Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Doesn't it seem like EVERYONE is filming hunts, now? Does this fact make you want to get into it......or does it drive you more towards the solitary?

I have a WODERFUL time hunting with my friends....for many reasons. BUT....I absolutely crave the time in the woods, alone. I know it's (fiming hunts) not for me (as an all-the-time thing)....but is for others. Hats off to them....I like watching theirs.

Do you think the people getting into this now are on the downhill side of this phenomenon? Or....is now THE best time to dive in?

Does filming your own hunts hold any allure for you?

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I'd like to film more, and really had planned on having a camera setup for this season but don't see it happening. I think that being able to share it with others that weren't there would be great, and that's what would make it most interesting for me.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I'm trying it, But I can honestly see it being a team thing. It's hard alone. I guess if I got my buck I could "cut my teeth" on a doe.

I'm trying it because, my family hears the stories, it would be nice to bring them into the hunt with video, and honestly I usually get in a couple situations during the course of a year that have to be seen to be believed.If I'd have had that Piebald on film last year..it would have made my year!

I think filming is still on the upswing. But I think the market-ability of making DVD's for profit/exposure is about at (or way past)capacity. I dunno I rarley watch'em and those that I do watch are free.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Great point, Matt. I guess I should have narrowed it down tot the guys who are doing it, commercially.

Your reasoning is spot-on. I'd love to have some of mine from the past.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I think theres a difference,
1. Being the guy that does it just for fun. He can do it however he pleases and keeps it fun.

2. Being the guy that is doing it or trying to do it to make a living. He is the one who has to keep up with the technology and stay on his game. He is the one who has to keep up with competition and try to make his video better than the next Joe Blow, alot more stressful and I dont think i would enjoy it very much.

However if I were to video I would do it on my accord and just keep it fun and interesting. I have often thought about it, I think it would be fun every now and then..

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I agree, Bob....and sorry...I shoud have asked the questions, better. That's what I was getting at.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Watching me hunt would be allot like watching Goober changing Andy's oil.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I say "Yes" and "No." And it goes back to realism and the "world's foremost expert" discussion that we had a while back.

I will gladly pay to watch the world's top authorities on whitetail hunting and behavior go toe-to-toe with bucks - and actually try to see the various tactics in different areas. I guess I'm drawn to people who do it the hard way. My way.

I still think we're "under-represented" as far as videos of real people hunting in real situations against the odds. And VERY under-represented in terms of videos featuring the best minds on the planet. Furthermore, most filmed hunts lack the authenticity that allows me to relate to what's going on. Not that they're not "authentic" - just that they're too easy for me to relate to. I.E. - sitting over a biologic field, shooting the 14th buck that walks past. I'd rather watch paint dry. Newsflash: A child couldput 5 hours in that stand and tag out. And all these schleps are angling to be the next Drury brother. LOL No thanks.

There are honestly a lot of unique thoughts, anglesand ideas that nobody has implemented yet. Things that would make the average guy want to see what you're doing.

Problem is, most video guys just get wrapped up in shooting a deer on film - and that's the error in their way. Shooting the deer is the last piece of the puzzle.

In some respects, filmed hunts is yesterday's newspaper - but in a lot of ways - we're just scratching the surface.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

[quote]ORIGINAL: GMMAT

[quote] But I think the market-ability of making DVD's for profit/exposure is about at (or way past)capacity. I dunno I rarley watch'em and those that I do watch are free.


I am with you on this one. There are three networks that are pretty much all hunting/fishing now (MAN channel, Outdoor Channel, Versus) plus countless other Fox Sports affiliates that offer a ton of programming. I haven't paid for a DVD in a long time, no reason to for me, especially the big name ones, all their hunts are on TV anyway. Definetely a saturated market right now.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I think a lot of people have gotten into it because it is the "kewl" thing to do right now. That really doesn't apply to most on here though because these are the hard core hunters who do it all for the love of the game. At least for the most part. Like all things, those who are doing it to show off will eventually die off and those who do it because they truly enjoy it will be around for a long time to come.

I don't film. I just don't think anyone would ever care to see me hunt and I have a pretty good memory;)

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Good post Quik, I would have to agree. Something new/different would be refreshing. Take for example Realtree(which I don't dislike) but they are on what now Realtree Monster Bucks 47 and they still have the same exact format. Cookie cutter to the point that often it is the same farms and stands. I think they tried to change it up a bit with Road Trips and don't get me wrong they are very successful and I used to buy the new DVD's every season but now I'm not as interested. A successful formula is great but after 30 DVDduplicates it starts to be less appealing (to me anyway).

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Interesting thread, at least to meit is.

There is little or no pure profit in DVD sales. Part of that is market saturation, part is the cheapness of the viewing public who would rather pirate or borrow their buddy's buddy's cousin's DVD. There are a ton of Drury wannabes out there, for sure. I guess some would call us (Aim Low) that as well, but we do what we do for reasons other than trying to be someone else. It is quite evident that anyone and everyone that gets a camera believes they can do a tv show and/or DVD's, because there is no outdoors related company that isn't just pounded for sponsorships right now. Also, it is very evident that a big majority find out how tough it can be because thereseemingly isn't a company out there that hasn't been burned by a production company that doesn't "produce" a final product as promised.

For me, I actually enjoy the hunt more now that I have a cameraman with me on all hunts. Keep in mind though, that any of my cameramen are people I would want to share time with (Friends, family, etc.) and not just a paid come along guy that I don't know. We aren't making a living doing it (or even trying to make a living), but decided to go commercial with our stuff simply to increase our outdoors opportunities.

Our stuff is real life stuff. Private land, though not big managed leases or anything. We either knocked on doors, own it, or have family that own it. We shoot animals of all sizes, including plenty of antlerless. We show it as it happens, good, bad, funny, stupid...whatever. You won't find us trying to be "teachers" though, because we don't think hunting is overly complicated and would certainly not be entertaining as an instructional type video. Besides, we don't know anything more than the average hunter. So, we just hope what we put out is entertaining to some folks, because we have a good time putting it all together. When it is all said and done, we won't be accused of showing hunting that is out of reach of the average guy, but no one is going to say they liked how we took the time to educate anyone on much.

Back to the question of is it a good time to jump in? Not sure about that. I scratch my head daily at sponsor's choices of who they sponsor. I watch stuff out there that is just terrible to watch in both quality and content. I watched an episode of one of the biggest name shows out there last night. It showed a great hunt, but man, was the quality bad. It was like watching Blair Witch, and that is normal for that show. Some of the most widely negatively discussed guys and shows somehow keep landing big name sponsors year after year. I guess we need to figure out how to BS our way intomore of the big corporations decision makers, LOL.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Great stuff, Robin. I hope no one thinks I was mocking the industry.....just posing some questions.

You're doing it because you love it. Kudos.;)

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

now there's a dvd I would pay good money for!

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I'm taking a Sony 8MM Handycam to Colarado on the hoping i get some great hunting footage . If i don't get the hunt on Video , at least i will have the memory of the guys i'm hunting with and surrounding countryside , mountains to look back at . You never know if your gonna get that opertunity again , so save the moment .

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Robin, I think the mentality you guys have is the right one. Do it real, do it right, and do it for fun. Eventually someone else with see that too. The big thing to getting noticed is your media kit, but that is way off topic.

To jump in right now as an independent production company that is going to bank on landing a TV show or selling DVDs is a very difficult proposition right now. The market is flooded and it is hard to stand out. Although just like any market that goes through a boom there is a bust that is sure to follow (look at the housing market). So, while there are a ton of shows out there right now the market saturation is becoming evident. Although there are new network channels popping up, the Pursuit Channel is supposed to debut this weekend. What I think will happen though is when that bust happens many of the lesser known and lesser quality shows will fall by the way side. The big boys and some of the better shows will be left standing with a few "cockroach" shows that will survive somehow. When that happens we should see fewer shows, but more quality in the shows and DVDs that are out there.

I think the hunting public that watches these shows are getting tired of the kill shows. That is kill after kill after kill. They want some stories, some entertainment, and most of all something that they can relate to. The groups that understand that and can put that together will be the survivors.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

You will want the autographed collectors edition. [:-]


Guaranteed money doubling garage sale fodder.You'll be the envy of your block.;)

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

We film most of our hunts...but its not for any commercial profit of ours....we make copies of them, for ourselves and break em out once in a while and watch them. Its always good for a good laugh:D

Its fun to see what we did and how we did things. There is always something where we are like "What were we thinking"

It also fun to see how we "used to" do things, and how we hunt now....watching some of our old hunts, its always a good time, and we get to make fun of each other:D

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I would put it in the highly popular category. Long ways to go before being "old hat".

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I think filming hunts would take the right person to be compatible - you could either have a miserable time doing it or have an awesome experience

The benefits would be to share some of the passion we see in the woods, with those that don't hunt, my wife for example - I would love for see to my reaction after taking a deer just so she could relate

Commerically not my cup of tea, then it would become more of a job and you would lose some of that passion for hunting - and the pressure to produce - would be a sellout to the reason your doing it to begin with, in recent years I have watched less and less dvds videos tv shows- simply because I find myself wondering if it is real situations or on a ranch that gets hunted once every year when they come to film[:'(]

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I've never done it on my hunts but my brother has taped my mom on a few bear hunts with her bow. I thought it was neat as heck so some day I'd like to do it myself.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

solitary! I've almost had it with all these tv shows/hunts, I'm finding myself watching less and less hunting shows. Some are good though if i notice one is on I may watch one of the shows I like more when theyre hunting something that peaks my curiosity.

As far as personally filming my own hunts....im kinda 50/50, kinda like it would be nice to have down the road.....but I have memories....id rather remeber hunts and tell stories I htink than to say hey lets play the video, also less equipment to haul around. So for filming in regards to making a show etc....im not into that, but for yourself.....its your call,

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I've filmed several hunts down through the years, and my hat is off to anybody who does it and enjoys it. Honestly it just is not my cup of tea. I much prefer hunting solitary. That's why I statred Bowhunting to begin with. Done right filming a Bowhunt is a lot of work.

Dan

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I hear ya Dan, I've tried it myself for 2 seasons and figured it wasn't for me. I took a video camera to Africa with me and got a lot of that on film, a couple kills and a lot of just the hunting part and scenery! Pretty cool. I agree done right its to much work that I'd want to have to do! But to those that do, more power to ya!!!!!!!!

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I agree Jeff. Filming hunts sounds tempting, but having another guy in the tree with me running a camera defeats the purpose of going into the woods. I enjoy good company when Im in camp, but once I step into the woods, I like to enjoy it alone.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I will say this - if you're looking to make a living and/or make a "name" for yourself by filming hunts then then my hat is off to you because you're in for a big uphill battle unless you've got some sort of gimmick that nobody else has. Otherwise, stand in line behind the other hundred new video production crews that popped up last week and fight over sponsorship monies with them. There are a lot of people all trying to eat the same slice of pie right now and there's not enough to go around. Hotchicks, all chicks, all bowhunting, no bowhunting, rock n' roll, country, tattoos, big trucks,loud trucks, fast pace, slow pace,high fence, no fence, somebody is already doing it. The market is extremely saturated with video production companies all looking to be the next big thing. It's like wannabe actores and actresses flocking to Hollywood, only about a million times smaller with a much smaller chance for money or fame.

With that said, I think there's a few good companies out there that are providing some fresh faces and a fresh take on the hunting video that I personally enjoy. I just watched the latest installment of the Real Hunting 'Keepin' it Real' DVD last night and actually enjoyed it. Was the production quality top-notch? No. Were all the guys in it entertaining and fun to watch? No. But it was a good enough "real life" type video that showed some cool hunts and kept me from falling asleep. Will they make millions of dollars and become the next big thing in hunting? My guess is probably not, but I wish them all the luck in the world. It never hurts to try.

Now with that also said, we originally started filming our hunts to provide some footage for both White Knuckle Productions as well as HuntingNet.com. We've never made a dime off any of it and probably never will. However, I think it's a fun thing to do and I personally enjoy sharing my hunts with other people and being able to watch them whenever I want. So I fully intend on continuing to videotape my hunts in the future for those reasons alone. However, I'll stick to my day job to pay the bills. ;)

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Amen to that;)

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Justin that's what I'm talking about. It seems like only a short time ago.....filming hunts was the rage (commercially)....and everyone was wanting in. I think.....if you're trying to get on that boat, now......she's pretty much already sailed.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I think its one of those industrys that you have to have an "in", in.

And GMMAT, you said RAGE[&o]:D

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Yep!

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I agree Jeff. People can only watch so much TV and watch so many videos before they've quite simply had enough. Back in the day all we had was TNN on Sunday mornings to watch Buckmasters and that was about it. Now we've got multiple networks of nothing but outdoor programming all being funded by the same industry that, according to reports, is shrinking in size and the amount of money being dumped into it. Combine that with the fact that our economy as a whole is experiencing some hard times and people are cutting back on the "extra" spending in life like that extra set of hunting clothes or new bow, I don't know how the industry as a whole can sustain this type of growth for much longer. I personally have cut back on my hunting spending dramatically for this year, and I know others have as well. Businesses only have so much money in their advertising budgets and they are going to be forced to allocate it differently for maximum reach.

Most TV shows are selling sponsorships starting between 10K and 20K/year depending on what channel they're on, etc. Start hanging your hat on 5 or 6 shows and all of a sudden that's a lot of dough missing from your bread basket. Not to mention print ads are running you a couple grand PER ISSUE, and their subscriber numbers are holding steady at best, if not shrinking in some cases.

When this little boom of "I want to be the next hunting TV show star" is over and the dust settles the top dogs are still going to be here, but I think a lot of the little guys are going to suffer. Just my opinion though, I could be wrong.

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

We used to video in the 90's. We did it for fun and our own personal viewing. I would highly recommend it to everyone. It is so cool to watch those older hunts. The only downfall is all the giggling that happenes when you get in a tree with a good buddy:D

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Men do not giggle. Please refrain from using that term again, or Washington Hunter will have to strip you of your man card.

Thank you,
The Management

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

LOL!!

Dan

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

At least we weren't spooning like a lot of guys on here seem to enjoy!

Giggling = laughing into a cough supressor

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

Again you drag yourself into this mess magic, leave me out of it, LOL That's right I laugh, and it's a burly one too[8D]

If I was in the woods and you giggled at me, by order of man law 568 section 5, I would have to shoot you with an arrow:D

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

While your spooning? or after your done?

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

For the record I have never spooned another hunter, LOL

Here's a question has taking video ever cost anyone a shot?

RE: Is filming hunts becoming "Old Hat"?
 

I will be but just for the sole purpose of family and friends and a digital memory to always look back upon.
Thats kind of why I backed off on the idea on some pretty fancy canon camera's. It needs to be for fun.
Take for example of the one I have so far of me killing a8 point with my brother videoing it. I will cherish that for ever and him swearing then OOPS sorry. Priceless!

T