The original post is by Nia Genelis of Global Media Desk for
KFTV
As anyone in this industry knows, filming can be a complex
business, with obstacles and hurdles to overcome even for the shortest project.
Shooting in another country can present very specific challenges as well as
rewards, with plenty of research to be done ahead of time.
When done correctly however, venturing beyond your borders
can be a once in-a-lifetime event. So how do you ensure a drama-free shoot in a
foreign country? The experts at Global Media Desk have put together a list of
tips, tricks and advice to make your shoot a complete and total success.
1. Plan ahead
When arranging crews, permits, visas, travel, hotels and
other services, book as far in advance as possible. Booking ahead of time will
ensure that you get the best rates and save a lot of money.
Also, don’t forget the time difference. If you’re reading
this during the daytime in the United States, it is already evening in Europe.
And in Asia, it’s already tomorrow. So, if you happen to be organising a shoot
in either of these regions, and you’re based in Berlin, you’re already a day
behind.
You can look at the KFTV country guides to find time zones
of 149 countries around the world, or visit sites such as the Time Difference
Calculator.
2. Things you need before you travel
Some countries require visas to be obtained in advance. This
process can take anything from one week to one month to complete. KFTV has
details on specific visa requirements and where to find them listed country by
country. Or you can refer to VisaHQ.
Another vital point to remember before you travel is that
voltage and power outlets vary around the world. You should have the right plug
adapters and power converters before setting off. Most plug adapters do not
convert the power.
Laptops and video cameras usually have built-in converters,
but you will need to buy a separate power converter for all other devices. If
your voltages don’t match you could end up blowing a fuse. You can find a list
of electrical systems around the world here.
3. Go local
By working with local film crews in the country or region
you are shooting in, you end up killing two birds with one stone.
First of all, you reduce or eliminate travel expenses
considerably, and save on having to ship in large amounts of equipment. This
can often incur customs fees, not to mention the hefty extra baggage charges at
check-in.
Secondly, and most importantly, you will be working with
people who know the local terrain, language, and customs. This kind of local
knowledge is the single most effective way of reducing potential problems,
because your locally based team will know how to avoid country-specific risks.
4. Know the local laws, customs, do’s & don’ts
Imagine your reaction if your production had to be shut down
because you did not get the right permit, or decided to shoot on a major local
holiday when everything was closed? What would happen if you chose to shoot on
a forbidden location, or didn’t follow the specific local shooting code?
You can spend quite a lot of time researching the filming
laws in your destination country, checking with the local film commissions and
other government organisations.
Alternatively, hire a local fixer, scout or production assistant who
knows the right people and permits, and who can take care of everything prior
to your arrival, thus saving you valuable time.
5. Have fun
Don’t forget what a gift it is to travel and to have the
opportunity to discover new places and people. If possible, schedule some time
to get out there and explore a little.
Your local crew will probably have some great advice on
places to visit in the area. Enjoy yourself; you won’t regret it
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