Project Category: Documentary
About: Kaya Fest is a music and cannabis-education festival produced by Stephen Marley and family.
Position: Story Producer
I worked with the Executive Producer of the documentary team to conduct pre-production topic and talent research in preparation for exclusive interview opportunities with Wyclef Jean, the Marley family members, and other important figures in the festival. On location, I managed a crew of 3 while conducting on-camera interviews with key figures and OTFs with fans. I connected with talent to create rich interview footage while managing the challenges and demands of filming at a live event on location.
Production Secret: Taking advantage of nature's VFX
Our on-camera talent was in high demand not only because of their status but also because it was a veritable family reunion for them. Donisha (granddaughter to Bob Marley) was one of my final interviews and we'd planned to film amongst the crowd at the festival. But, as soon as we caught up with each other on festival day, a downpour came. We quickly covered the crew in trash bags and ran into a small tent for the interview, with the crew on the edge of the entrance. Although it lacked depth of field, the tent provided an unexpected soft, warm lighting for the scene. While not ideal, we made it work and got some compelling footage with Donisha. Afterward, we captured great b-roll shots of her sitting with cannabis in the crowd, and the heavy air held the smoke to create some beautiful shots.
