Director Tim Damon, who’s repped for commercials and digital work through Square Planet Media/Damon Productions, recently shot two car advertising campaigns using new technologies and procedures to help keep everyone involved safe during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. His three-pronged approach enlists use of a film crew health code, military grade satellite technology and high-tech communications equipment to make collaboration on shoots safe and efficient.

“We’ve been busy the last few months, not only on production, but figuring out new ways to pull off car shoots involving minimal contact but maximum collaboration,” said Damon. “Most of it involves technologies that allow remote communication while keeping crew, creatives and clients safe.”

Damon recently onlined three military grade Winegard satellite systems for great bandwidth, and advanced Teradek monitoring solutions for off-set monitoring, point-to-point IP video and real-time live streaming. “In February our crew spent two days at Willow Springs (in Kern County, Calif.) testing all this gear before the pandemic broke out,” shared Damon. “These technologies, combined with military grade satellite communications, allow us to work remotely while keeping everyone on the same page.”

Damon believes the key to working remotely is the capacity for large amounts of bandwidth, no matter the location. A trio of Winegard satellites atop a customized Mercedes Sprinter enable Damon and his crew to collaborate while keeping safe distance protocols intact. “Winegard internet products provide high-speed, high capacity service in the harshest, most remote locations,” said Damon. “Their VSAT services are rugged, robust and designed around the strongest gear trains and motors in the industry. It’s a two-way system that allows our productions to have seamless connectivity.” 

Damon’s Mercedes Sprinter acts as a mobile video village for creatives to safely observe all onsite action. The re-fabricated van features dual HD monitors, live streaming, and climate controlled seating for up to 14 people.

Crew COVID-19 protocols
To keep everyone healthy during shoots, Damon also instituted a crew code. “Masks, gloves and temperature checks, all the time, every day,” said Damon. “Everyone on the crew voluntarily agrees on all instituted protocols.” 

Additionally, Damon’s production companies indemnify both agency and client against lawsuits involving COVID-19 spread during production. “Everyone wants to continue to work, and we all want to stay healthy,” said Damon.