Why I Always Overpack for Video Shoots

There’s an old saying: experience is the best teacher. Early in my career, I learned the hard way that when it comes to video production, it’s better to have gear you don’t need than to need gear you don’t have.

Several years ago, a longtime client asked me to capture b-roll of their product being used in the field - outdoors, in the middle of a Wisconsin winter. It was 10°F, the wind was cutting, and the plan was simple: one hour of b-roll footage. To stay light and mobile, I packed only a camera, a few batteries, and a monopod.

When I arrived, the client casually mentioned: “We may want to do an interview, too.”

They immediately realized it was something they should have told me earlier and said they’d completely understand if it wasn’t possible. They knew I hadn’t brought interview gear - no microphones, lighting, reflectors, or even headphones to monitor audio.

But I wasn’t about to say no. We found a subject, positioned him with the sun as my only light source, moved in close with the camera, and relied on the built-in mic. I couldn’t monitor the sound - I just hoped for the best.

To everyone’s relief, it worked. The client was thrilled, and the footage turned out better than expected. But I walked away with a new rule: always pack for the unexpected.

Since that day, even if the brief says “just b-roll,” I make sure interview gear comes with me. Clients sometimes change direction on the spot - and being prepared means I can deliver, even when plans shift at the last minute.

This was the final result: