The Filmmaker’s Journey from Desert Sands to Drift Masters

In the world of cinema and photography, the right equipment is not just important—it’s everything. My journey began amidst the harsh deserts of Morocco, filming extreme races long before the advent of drones and stabilizers. Covering races in that environment was not an easy task. The extreme conditions of the terrain and climate demanded equipment that could withstand sand, heat, and impacts. Having a solid tripod was essential to capture sharp and stable images of moving vehicles.

“My first tripod was a Manfrotto, and since then it has been the only brand I've purchased during my 12-year career. The brand has accompanied me over the years and on my global travels, so being here today, writing this article, is a great honor.”

Recently, my team and I were selected to work on an exciting project at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, covering the Drift Masters as well as a side act show organized by Red Bull. This show combined the adrenaline of drifting with the audacity of paragliding, featuring two prominent figures: Horacio Llorens and Jakub Przygoński. The visual narrative we had to build required precision and meticulous planning, as there was no room for mistakes.
Meanwhile, Llorens, suspended in his paraglider, flew over the racetrack, performing aerial stunts and passing extremely close to the moving car. Capturing the synergy between these two extreme disciplines required not only skill but also reliable and flexible equipment.

For this project, selecting the right tripod was crucial. We opted for the , celebrated for its carbon-fiber construction that ensures both lightness and portability.

Such agility is indispensable when navigating diverse terrains and dynamic shooting scenarios The Manfrotto Fast Twin Tripod stands out not only for its lighweight design but also for its rapid and effortless adjustability. Its capacity for swift height modifications, even by a single crew member, proved invaluable amidst the kinetic filming environment. Moreover, it facilitated capturing low-angle shots, enriching our visual compilation with depth and motion.

As for the tripod head, we used the . Its fluidity ensures smooth and professional shots, regardless of angle or height. Its customizable resistance for panning and tilting allowed us to refine our camera work, ensuring each sequence flowed smoothly.

The Fast Twin Tripod’s versatility extends beyond its lightweight build and user-friendliness. Its legs, which can be adjusted to different types of terrain, allowed us to film from challenging angles and on uneven surfaces without losing stability. This feature was particularly useful during the fast-paced action sequences of the drift race, where every second counts and the possibility of quick and precise movements is crucial.

To ensure the safe and systematic transport of our gear, we utilized Manfrotto Cineloader . Available in three sizes, they perfectly accommodate different camera models. For our purposes, we allocated:

• for the Sony Burano
• for the Sony FX6
• for the Sony FX3 and mirrorless cameras

The aesthetic appeal of these cases is undeniable, with Manfrotto’s signature black and red motif exuding elegance. Their robust construction instills confidence, allowing us to move our equipment across diverse settings without concern for damage.

The Cineloader cases are equipped M-Guard dividers, which allow for simple and organized storage of gears and accessories within the cases. This storage system makes it easy to quickly find any necessary component, saving valuable time during filming.
Organization is key in any shoot, and the Manf rotto Cineloader cases make this possible. Each case size is specifically designed for different cameras, ensuring that each piece of equipment has its place.
The optional Pro Light accessories allow for efficient internal organization, reducing time lost searching for components and ensuring everything is within reach when needed. Additionally, the Manfrotto Cineshield rain covers from the same product family are ideal for protecting equipment in adverse weather conditions, although in Valencia they were not needed due to the good weather.

Besides resistance and organization, the ergonomic design of Manfrotto's cases and tripods contributes to comfort on long days of shooting. The ability to move equipment easily and set up tripods quickly for different shots is essential when it comes to maintaining the workflow and adapting to changes in the shooting plan.

“Choosing reliable and comfortable equipment and accessories is not just a matter of convenience but a professional necessity. In projects like the Drift Masters, where precision and speed are essential, having high-quality tripods and cases like those from Manfrotto makes a significant difference.”

Manfrotto has been my constant ally for 12 years, providing tools that not only meet the highest industry standards but also enhance efficiency and creativity on set. From robust and versatile tripods to Cineloader cases, Manfrotto offers solutions that allow filmmakers to focus on what truly matters: capturing the best possible shot.

In conclusion, my experience with Manfrotto over the past years has been unmatched. Not only because of the quality and durability of their products but also due to the constant innovation the brand offers. Each new product from Manfrotto includes improvements that make the work more efficient and creative. From my early days in the Moroccan desert to the race tracks in Valencia, Manfrotto has been present every step of the way, ensuring equipment is always ready to capture unique and spectacular moments.