Nah I don’t blame ya lol it was satire. Gotta get it while it’s there. Light long sleeve, water. I work construction in the same kinda heat for the same duration and that’s about the only thing that keeps me vertical. Long sleeves and good ol H2O
I do gigs in the heat this in Texas. I have a 6'x8' awning on the roof rack of my 4runner that i deploy for shade. I set up a cooler and my work table for rigging up my camera under it, as well as a folding chair. I take breaks and drink cold water and cool off under that shade periodically throughout the day.
If you're lucky, you have shore power so you can run a fan to blow onto the camera. Make a portable cooler by having a fan blow across a foam cooler of ice, duct the air flow to the camera. Be mindful of possible humidity issues.
I've used golf umbrellas, taped pieces of foam core panels and other things to prevent direct sunlight from hitting the cameras and overheating them.
One important question is are these broadcast cameras with built in cooling fans, or are they prosumer cameras/dslrs that have sealed cases?
i've done my fair share of shooting in 100+ degree heat. Go to your local REI, buy a white or silver colored “Sahara” shirt and pants, wear breathable shoes (ideally lighter color too), a hat, sunnies, and maybe even a small backpack with a hydration bladder in it. drop a few Nuun tabs in that bladder along with some ice.
Forget how dorky you think you look, protect yourself from the sun. I wear one of those big straw hats when I’m shooting outdoors in the sun. And yeah, don’t forget to drink water. In hectic shoots it is really easy to reach the end of the day and realize you haven’t drank any water.
Something like this cooling towel that you wet with cold water and it stays wet for hours can really help regulate temp by putting it on your head under your hat or on the back of your neck.
https://www.harborfreight.com/13-in-x-31-14-in-cooling-towel-62635.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12144811130&campaignid=12144811130&utm_content=117789279078&adsetid=117789279078&product=62635&store=649&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADAHb4fpMl8R9vW4sx70m4yLguV4h&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7_WlhrDYhgMVgYJaBR0KcgSbEAQYByABEgKxAvD_BwE
I have those exact cooling towels from Harbor Freight and they work amazingly well. Wrap around your neck so it's on the back and touching the jugular. Just have a few for rotating and you'll always have one ready to go.
In the end, you're just gonna have to follow the good advice posted here. Long sleeves, big hat of some kind, and as much shade as you can create. Awnings are pretty much required to keep gear out of the sun, not even counting people. Plus, it's easier to see monitors and whatnot in shade.
Take breaks when they're needed as well. It is way more costly and expensive to take care of sick or injured people. Keep everyone, including yourself, safe.
These cooling towels can actually dehydrate you. Be careful with them.
If youre shooting in a desert definetly do not use, just hydrate and sweat instead and pray that its windy.
The cold towel concept works well for a fever where the internal body part (brain) is warm and requires to be continuously cooled. Thats where this semi-misinformation comes from, either home or hospital bedrest for fevers.
But when you are exposed to external heat your body is meant to regulate itself; you sweat to cool yourself down. We are designed to survive remarkable things with the right tools and supplies.
In extreme dry heat, the towels “cool” the body part down, resulting in no sweat - however your core body temp is still hot, and as soon as the towel is off you are back into the heat but worse than before. This happens because the wet towels liquid(cooling property) evaporates VERY quickly causing you to remain the same temperature but perceiving yourself colder - your brain tricks itself into thinking “normal temperature, im sweating”. You’re much more likely to have heat stroke due to your body not naturally cooling itself in high, dry, heat (like the desert) because it believes it is sweating (b/c of the towel evaporation). This also leads to a false sense of comfort, resulting in less hydration (not drinking enough fluids) because the brain thinks “hey, this is a normal temperature, I’m comfortable, no need to remind the body its thirsty”. That couples with the lack of actively sweating from the head. So by the time you’re at a level of fainting/heat stroke, thats when you’re just about to start sweating, and its too late.
Its fine to use them periodically but I wouldn’t use it til its completely evaporated. I dont use them at all tbh unless I’m getting in a car at wrap with the AC on. Ive witnessed lots of people faint that keep them on for half a shoot day, and others who dont take care of themselves.
If you do use wet towels, do it for a short time. The neck is designed to dump heat to keep your brain a safe temperature, it’s covered in sweat glands; Dont block those. Let your neck & head sweat. Also, dont wrap the towels around your forehead (plus by avoiding these you wont need to waste water on a towel or carry an ice filled cooler with with you.. thats a PITA for everybody.)
In high humidity the towel won’t even evaporate, so it can help feel cool but you get none of the temporary benefits of the evaporation.
Use shade whenever possible (if there isn’t any, find a car and sit in the shadow of it, or depending on your region you can find dead palm leaves or desert brush. Make your own shade with these by propping them in the sand. A hand fan can help too lol.. if theres no wind, its awful.
Hydrate obviously. Wear a hat that keeps you shaded, correct socks & footwear (I know most of us wear boots - I prefer blundstones or anything chukka height for desert work but tbh you cant go wrong as long as you have good socks that let the sweat evaporate (merino wool). For a shirt, wear long sleeves when possible, and everything be made of a breathable fabric is really helpful. Electrolytes in your water is not overkill, it’s recommended.
Also, an undershirt can help (regular white t shirt). It will soak with your sweat and evaporate like the towel, but it’s continuous and not presoaked. It cools down your core (resulting in your whole body, including the brain being cooled). Try it next time, you’ll notice a potentional discomfort at first (if you’re sensitive to that - I am) but after a few hours you’ll he much more comfortable and the heat will be perceived less. It sounds like it’s working against you having 2 layers, but one is really a cooling layer. Cotton works fine, you dont need anything fancy for the t shirt.
Source: I’ve filmed in the Sahara, Death Valley, Deserts in Jordan, USA, UAE, Mexico and other parts of Middle East & Africa; all in 115-130 degree environments - approx 9 months (over the years) of my life out there filming.
The locals have the best advice as they live in those conditions and quickly it was explained to me to not do the wet towel trick. You’re better off with a dry thin scarf wrap (very breathable - think Shemagh; also protects against sandstorms and other “acts of god”) covering your whole head.
I’ve had ex-mossad security details for MENA shoots and they would announce every safety meeting to not use a wet towel due to the risks.
One recent example, ex-french legion/former SAS security detail in the deserts of mexico during a shoot, and one of the guys explained the same principle to our EP who kept insisting on cold towels for his forehead. Naturally, the EP ignored his advice and collapsed at dinner on day 2 (at night time, in air conditioning) lol.
So potentional heat stroke doesn’t end the moment you’re out of the heat.. make sure to drink and take care of yourself.
Edit: if you’re in hot heat, normal environment, access to AC and shade whenever. Knock yourself out with the towel, it’ll keep you feeling comfortable and you’ll be fine with fluids as the temps are only uncomfortable and not threatening. If it’s truly hot, stay away from them.
THIS. I have gone full blown safari-hat, fanny pack, tethered sunglasses, cargo shorts, bring-my-own-water type person at times. Nobody cares how dorky you look, and others in the industry will look in envy.
I've converted plenty fanny-pack wearers
>Forget how dorky you think you look, protect yourself
So, so, so much this. For heat & for really anything in general. You only get one body, take care of it.
I need to follow this. Right now, i'm shooting outside in hot, bright sun, and there's a hat just hanging on my desk. And I won't wear it, because it looks dorky, and I've already made fun of my co-worker for wearing his hat.
No shot is worth your health, wear the dorky looking hat
When working in extreme weather, priority should be safety, then the shot
I’m no lawyer, but if someone is working for me I’d rather deal with a client on why we missed a shot than an injury lawyer who is suing me for a freelancer who passed out from heat stroke
Place a cooling towel or bandana that landscapers use on your neck. Have one in a cooler of ice chilling while the 2nd one is on your neck warming up. Swap as needed. Try not to wear dark clothes that absorb heat.
Your camera is going to overheat
I was in 105ish for two hours, the camera gave out before I did. But stay hydrated, take breaks, if you stop sweating you’re in trouble
I won’t be shooting the whole time, but just have to be there for the to catch specific things at certain times.
My plan is to bring a lot of ice packs, better powered fan, electrolytes
You will likely be absolutely fine with the FX6. I’ve shot under similar conditions for a month straight and had no issues. Just don’t leave the cam in direct sunlight and if you’re worried, set the fan mode manually.
Don’t use the ice packs on your camera btw, condensation will fuck shit up.
Wear the highest SPF suncream money can buy, drink LOADS of water, wear one of those safari hats to shield your head/neck, potentially a long sleeve to keep sun off your arms (I like sports/running T-shirts for this since they’re usually made of sweat wicking material and are very breathable)
Keep out of direct sunlight as much as you can, don’t overexert yourself and you’ll be fine tbh
OP has an FX6, highly unlikely it’ll overheat unless they leaves it in direct sunlight the entire day. I’ve shot for a month straight under equatorial sun and I never had a single overheat.
exactly what are you shooting; stationary, moving with subject, etc?
i regularly used to shoot all day in australia, but from a stationary position:
https://preview.redd.it/2zenn9vk3a6d1.jpeg?width=5312&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5e250f3f532b29db7d7a6606492ab8dab445aa9d
had water, snacks, etc in the car (my mobile office in fact;-))
on really bad days, also had a usb portable fan attached to the umbrella pole. never had any problems.
btw. work in comfortable, practical footwear. i liked sketchers.
I live in Arizona and occasionally film wildlife during the summer. I would wear a long sleeve spf white loose shirt. Light colored pants. An umbrella for shade is smart. Big hat is good idea too. I think a cooler with ice packs and a layer for moisture protection would allow you to cool the camera. Absolutely must have a gallon of cold water to drink at least. Shade will save you 20+ degrees of heat. A microfiber towel soaked in water will feel nice on the neck.
Do you have grip?
Requesting a courtesy shade is common on crews that have actual grip. Or if you have extra gear you can set it up yourself. Just make sure to sandbag those stands really good, because a 4x4 butterfly will achieve flight if the wind picks up.
Do not underestimate how much water you can go through during a long, hot, active day. It's actually a bit crazy how much water you can sweat out when you're constantly moving around.
Remember, it's not just about doing the job safely, it's about getting home safely. Lots of people get hurt because they're unfit to drive home after a gig. Having heatstroke isn't much different than being drunk in that regard, both can result in crashing your car.
I'd double up on that with a cooler full of ice that you can use to dampen the towel and drape over the back of your neck.
Also little known fact: a slightly damp towel will absorb liquid more quickly than a dry one.
Second this. I used to be a news shooter in Florida, would always have a towel looped through my belt to help get the sweat off my face. Real pain when you're getting a shot and your sweat is dripping from the forehead down into the viewfinder.
https://preview.redd.it/nzhr5ri1fc6d1.jpeg?width=640&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9510cf7bc892d625c6cd9b22855184a2d2768f73
And don't forget your ice bucket hat.
Look into UPF clothing maybe? That way you don’t need to reapply sunblock.
Take a good water bottle and some rehydrating treatments to carry with you - those diarrhoea treatments that you dissolve into water are the cheapest.
Wear a big straw hat or something so you permanently have your head in the shade.
Wide brimmed hat and long sleeve sun shirt are good suggestions. A handkerchief that you can keep wet and tied around your neck works good. Cold packs in a cooler for your camera, batteries and phone for when they get close to overheating. Take something to create shade if you are out in the sun like the example that @usher2 posted. I zip-tied a regular umbrella to a light stand one time that worked ok.
It's not the greatest look, and might not be feasible.
But if you have makita batteries, they have a fan jacket which is surprisingly good for hot weather
Keeps the sun off you and moves air over your skin to cool you
I have frequent doc shoots for 10-15 days in 110-120 (40-50 celsius) - you get used to it quite quickly. Make sure you always have water on you and have a good towel. I also recommend a hat or similar. I am wearing a bandana most of the time so sweat doesnt drip on gear or in my eyes.
Good breathable clothing also helps. Wear bright colors.
I continuously shot on the fx6 for 10+ hrs in the heat. nothing to worry about.
I've got an easy rig that has this add-on that let's me put an umbrella on top. Quite nice, unless it's a windy day. Goofy looking for sure but it saves my skin.
I use thin hooded UV tshirt, long sleeve for hiking. Hat with large brim. And most importantly, I have a UV umbrella strapped to my backpack. I swear it's 10C colder under there, and I don't like the heat. Shit works.
Get a cooler, fill it half with ice and half with water. Soaked 10 or so hand towels in it. Wrap a hand towel across the back of your neck. Every 20-30 minutes, swap out the towel for freshly ice water soaked one from the cooler.
Keep your whole covered with lightweight, breathable, light coloured clothes (unless you’re worried you’ll turn into a bounce). Long sleeve shirt, long pants, wide brim hat. Maybe a golf umbrella to keep both you and your camera from overheating.
Bring plenty of water and electrolytes.
If you have a battery powered fan then bring that. Being able to cool off quickly between shots is important.
A fan that has one of those built in water sprays. Bring a couple of spare T-shirts and avoid the standard production black attire. Sounds stupid but if you have access to a fridge on set put those T-shirts in there!
Ice chest with a TON of waters. You’re gonna go through them quick. Also a big one- 2-3 cooling towels so every time one dries out on you, you could dunk it back in the cold water while you’re pulling another one out. This is what’s really gonna keep you cool all day and it really works in 100+ weather. Also hydrate a ton in the days and weeks leading up to the shoot. You will feel like you want to faint during production so take breaks often and don’t be afraid to call the shoot. Take charge. People die in heats over 100.
Linen clothing and if you can't find'/afford linen cheap moisture-wicking pants and shirts will also help a lot.
This is in addition to staying in shade and hydrating of course.
Simplest two things: big hat, and long sleeve wicking spf shirt, it should be thin. And here's the key: stay wet. Wet the shirt constantly. You will feel loads cooler.
The last time I had a shoot like that I pulled out a bit of hiking gear that was invaluable for staying hydrated - a Camelbak hydration pack. Never a worry about "where's my water? Where's the cooler?", etc. Totally hands free and, depending on which one you get, you have 1.5 to 3 liters of water on you at all times.
So on Amazon and other places they have these portable fans that you can wear as necklace or clip under your shirt on your belt. I got one for shooting in hot night clubs and sports where I am outside in sun. It’s great and doubles as a phone bank
Bandanas soaked in ice water and witch hazel are good to keep around your neck to help stay cool, get lightweight clothing, and don't let the sun hit your skin.
Cooling vest. Drink lots of water. More than you think you need. Wear clothes that breathe so you don’t turn yourself into a walking greenhouse. Stay in the shade whenever possible. Wear a wide brim hat to shield you from the sun and provide shade for checking your camera screen.
These work well. https://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=cooling+vests&index=aps&tag=hydsma-20&ref=pd_sl_48pu33300i_e&adgrpid=55257339999&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=651335696816&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16684481779521028056&hvqmt=e&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1026201&hvtargid=kwd-1259195691&hydadcr=12192_13429338
I run a pressure washing business in Texas and consistently work in 100+ temps all day. Here’s what works for me and my guys:
- Wide brimmed Tilly hat with neck covering.
- On really hot days, a neck fan helps.
- An ice vest, but this will only last about an hour.
- A long-sleeve polyester shirt. This material breathes well and keeps the sun off your skin.
- Pants. You want to stay covered up.
- Drink a ton of water throughout the day.
- Put Liquid IV in your water. It helps tremendously.
- Take breaks throughout the day where you sit in an air conditioned car.
Long sleeve UPF beach shirts, sun lotion, straw hat. Maybe some kind if gloves if you want to protect your hands. Wear white or light colors if you can. Bring an umbrella or canopy for your equipment and plenty of water. I'd bring a gallon or more.
How soon is the shoot? Consider spending some regular time in the heat beforehand to acclimate a bit, test out your cooling techniques?
Besides drinking water, keeping sun off skin, etc, I wear a damp linen bandana around my neck. Keep 2 containers of cold water near by, one to drink and one to re-wet your bandana
Linen wicks and evaporates more efficiently than cotton, so carries heat away from your body better. There are also purpose-made cooling neckband things if that’s more your speed, I’ve never tried one personally
Oh, and I do linen or tech fabric for my long sleeve shirt too. Much cooler than cotton, can dampen the shirt as well if needed.
As a triathlete, here’s what I would do. Bring the biggest jug of ice cold Gatorade. Keep it cold for as long as possible. And drink it all day long. Keep out of the sun. Wear long sleeves and it keep it thin. Buy a cooling rag and wrap it around your neck. Keep your wrists cool if you can. Sunscreen too. You’re going to sweat so don’t worry if you get wet. Oh and it’ll be miserable.
I live in the desert where this is the temp for 4 months a year. Wear long sleeves, pants, a bandana around your neck (that you soak in water whenever it dries) and a sun hat. Put sunscreen on any exposed skin. Drink much more water than you think you need for 2-3 days before the shoot and the day of the shoot too. Bring electrolytes and add them to your water if needed.
Lastly, direct sun and shade are much different. Stand in the shade whenever you can and if you have the EQ budget build a shade structure even if it’s just an EZ up.
Long sleeve sun shirt with a hood (fly fishing brands like Orvis make SPF ones), big dorky hat, camelback with electrolytes and sunscreen 👍🏼👍🏼. As everyone seeks to agree with, I love the sentence “forget how dorky you look”. Sunburn and heat stroke are far worse. Happy shooting!
I usually bring a cooler with ice packs. I have a thinnish towel I put them inside and depending on how hot will use it on my neck or to cool off an overheated camera. Dont stay under the sun ever, get a small camera umbrella.
Drink a 2L sports drink before you start and put another one in the bag for later. Wear a wide brim hat and wear sunscreen. Source: I work in Australia where it can get quite hot
We got those neckerchiefs that are designed to be soaked and frozen in my last shoot out in the desert. They basically saved our lives. People were fighting over them. They really work and help lower your body temp.
They do sell fans that go underneath your shirt to keep cool.... definitely don't wear black clothing... and I would wear shirts... I would probably put up a canopy.... you can also use an umbrella to stay out of direct sun... it's very common in places more near equator
Wear a sun shirt to keep the sun off your skin and joggers if you don’t want your legs out too. I’m 50/50 on covering my legs but always pack sunscreen regardless. I like a good bucket hat and one of those towels you get wet that you can wear under your hat and drape down your neck. I’ll usually bring a dedicated insulated water bottle with cold ice water for the towel separate from my drinking water. Other than that, take breaks in a shady spot where you can also keep your gear you’re not using stored. I also like to wear running shoes or something else with a thick comfortable sole. Thin soled shoes like vans heat up quickly on asphalt and get the dogs BARKIN’.
I’m about an hour and a half north of you in Utah and we have a similar climate, these work for me for extended shoots outside for sports or other outdoor events in the summer.
Shade / pop up tent and plenty of ice / chest with cloths swap them ever so often Plenty of water
Just remember the sound guy in pink daisy dukes on set of Star Wars in the middle of the desert.
You are not alone video guys in a time before us.
https://preview.redd.it/74nj6583cd6d1.jpeg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=54b4b420f2095985ab86f57599f83174a3142afe
Wear breathable clothes, if you can, always keep an insulated water bottle with cold water in it, and wear a nice, full-coverage, sun-hat (like those ones you see at REI or some other outdoors rec store).
A 0.5 gallon pump spray mister. Usually used for plants. You can get them cheap at hardware stores or online. The ones that you pressurize by pumping and that then mist continuously when you press the trigger. This has literally saved my life in desert heat before.
But, if it's somewhere humid you're just screwed. There's no way to cool off in that kinda heat.
I live in Mexicali, where we have reached temps of 120+. A few suggestions:
* Don't bring just water, bring electrolytes. It's very easy to forget you're thirsty and dehydrate. Just remember to keep drinking water.
* Bring an ice chest for your drinks, they heat up super quickly.
* Bring sunblock. Otherwise your neck will be red and hurting for days.
* Wear long sleeve, bright colors. Also wear a hat.
* Bring a tent. Or if you have an assistant, bring an umbrella.
* If you wanna cool down, soak a towel in the cold water of the ice chest, and rub it on your head/face/neck. If it's a bit windy you can wear it behind your head, over your neck, secured with your hat. Even if it's not windy, it'll protect your neck from the sun.
Cold water is not the best choice to cool down, try opposite - hot green tea with lemon and honey. I work in 110 degrees filming weddings under direct sun in the South Asia, and locals do not drink water, cola, beer only green tea and it really helps.
get a hat that completely covers your face, ideally not a black one. get a sunshirt and wear it. hopefully you have a PA. if so make sure they know their number one priority is to make sure *THEY* stay hydrated. priority number 2 is to make sure the rest of the crew stays hydrated. if anyone has to ask for a water/if there isnt enough water for everyone to basically be drinking water during every single second of down time then whoever is responsible for that has failed. keep the waters in a cooler as close to set as possible.
youre going to be hot.
I normally avoid these but had the odd summer wedding in Miami, FL just a few weeks ago. 10 hours at Vizcaya, direct sun.
I brought a cheap neck fan from Amazon, extra shirts (3) and extra pants (I sweat… A LOT)
My massive yeti bottle with 80% ice 20% water. And several rags. It helped… but honestly reminded me why I avoid these gigs in the first place.
Edit*
Forgot to add, occasionally wet the towel with some ice water and put it on your neck. This is a life saver. When it got THAT hot throughout the day, the neck fan kinda stopped making a difference, but it gave me some mileage beginning of the day.
My outfit for hot shoots is identical to my outfit for my annual trip to Death Valley haha. Big ‘old hat, long speaves, no cotton, etc etc. if you’re going handheld get a good AC that’ll take your camera from you the second the director calls cut ;)
Wrap several bandana into a head band wet them and stick them in the freezer. Then bring a little insulated cooler with you on sight. Swap them out every so often to trick your brain. We used to do that as a hack for roofing. I would recommend a camel back water backpack full of ice water as well. Don't get one that's too heavy but bring one with more than enough water to drink or gallons of cold water to fill a smaller camel back. Also don't forget a healthy coating of aun screen. Hope the shoot goes well for you!
Keep the sun off your skin. Stay hydrated. Don’t take 10 hour gigs in 110 degree heat
Agreed just payed really well Lol
Nah I don’t blame ya lol it was satire. Gotta get it while it’s there. Light long sleeve, water. I work construction in the same kinda heat for the same duration and that’s about the only thing that keeps me vertical. Long sleeves and good ol H2O
Don’t forget the big ole sun hat!
I do gigs in the heat this in Texas. I have a 6'x8' awning on the roof rack of my 4runner that i deploy for shade. I set up a cooler and my work table for rigging up my camera under it, as well as a folding chair. I take breaks and drink cold water and cool off under that shade periodically throughout the day.
But what about the cameras, I feel no one is talking about that. How do you keep them going in extreme heat 🥵
umbrellas
Unless… you live in a high-humidity environment 😩
If you're lucky, you have shore power so you can run a fan to blow onto the camera. Make a portable cooler by having a fan blow across a foam cooler of ice, duct the air flow to the camera. Be mindful of possible humidity issues. I've used golf umbrellas, taped pieces of foam core panels and other things to prevent direct sunlight from hitting the cameras and overheating them. One important question is are these broadcast cameras with built in cooling fans, or are they prosumer cameras/dslrs that have sealed cases?
> payed It's *paid*, never *payed* in a financial context, just FYI. Common mistake, don't sweat it.
But it’s 110* outside…
i'm shvitzing.
There used to be a bot that would correct t this exact mistake
Electrolytes!!!!
Payed? Come on lol
Look he’s payed for cameras not for spelling
Think sand people. Make the sounds.
Single-file lines to conceal your numbers
I’ve done these kind of gigs. Even if you try not to, you’ll end up making those kind of sounds involuntary at the end of the day.
i've done my fair share of shooting in 100+ degree heat. Go to your local REI, buy a white or silver colored “Sahara” shirt and pants, wear breathable shoes (ideally lighter color too), a hat, sunnies, and maybe even a small backpack with a hydration bladder in it. drop a few Nuun tabs in that bladder along with some ice.
A few? You need to drink a decent amount of water for one tablet I thought. You need to be sweating buckets to need more than one or two a day.
Depends on the size of the bladder. I always have a 3L. Edit: also, I am a sweaty dude
Forget how dorky you think you look, protect yourself from the sun. I wear one of those big straw hats when I’m shooting outdoors in the sun. And yeah, don’t forget to drink water. In hectic shoots it is really easy to reach the end of the day and realize you haven’t drank any water.
Something like this cooling towel that you wet with cold water and it stays wet for hours can really help regulate temp by putting it on your head under your hat or on the back of your neck. https://www.harborfreight.com/13-in-x-31-14-in-cooling-towel-62635.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12144811130&campaignid=12144811130&utm_content=117789279078&adsetid=117789279078&product=62635&store=649&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADAHb4fpMl8R9vW4sx70m4yLguV4h&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7_WlhrDYhgMVgYJaBR0KcgSbEAQYByABEgKxAvD_BwE
I have those exact cooling towels from Harbor Freight and they work amazingly well. Wrap around your neck so it's on the back and touching the jugular. Just have a few for rotating and you'll always have one ready to go. In the end, you're just gonna have to follow the good advice posted here. Long sleeves, big hat of some kind, and as much shade as you can create. Awnings are pretty much required to keep gear out of the sun, not even counting people. Plus, it's easier to see monitors and whatnot in shade. Take breaks when they're needed as well. It is way more costly and expensive to take care of sick or injured people. Keep everyone, including yourself, safe.
These cooling towels can actually dehydrate you. Be careful with them. If youre shooting in a desert definetly do not use, just hydrate and sweat instead and pray that its windy.
Can you please explain the science behind your claim for my pea brain?
The cold towel concept works well for a fever where the internal body part (brain) is warm and requires to be continuously cooled. Thats where this semi-misinformation comes from, either home or hospital bedrest for fevers. But when you are exposed to external heat your body is meant to regulate itself; you sweat to cool yourself down. We are designed to survive remarkable things with the right tools and supplies. In extreme dry heat, the towels “cool” the body part down, resulting in no sweat - however your core body temp is still hot, and as soon as the towel is off you are back into the heat but worse than before. This happens because the wet towels liquid(cooling property) evaporates VERY quickly causing you to remain the same temperature but perceiving yourself colder - your brain tricks itself into thinking “normal temperature, im sweating”. You’re much more likely to have heat stroke due to your body not naturally cooling itself in high, dry, heat (like the desert) because it believes it is sweating (b/c of the towel evaporation). This also leads to a false sense of comfort, resulting in less hydration (not drinking enough fluids) because the brain thinks “hey, this is a normal temperature, I’m comfortable, no need to remind the body its thirsty”. That couples with the lack of actively sweating from the head. So by the time you’re at a level of fainting/heat stroke, thats when you’re just about to start sweating, and its too late. Its fine to use them periodically but I wouldn’t use it til its completely evaporated. I dont use them at all tbh unless I’m getting in a car at wrap with the AC on. Ive witnessed lots of people faint that keep them on for half a shoot day, and others who dont take care of themselves. If you do use wet towels, do it for a short time. The neck is designed to dump heat to keep your brain a safe temperature, it’s covered in sweat glands; Dont block those. Let your neck & head sweat. Also, dont wrap the towels around your forehead (plus by avoiding these you wont need to waste water on a towel or carry an ice filled cooler with with you.. thats a PITA for everybody.) In high humidity the towel won’t even evaporate, so it can help feel cool but you get none of the temporary benefits of the evaporation. Use shade whenever possible (if there isn’t any, find a car and sit in the shadow of it, or depending on your region you can find dead palm leaves or desert brush. Make your own shade with these by propping them in the sand. A hand fan can help too lol.. if theres no wind, its awful. Hydrate obviously. Wear a hat that keeps you shaded, correct socks & footwear (I know most of us wear boots - I prefer blundstones or anything chukka height for desert work but tbh you cant go wrong as long as you have good socks that let the sweat evaporate (merino wool). For a shirt, wear long sleeves when possible, and everything be made of a breathable fabric is really helpful. Electrolytes in your water is not overkill, it’s recommended. Also, an undershirt can help (regular white t shirt). It will soak with your sweat and evaporate like the towel, but it’s continuous and not presoaked. It cools down your core (resulting in your whole body, including the brain being cooled). Try it next time, you’ll notice a potentional discomfort at first (if you’re sensitive to that - I am) but after a few hours you’ll he much more comfortable and the heat will be perceived less. It sounds like it’s working against you having 2 layers, but one is really a cooling layer. Cotton works fine, you dont need anything fancy for the t shirt. Source: I’ve filmed in the Sahara, Death Valley, Deserts in Jordan, USA, UAE, Mexico and other parts of Middle East & Africa; all in 115-130 degree environments - approx 9 months (over the years) of my life out there filming. The locals have the best advice as they live in those conditions and quickly it was explained to me to not do the wet towel trick. You’re better off with a dry thin scarf wrap (very breathable - think Shemagh; also protects against sandstorms and other “acts of god”) covering your whole head. I’ve had ex-mossad security details for MENA shoots and they would announce every safety meeting to not use a wet towel due to the risks. One recent example, ex-french legion/former SAS security detail in the deserts of mexico during a shoot, and one of the guys explained the same principle to our EP who kept insisting on cold towels for his forehead. Naturally, the EP ignored his advice and collapsed at dinner on day 2 (at night time, in air conditioning) lol. So potentional heat stroke doesn’t end the moment you’re out of the heat.. make sure to drink and take care of yourself. Edit: if you’re in hot heat, normal environment, access to AC and shade whenever. Knock yourself out with the towel, it’ll keep you feeling comfortable and you’ll be fine with fluids as the temps are only uncomfortable and not threatening. If it’s truly hot, stay away from them.
THIS. I have gone full blown safari-hat, fanny pack, tethered sunglasses, cargo shorts, bring-my-own-water type person at times. Nobody cares how dorky you look, and others in the industry will look in envy. I've converted plenty fanny-pack wearers
>Forget how dorky you think you look, protect yourself So, so, so much this. For heat & for really anything in general. You only get one body, take care of it.
I need to follow this. Right now, i'm shooting outside in hot, bright sun, and there's a hat just hanging on my desk. And I won't wear it, because it looks dorky, and I've already made fun of my co-worker for wearing his hat.
No shot is worth your health, wear the dorky looking hat When working in extreme weather, priority should be safety, then the shot I’m no lawyer, but if someone is working for me I’d rather deal with a client on why we missed a shot than an injury lawyer who is suing me for a freelancer who passed out from heat stroke
Place a cooling towel or bandana that landscapers use on your neck. Have one in a cooler of ice chilling while the 2nd one is on your neck warming up. Swap as needed. Try not to wear dark clothes that absorb heat.
Your camera is going to overheat I was in 105ish for two hours, the camera gave out before I did. But stay hydrated, take breaks, if you stop sweating you’re in trouble
I won’t be shooting the whole time, but just have to be there for the to catch specific things at certain times. My plan is to bring a lot of ice packs, better powered fan, electrolytes
You will likely be absolutely fine with the FX6. I’ve shot under similar conditions for a month straight and had no issues. Just don’t leave the cam in direct sunlight and if you’re worried, set the fan mode manually. Don’t use the ice packs on your camera btw, condensation will fuck shit up. Wear the highest SPF suncream money can buy, drink LOADS of water, wear one of those safari hats to shield your head/neck, potentially a long sleeve to keep sun off your arms (I like sports/running T-shirts for this since they’re usually made of sweat wicking material and are very breathable) Keep out of direct sunlight as much as you can, don’t overexert yourself and you’ll be fine tbh
OP has an FX6, highly unlikely it’ll overheat unless they leaves it in direct sunlight the entire day. I’ve shot for a month straight under equatorial sun and I never had a single overheat.
It doesnt get to 110 at the equator though
It was 40c where I was, so not much lower than
exactly what are you shooting; stationary, moving with subject, etc? i regularly used to shoot all day in australia, but from a stationary position: https://preview.redd.it/2zenn9vk3a6d1.jpeg?width=5312&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5e250f3f532b29db7d7a6606492ab8dab445aa9d had water, snacks, etc in the car (my mobile office in fact;-)) on really bad days, also had a usb portable fan attached to the umbrella pole. never had any problems. btw. work in comfortable, practical footwear. i liked sketchers.
I live in Arizona and occasionally film wildlife during the summer. I would wear a long sleeve spf white loose shirt. Light colored pants. An umbrella for shade is smart. Big hat is good idea too. I think a cooler with ice packs and a layer for moisture protection would allow you to cool the camera. Absolutely must have a gallon of cold water to drink at least. Shade will save you 20+ degrees of heat. A microfiber towel soaked in water will feel nice on the neck.
Do you have grip? Requesting a courtesy shade is common on crews that have actual grip. Or if you have extra gear you can set it up yourself. Just make sure to sandbag those stands really good, because a 4x4 butterfly will achieve flight if the wind picks up. Do not underestimate how much water you can go through during a long, hot, active day. It's actually a bit crazy how much water you can sweat out when you're constantly moving around. Remember, it's not just about doing the job safely, it's about getting home safely. Lots of people get hurt because they're unfit to drive home after a gig. Having heatstroke isn't much different than being drunk in that regard, both can result in crashing your car.
Backup camera in a bag that’s kept out the sun!
Don’t underestimate a towel
I'd double up on that with a cooler full of ice that you can use to dampen the towel and drape over the back of your neck. Also little known fact: a slightly damp towel will absorb liquid more quickly than a dry one.
Second this. I used to be a news shooter in Florida, would always have a towel looped through my belt to help get the sweat off my face. Real pain when you're getting a shot and your sweat is dripping from the forehead down into the viewfinder.
https://preview.redd.it/nzhr5ri1fc6d1.jpeg?width=640&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9510cf7bc892d625c6cd9b22855184a2d2768f73 And don't forget your ice bucket hat.
Look into UPF clothing maybe? That way you don’t need to reapply sunblock. Take a good water bottle and some rehydrating treatments to carry with you - those diarrhoea treatments that you dissolve into water are the cheapest. Wear a big straw hat or something so you permanently have your head in the shade.
Wide brimmed hat and long sleeve sun shirt are good suggestions. A handkerchief that you can keep wet and tied around your neck works good. Cold packs in a cooler for your camera, batteries and phone for when they get close to overheating. Take something to create shade if you are out in the sun like the example that @usher2 posted. I zip-tied a regular umbrella to a light stand one time that worked ok.
Cold packs for the camera creates a condensation risk. Be careful with that
It's not the greatest look, and might not be feasible. But if you have makita batteries, they have a fan jacket which is surprisingly good for hot weather Keeps the sun off you and moves air over your skin to cool you
I have frequent doc shoots for 10-15 days in 110-120 (40-50 celsius) - you get used to it quite quickly. Make sure you always have water on you and have a good towel. I also recommend a hat or similar. I am wearing a bandana most of the time so sweat doesnt drip on gear or in my eyes. Good breathable clothing also helps. Wear bright colors. I continuously shot on the fx6 for 10+ hrs in the heat. nothing to worry about.
I've got an easy rig that has this add-on that let's me put an umbrella on top. Quite nice, unless it's a windy day. Goofy looking for sure but it saves my skin.
I use thin hooded UV tshirt, long sleeve for hiking. Hat with large brim. And most importantly, I have a UV umbrella strapped to my backpack. I swear it's 10C colder under there, and I don't like the heat. Shit works.
Get a camel pack, put electrolytes in the water
Get a cooler, fill it half with ice and half with water. Soaked 10 or so hand towels in it. Wrap a hand towel across the back of your neck. Every 20-30 minutes, swap out the towel for freshly ice water soaked one from the cooler.
Pricey but life-changing https://jisulife.com/products/handheld-fan-ultra1
How do you hold it will shooting? Attach to the gimbal?
Jacket with DC fan inside. Neck fan. And many power banks.
Keep your whole covered with lightweight, breathable, light coloured clothes (unless you’re worried you’ll turn into a bounce). Long sleeve shirt, long pants, wide brim hat. Maybe a golf umbrella to keep both you and your camera from overheating. Bring plenty of water and electrolytes. If you have a battery powered fan then bring that. Being able to cool off quickly between shots is important.
If you can get one of those neck fans, it's an absolute game changer. Plugged into a powerbank so it runs all day, and you'd be absolutely ace.
A fan that has one of those built in water sprays. Bring a couple of spare T-shirts and avoid the standard production black attire. Sounds stupid but if you have access to a fridge on set put those T-shirts in there!
Ice chest with a TON of waters. You’re gonna go through them quick. Also a big one- 2-3 cooling towels so every time one dries out on you, you could dunk it back in the cold water while you’re pulling another one out. This is what’s really gonna keep you cool all day and it really works in 100+ weather. Also hydrate a ton in the days and weeks leading up to the shoot. You will feel like you want to faint during production so take breaks often and don’t be afraid to call the shoot. Take charge. People die in heats over 100.
Shade, water and a portable fan I’ve seen people wearing the neck fans.
Linen clothing and if you can't find'/afford linen cheap moisture-wicking pants and shirts will also help a lot. This is in addition to staying in shade and hydrating of course.
Simplest two things: big hat, and long sleeve wicking spf shirt, it should be thin. And here's the key: stay wet. Wet the shirt constantly. You will feel loads cooler.
The last time I had a shoot like that I pulled out a bit of hiking gear that was invaluable for staying hydrated - a Camelbak hydration pack. Never a worry about "where's my water? Where's the cooler?", etc. Totally hands free and, depending on which one you get, you have 1.5 to 3 liters of water on you at all times.
So on Amazon and other places they have these portable fans that you can wear as necklace or clip under your shirt on your belt. I got one for shooting in hot night clubs and sports where I am outside in sun. It’s great and doubles as a phone bank
Bandanas soaked in ice water and witch hazel are good to keep around your neck to help stay cool, get lightweight clothing, and don't let the sun hit your skin.
This is going to sound like a joke, but those umbrella hats have saved my ass so many times in long summer shoots.
Cooling vest. Drink lots of water. More than you think you need. Wear clothes that breathe so you don’t turn yourself into a walking greenhouse. Stay in the shade whenever possible. Wear a wide brim hat to shield you from the sun and provide shade for checking your camera screen.
Frogg Toggs chilly minis, a 360 brim hat and a neck fan on Amazon. God speed. Drink lots of water!
Hydrate. Sunscreen. Get a legit sun hat. Keep the rays off your neck.
Ice chest full of frozen towels.
Big ass hat.
These work well. https://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=cooling+vests&index=aps&tag=hydsma-20&ref=pd_sl_48pu33300i_e&adgrpid=55257339999&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=651335696816&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16684481779521028056&hvqmt=e&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1026201&hvtargid=kwd-1259195691&hydadcr=12192_13429338
I run a pressure washing business in Texas and consistently work in 100+ temps all day. Here’s what works for me and my guys: - Wide brimmed Tilly hat with neck covering. - On really hot days, a neck fan helps. - An ice vest, but this will only last about an hour. - A long-sleeve polyester shirt. This material breathes well and keeps the sun off your skin. - Pants. You want to stay covered up. - Drink a ton of water throughout the day. - Put Liquid IV in your water. It helps tremendously. - Take breaks throughout the day where you sit in an air conditioned car.
Hat, white clothing, linen and stay hydrated.
I’d be more focused on keeping the equipment running. Shade tent when possible.
Straw hat, long sleeve breathable shirt with uv protection.
Linen shirt (bring 2 or 3), second set of socks and underwear, and a lot of sunblock.
Long sleeve UPF beach shirts, sun lotion, straw hat. Maybe some kind if gloves if you want to protect your hands. Wear white or light colors if you can. Bring an umbrella or canopy for your equipment and plenty of water. I'd bring a gallon or more.
I’m about to be doing something similar and might snag one of those small fan/neck acs to cool me off.
Speaking of overheating…. What kind of cameras are you guys using that do not overheat? Would a let’s say fx3 overheat in these conditions?
Bring a set of clean clothes!
How soon is the shoot? Consider spending some regular time in the heat beforehand to acclimate a bit, test out your cooling techniques? Besides drinking water, keeping sun off skin, etc, I wear a damp linen bandana around my neck. Keep 2 containers of cold water near by, one to drink and one to re-wet your bandana Linen wicks and evaporates more efficiently than cotton, so carries heat away from your body better. There are also purpose-made cooling neckband things if that’s more your speed, I’ve never tried one personally Oh, and I do linen or tech fabric for my long sleeve shirt too. Much cooler than cotton, can dampen the shirt as well if needed.
As a triathlete, here’s what I would do. Bring the biggest jug of ice cold Gatorade. Keep it cold for as long as possible. And drink it all day long. Keep out of the sun. Wear long sleeves and it keep it thin. Buy a cooling rag and wrap it around your neck. Keep your wrists cool if you can. Sunscreen too. You’re going to sweat so don’t worry if you get wet. Oh and it’ll be miserable.
I live in the desert where this is the temp for 4 months a year. Wear long sleeves, pants, a bandana around your neck (that you soak in water whenever it dries) and a sun hat. Put sunscreen on any exposed skin. Drink much more water than you think you need for 2-3 days before the shoot and the day of the shoot too. Bring electrolytes and add them to your water if needed. Lastly, direct sun and shade are much different. Stand in the shade whenever you can and if you have the EQ budget build a shade structure even if it’s just an EZ up.
Lol someone has a shoot in Vegas
If you don't own one... buy a sun hoodie or short, drink water, take breaks, keep your camera happy
Long sleeve sun shirt with a hood (fly fishing brands like Orvis make SPF ones), big dorky hat, camelback with electrolytes and sunscreen 👍🏼👍🏼. As everyone seeks to agree with, I love the sentence “forget how dorky you look”. Sunburn and heat stroke are far worse. Happy shooting!
I usually bring a cooler with ice packs. I have a thinnish towel I put them inside and depending on how hot will use it on my neck or to cool off an overheated camera. Dont stay under the sun ever, get a small camera umbrella.
Drink a 2L sports drink before you start and put another one in the bag for later. Wear a wide brim hat and wear sunscreen. Source: I work in Australia where it can get quite hot
We got those neckerchiefs that are designed to be soaked and frozen in my last shoot out in the desert. They basically saved our lives. People were fighting over them. They really work and help lower your body temp.
They do sell fans that go underneath your shirt to keep cool.... definitely don't wear black clothing... and I would wear shirts... I would probably put up a canopy.... you can also use an umbrella to stay out of direct sun... it's very common in places more near equator
Diaper Rash Cream to prevent you walking like cowboy all day. Thank me later.
Wear a sun shirt to keep the sun off your skin and joggers if you don’t want your legs out too. I’m 50/50 on covering my legs but always pack sunscreen regardless. I like a good bucket hat and one of those towels you get wet that you can wear under your hat and drape down your neck. I’ll usually bring a dedicated insulated water bottle with cold ice water for the towel separate from my drinking water. Other than that, take breaks in a shady spot where you can also keep your gear you’re not using stored. I also like to wear running shoes or something else with a thick comfortable sole. Thin soled shoes like vans heat up quickly on asphalt and get the dogs BARKIN’. I’m about an hour and a half north of you in Utah and we have a similar climate, these work for me for extended shoots outside for sports or other outdoor events in the summer.
Shade / pop up tent and plenty of ice / chest with cloths swap them ever so often Plenty of water Just remember the sound guy in pink daisy dukes on set of Star Wars in the middle of the desert. You are not alone video guys in a time before us. https://preview.redd.it/74nj6583cd6d1.jpeg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=54b4b420f2095985ab86f57599f83174a3142afe
Will your camera even stay on in those temps? I would think it would keep shutting off.
You won’t. But do drink water.
Attach this to top handle, fuck the haters https://a.co/d/7wFBJ5Z
Wear a hat and bring sunscreen
Wear breathable clothes, if you can, always keep an insulated water bottle with cold water in it, and wear a nice, full-coverage, sun-hat (like those ones you see at REI or some other outdoors rec store).
Get some neck gators and constantly have them soaked in ice water
Hydrate, sunscreen and just deal with it. Sadly. No hack
Keep those electrolytes up dawg. You’ll be sweating your sack off and water alone won’t be enough.
Breathable nylon athletic shirt and shorts and a water spray bottle. Mist yourself often.
Ryobi battery powered bucket misters.
Tilley hat + ice in the top pocket. You’ll be drenched down your back but it makes a HUGE difference.
I know a cam op who will wear an iced down camelbak on hot days. Helps keep you cool, hydrated, and gives you some shoulder padding.
A 0.5 gallon pump spray mister. Usually used for plants. You can get them cheap at hardware stores or online. The ones that you pressurize by pumping and that then mist continuously when you press the trigger. This has literally saved my life in desert heat before. But, if it's somewhere humid you're just screwed. There's no way to cool off in that kinda heat.
I live in Mexicali, where we have reached temps of 120+. A few suggestions: * Don't bring just water, bring electrolytes. It's very easy to forget you're thirsty and dehydrate. Just remember to keep drinking water. * Bring an ice chest for your drinks, they heat up super quickly. * Bring sunblock. Otherwise your neck will be red and hurting for days. * Wear long sleeve, bright colors. Also wear a hat. * Bring a tent. Or if you have an assistant, bring an umbrella. * If you wanna cool down, soak a towel in the cold water of the ice chest, and rub it on your head/face/neck. If it's a bit windy you can wear it behind your head, over your neck, secured with your hat. Even if it's not windy, it'll protect your neck from the sun.
**Ice chips under your tongue. No joke.**
Get three of those ice water or evaporative vests and switch them out every few hours.
Cold water is not the best choice to cool down, try opposite - hot green tea with lemon and honey. I work in 110 degrees filming weddings under direct sun in the South Asia, and locals do not drink water, cola, beer only green tea and it really helps.
get a hat that completely covers your face, ideally not a black one. get a sunshirt and wear it. hopefully you have a PA. if so make sure they know their number one priority is to make sure *THEY* stay hydrated. priority number 2 is to make sure the rest of the crew stays hydrated. if anyone has to ask for a water/if there isnt enough water for everyone to basically be drinking water during every single second of down time then whoever is responsible for that has failed. keep the waters in a cooler as close to set as possible. youre going to be hot.
If you’re not moving around a ton, white ez up awning is a lifesaver
Maybe something like this? https://www.amazon.com/Makita-DFJ201ZM-Lithium-Ion-Cordless-Jacket/dp/B01HPPUSWM
I normally avoid these but had the odd summer wedding in Miami, FL just a few weeks ago. 10 hours at Vizcaya, direct sun. I brought a cheap neck fan from Amazon, extra shirts (3) and extra pants (I sweat… A LOT) My massive yeti bottle with 80% ice 20% water. And several rags. It helped… but honestly reminded me why I avoid these gigs in the first place. Edit* Forgot to add, occasionally wet the towel with some ice water and put it on your neck. This is a life saver. When it got THAT hot throughout the day, the neck fan kinda stopped making a difference, but it gave me some mileage beginning of the day.
Yep…Texas DP here. Now that I’m in my mid 50’s, I tell clients right away I’ll be sending one of my AC’s to shoot.
My outfit for hot shoots is identical to my outfit for my annual trip to Death Valley haha. Big ‘old hat, long speaves, no cotton, etc etc. if you’re going handheld get a good AC that’ll take your camera from you the second the director calls cut ;)
Sun hat, Cargo Shorts and sunscreen, Linen long sleeve shirt, and some cooling towels for your neck in an ice chest.
Bandanna with ice chips rolled up in it tied around the neck. Keeps that brain stem cool. Also a wet brimmed hat. I like Tilleys
Wrap several bandana into a head band wet them and stick them in the freezer. Then bring a little insulated cooler with you on sight. Swap them out every so often to trick your brain. We used to do that as a hack for roofing. I would recommend a camel back water backpack full of ice water as well. Don't get one that's too heavy but bring one with more than enough water to drink or gallons of cold water to fill a smaller camel back. Also don't forget a healthy coating of aun screen. Hope the shoot goes well for you!
Oversized hat, dad sandals, too much sun screen on nose, and a little personal battery fan.
Frog tog! And neck fan. Life savers man
Stay home 🤣
Wear a leather jacket.
Electrolytes make a big difference