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Project Zero: Filmmaking in a Changing World
Project Zero is a carbon-neutral documentary exploring the effects of our shifting climate from Pole to Pole. Recently, that journey took them to Iceland: enduring the highest Highlands to the lowest temperatures.
As we recently explored in Alex Stone’s Castle Crozier project, extreme conditions necessitate reliable gear – especially when you have to carry it all on horseback, or your own back. The Project Zero team turned to Bright Tangerine for help, taking a number of our best camera accessories on their Icelandic expedition. We caught up with them to explore their process for this odyssey.
Words by Kitalé Wilson. Images by Dom Gould, Kitalé Wilson and Vincent Tran.
Documentary filmmaking is undergoing a revolution: shifting toward more immersive and emotionally resonant storytelling. These narratives have the power to transport audiences, placing them directly into the heart of real-life experiences. But this movement demands a new level of adaptability and intention from cinematographers and their teams. To tell moving stories, we need to move—physically, emotionally, and creatively—staying present and prepared for whatever the story demands.
I’ve never consciously analysed my approach to shooting documentaries, as most of it has been a gradual progression shaped by trial, error, and plenty of exploration. But on a recent shoot in Iceland, working alongside my frequent collaborator Dom Gould, we decided to take a step back and reflect on how we approach filmmaking. As emerging filmmakers contributing to the growing movement of vérité-driven cinematic stories, we felt it was the perfect time to evaluate and refine our process.
Here are some of our thoughts, lessons, and—at times—ramblings about what it takes to bring these stories to life.
Enter with Intention
Documentary filmmaking is an ever-evolving journey, especially when faced with the unpredictability of extreme environments. Whether braving icy tundra or scorching deserts, entering each shoot with clear intention is vital. By focusing on the story’s heart and trusting your preparation, you create space for authentic, unplanned moments that bring your narrative to life. Bright Tangerine gear is designed to support this approach: offering reliable tools that perform under pressure, so that you can focus on capturing the extraordinary.
Every shoot begins with crafting a brief visual mantra to guide our cinematography. This mantra becomes our compass – printed on small, pocket-sized laminate cards for easy reference. Each day, the entire creative team reviews this mantra: reflecting on whether we remain aligned with the shoot’s initial direction. It’s a simple yet powerful ritual that fosters unity and ensures that the visuals stay true to the story’s core, no matter the challenges we face on set.
Capturing Tone and Emotion
Unlike commercial or narrative shoots, documentary filmmaking rarely relies on detailed storyboards. Instead, Dom and I craft extensive visual boards categorised by the tone and energy of each shot rather than technical terms like “close” or “wide.” This approach was key during a recent shoot in Iceland, where we implemented the concept of “Energy Matching.” By aligning our cinematography with the emotional intensity of each moment—whether stepping into a gale-force storm to amplify tension or pulling back for a locked-off shot to evoke scale and peace—we invited viewers to experience the journey through our subjects’ eyes. The KASBAH Ātman Shoulder Rig was indispensable, allowing seamless transitions from shoulder-mounted immediacy to tripod stability, ensuring every shot served the story.
KASBAH Ātman Universal Shoulder Rig & Hand Grip Kit (One-Axis BUD VCT-14)
$1,899
KASBAH Ātman Universal Shoulder Rig & Hand Grip Kit (Two-Axis BUD VCT-14)
$1,999
Efficiency in the Field
Efficiency is paramount in the field, where every second counts. For this documentary we were inspired to approach it with a more ‘shoot-to-cut’ ethos: an idea encouraged by renowned documentarian Werner Herzog. We kept our camera rig lean and purposeful – relying on the increased usability of the FX6 Plate Mk II and Mini Axl Arm. Gear selection plays a huge role, and the Misfit Kick Mk II allows us to quickly change filters and keep rolling, even in tough conditions. Staying organised is equally crucial: nothing derails a shoot faster than losing precious time searching for misplaced equipment. I’m exceptionally good at the searching part, still working on the organisation. At the end of each day, we dedicate 15 minutes to cleaning and organising our gear – to ensure we’re ready for the next.
Sony FX6 Top Plate Mk II
$157
Mini Axl (Sony FX6)
$499
Misfit Kick Mk II (2-Stage) ONE Tray Kit
$1,587
Efficiency might seem like a term that is at odds with crafting a beautiful and life-filled story. But the two go hand in hand – technical limitations when shooting build creative freedom. A common mistake among budding filmmakers is carrying an overload of options. No matter the shoot, I rarely use more than three to four lenses for a scene, even if I have a larger set available. By deciding on focal lengths and their purposes beforehand, transitions become second nature. Need a wide shot? The 35mm is ready to go. Stepping in for a Photogénie close up? We have the 20mm already. This approach simplifies the workflow, keeping the focus on storytelling rather than technical hurdles.
The wonderful thing about art is that there is no blueprint. The thoughts and practices shared above are simply our individual findings—by no means a definitive guide. Break them, adapt them, or reengineer them to fit your own creative process. But above all else, let your approach always serve the story. Because in the end, it’s the story that moves us, connects us, and reminds us why we pick up the camera in the first place.
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