What the Xperia™ Tablet Z enables: A traveling filmmaker's unique tablet techniques
NTT docomo | docomo
What You Can Do with Xperia™ Tablet Z | Vol. 1
A Tablet Style for the Traveling Filmmaker
Takayuki Akachi, a "traveling filmmaker" who has filmed in over 60 countries using a solo shooting method in a backpacker style, shares his thoughts on the new Xperia™ Tablet Z, weaving in his own experiences.
Text by TOMIYAMA Eizaburo
Photographs by NORIYO
Peace of Mind Even During Sudden Downpours
Just like in everyday life, when traveling, it's important for luggage to be lightweight and compact. This tablet is incredibly light and thin. Plus, its waterproof feature provides even more reassurance. During the rainy season in Asia, sudden, torrential downpours are common. In Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, for instance, a single rain shower can flood up to your knees. If there's no nearby cafe to shelter in, I have to make a mad dash with my equipment (laughs). It's a relief to be able to carry it around without worry in situations like that.
Also, whether I'm in Japan or abroad, I often do location scouting for work. Even when I'm just walking around town, I make it a habit to capture interesting buildings or unique shops with photos or videos. With the Xperia™ Tablet Z, both the still photo and video shooting buttons are located on the camera's user interface, so I can intuitively and quickly select whichever I prefer without worrying about switching modes. That's a great feature.
While you can take photos and videos with a smartphone, it's tiring to check them on a small screen. This device allows for Full HD video recording, and since the display also supports Full HD content, I can check footage as if it were the real thing, which is stress-free. Also, when traveling abroad, I often photograph timetables and flyers at train stations and bus stops. Back at my accommodation, I review them to plan the next day's schedule. A larger screen makes it easier to see things in those situations.
I believe the appeal of a tablet lies in its fast startup and long battery life. Depending on how you use it, not having to charge it every day is the best part. This is because the biggest challenge in developing countries like Africa is charging. Sometimes there are no outlets in accommodations, so I've had to buy parts at electronics stores and rig up power from light sockets. In places like Mongolia, there are even charging stands at street stalls. On the other hand, you can always find Wi-Fi if you look. It's surprising, isn't it? (laughs)
Both are essential, but traveling with both a laptop and a camera is difficult. Moreover, when considering theft, I'm unsure whether it's safer to leave them at the accommodation or carry them around, as accommodations aren't always secure. However, with a tablet, I can actively carry it with me. I can watch movies with great sound, and I can buy and read Japanese books while traveling. For my next trip, I'd like to travel with just my camera and the Xperia™ Tablet Z.
Takayuki Akachi
A filmmaker who captures the lives of people around the world as they are, in that place and time. His footage, filmed with nimble footwork while traveling the globe, spans over 60 countries. His rhythmically edited, story-driven films have garnered attention, and in recent years he has also directed commercials for brands such as Onitsuka Tiger, ANA, UNIQLO, ASICS, and Levi's. www.takayukiakachi.jp