Video Production at CES 2020
CES 2020 is bigger than ever! Literally, and figuratively. Over 175,000 attendees and 4,500 exhibiting companies are expected. Millions and millions of square feet of convention and meeting space are used to put on one of the biggest shows in the world. You can expect to film anywhere from the L.V. Convention Center to Sands Expo, to City Center; or, all three! It's important to be prepared going in, because this show can eat you alive.
Travel logistics are imperative if you're at more than one venue, even one booth! It takes a solid 15 to 20 minutes to go from one side of the Convention Center to the other, longer with crowds and gear. If you need to go 2 miles from Westgate to meeting rooms at The Venetian, expect 45 minutes. 2 more miles to Aria or Park MGM, another 45 minutes. So, schedule accordingly!
Then, there's gear. It's crowded. Did I mention the 175,000 people packed essentially, into a really small town? Minimize and stay compact. Small cart if any. Tripod wheels are not recommended. Sliders are great, but prepare to fight for Realestate; you may be better with an Easyrig Vario 5 and some careful handheld. Wireless lavs and mics are also tricky. Give it a go, it's not impossible, but a hardline could be the difference between getting the shot or not. Keep your lighting minimal; it's worth the extra money to rent a solid Litepanels Gemini 1x1, it kicks out what a Skypanel S30 does.
Lastly, pack food like you're on a day hike, lots of water, nuts, granola, etc. Food is expensive and the lines are Disney-esque.
Good luck, and happy filming!
