In order to cover events around the world, Jack Rice has to be able to pack light. Nevertheless, besides the people who help Jack tell his stories, Jack depends upon multiple pieces of equipment to insure that his listeners, viewers and readers, get it all.
Video Equipment:
Video Camera:
CanonHV20HDCamcorder. I like this camera because it is trueHDand very easy to use. In addition, and maybe most importantly, it is not distracting to people. While I have used other cameras, and maybe some of slightly higher quality, this does the job and then some. I am carrying so much equipment some of the time and this Canon takes up so little space that it is incredible.
Shotgun Video Microphone:
The only adaptation that I’ve made to the Canon is the addition of a Rode Shotgun Mic which fits into the shoe on the camera. It allows for better sound and the convenience of no additional hands needed. Not quite as good as some hand-held mics but very convenient.
Still Photo Equipment:
SLR Camera:
Canon has released the brand new Canon EOS Rebel T1i, featuring 15.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor, 9-point Auto Focus, ISO settings up to 6400, and compatibility with Canon’s complete line of EF and EF-S lenses. The Digital SLR is capable of shooting Full HD video at 1920 x 1080 resolution, by simply selecting Movie mode on the EOS Rebel T1i’s mode dial, the camera’s 3.0-inch LCD lights up, and it’s ready to go.
Audio Equipment:
Flash Recorder:
MarantzPMD660 Professional Solid State Digital Flash Recorder.
This is a great little flash recorder that is light, reliable and extremely durable. I have dragged this thing all over the world and it has never failed me.
Microphone:
ShureSM 58 Vocal Microphone.
While there are other microphones that are more responsive, and maybe sound a little bit better, I love these because I can drop them from the turret of a Humvee and know that they will still work. For me, that has value.
I also like my Audio Technica Lavalier because I can be wired up, whether wearing a suit or a flak jacket and just plug it in at my waist. That is pretty cool too.
Communications Equipment:
Satellite Terminal:
Inmarsat Satellite Terminal: Inmarsat BGAN is a really reliable Satellite Terminal, for global data and voice communications. This is great when there are no other options but I have to warn you, it can bet pretty expensive. Reasonably cheap for audio but a really expensive proposition for video and even still photos. So, be warned.
Satellite Phone System:
ThurayaHughesSatellitePhone. The real advantage to a phone like this is that it pretty much works everywhere. It sounds reasonably good as well. Of course, the down side is that they are pretty expensive to operate and you always have to have line of sight. In other words, you always have to be outside to make this thing work.
Computer Equipment:
In the last couple of years, I upgraded to a Macbook. I have to say that I'm thrilled because of the reliability, the lack of viruses and most importantly, the software. While PCs are fine for certain applications, for video, audio and still pictures, Mac is far and away superior. When it comes to editing on the fly, Mac again is simply a much better product. And frequently, it is often my main link back to the world. I not only use it for communications but, interestingly enough, I use it to transmit via MP3 files, audio back to the studio in the states.
Physical Security Equipment:
Interceptor Body Armor
There is a continuing debate as to how journalists should dress in a war zone. One significant position is that if one dresses like a combatant, a soldier, then you should expect to be treated or shot at, like a soldier. On the other hand, at least in some war zones, like Iraq, journalists are being targeted specifically because of what they do.
As a result, blending in has its advantages. One dresses depending upon the environment.Sometimes, Jack has warn no body armor at all.Other times, he will wear whatever is necessary.
SapiPlates
These boron carbide ceramic plates are the latest technology designed to stop a 7.62 mm rifle round. These plates are inserted inside the Interceptor Body Armor. While it is not the lightest, the improvement over previously available gear is incrediblein termsof capability and weight.
As far as what is currently available, this is about as good as one can get. While advances continue, Jack will seek out better equipment.
PASGTKevlar Helmet This Kevlar helmet is the same worn by many U.S. troops. It has the advantage of being very strong and substantially lighter than those worn in the past. Jack’s has an upgraded interior with a 3 point chinstrap system.
Desert TanCWU27/P Nomex Fire Retardant Flight Suit. Because of continuing threats of IEDS in places like Iraq and Afghanistan, these types of suits have become popular among soldiers as well as journalists. The material does not burn or drip and provides some limited protection from flash and heat.
After getting hit by an IED in 2006 while embedded with the 10th Mountain Division, Jack learned his lesson. The next time he went into Iraq, he had one of these babies.
Desert Tan Nomex Fire Retardant Gloves. Just like the Nomex Flight suit, these gloves are designed to protect against flash and heat. In addition, they fit very tightly in order to allow for continuing dexterity in the field.
