Filming in Mexico: Documenting Craig Wood’s Incredible Journey & Pushing Our Limits

At GD Media, we thrive on telling powerful, meaningful stories—none more inspiring than our latest project. We recently travelled to Mexico to begin filming a documentary about Craig Wood, a remarkable triple amputee who is preparing to sail solo across the Pacific Ocean. His journey is one of resilience, determination, and pushing beyond perceived limits—something that resonated deeply with us as filmmakers.

Travelling light, working in unfamiliar environments, and adapting to challenges are all part of what we do. Here’s what we’ve learned so far on this incredible journey.

Travelling Light: The Art of Packing Smart

When filming on location, especially internationally, packing light is crucial. Every piece of gear has to earn its place in our kit. Here’s how we streamlined our setup for Mexico:

• Essential Camera Gear – A mirrorless camera with versatile lenses allows for high-quality footage without the bulk.
• Portable Audio – A lightweight shotgun mic and wireless lavalier ensure we capture crisp audio in any environment.
• Stabilisation & Mobility – A compact gimbal and a lightweight tripod provide stability without weighing us down.
• Backup & Storage – High-speed SD cards and a rugged external hard drive mean we never risk losing footage.
• Power Solutions – Extra batteries and a portable solar charger keep us rolling, even in remote locations.

Adapting to New Environments

Filming in Mexico meant stepping into completely new conditions—unpredictable weather, unfamiliar landscapes, and fast-paced shooting schedules. Here’s how we tackled it:

• Scout and Adapt Quickly – When working in an unfamiliar location, we scout quickly and look for the best natural light and backdrops.
• Respect the Culture and Environment – Being mindful of local customs and working respectfully with people and places is key.
• Weather-Proofing Gear – Shooting near the ocean meant humidity and salt exposure, so protective covers and silica gel packs were essential.
• Staying Mobile – When telling a story as dynamic as Craig’s, having gear that allows for fast, reactive filming is a game-changer.

Pushing Limits—Just Like Craig

Craig Wood’s story is all about defying expectations and pushing boundaries, and in our own way, this project is making us do the same. Whether it’s filming in challenging conditions, carrying just the essentials, or finding creative solutions on the go, we’re constantly being reminded why we do what we do—because great stories deserve to be told.

As we continue this documentary journey, we’re excited to capture not just Craig’s adventure, but also the spirit of resilience that makes stories like his so important.

Follow along as we document this incredible journey—there’s so much more to come!

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