5 Tips for Preparing Your Camera for Outdoor and Live Events

Elwood Folse | Hell Cat Productions | Week 9

 I’m now in my ninth week interning at Hellcat Productions. Time has flown by sitting at a computer editing. However this week has been particularly exciting because I had the chance to work behind the camera for the first time as part of our preparation for an upcoming fundraiser. It’s a huge milestone for me since it’s the first time I’ll be working a camera as part of my job.

Naturally, I felt a bit nervous. Working with a camera in a professional setting is a lot different than casually filming with a phone or a personal camera. But luckily, my boss, David, has been amazing at guiding me through the process. He’s gone over the basics of cameras and field recording techniques, which has been invaluable.

If you’ve ever wondered, there’s a significant difference between filming a scripted, controlled video and capturing an event in real-time. Documenting an event live adds a whole new level of challenge. Things move quickly, and there’s no chance to redo a shot. Plus, using Sony cameras, there were a ton of details I had to get familiar with. It’s a whole different world than what I’ve done before, but that’s the beauty of this internship — I’m getting hands-on learning that will benefit me down the road, especially if I ever pursue a career with a news company or as part of a journalistic group.

So, as I prepare for future shoots and fieldwork, I wanted to share some essential tips on how to prepare your camera for outdoor, live events. These are lessons I’m learning firsthand, and I hope they help anyone looking to capture moments in real-time.

1. Check the Weather

    Outdoor events often mean unpredictable weather, so it’s crucial to prepare your camera for rain, sun, or wind. Make sure to use weatherproof gear, such as a rain cover, and have lens wipes handy to clean off any moisture.

   
   

2. Charge All Batteries

    When filming live, you won’t have time for charging during the event, so ensure all batteries are fully charged. It’s also a good idea to bring extra batteries and memory cards, especially for long events.

   
   

3. Set Up Your White Balance and Exposure Settings

   
   

    Outdoor lighting can change rapidly, so set your white balance to match the environment. Be sure to adjust the exposure to ensure the subject isn’t too dark or overexposed. Constantly monitor the lighting and adjust as needed.

   
   

4. Stabilize Your Shots

    For a smooth video, use a tripod or a gimbal. With live events, you might be walking around a lot, so having stable shots is crucial. If you're moving, practice smooth, controlled motions with the camera to avoid shaky footage.

   
   

5. Prepare for Audio Challenges

    Outdoor environments can have noise issues, so check your microphone settings before the event starts. If possible, use external microphones or lapel mics for clear audio capture, and keep an eye on the levels throughout the shoot.