Over the past few weeks I’ve been Camping and editing a two episode tv show, mostly in Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemete. Here are some lessons and tips from my tented sojourn. 1) Frisbees make astonishingly good cutting boards and have the added benefit of being able to throw around to other humans. 2) Cooking. Serrano Peppers go great with about any dish. Half of one gives enough kick to go jumpin. I also want to suggest a Curry or chili paste, something Indian or Asian containing cumin. Avoid meats as they spoil quickly and instead enjoy a diet rich with veggies. Onions, Garlic, Zuccini, squash, bell pepper and carrots all cook well together and are wholesome and healthy. Bring a little olive oil, bread and a fancy cheese. Have a variety of pastas and good rice, Basmati for instance. Garlic keeps the bugs at bay. 3) Water is important! 4) Fire. Save the butane for coffee and breakfast. Cook over a fire built from small to medium wood. Add bigger sticks/ logs before eating. Use one pan with a lid. It will get very sooty and soon everything you or it touches will too. A small smoke fire works wonders to keep the mozzies away at dusk. 5) Cliff bars are out. Kind bars are in. 6) It seems that the National Park Service (NPS) actively searches for and consistently delivers the shittiest toilet paper humanly possible at its best. I suggest bringing your own. On the plus side, National forests are free to camp. (generally) and save you $20-45 a night. Get a fire permit from a ranger station 1st thing. Rangers are always impressed and give you no trouble if you are considerate enough to have a fire permit. It lasts one year from issue. 7) Find your office. There will always be some sort of wifi, skype, power outlet or hi-tech creature comforts, maybe even a couch. Be polite, do some research and find a great space to get your work done. A short commute to that perfect spot is worth it. 8) When you shoot a video with second system sound, make sure you conform it to its proper format. NOTE: 24FPS is not 23.976 and the two won’t sync. Ever. 9) Processing takes time. Get creative on ways to schedule and leave your computer where the power is. Shower, eat or hike during down time. 10) Buy Local Beer.
Posted on: Wed, 10 Jul 2013 04:06:36 +0000