Power Options

[RimidAlv_tRkv]

Hey guys

We have been trying to build a set but with the time constraints we went out and found a bomb ass place to film the thing, but we have several issues and concerns.

First- Power options, there is no outlet we can plug into, and we have several lights we need to use, monitors, etc.

What would be the best option for power, I have a generator, but it would be too big and too loud, so thats out of the question, I dont know much about battery packs since I never used them, what would I need to power, 5 1000w lights, a monitorj, electronic pan/tilt head and possibly some black lights.

Second- Were shooting the whole thing guerilla style, meaning we will be trespassing, we dont know who the property belongs to, but its a dump, an old ruined building thats perfect for us. Has anyone had any problems when trespassing, whats the worst penalty for something like that.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

[Blaine]

Other than a generator, I'd say you're pretty much out of luck. Some generators are quieter than others. You might check at places that rent lighting packages.

[Mark Johnson]

what would I need to power, 5 1000w lights, a monitorj, electronic pan/tilt head and possibly some black lights.


You are going to have to use a generator for that much power draw. I've rented a Honda EU2000i that is 20.1" x 11.4" x 16.7" and it ran all day on a gallon of gas. Moreover, it produces 59dB at 7 meters (less than the rating of common speech).

With regard to the trespassing issue, statutes and ordinances are all over the lot. Because of 9/11 there have been a whole bunch of amendments of trespassing laws to raise penalties for wilfull trespass. Most states used to have low fines in the $100 to $500 range max. Many legislatures have raised the maximum penalty to $1000 or even $10,000 in some cases. Nevertheless, in practice the fines levied on an "innocent" trespass (non-destructive with no intent to profit) are typically low because the municipal judge has discretion in asessing any fines.

In my forensic work we have developed something of a specialty in the area of railroad disasters. Accordingly, we commonly find ourselves trespassing on railroad property as well as that of adjoining landowners to get background plates. Local sheriffs and other law enforcement have occasionally confronted us but, to date, we've only received threats of prosecution and stern lectures.

In your case you certainly could find the identity of the landowner relatively easily by going to the county register of deeds. If you don't go that route you should at least do some scouting to figure out who would be most likely to call in a complaint if they see lights on at the site. Give them a courtesy call with notice that you'll be shooting at the building. If you are polite and act with an air of authority you can lessen the likelihood that you'll be interrupted by a call to the police to investigate the strange lights and sounds. Moreover, if the local gendarmes do show up you can at least put on the wide-eyed innocent look and legitimately say that you gave notice to the neighbors. You could even try to claim that you thought the neighbor was the owner if you have some balls. The most likely outcome would be the stern lecture and order to "get your asses out of her now." However, you should at least check the applicable penalties and fines for wilfull trespass in that jurisdiction. I can look it up for you if you'll give me the county and state you'll be filming in.

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

are there any safety or security lights around the premises?
if so then you can use one of these to steel power from it.
http://www.farm-home.com/images/jb02/10651602c.jpg

long shot I know from the way you are describing it ... but just in case.

[GenJerDan]

:) I'm picturing someone drawing 50 amps through that thing...

[RimidAlv_tRkv]

There is no one around, its an industrial area and the only ones there are bums that spend the night on the river, and I dont believe they have cell phones to call the cops, as for the owner, I believe the city owns the property. The state is Cali and city is Sacramento.

Jack will that actually work, cause there are some lights around and Ive got plenty of extention cables, where can I get one of those.

Thanks guys.

[J.R. Hudson]

You gotta get like mad stingers and run them way far away

[RimidAlv_tRkv]

I guess I can use, 1 light and ive got about 6 reflectors so I can just try to bounce light around, the thing is Im shooting at night and I wanted more light.

Any suggestions on a battery belt.

Thanks.

[Jack Daniel Stanley]

:) I'm picturing someone drawing 50 amps through that thing...
Yeah, done 3 500 W lights on a long stinger and powerstrip from one but that's about the limit :Drogar-Evil(DBG):

They're really helpful for stealing an exterior location near a building.