“When you get a call asking if you can provide a tracking vehicle, for a shot of one of the famous actors in the world, in one of the most expensive venues in the world, that is filled with some of the most priceless and irreplaceable exhibits in the world, it’s nice to be able to say ‘Yes’.”
Jayne Leponis is talking about Flyka, the fast, silent tracking dolly provided by her company BooBoo Creative Technical and Creative, on this occasion for a scene in the Tom Cruise movie “The Mummy” filmed at the Natural History Museum in London.
Flyka’s ability to film in places that no other vehicle would fit into, its smooth operation at different speeds up to 30mph, it’s easy configuration and the fact that it does all this silently makes it very popular with film makers. The demands of production budgets means that companies are constantly looking for ways to get the most bang for their buck. Flyka allows cinematographers to capture the types of shots that would previously have been difficult and expensive to create.
“One of the most common pieces of feedback we get from steadicam operators is how seamless moving shots are as they step off the vehicle and continue to film. That, and how reliable and quick it is to rig and re-set. And because of its configuration, Flyka allows for up to 8 people to be on board at any one time – which can be quite cosy but it shows the endless possibilities of this kit. It’s ideal for steadicam and camera operators with big ideas,” says Jayne.
When it comes to risk assessments, Flyka also comes into its own. It’s narrow enough to fit through doorways, it doesn’t pollute as it is battery powered, and being silent means sound disruption isn’t an issue, especially when filming night shoots.
Jayne is also a steadicam operator as well as camera operator. “What makes us unique is that we are able to understand the needs of both the camera and the operator. It’s vital that the operator feels safe and confident on the rig so they can achieve the shot they have in mind.”
Flyka isn’t the only thoroughbred in the BooBoo stables. The company also provides state of the art aerial filming and photographic services, from rigs that carry small to heavy payloads. “The Flying Squad has operators that are not only pilots, but dyed-in-the-wool film makers, so we understand every aspect of production and offer our clients a broad wealth of knowledge to compliment their needs.”
It’s exciting times for BooBoo Technical and Creative. As the company expands, Jayne has brought producer/director Sandy Semple onboard, so that BooBoo can expand into production as well as offering their creative and technical services.
“We are really looking forward to being able to produce our own films and continuing to be the preferred supplier to the industry.”
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