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Don't Let Dead Batteries Ruin Your Shoot

There's not much worse than going to capture a shot only to find your camera is out of power. Here's how I don't run out of juice when creating adventure films and photos.

Don't Let Dead Batteries Ruin Your Shoot

Filmmaking and photography can take you to some of the most remote and beautiful locations on the planet, making them perfect for capturing stunning landscapes, wildlife, and human experiences.

Running out of power is the last thing you want to happen on an adventure shoot. It's frustrating, and it means that you won't be able to capture the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and human experiences that brought you to those locations.

Here are four tips to help you manage your power and avoid running out of battery life while on location.

Plan ahead and bring backup batteries

One of the most effective ways to avoid running out of power is to bring more batteries with you.

It's essential to research the battery life of your equipment and how long it's likely to last so you know how many backup batteries you need to bring.

Depending on your camera and other devices, you may need to bring multiple batteries for a one-day, two-day, or multi-day shoot.

Bring extra spares, especially on a multi-day shoot where you're camping out and you don't have anywhere to charge.

Use your power-saving settings

Most cameras and other filmmaking equipment have power-saving settings built-in, such as turning off lights or screens when they're not in use.

These small changes can go a long way in extending your battery life and making sure your devices have more juice throughout the day.

Bring a power bank with you

Another way to manage your power is to bring a power bank with you. These are small and portable, making them perfect for outdoor shoots.

They allow you to charge up your camera batteries, microphones, and even your phone, giving you an extra bit of backup power.

However, be aware that some devices can't be charged off a small power bank, so consider investing in a larger one or charging them from your car.

Keep your batteries warm

Batteries don't perform well when they're cold.

In fact, they can quickly deplete in power when exposed to extremely cold temperatures.

Therefore, it's essential to keep your batteries warm when it's cold outside.

You can do this by keeping them in your pocket, inside your jacket, or in a battery warmer.


Managing your power while on location is crucial for capturing the perfect shots.

Plan ahead, bring backup batteries, use your power-saving settings, bring a power bank, and keep your batteries warm.

With these tips, you can ensure that you don't run out of battery life and capture stunning footage in some of the most remote and beautiful locations on the planet.

Post by:

Izak Jackson Izak Jackson

Izak Jackson

2 min read

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