stability is key: Invest in a handheld stabilizer or tripod mount to minimize shake and ensure smooth, professional-looking footage, especially during interviews or action shots.
By leveraging the power of camara and these handy tips, we're able to capture the essence of our adventures with ease and precision, ready to share our stories with the world."
Our filming equipment.
