Embarking on a 4,000-mile journey across Europe in an electric Lotus Eletre was a daunting yet thrilling experience. The challenge was amplified by the need to document the entire trip, transforming it into a personal film project. This meant juggling the responsibilities of driving, filming, and producing all at once, which was no small feat.
The journey began with a loose plan. I knew I would travel from Edinburgh to Barcelona and back, but the specifics of the route remained uncertain. I opted not to book accommodations in advance, allowing for flexibility in case of unexpected delays or spontaneous detours. This approach, while liberating, made it impossible to script my video content ahead of time. Instead, I decided to capture the essence of the journey as it unfolded.
During charging stops, I utilized my phone to take notes and dictate thoughts, which would later serve as the backbone for my video segments. The spontaneity of the trip meant that much of the filming was done on the fly, capturing my genuine reactions and experiences with the car. It wasn’t until the latter part of the journey that I filmed my main pieces to camera, once I had a better understanding of the Lotus Eletre and could articulate my thoughts more clearly.
When it came to equipment, I had the luxury of space in the Eletre, allowing me to bring along a variety of cameras and accessories. My primary camera was the Canon R5, paired with versatile lenses to capture a range of shots. I also brought along a Panasonic S5 for additional angles, a GoPro Hero 7 for action shots, and various tripods and rigging equipment to secure my cameras in different positions.
Finding the right angles for my shots was crucial. I aimed for a professional look, which required a mix of b-roll footage both inside and outside the car. As a solo traveler, I had to get creative. I scouted quiet locations to park the car, set up my camera on a tripod, and then drive past to capture the footage. This method, while risky, allowed me to film the car in motion without needing a second person.
In addition to exterior shots, I focused on capturing the interior of the car. I used macro lenses for close-ups of details like the seating and controls, and I employed a slider for dynamic push-in and pull-out shots. Inside the car, I mounted cameras using suction cups to film myself while driving. This required careful planning to ensure safety and legality, as I couldn’t operate the camera while on the road.
Editing the footage was a significant part of the process. I used DaVinci Resolve, my preferred software for video production. The editing began with transcribing my presented sections, which helped me build a cohesive narrative. I aimed for a snappy pace, interspersing b-roll clips with my commentary to keep the viewer engaged. Soundtracks were carefully selected to enhance the mood, and I made sure to edit the cuts to the rhythm of the music.
Color grading was another essential step in the editing process. I wanted to create a distinct look for the film, so I adjusted exposure, contrast, and color tones to achieve the desired aesthetic. Using BlackMagic’s Micro Color Panel sped up my workflow and allowed for more creative experimentation.
Throughout this journey, I learned valuable lessons about filmmaking and storytelling. The experience of driving 4,000 miles in an electric Lotus Eletre while documenting the adventure was both challenging and rewarding. It pushed me to think on my feet, adapt to changing circumstances, and ultimately create a film that captured the essence of the journey.
For anyone looking to embark on a similar project, my advice is to plan as much as possible but remain open to spontaneity. Capture plenty of b-roll footage, experiment with different angles, and don’t hesitate to try multiple takes when presenting to the camera. With the right mindset and preparation, you can create a compelling documentary-style video that showcases your unique experiences.
Source: CNET
