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

 

Equipment & Support Needed for Maquipucuna Reserve Project

To document and share the work at the Maquipucuna Reserve over a full year, I have already invested in a strong base of equipment, enabling immediate content capture and high-quality production on the ground.

 

Current Setup – Ready for Action

• DJI Mini 2 Drone – aerial coverage for landscape, wildlife, and conservation monitoring

• Professional Microphones + Podcast Setup – interviews, field recordings, and storytelling

• Tascam DR-60 Recorder – high-fidelity sound capture for ambient environments and natural soundscapes

• DJI OM5 Stabiliser – smooth handheld footage, enabling dynamic movement and immersive storytelling

 

This foundation allows me to start documenting fieldwork, wildlife, and community activities without delay.

Additional Equipment Needed – Elevating Production
 

To create content at a professional level that can support outreach, education, and sponsor visibility:

• Camera Body Upgrade – $1,800–$2,500: critical for low-light performance and cinematic footage

• Versatile Lens Kit – $800–$1,500: ensures flexibility for close-ups, wide shots, and wildlife photography

• Additional Audio Gear / Backups – $200–$500: redundancy to protect against technical failures in remote locations

• Tripod / Stabilisation Systems – $100–$300: essential for long exposures, interviews, and static shots

• Storage (SD Cards & Hard Drives) – $300–$600: high-capacity, reliable solutions for storing and backing up data

• Power Solutions (Banks / Solar) – $200–$500: ensures continuous operation in remote areas without electricity

• Protective Gear (Bags, Cases) – $150–$300: safeguarding equipment against weather, dust, and travel wear

 

Local Support & Logistics
Even with full equipment readiness, on-the-ground execution requires support:

• Equipment Maintenance & Upgrades – variable: ongoing upkeep ensures consistent, professional-quality content

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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