Desert Gear

[Olivier Metzler]

Hello,

I’m going to Oman for a doc shoot in the Fall and was wondering what your recommendations are for clothing in that climate and environment? Most filming will take place in the mountains and desert. 

Thanks!

[James Compton]

 

 Buy light colored clothing, they will be on sale now that summer is wrapping up. Fabrics that wick moisture(sweat) and made of breathable materials. Buy a few Frogg Toggs Chilly Pads. Soak one in water and wring it out. Wear it around your neck. It will keep your head cool from the neck up. I've seen them in use here on sets, in Atlanta. It works well in the blazing Southern heat, as well as in the desert.

For your camera gear:

Get a few clear optical flat filters for your lenses to keep dust off of the front element.

Buy large ziplock bags for items that you want to protect from the dust(it's everywhere).

Buy a white umbrella, attach it to a grip arm that you can mount in your staging/planning area. It will knock down the sunlight, making it easier to focus and concentrate without being fatigued by the sun. There are also umbrella hats that you can wear while operating the camera, you will look like an absolute goofball -but you will get the shot. Not to mention you can see through the viewfinder /monitor in bright direct sunlight.

One more thing, find a fruit stand/local market(MUSCAT FOOD MARKET near Hwy 1) that has melons(watermelon/cantelope). Slice up one in your hotel room and bring a few pieces in a container. THAT will completely refresh you while in the field working.

 

Edited August 25, 2023 by James Compton

[Eric Eader]

Olivier,

Checking a "World Almanac"  for specific conditions in mountains and desert of Oman may prove useful.

Sometimes in the desert it is very hot during the day but very cool at night, other times it is always hot: night or day. The same applies to mountains also.  Foul weather gear necessary for each condition.  Long sleeve shirts rather than short sleeve.

Mountains may experience more rain than the desert, but be prepared for rain in the desert and for runoff rainwater to create flashfloods capable of sweeping gear away.  You don't have to necessarily stop production when spotting oncoming rain but be prepared for quick getaway.  Local guides should know best on this, hopefully.

Bottled water: your own supply and extra for the crew.  Although the company should have plenty on hand. (better to have it and not need it than not have it and need it).  Be careful of ice in your non-shooting hours refreshments. Omani, if not "Montezuma's Revenge."?  Good hiking or military boots, well broken in.  Thin and thick wool sox for hot or cold days respectively.  Cotton holds moisture and becomes uncomfortable quickly in both temps.  Blouse or tuck pants cuff into boot top to keep out tiny critters. A bottle (or two), of Pine-Sol for washing hairy parts of the body (or soaking in a tub), to get rid of critters attached to you.  (No joke, most of those that attach themselves cannot tolerate pine).

Pay particular attention to places snakes could be sleeping/hiding.  Watch where you put your hands and feet,

Get those pads you can freeze overnight and keep in cooler for drinks, (so as to avoid ice connected problems).

There are probably many more things and others should add their comments, hopefully.

Good Shooting!!