DOCUMENTARY FILM PRODUCTION
IN ISRAEL AND PALESTINE
Highlight Films provides all production services for documentary films produced in Israel, Palestine and throughout the Middle East.
After pre-production tasks have been fulfilled and by the time the production actually begins, we will provide you with accurate information in the form of an updated call sheet. This information will include all relevant data, from sunrise and sunset times to driver's name and contact details for all crew members. We will provide you with a detailed budget to be approved prior to the production.
Filming Crews We work with the best documentary cameramen, soundmen and other professionals. They are all experienced with international documentary productions. We can provide SD (DVCAM, Beta, Digital Beta) or High Definition (HDCAM / DVCPRO-HD / RED) camera crews in Israel and Palestine.
Camera Gear We use both our own camera sets or hired sets from Israel or UK's rental houses. We film in every professional standard and in both PAL and NTSC formats. Formats: DV, DVCAM, Beta SP, Digital Beta, HDV, HDCAM (High Definition), DVCPRO-HD, XDCAM.
Lighting Gear We have a full range of lighting equipment and accessories, ranging from a small documentary lighting pack to full line of exterior / interior lights and generators when needed.
Sound Recording Our soundmen are equipped with full professional audio gear, including radio microphones licensed in Israel and tuned to the correct local frequencies (European and American radio microphones are often interrupted by military and civilian radio networks in Israel).
Grip
Any needed equipment for any type of shooting, such as stabilizing systems, remote heads, cranes and dolly tracks, can be arranged throughout us, upon demands and budget. We work with experienced grip-men specializing in dramas and the production of feature films.
Tapes All formats of recording media are available – from MiniDV tapes to 35mm film. When necessary we will dub the footage for safety and FedEx you the dubs upon your arrival back home.
Transportation Based on the size of the filming crew, we will advise you regarding the recommended means of transportation. Many productions are using an 8-10 passenger van for the crew and equipment; we often recommend using an additional passenger car, pending on the locations. In certain areas, it is recommended to travel in armored vehicles. We advise the producers whether the locations they would travel to require such vehicles.
Security
We will keep you posted regarding any security-related issues in the filming locations or on the way. Our Tel Aviv office is updated immediately from several sources regarding any security-related alerts, from both Israel and Palestinian sources.
When dealing with sensitive issues in hostile environments, we sometimes recommend our clients to hire an Israeli or Palestinian security guard to escort the crew.
In some areas and pending on the security conditions, it is recommended to use personal safety gears, which include a bullet proof vest, a bullet proof helmet and "press" identifying marks. We have several such sets available at all times.
Hotels
We are working with two of the leading hotel chains in Israel, which grant us special rates often significantly lower than the published rates. In addition to specially discounted rates, we will accommodate any specific request such as late check out, additional room for interviews, etc'.
Permits
Many sites require a pre-arranged filming permit and demand certain restrictions. In many cases, we have a long relationship with the institutions granting permits and we are often granted greater access. We were able to film a TV commercial spot and an episode in an American-Italian feature film in two of the most sacred places in Jerusalem. In both places, it was the first time ever to allow something of this kind.
Location Management
Usually there is no need for a location manager in addition to your coordinator for a shoot. The coordinator, or fixer, is our front person in the production and has the abilities to handle all location-related issues. When filming requires complicated logistics and moving between many locations, we will recommend hiring an additional location manager.
