Osomania & Beyond

Digital Development & Field Storytelling Residency - ECUADOR

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I will be relocating to Ecuador for a one-year residency at the Maquipucuna Cloud Forest Reserve, contributing to both digital development and field-based storytelling.

 

This project represents a focused step toward building a long-term career in documentary work, centred on real environments, conservation, and human connection.

 

Scope of Work

During this residency, my role will include:

• Supporting digital development initiatives, including content creation and storytelling

• Producing visual documentation of the reserve, its biodiversity, and daily operations

• Capturing both long-form and short-form documentary material

• Building a structured library of visual assets that reflect the environment accurately

 

This is a practical, hands-on role carried out within a remote and environmentally demanding setting.

 

Project Objectives

The objectives for this year are to:

• Develop a body of documentary work grounded in real-world conditions

• Establish a consistent and efficient field workflow

• Build relationships with aligned organisations and partners

• Create a foundation for long-term documentary projects in similar environments

 

Working Environment

The work will take place within a cloud forest ecosystem defined by:

• High humidity and frequent rainfall

• Dense, uneven terrain

• Limited infrastructure

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Operating in these conditions requires a lightweight, reliable, and mobile system.

Equipment and System Requirements

 

To work effectively in the field, I am building a minimal and practical setup.

 

Filming:

• Camera body and lenses

• Shotgun and lavalier microphones

• Lightweight tripod

• Drone for aerial documentation

 

Power and Storage:

• Spare batteries

• Power bank

• Memory cards

• External hard drive​

 

Carry and Protection:

• Weather-resistant camera backpack

• Dry bags​

 

Clothing:

• Breathable base layers

• Insulating mid-layer

• Waterproof outer shell

 

Shelter and Living:

• Hammock or lightweight shelter

• Rain tarp

• Essential outdoor equipment

 

All equipment will be used daily in real conditions.

 

Support and Collaboration

This project is currently self-directed. Support in the form of equipment, resources, or collaboration will directly influence the quality and consistency of the work produced.

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I am interested in working with organisations whose products are designed for:Practical, real-world use

Outdoor and remote environments

Durability and sustainability

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Aligned Partners [Examples]

This project is particularly aligned with brands working in the areas of outdoor equipment, sustainable clothing, and field-based creative tools.

Examples include:

• Paka – sustainable materials and Andean connection

• WANDRD – travel-focused carry systems for real-world use

• Ticket to the Moon – lightweight, travel-based shelter systems

• Kammok – sustainable outdoor gear and field living

• DJI – aerial documentation and environmental perspective

Additional partnerships may develop with organisations working in similar spaces.

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Career Direction

This residency forms part of a broader transition into full-time documentary work.

The long-term focus is on developing projects within remote environments, with an emphasis on:

• Conservation

• Cultural relationships with land

• Human stories within natural systems

This year in Ecuador establishes the foundation for that direction.

 

Contact

For collaboration, support, or further information, please get in touch.

 

Additional details, references, and project updates are available on request.

 

Paul Allen

Founder

Wandering Monkey