GD Media partnered with outdoorsman Jake Swindells (@west_capades) to film three days of adventure content in Port Logan, Scotland. The goal was to capture authentic footage for his new YouTube channel, combining education, entertainment, and stunning landscapes.

1. Showcase Jake’s outdoor skills (deer stalking, fishing, spearfishing).

2. Document his knowledge-sharing on equipment and conservation.

3. Build a library of video assets that reflect his lifestyle and brand identity.

As videographers, photographers, and content creators based in Somerset and the South West, this project demonstrated our ability to deliver high-quality, documentary-style storytelling in challenging outdoor environments.

Phase 01 / 06
Planning and Pre-Production
We worked with Jake to identify the key themes for his channel: adventure, education, and connection to nature. This allowed us to design a filming framework:
- Action Sequences – Activities like hunting, fishing, and spearfishing.
- Knowledge Sharing – Gear reviews and practical insights.
- Environment – Scenic shots of the Scottish coastline to anchor the story.
Defining categories before filming ensures balanced and reusable content for multi-episode series.
Phase 02 / 06
Filming in the Field
We structured production around three main activities:
- Deer Stalking – Interviews and B-roll highlighted conservation as well as the hunt itself.
- Night Fishing – Captured camaraderie, techniques, and the atmosphere of the shoreline after dark.
- Spearfishing – Used specialist underwater equipment to film striking scenes beneath the waves.
Two operators worked simultaneously to cover close-up details (expressions, equipment) and wide shots (landscapes, group interaction).
Pairing activity footage with participant interviews creates a richer narrative than action shots alone.
Phase 03 / 06
Overcoming Challenges
Outdoor filming in Scotland required adaptability:
- Weather – Conditions changed quickly; drone shots were prioritised during clear skies.
- Underwater filming – Required planning, safety protocols, and waterproof housing for cameras.
- Authenticity – We filmed Jake naturally, avoiding staged moments to maintain trust with his audience.
Anticipating technical and environmental risks is key to smooth production in outdoor locations.
Phase 04 / 06
Post-Production Process
With hours of footage, editing focused on:
- Episode structure – Cutting content into segments suitable for YouTube’s format.
- Storytelling – Balancing action with Jake’s commentary and educational value.
- Branding – Establishing a consistent tone for his new channel.
Post-production is where raw footage becomes brand identity. Structure matters as much as visuals.
Phase 05 / 06
Results
- A library of content ready for release on YouTube and social platforms.
- Footage that highlights both skill and storytelling – appealing to adventure enthusiasts and new audiences alike.
- A scalable content model Jake can use to grow his channel over time.
Why This Matters for Clients
This project shows how GD Media supports clients in building online platforms from scratch. By combining cinematic visuals, authentic interviews, and digital strategy, we help creators like Jake turn passion into content that connects with audiences.
At GD Media, we specialise in videography, photography, and content creation across Somerset, Devon, and the South West UK. Whether documenting outdoor adventure, filming promotional videos for businesses, or producing charity media, we bring stories to life with clarity and impact.