Since 2016 I have been working with International Culinary Tours on their social media and content creation efforts. Having International Culinary Tours as a client has allowed me to create content internationally. When the global pandemic hit in 2020, international travel was put on pause. Fast forward to Fall 2021 and it has become relatively safe again to responsibly explore the world. This past September, I found myself once again in Italy working with International Culinary Tours on their first tour since 2019. While in Italy I worked alongside my client on finalizing the tour itinerary, meeting with different property owners & vendors, and visually documenting the tour experiences. Typically, when I am traveling with this client, we spend no more than a few days in one location and a short period of time at each property. Because of this tight schedule, it’s key to capture content strategically and quickly. Italy was no exception. It was during this experience in September that it dawned on me to write an article about content creation abroad and some ways to prepare. Over the years I have created content in Canada, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and Italy. Through these experiences, I would like to share some knowledge I gained on how to content create abroad.
Create a Plan
Creating a written plan for what your content creation goals are is an important first step so you can stay organized and on task. A plan allows for you to strategically share aspects of experiences with online communities. This plan doesn’t need to be overly complicated and can be created even on the plane ride to your destination. Elements that should be outlined in the plan include:
Content expectations
Distribution schedule
Measurable goals
List of partner and vendor handles, and hashtags / locations
If you are working with local vendors or have partners that you’re creating content with, have a discussion with whomever runs their social channels. Discuss the opportunity for collaboration on posts and what that content will look like.
Double Check Your Equipment
There’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination and realizing that you don’t have all the tools you need to create captivating content. From low batteries to network signal strength, there are many things that can go awry when trying to create content. Before I travel to another country, I always run through the following list:
Check with cell phone provider on network availability and research SIM card options
Pack global WIFI device, power bank, Selfie stick / tripod, lavalier for iPhone, plug adapters, and stabilizer rig
Bring additional cameras / film if the project deems necessary
Probably the biggest issue I’ve run into is cell network accessibility/ strength. Different counties have different cell network strength and accessibility. Although I have international coverage with T-Mobile, I have found in some countries a local SIM card is helpful or a global WIFI device. It’s highly recommended to never upload content to social platforms without a strong signal. A weak signal can result in pixelated Stories, Stories uploading in the wrong order and posts failing to publish. On location, if there isn’t a strong network connection, wait until you’re in a better location to upload content to social platforms.
Be Respectful of Local Customs
Different countries have different customs, and this rule also applies for taking photos and videos. Before traveling do research on the country you will be visiting and learn about their local customs and beliefs. Some cultures look at taking someone’s photo as taboo or stealing their souls. Other cultures are open to photography but have restrictions or are looking for some form of payment. I’ve created content in the western world as well as the Islamic world. Probably the strangest thing that I’ve experienced is being asked to delete photos of ancient walls because the context in which they are used could be considered disrespectful. I’ve also been asked to not photograph military or public servants, even if they are in the background. In countless locations I’ve been asked to not photograph storefronts or vendors without remitting payment. Despite what may seem to be harsh restrictions, it is possible to still create epic content while following the rules.
Content creation abroad is one of my favorite aspects of my business. I enjoy experiencing other cultures through the lens of my client and strategically creating content for a target audience that enjoys nature, food, wine, and culture. I am hopeful that after reading this article you’ve picked up a few tips for the next time you are creating content abroad for yourself or on behalf of a client. Interested in learning more about content creation abroad and how Social Alchemy can support your efforts? Send an email to samantha@s-alchemy.com.