In probably one of the most epic short films ever made, Jacob Sutton and Artec pro snowboarder William Hughes team up for a surreal LED snowboarding experience.
Up in the Rhône-Alpes of southern France in the slopes of Tignes, Sutton trekked with Hughes for some nighttime boarding. This wasn’t any ordinary adventure though, since the pro snowboarder donned a specially-made LED suit from designer John Spatcher and built by Flat Cat Productions. It took 300 man hours to complete the suit and fine tune it. The suit itself uses LED strips that run on NiMH batteries.
The Making of the LED Suit
The creation of the LED suit was a meticulous process that required a blend of creativity, technical expertise, and sheer dedication. Designer John Spatcher envisioned a suit that would not only illuminate the snowboarder but also withstand the harsh conditions of nighttime snowboarding. The suit was constructed using high-quality materials to ensure durability and flexibility, allowing Hughes to perform his stunts without any hindrance. The LED strips were carefully integrated into the suit, and the NiMH batteries were chosen for their reliability and long-lasting power. The entire process took 300 man hours, highlighting the complexity and precision involved in bringing this vision to life.
“Filming in the suit was the most surreal thing I’ve done in 20 years of snowboarding,” says Hughes of the charged salopettes. “Luckily there was plenty of vin rouge to keep me warm, and Jacob’s enthusiasm kept everyone going through the cold nights.”
The Filming Experience
With his Red Epic camera at temperatures dropping to below 20 degrees C, Sutton shot Hughes slicing the powder effortlessly through snow-laden slopes. The Red Epic camera, known for its high-resolution capabilities and excellent performance in low-light conditions, was the perfect choice for capturing the ethereal glow of the LED suit against the snowy backdrop. Sutton’s expertise in cinematography, combined with Hughes’ snowboarding skills, resulted in breathtaking footage that showcased the beauty and thrill of nighttime snowboarding.
The challenges of filming in such extreme conditions cannot be understated. The cold temperatures posed a significant risk to both the equipment and the crew. However, the team’s determination and passion for the project kept them motivated. Sutton’s enthusiasm was infectious, and it played a crucial role in maintaining the morale of the crew during the long, cold nights. The result was a visually stunning short film that captivated audiences and pushed the boundaries of what is possible in snowboarding cinematography.
The LED snowboarding experience is not just a testament to the creativity and innovation of the team but also a celebration of the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of pushing limits. It serves as an inspiration to filmmakers, designers, and athletes alike, demonstrating that with dedication and a bold vision, extraordinary feats can be achieved.
via Nowness
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