Blind Squirrel Productions’ Triumph in Live Streaming for Paramount+ Earth Week Event
The sun rising in Yosemite Valley was a breathtaking opening act for a week of National Parks streams
The inherent beauty of the national parks came hand-in-hand with significant logistical challenges. BSP encountered three main obstacles:
- Remote Locations: The selected national parks were chosen for their stunning landscapes and ecological diversity, but their remote locations presented logistical hurdles. Access to power infrastructure was non-existent, requiring BSP to devise innovative solutions to power our equipment.
- Limited Connectivity: In the digital age, connectivity is often taken for granted, but in the heart of these pristine wildernesses, traditional internet service and cellular connectivity were both non-existent. Without bonded cellular technology as an option, alternative methods for transmitting the live streams were necessary.
- Environmental Concerns: As stewards of the environment, and in the spirit of Earth Week, BSP prioritized minimizing our ecological footprint. This commitment influenced our decision to forego traditional satellite uplink trucks and gas-powered generators, opting for more environmentally-friendly alternatives.
Director of Photography Rob Baker captures the beauty of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Faced with the absence of cellular connectivity, we commissioned a customized solution to transmit the live streams. We partnered with LBiSat LLC to carry our signal via two separate Starlink systems pointed at different parts of the Starlink constellation, then used the best performing path to achieve seamless connectivity, enabling real-time broadcasting from the heart of the wilderness. With this system, we experienced zero signal drops in 60+ hours of streaming!
Two Starlink Gen 3 systems provided the bandwidth for a full HD stream from remote locations
Capturing iconic Yosemite Valley in 8K
Our solar panels generated more than enough power for all of the necessary equipment
Recognizing the need for self-sustaining power sources, BSP implemented a combination of batteries and portable solar panels. This innovative approach ensured uninterrupted power supply throughout the duration of the live streams, allowing us to capture every moment of natural splendor.
BSP’s ingenuity and resourcefulness culminated in a series of unforgettable live streams that captured the splendor of America’s natural treasures. From the majestic vistas of Yosemite to the rugged beauty of Death Valley, audiences were transported to the heart of these iconic landscapes, experiencing firsthand the wonder and beauty of the national parks.
We shot on RED V-Raptor digital cinema cameras with Angenieux EZ-2 15 to 40mm lenses. Besides the 1080p livestream, we delivered 15-hour 8K recordings on a motion-control head for VOD content. Two teams did media management in the field, filling up 176 TB of SSDs!
Blind Squirrel Productions’ successful completion of the Paramount+ Earth Week live streams stands as a testament to our ability to overcome adversity and deliver unparalleled results. Through innovation, determination, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, BSP showcased the awe-inspiring beauty of America’s national parks, inspiring audiences to cherish and protect these natural wonders for generations to come.
Blind Squirrel Productions is ready to help with your next production! Reach out to us at [email protected] to start the conversation!
Director of Photography Greg Freeman captures sunrise at Death Valley National Park
Paramount+ Earth Week Events Production Gallery
