Wow. What a weekend making TV in hot hot, 110 degree heat indexed weather! The Pink Sneakers team (Orlando, FL) brought on our local KC crew to help shoot a Food Network special on food festivals in America. This weekend's festival had us in Bellevue, NE covering the River Fest - Red, White, and 'Que Nebraska State BBQ Championship. It did not disappoint. We rolled into town Friday night with our crew (Ty Jones - Cam Op, Tyler Bachert - Sound Mixer, Patrick Monroe - AC), had a quick production meeting and went to bed to catch some sleep for our 6a call time.
We arrived at the site of the festival at Haworth Park near the Missouri River, prepped our gear and began our day. Shooting on the Sony F55 w/ Fujinon lenses on a massive shoulder rig, we had a long day in store. We estimated it weighed at least 50 lbs. We started covering the BBQ teams which were cooking all sorts of items, but we were focused on the ribs. And man were they delicious. We watched as they went step by step through their process, from marinating to basting to rubs to smoking to plating to judging. These teams took their meat seriously! I've never sweat so much in my life. So we were all sure to chug Gatorade and H20 whenever we got the chance.
After a long day in the sun and handing out a few awards, we successfully all made it through without passing out or major shoulder damage (although my right hand is still partially numb while writing this). Thanks again to Pink Sneakers and Food Network for the opportunity. Until next time here are some photos and video from our day...
