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Tricks of the Trade: Vol.2 #9

“The World is a book. Those who do not travel read only a page.” Augustine (354-430)

When was the last time you cried in the airport? Were you standing in immigration?
Hungry? Angry? Lonely? Tired? HALT!!! Try these seasoned tips for production folk.

The following column of “Tricks” was inspired by some recent travels and contains contributions from community members who frequently travel for work as filmmakers, photographers, stylists, producers, event designers, and human beings.

Research. Do your homework!

Where are you going? Get a book! We really like “Lonely Planet” but it’s always good to read a few different styles of guides. Working with a “high-brow” crew? Try Conde-Naste Traveler. Ask people you know who travel a lot about idiosyncrasies of that particular city. Contact the local film commission, if they have one, and get anything they can send you about the area. Post your upcoming location on one of the production chat groups like APAnet*or Chicks-Chat*and get real opinions from real production professionals.

(* You must register to be a member of these esteemed groups)

Papers, Badges and Money

Do you need a passport? If you don’t have one already, get one. Even Mexico now prefers a valid passport to a driver’s license. (Who knows when the stuff will hit the fan and you’ll need to get out of here.) Make sure you keep it current. It takes about a month to renew and you need to supply photos, (no need to use a make-up artist for this), www.passportsusa.com. Find out if you need a visa or work permit. Your producer will likely take care of this but be clear about what your official title is. Some countries, like Canada, have specific rules about what job titles can come in to work freelance. For instance, a producer may be welcome but not a prop stylist.

If you are shooting product, or even just taking a lot of equipment, you may need a Carnet. Carnets are “Merchandise Passports.” They are international customs documents that simplify customs procedures for the temporary importation of various types of goods. In the U.S., two types are issued: ATA and TECRO/AIT Carnets. Get more info at www.uscib.org. Money conversions: on line conversion rates are available here.

If you don’t need it before you go, you may need it to process the receipts you are including in your invoice

What to pack:

Packing and organizing: According to a recent Fodor’stravel column, frequent travelers recommend
some of the following items for stress-less travel:

On the Plane:

• Snack foods and water. Powerbars, Luna bars, protein-rich nuts and the blessing of fresh fruit… great places to start. Don’t forget the chocolate bar. Great for your late night, low energy, or obsession.

• Remember that you can use the rear of the plane for stretching and moving during flight. Please be mindful of the staff, they are at work. This “Yoga” technique will keep the blood flowing and you’ll feel better when you land. Many airline offer suggestion in the “In-flight” magazines or as commercials during the video presentations.

• Excedrin PM, great for pain and the least side effects of all the nighttime ‘Sleep aids’.

• If you get chilly or like to sleep: a shawl or “Pashmina” style wrap. Makes a good blanket, sling, pillow or head covering or a temple. Think of it as your Blankie!! Warmer climates: a sarong or pareao.

Personal recommendations included:

Feed me…getting your needs met.

• H2o ASAP. Local market chocolate bars to Fugi apples. Cheese, libations, or ice. Set up your reality station with a family photo, pix of your pets, candle, flower or whatever makes you feel that place the Yogi’s call “Center”. Eye pillows and personal scents are also highly lauded.

• Check you pillows and towels right away and call house keeping for more or better, stat! Some hotels offer a “Pillow” menu. There seems to be an international recognition that sleep IS important to doing a great job in the workplace.

• Use your senses. Are there flapping flags outside your window? Did you get a room next to the air conditioner… flashing “Hotel” sign or Joe’s all-night bowling alley?

Service, what and why to pay. What are the billable expenses?

• Internet, your room, and services. Wireless hot spots, many hotels offer these in-room or at communal locations. Dial up is dead. If you’re on a tight budget, a couple of crew members can share some Internet time, it’s usually available in 24hr increments.

• Health club: will you even have time to use it? Check the amenities before you buy. Do they offer a special package for business travelers or do you have an airline or auto club card that extends upgrades to mid-week travelers? It’s best to bring your own exercise accessories: Running shoes, yoga mat, goggles. You’ll be ready, if and when, you have a break.

• Make full use of the concierge: theatre tix may or may not be the best deal at your hotel. Remember that you’re paying for someone to serve you. Many big cities have ticket outlets near the theatre district, offering “day of the show” seats available for a greatly reduced price. Time or money, you usually have to spend one or the other.
  

• Call for weather, right outside the front door and also where you will be shooting. The concierge can help you with this, even in locations without Internet access.

Most important, be sure to bring along:

• Patience

• A sense of humor

• An open mind

• Your inner child