The brand new music video for Cannock rock and roll trio The Bad Flowers was an exclusive shoot taken on by Procam’s talented crew as part of an ‘on the job’ training project. Procam’s own Martin Moseley took on the task of directing the video with assistance from Head of Training and Development Saul Gittens and the rest of the Procam crew. “This was the first time I had directed with a seasoned DOP and large crew” said Martin. “My time at Procam is the only reason I have been able to put all this together. I started off roughly three years ago with literally no knowledge of cameras or the industry, I only knew how to drive a van!”

Over those past three years, Martin has developed his video production knowledge from the ground up and thanks to his time at Procam, is now able to make key decisions on what kit would be perfect for different shoots. In this case, Martin was looking to create a raw and live feel for the video. “I chose to shoot it primarily on the Arri Alexa Plus whilst also using a Sony F55 as a B camera for jib shots. These paired up with the Cooke S4 mini primes gave me the soft, cinematic look I wanted to achieve” said Moseley. “Having two different cameras was also a great way of giving the crew experience with matching two different looks and seeing the differences side by side on a location.” The visuals of the video needed to match the fast paced track: Living The Dream. The crew ensured they captured a variety of interesting and action packed shots. “For one of the shots in the verse I wanted to create a look like you would find in an 80’s rock video. Having the singer close to camera whilst also having another band member in the back of shot but also in focus. To achieve this we used split dioptre which was a learning curve for almost everyone on set.” Said Martin.

The shoot was not only a chance for The Bad Flowers to showcase their musical talents using high end industry kit, but also an invaluable training exercise for Procam’s in-house crew. The crew on the shoot are all currently going through the rigorous Procam in-house training programme and all ranged differently in technical skill level, allowing them to learn on the job and also put into practice what they have learned so far. All have attended various shoots, giving them different shooting experience allowing them to collectively bring together their experiences for projects like this. “Having the knowledge to be able to bounce back and forth with the crew about how to achieve what I have in mind is great as it feels more like a collaboration.” Said Martin.

What separates the Procam training programme from others in the industry is the amount of on the job training that the crew take on. “Training on the job is what prepares you for working under pressure” said Martin. “On set is where you are away from the safety of the kit room, so whenever an issue arises you have to learn to think quickly and use what you have to get the job done” From one day shoots to full length series productions, the pool of talented crew work on a range of different projects from music videos, dramas, reality TV, corporate shoots and much more. This variety of work helps the crew add valuable credits to their CV while expanding their knowledge and reinforcing Procam’s reputation for knowledgeable and professional staff. “Long term jobs through Procam are also where you learn the most, you can go on a job for 4 months and when you’re back you notice yourself troubleshooting issues and advising clients about things you didn’t even realise you knew about” said Martin. “Especially long term shows like Made In Chelsea where I spent up to five months working with the crews learning each day from the camera men, DOP’s and being able to watch how the other crew members such as the director and sound guys work.”

Overseeing the shoot and acting as DOP was Head of Training and Development Saul Gittens. All the crew spend invaluable time with Saul throughout the training programme, learning shooting techniques, industry know how and best practice advice from the seasoned professional, who has over 25 years shooting experience and 15 years as a DOP. "I was impressed by everyone’s attitude and commitment to the project" said Saul. "I treated this shoot as I would any other, the crew had no special treatment. The guys did amazing and we’re already looking forward to our next project. Watch this space!"

Singer and guitarist Tom Leighton was also highly impressed with the outcome of the video. “We were looking for a professional video with a look that suits the band and the music we play, hard hitting and clear cut. We feel that this has been achieved and then some!” Said Tom. But it wasn’t just the quality of the final product that impressed the band. “We couldn't fault the crew at all, everyone was so friendly and the professionalism was top draw. From the moment we walked in we were so comfortable and knew that the end product was going to be something special! Great crew, amazing gear and know how.”

See the final cut of The Bad Flowers Living The Dream below, then see how our crew shot the video in a single day in the behind the scenes video also below.