As a filmmaker, every project comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. When I headed back to Jones, Michigan, for Big Cloud’s second event of the year, “Fire in the Sky,” I was ready to capture something special. This Fourth of July celebration was all about community, fireworks, and the usual lineup of vendor spaces that make these festivals feel alive.
One of the standout features this time was the massive waterslide. It became the side story of the festival, with a group of people constantly lining up for a splashdown in the summer heat. It was fun to capture it creatively, and show something different in my highlight video. While there wasn’t a major headlining act, the event still delivered with a solid mix of electronic music and a live band that marched in for the opening ceremony. Honestly, the energy of this crowd speaks to me. It’s the type of place where people feel comfortable letting their freak flags fly, and I can’t help but feel like I’ve found my people here.
Covering these events for the Big Cloud team has become something I really look forward to. There’s something about the vibe that makes the filming process flow smoothly, and it’s not every day you find that kind of connection in your work. I camped out for a couple of nights, fully prepared to immerse myself in the festival to capture the essence of the event. However, I’ve honed my process over time. With my “run and gun” setup—Sony camera on a gimbal and drone for aerial shots—I’ve realized that I can film most of what I need in just a day and a half without sacrificing the quality of the final highlight reel.
Big Cloud has always been about the people, the music, and the moments in between. And as long as they keep hosting events like this, I’ll be there with my gear, ready to bring their vision to life.