HONDA RUGGED

Client: Honda Ridgeline – “Rugged” Commercial
Location: On-location – Swing Arm City, UT
Role: Camera Operator

Overview

When I joined the Honda “Rugged” shoot, I knew it would be more than just operating a camera—it would be about adapting to some of the harshest on-set conditions I’ve experienced. In the middle of the COVID pandemic, our small crew set out into the Utah desert, only to be met with sudden monsoon rains that transformed the dry silt into heavy, sticky mud. Every movement—on foot and on wheels—was a test of balance and determination.

Key Responsibilities

• Camera Operation in Adverse Conditions: Ran a cinema camera package in unpredictable weather, capturing both dynamic action and intimate detail shots of the Ridgeline while navigating unstable terrain.

• Problem-Solving on the Fly: Adjusted shot plans and stabilized gear in the middle of muddy, shifting ground to ensure smooth, usable footage under demanding conditions.

• Collaborative Execution: Worked closely with the director and crew, syncing movements with vehicle rigs and grip setups to pull off ambitious tracking and motion shots despite environmental setbacks.

• Cinematic Storytelling: Focused on framing and lens choices that emphasized the Ridgeline’s rugged durability, while aligning with the poetic tone established through narration and score.

Outcome

The result was a piece that didn’t just highlight Honda’s vehicle—it captured the perseverance and grit of the team behind the camera. The mud and storms became part of the story, infusing the footage with an authenticity that matched the “rugged” spirit of the Ridgeline itself. For me, it was a reminder of why I love camera work: the challenge of turning obstacles into cinematic opportunity.