Solana Productions, Inc.

Everyone's Wild About Harry

2011-10-25T11:16:00.001-07:00

Our latest San Diego video productions have put us hot on the trail of Britain's Prince Harry, as he criss-crosses the county in search of burgers, brew.......and yes, babes! The 27-year-old military officer is stationed in nearby El Centro for two months of Apache helicopter training. But on weekends, he's been making the 90-mile trek west for fun and nightlife in Coronado, downtown San Diego and....our very own Solana Beach! Your intrepid San Diego field producer and San Diego video crew have been way ahead of the competition, scoring interviews, photos and video for TV's "The Insider," several days before "Good Morning America," "Today" and People Magazine joined the story. HarryWatch -- definitely not a royal pain!

We're Their Perfect Fit!

2011-09-16T11:58:00.001-07:00

We got lucky with our latest LA video production -- literally! Lucky Brand jeans called on our San Diego video crew to shoot a series of employee training videos inside their flagship store at The Grove shopping center in Los Angeles. The LA-based denim brand goes to great lengths training its sales associates to help shoppers find perfect-fitting jeans. Using our video segments, employees at Lucky Brand's 177 retail stores will learn tips and techniques to help customers add jackets, sweaters, accessories and other complementary items -- all without costing a fortune. Now that's what we call lucking out!

Just Another Sony Day With Spidey

2011-08-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

One of our most talked-about San Diego video production s at Comic-Con this year was our "Face of the Fan" segment for Sony Pictures upcoming movie, "The Amazing Spider-Man." Your favorite San Diego field producer and her Comic-Con crew spent a day with Steven, from New York, who won a trip to the annual entertainment extravaganza as part of Sony's nationwide search for the ultimate Spider-Man fan. With no TV experience whatsover, Steven untangled himself from a web of nerves for a one-on-one interview with Andrew Garfield, who's starring as Spidey and Peter Parker. Steven also spoke with fellow fans and experienced Sony's exclusive previews of "The Amazing Spider-Man," which swings into theaters next summer. Check out Steven's dream-come-true that we were happy to be a part of! Click here

Comic-Con: Where the Geeks Shall Inherit the Earth

2011-07-15T15:50:00.000-07:00

Time to dust off the Darth Vader suit and pull out the Princess Peach costume! In just days, our San Diego video production team will be meeting the costumed masses at the annual entertainment extravaganza known as Comic-Con International. It's the 11th year our Comic-Con crews (sorry, we don't come in costume) have covered the chaotic combo of Hollywood star appearances, movie and TV previews, video game unveilings, zombie parades and more! The New York Times reports the Hollywood studios are curtailing their involvement this year.......yeah, right! Already, our San Diego video crews and your favorite San Diego field producer have been booked by Sony, HBO, MTV and "Entertainment Tonight" for the four-day event, which shows no signs of slowing down. I've had a look at the tentative studio schedules, which so far, include Steven Spielberg's first-ever appearance, the "Cowboys & Aliens" premiere featuring Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford, a big outdoor stunt promoting "Cowboys & Aliens," a return appearance by Nicholas Cage, a "Twilight: Breaking Dawn" event, the introduction of "The Amazing Spiderman" cast and tons of TV meet-and-greets. That doesn't even include the "secret" and "underground" events, like the 2009 "Alice In Wonderland" set display in an empty storefront. Plus, I'm hearing about more international TV and press coverage this year. The truth is the San Diego Convention Center can't contain all the entertainment industry hype, which spills onto the downtown streets and into nearby hotels and theaters! Comic-Con -- it's serious business.

We Booked It, Danno!

2011-05-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

Our latest video project was a live Los Angeles webcast production with Scott Caan, who stars as "Danno" on CBS-TV's "Hawaii Five-O." Scott took part in an hourlong question-and-answer session with filmmakers and fans that we set up at the Los Angeles Film School in Hollywood. With our two cameras rolling, Scott shared insights about his film and TV career and offered advice for film students. Among those in the live audience was Scott's dad, legendary actor James Caan, who happened to be seated right next to our Los Angeles field producer! The webcast was carried worldwide on ustream.com, livestream.com and Openfilm.com. Scott Caan is an advisory board member of Openfilm, an online video technology and content delivery platform serving the independent film market.

The Sporting Life

2011-04-08T17:17:00.000-07:00

Our latest San Diego video productions have taken us across the wide world of sports -- from the LPGA tour to international soccer! In beautiful Rancho Mirage, your intrepid San Diego field producer and her San Diego video crew joined "Entertainment Tonight" host Mary Hart at the Kraft Nabisco Celebrity Pro-Am Golf Tournament. We covered Mary's amazing golf skills and her participation in a storytelling benefit for local kids, "Reading On the Green" -- our interviews and footage airing March 29 on "ET." That same day, another of our San Diego video crews scored major points at Qualcomm Stadium, where 60,000-plus fans packed the stands for the Mexico vs. Venezuela exhibition soccer match. Shooting for Degree Men, one of the sponsors, our crew worked every angle on the field and snagged interviews with soccer stars Felix Hernandez and Jared Borgetti. Check it out!

Soldiers' Stories

2011-03-16T21:43:00.000-07:00

Our San Diego video crews are privileged and very proud to be shooting stories for the TV news magazine "The American Veteran," sponsored by the Department of Veteran Affairs. These San Diego video productions are compelling profiles of soldiers who are adjusting to civilian life after serving their country. Incredibly, some Iraq and Afghanistan war vets who have completed 3 tours of duty can't find jobs when they return home. But in the rural town of Fallbrook, one Iraq war veteran and his wife have carved out a new life running an organic basic farm -- and they're helping other vets learn how to put down new roots as civilians.

When Stars Swarm, We Storm!

2011-01-11T16:18:00.000-08:00

For the 10th year in a row, yours truly and our San Diego video crews stormed the star-studded Palm Springs International Film Festival Gala with all-access passes that took us up front, backstage, behind the scenes --and just about everywhere else. This Palm Springs video production put us in first position on the red carpet, where your favorite San Diego field producer grabbed interviews with arriving stars Jake Gyllenhall, Natalie Portman, Ben Affleck, Mark Wahlberg, Amy Adams, James Franco, Colin Firth, Jennifer Lawrence, Carey Mulligan, Robert Duvall, Aaron Eckhart and more. During the gala, we moved backstage for "Entertainment Tonight" host Mary Hart's exclusive interviews -- and shot behind-the-scenes with Mary for a segment on the making of our "ET" segment in Palm Springs. The festival, created 22 years ago by the late Palm Springs Congressman and music icon Sonny Bono, was taking place just as news was breaking about the tragic shootings of Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and 20 others in Tucson. I conducted an emotional interview about the tragedy with Sonny's widow, Rep. Mary Bono Mack -- who is now married to Florida Rep. Connie Mack. Choking back tears, Bono Mack, a Republican, told me about her friendship and positive working relationship with the Arizona Democratic congresswoman. That interview and our film festival coverage aired on Monday's "Entertainment Tonight." Our behind-the-scenes story on the film festival will be broadcast this weekend.

Divas Salute The Troops!

2010-12-07T16:37:00.001-08:00

From Katy Perry to Nicki Minaj to Kathy Griffin, it was a hangar full of divas at our latest San Diego video production! As the performers rehearsed for "VH-1's Divas Salute The Troops" inside a hangar at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, only our San Diego video crew was allowed inside to shoot exclusive footage. We captured Katy joining Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles and Keri Hilson in full Andrews Sisters regalia, working out the kinks of "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" -- the show's opening number. We also shot Katy and Nicky rehearsing their duet of "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun," and Kathy Griffin showing off her outrageous version of Marine Corps dress blues. Afterward, the divas bubbled over with excitement about performing for the troops -- and joked about their ridiculous diva demands during interviews with your favorite San Diego field producer and diva-in-training -- me! Check out the link for a look at some of our footage -- http://www.etonline.com/tv/103460_VIDEO_Katy_Perry_Turns_Diva.

On The Next Oprah........

2010-11-17T12:09:00.000-08:00

Our Emmy Award-winning San Diego video crew just wrapped a two-day shoot for "Oprah" that's set to air Nov. 23. This one's all about one of the most unusual weddings you'll ever see! Though Oprah herself could not be here for the shoot, we're proud to say we've worked with the talk show queen numerous times during our 15-year association with her show. Our San Diego video production team shot her interview with Bill and Melinda Gates at a local school, and our intrepid San Diego field producer captured Oprah's much talked-about finish line interview at the America's Finest City Half-Marathon. We've also traveled south of the border when Oprah was tracking down fugitive sexual predators -- and motored north for her many Los Angeles video productions, including Oprah's post-Oscar show.

Spoiled, Entitled and on TV!

2010-11-04T11:55:00.003-07:00

If you're in the mood for some great theater, be sure to catch today's "Dr. Phil" for the explosive segment on "spoiled and entitled" young women. Our San Diego video production team shot and field produced the background story on Josie, a 28-year-old self-proclaimed Jewish-American princess from Orange County who insists she deserves fame, fortune and a rich, A-list director as a husband. Your favorite San Diego field producer dug deep into her bag of tricks for this one -- and our Orange County video production was so well-received, the "Dr. Phil" producers decided to hold the segment for the all-important November Sweeps schedule. The on-stage confrontation between Josie, Dr. Phil, Hollywood insider Kelly Cutrone and an audience member is indescribable! If you miss today's show, here's the link: http://drphil.com/slideshows/slideshow/6041/?id=6041&showID=1538. Go ahead, YOU'RE entitled to watch it!

Shuffling Around Hollywood

2010-10-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

We've been waltzing around backstage at "Dancing With The Stars" all week for a behind-the-scenes exclusive on TV's number-one show! First, our San Diego video crew headed to CBS Television City in Los Angeles, where the show is taped, for interviews and footage with the celebrity contestants, dancers and judges. Later in the week, your favorite San Diego field producer sashayed her way into the dancers' rehearsal studios with the crew for a peek at the intense practice sessions. Lots of surprises in this Los Angeles video production, which airs Friday on TV's Emmy-winning daytime show, "Rachael Ray."

On Location With "NCIS: San Diego"

2010-09-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

It looked more like "NCIS: San Diego" as we rolled on TV's Chris O'Donnell and LL Cool J swapping stories with Navy officers and enlisted personnel in our latest San Diego video production. The stars of the CBS hit show, "NCIS: Los Angeles" were in San Diego this weekend as part of the Navy's Fleet Week Family Festival. We videotaped Chris and LL touring the USS Pinckney and fielding questions during a live webcast Q & A held on the Broadway Pier. (Favorite question -- to LL Cool J from a woman in the audience: "Will you have a love interest this season and, if so, where can I audition?") Your intrepid San Diego field producer had the pleasure of teaming up with "Entertainment Tonight" correspondent Kevin Frazier on the shoot, which airs tonight!

The Amazing Chase!

2010-09-02T16:03:00.000-07:00

Still catching my breath after running from one red carpet to the other on TV's biggest night! The race began last Friday when your intrepid San Diego field producer hopped in the fast lane and headed to the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles to shoot preparations for the 62nd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards. For this Los Angeles video production, we videotaped as an army of construction workers turned a plain concrete patio in front of the Nokia into a wonderland of interview platforms and photo areas for arriving Emmy nominees and presenters. On Sunday afternoon, I was in full Emmy finery and high heels on the red carpet as everyone from Cory Monteith of "Glee" to Glenn Close of "Damages" stopped by for a quick interview before heading into the awards ceremony. Five sweaty hours later, with my sunburned skin as red as the carpet, I changed into flat shoes and dashed to the red carpet at "Entertainment Tonight's" after-party for post-Emmy interviews. It was non-stop star power as Cyndi Lauper, LL Cool J, pro dancers from "Dancing With The Stars," stars of "The Office," "Mad Men" "Glee" and more poured into the bash. The Emmys -- it's really a 10K in formal wear to me!

Get Ready To Really Get Real!

2010-08-18T14:31:00.000-07:00

Though we're sworn to secrecy, we can reveal that you're in for some pretty compelling television on the next season of "Dr. Phil," premiering Sept. 13. For the 9th year in a row, our San Diego video crews are again shooting background pieces for the popular daytime show, and they've been pulling out the stops to capture those signature "get real" moments with dignity, respect and sensitivity. These San Diego video productions have actually taken us throughout Southern California, from the bedroom communities of Orange County to deep into the desert. In our Orange County video production, a family fights to heal painful wounds, while our Palm Springs video production looks at how a different family is bringing its dark and disturbing secrets into the open. Intrigued? Set your DVRS now!

Semper Fi-ghting With "The Expendables"

2010-07-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

It doesn't get more badass than this -- Sylvester Stallone and his tough-guy co-stars from "The Expendables" joining forces with the Marines at Camp Pendleton! This San Diego video production was actually the premiere of the new action movie, held at the 1,300-seat theater on the Marine base in Oceanside. Our San Diego video crew nabbed a TV exclusive for "Entertainment Tonight" as Stallone pulled up to a cheering crowd of Marines and their families in a Humvee. Also arriving in Humvees -- co-stars Terry Crews, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and Randy Couture, a six-year military veteran. The crew stayed up close with the stars, grabbing tons of memorable moments as Stallone and the boys signed autographs, posed for pictures and high-fived Marines. Inside the theater, we rolled as "The Expendables" bolted down the carpet to thunderous applause and introduced their new film, which opens Aug. 13. Our footage aired on "ET" Monday, July 26, and was featured on the show's website, www.etonline.com.

Keeping Up With Kathy Griffin

2010-07-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

We couldn't have asked for a better gig than covering Kathy Griffin's book-signing for "Entertainment Tonight!" From start to finish, this San Diego video production was one belly laugh after another as Kathy lamented the engagement of her "My Life on the D-List" boy-toy Levi Johnston, and had a field day with Mel Gibson's phone recordings. The energetic comedian popped into Border's Books with her mom Maggie Griffin to promote Maggie's new book, Tip It! -- and sign copies of her own best-seller, Official Book Club Selection. My San Diego video crew and I squeezed in with the crowd of about 300 that crammed the bookstore to see and hear Kathy in person. And she didn't disappoint -- signing and posing for every last person!

Countdown to Comic-Con

2010-07-11T15:23:00.001-07:00

In just days, the pop culture phenomenon known as Comic-Con will be descending on San Diego like the gigantic spaceship from "District 9." This one-time nerd event -- now a big-time entertainment happening that's been sold-out for months -- has become one of our highest-profile San Diego video productions. This year, we have 15 San Diego video crew members credentialed, and they'll be inhabiting the deepest corners of Comic-Con from dawn til dark, July 21-25. We'll be capturing everything from big-screen previews of "Tron," "Thor," "The Green Hornet" and "The Expendables," to interviews with the new "Hawaii Five-O" TV stars. We'll also be ready for surprises, like Johnny Depp's appearance last year to promote "Alice in Wonderland." Comic-Con -- it's no joke!

Tailing The Dog Whisperer

2010-06-27T16:06:00.000-07:00

Warner Bros. unleashed another great assignment on our San Diego video production company -- working with Cesar Millan, TV's "Dog Whisperer." Cesar was in town to spend the weekend with contest winners in his Great Dog Adventure, which included an hour-long "pack" walk and other fun activities for dogs and owners. Our San Diego video crew shot fantastic footage of the Dog Whisperer working his magic on all breeds of dogs -- including the famous Scooby-Doo, as the Great Dane learned how to overcome his fear of ghosts!

Fast, Furious and Live!

2010-06-22T16:34:00.000-07:00

We love working fast and going live, and our latest San Diego video production combined both -- a live shot for Speed Channel, the Fox-owned cable channel devoted to motorsports and auto racing. Shooting in HD, we set up a live talkback interview with pro motorcycle racer Josh Hayes for the Speed Channel show, "Wind Tunnel with Dave Despain." Josh answered questions about his AMA Superbike series and gave a health update on his wife, Melissa Paris, also a pro motorcycle racer, who's recovering from recent surgery. You can catch portions of Josh's live interview on speedtv.com.

Got Junk In Your Trunk?

2010-06-15T21:59:00.000-07:00

Clocks, carpets, cradles, candlesticks -- that's just a fraction of the interesting stuff our San Diego video crew spotted while shooting behind-the-scenes of PBS's popular "Antiques Roadshow." This San Diego video production took place at the bayfront Convention Center, where hundreds of people toted their treasures for the show's expert appraisers to evaluate. This San Diego producer heard dozens of stories from people who dug through their garages and storage units in hopes of finding out their items were valuable. An Orange County woman showed off a tapestry that supposedly belonged to George Washington, while another man brought in a beautiful carved wooden lion. Though some left the roadshow dejected, we watched several others head home with ear-to-ear grins. That's my kind of recycling!

On A Roll at the San Diego Rock 'N Roll Marathon

2010-06-07T13:16:00.000-07:00

Had a blast with "Entertainment Tonight's" Samantha Harris and 30,000 runners at the 13th Annual San Diego Rock 'N Roll Marathon/Half Marathon! This San Diego video production put us atop a raised platform at the starting line, where Samantha handled hosting duties and sent the runners off on their 26.2 and 13.1-mile journeys. Bands played at every mile along the scenic course to keep the athletes energized. You can catch our San Diego HD video on Monday's "Entertainment Tonight."

Our Cameras Are Academy Award Winners!

2010-05-31T20:25:00.000-07:00

If you saw or heard about this year's Academy Award-winning documentary, "The Cove," you probably know the filmmakers used state-of-the-art camera equipment to expose the secret dolphin slaughter that takes place annually in a secluded cove in Taiji, Japan. In a unique twist of fate, we just learned that our San Diego video production company OWNS some of that equipment! Here's how it happened: about a year ago, we bought two Sony XDHD camera packages from a mysterious Colorado production company after a series of e-mail exchanges and phone calls. Without saying exactly what they had been shooting, a company rep explained that they needed to sell the gear to help fund post-production on their "marine life film." Colorado? Marine life? Whatever. But the equipment was in excellent condition -- so we arranged for shipment and put it to good use over the last year. Recently, when we finally got around to watching "The Cove," something clicked. The Sony camera shown in several scenes looked awfully familiar, as did a tripod. We also recognized the names of director Louie Psihoyos and unit production manager Joseph Chisholm from those mysterious e-mails and phone calls a year earlier. A follow-up e-mail to Psihoyos confirmed what we suspected -- and we're proud to say that we own some of the same camera equipment that brought the filmmakers an Academy Award for best documentary feature. We're also proud that our purchase helped the filmmakers finish their courageous and important project!

Sun, Surf, Sand -- and Stars!

2010-05-23T20:05:00.001-07:00

Hollywood hits the beach in our latest San Diego video production! That's Owen Wilson and George Lopez sitting down for an interview on the sand with your favorite San Diego producer and her trusty San Diego HD video crew. (Don't you love that menacing bodyguard in the background keeping an eye on us?) The stars were in town to unleash their new live-action family comedy, "Marmaduke," opening June 4. Owen is the voice of the famous comic-strip Great Dane and George is his cool cat buddy, Carlos. The day included everything from an adorable surfing dog contest to a red-carpet premiere and screening right on the beach. All you channel surfers can check it out from the comfort of your sofas this week on "Entertainment Tonight" -- no SPF needed!

Crewed-Up & Credentialed For Comic-Con!

2010-05-16T13:25:00.000-07:00

No matter what kind of chaos they'll unleash at Comic-Con July 22-25, we'll be ready! This is our 10th year handling San Diego video production at Comic-Con for "Entertainment Tonight," Disney, Fox, Sony and others. We've seen the event grow from a small comic book gathering to a pop culture phenomenon that draws A-list stars and more than 125,000 fans. Last year alone, we covered the star-studded previews of "Avatar," "Iron Man 2," "Alice in Wonderland," "Twilight: New Moon," "Tron," "Sherlock Holmes," ABC's "Flashforward" and more. The four-day event is already SOLD OUT, so to stay ahead of the chaos, our San Diego video crews and producers are credentialed two months early. So bring it on, Comic-Con!

Here Comes The Sunscreen!

2010-05-09T15:06:00.000-07:00

Our latest San Diego video production is all about saving your skin! Armed with hats, sunglasses and SPF 60, your favorite San Diego producer and San Diego video crew spent two days putting high-tech swimwear to the test in the California sun. On one of those days, my poor crew was forced to shoot a gorgeous blonde model in her 20s sunbathing in a "tan-through" bikini -- the type that promises to leave no lines. Imagine their grueling workday as they had to constantly focus in on her taking down her straps of her top to check for tan lines! It all balanced out, though. We spent the other day documenting the effectiveness of a new children's swimsuit that has a tiny UV alert button that turns red when the sun is strong. That meant hours patiently following pint-sized perpetual motion machines commonly known as "preschoolers" -- lots of fun but exhausting! You can see the results on the Human Lab segment of the "Rachael Ray" show airing Monday, May 10.

Feast Your Eyes on Our Taco-Mentary!

2010-04-30T12:27:00.001-07:00

Just wrapped our tastiest Los Angeles video production yet -- the search for the best taco! This San Diego field producer, a classically trained Tijuana street taco aficionado, quickly said si to heading north for a behind-the-scenes look at three of LA's most popular Mexican eateries -- Casa Vega in Sherman Oaks, Mexicali Cocina and Cantina in Studio City and El Cholo in Mid-City. With my ravenous San Diego video crew in tow, we spent two days devouring the mouth-watering secrets behind Casa Vega's deep-fried taco, Mexicali's lobster taco and El Cholo's filet mignon taco. Muy delicioso -- they're all winners to us! And just as the Mexicali owners were dishing up details about their celeb clientele -- in walks Gwen Stefani with husband Gavin Rossdale and their two adorable young boys! The paparazzi-hounded family politely declined our request to shoot them chowing down -- but there was "No Doubt" we were working inside a true Hollywood hangout. You can catch the whole enchilada on TV's Emmy-winning "Rachael Ray" show this Wednesday, May 5 -- it's Cinco de Mayo!

Our Polo Prize Production!

2010-04-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

Imagine the suits from corporate arriving.....and handing YOU the keys to a cool, new car! Then, they pass out big bonus checks to ALL your co-workers! Too good to be true? In fact, that's EXACTLY the exciting scenario our San Diego video crews captured last week at the Polo Ralph Lauren store in Alpine, just east of San Diego. Shocked employees watched as Polo execs from New York drove a 2010 Mini-Cooper right up to the front of the store -- and ran inside with giant balloon bouquets. "You've won! You've won!" they cried. The store manager burst into tears when the execs handed her the car keys, then delivered large bonus checks to each employee. We had the pleasure of shooting this San Diego video production in crystal-clear high-definition (HD) video with two camera crews. It was all part of an annual nationwide sales incentive contest between Polo Ralph Lauren's 130 stores. Their employees across the country will be watching the winning video this week. Congratulations, Polo Ralph Lauren Alpine! See you next year!

Our Live Webcast With The Beach Boys Aboard the USS Midway

2010-04-18T20:10:00.000-07:00

The vibrations were definitely good this weekend during our live San Diego webcast production of The Beach Boys show from the USS Midway! More than 3,000 people were aboard the Midway for the legendary band's performance, while thousands of Internet surfers around the world also caught the show live, thanks to our San Diego video production. You, too, can "Catch A Wave" by clicking on the clip! We spent the last 6 weeks putting the project together, making many visits to the Midway to ensure a flawless show. And, not only were The Beach Boys fun to watch, but their "good vibrations" are also kicking off Better Hearing Month in May. That's when a specially outfitted semi-truck and trailer will travel the US offering hearing tests by Starkey Laboratories, one of the world's leading hearing technology companies.

Behind The Scenes of "Hoarders"

2010-04-11T22:34:00.000-07:00

Masks, respirators and the dry heaves -- just another glamorous day of reality show production! Our colleague, Stan McMeekin of Solana Productions Northwest, has been shooting "Hoarders," the popular A&E series about people trapped by their bizarre hoarding compulsion. From feline frenzies to clutter catastrophes, Stan and his team are capturing the sights, sounds -- and foul smells -- of every messy detail. In addition to Seattle video production for "Hoarders," Stan has shot episodes in Iowa, Ohio and South Carolina.

Our Early Morning Retail Therapy!

2010-04-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

Metropark, a fast-growing retailer of trendy men's and women's fashions, opened up its flagship store in the wee hours of the morning while we shot a key orientation video for its sales staff. Our San Diego video crew traveled up the freeway for the Los Angeles video production, arriving at Metropark's Arcadia store at 4 a.m.! Using the store's stunning visual details as background, our video teaches salespeople how to help shoppers more effectively -- from start to finish. Through videotaped re-enactments, staffers learn how to determine a shopper's style, how to accessorize that style and how to present options when shoppers try on clothing. We also shot a segment on how to spot and respond to shoplifters. This was the latest in a series of Southern California video production we've done for fashion giants like Guess and Banana Republic.

And You Thought Gas Was Expensive!

2010-03-25T06:24:00.000-07:00

$8,000 a gallon -- that's what you're paying for ink these days! In fact, printer ink is the most expensive liquid on the planet -- so print wisely, people. It's liquid gold! That's just one of the facts we've gleaned from our many years of shooting San Diego corporate video production for Hewlett Packard's highly successful printing and imaging division. We just wrapped another big webcast production seen by several thousand of the division's worldwide employees.This one involved a complicated lighting and audio setup that included audience phone calls, e-mails, slide presentations, etc. Thanks to our production team for pulling it off flawlessly! See you in the inkjet cartridge aisle at Staples......

Oscar Night at Sir Elton's Bash

2010-03-08T11:55:00.000-08:00

Fashion, fun and flashbulb frenzy last night -- and I was lucky enough to be in the middle of another eye-popping LA video production! That's yours truly photographed right after interviewing Sir Elton at his annual star-studded Oscar bash. The eclectic celeb turnout included past Oscar winners Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Hudson, Simon Cowell, K.D. Lang, The Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, Tim Allen, Heidi Klum, Michelle Rodriguez, Olympic skaters Apolo Anton Ohno and Johnny Weir, Victoria Beckham, Nicole Richie and Joel Madden, Sharon and Kelly Osbourne, Ricki Lake, Betty White and Slash (wonder what they talked about?) Loved the sparkly, dark blue sequined shoes that Elton wore -- and I must say, Simon and fiancee Mezghan Hussainy make a surprisingly stunning couple. (Her engagement ring is ginormous!) It was also a kick working right next to former Spice Girl Mel B, reporting for British TV, and alongside the friendly team from "The Ellen DeGeneres Show." For some reason, they decided to bring Costco snacks for the stars to sample. You can catch my interviews on tonight's edition of "The Insider."

The "Amazing" Hidden-Camera Proposal

2010-03-04T21:35:00.000-08:00

That was our San Diego video crew rolling on the surprise, hidden-camera engagement of "The Amazing Race" winners Cheyne Whitney and Meghan Rickey! It happened at dusk last Sunday on a hill overlooking scenic Lake Murray, where the childhood sweethearts grew up. With the HD video crew and yours truly hiding behind a cactus grove, Cheyne brought his blindfolded ladylove to their special place for the surprise -- popping the question and presenting her with a dazzling 1.5-carat Princess cut diamond. After recording the special moments, we emerged from our hiding place to congratulate and interview the newly engaged couple. Our San Diego video production aired on Thursday night's "Entertainment Tonight." Only problem -- I've been pulling cactus needles out of my jeans and boots all week long!

These Shoots are Habit Forming !

2010-02-22T20:10:00.000-08:00

We're up to our ears in "Hoarders" shoots, thanks to the reality show production work of Stan McMeekin at Solana Productions Northwest. His award-winning Seattle video production has expanded to cities across the country, where he's been shooting episodes of the hit "A&E" show about people trapped by their hoarding compulsion. If you watched the recent episode about three women in South Carolina who hoard stuffed animals and cats -- that was Stan behind the camera rolling on all of it! Stan also shot "Hoarders" episodes this season in San Antonio, Cleveland and Iowa. Though no hoarder himself, Stan has collected enough Emmys and national awards to fill a dusty closet -- and a moldy basement! (Not that we're counting......)

Making the Rounds for "The Doctors"

2010-02-13T16:50:00.000-08:00

Our San Diego video crews are "on call" again for the second season of "The Doctors" -- shooting groundbreaking medical stories and actual surgical procedures for the hit daytime TV show. Last week, we traveled up I-5 for a hush-hush Orange County video production you'll soon be seeing on "The Doctors." We barely had time to pack up our trusty Betacam before the crew was dispatched to another shoot for "The Doctors" -- this time a secret Palm Springs video production. Hey -- it's "The Doctors" orders! If you haven't seen the show yet, check your local listings for time and channel -- or log onto thedoctorstv.com.

Tag Along at Our Tailgate!

2010-02-01T21:19:00.000-08:00

We're tailgatin' with Nick Lachey in our latest San Diego video production. Our crew captured all the excitement as the popular singer & TV host surprised the crowd in the parking lot at Qualcomm Stadium on a recent Sunday, and rolled out the food, fun and games! You can catch our Super Bowl scoop on this Friday's "Rachael Ray Show."

San Diego Producer Has Car, Will Travel!

2010-01-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

We specialize in San Diego video production, Orange County video production and LA video production -- but earlier this month, we traveled all the way to Lancaster, CA, (372 miles round trip) for what turned out to be one of our most inspiring stories yet! The subject was 17-year-old Bereniece Salceda, who only two years ago weighed 280 pounds. Through persistence and determination, Bereniece has dropped more than 130 pounds by exercising and cutting calories. She convinced her family to overhaul its fat and sugar-laden meals, and replaced her junk food snacks with fruits, vegetables and whole grain fare. We spent the day interviewing Bereniece and her family as they embraced their healthy new lifestyle. The story was featured on the Emmy award-winning "Rachael Ray Show" on January 19!

Hollywood Party Patrol Tonight!

2010-01-17T09:39:00.000-08:00

Big Los Angeles video production tonight -- where I'll be doing interviews inside Fox Studios' Golden Globes after-party! "Avatar" director James Cameron; Jeff Bridges; Glenn Close and "Damages" cast; stars of "Glee;" "House;" "Modern Family;" "How I Met Your Mother;" and, more expected. You'll see this, plus additional Globes party, fashion and backstage coverage on Monday's "Entertainment Tonight" and "The Insider."

Shhh -- We're Inside A Secret Celebrity Tailgate Party!

2010-01-16T11:32:00.001-08:00

For this San Diego video production, we're boltin' down to Qualcomm Stadium to shoot a secret celebrity tailgate bash before the Jets-Chargers game. Caviar and Cristal? Or Corn Dogs and Coca-Cola? Limos? Bodyguards? And who's cheering for whom? You'll see it all when this San Diego broadcast video airs next week!

2010-01-13T17:36:00.001-08:00

More Palm Springs Video Production! Our HD video crew is back after storming the desert for eye-popping footage of 2 new Ford vehicles. Look for Solana Productions video when the cars debut at the Detroit Auto Show Jan. 16-24.

2010-01-07T15:56:00.001-08:00

On Friday Solana Productions has an award-winning HD video crew in San Francisco shooting secret footage of 2 sleek new Ford vehicles. Look for our California video production when the cars are unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show Jan. 16-24!

Love "Jersey Boys?"

2010-01-06T16:47:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, we're in La Jolla on an HD video shoot for a Canadian documentary on Des McAnuff, the Tony-award winning genius behind "Jersey Boys," "Big River," "Tommy" and so many more. Des is Canadian, but is much loved in San Diego as former artistic director of the La Jolla Playhouse. Will let you know if the doc airs in the U.S.!

What to Wear to An Awards Show When You're Not a Star

2010-01-06T16:35:00.000-08:00

What would YOU wear to a star-studded awards gala - in the middle of a recession? Not that the fashion critics give a hoot about my working girl threads at these glam gatherings, but here's what I grabbed for my marathon day-into-night doing interviews on the red carpet and
behind the scenes video production at the Palm Springs Film Festival Awards Gala -- just in case anyone out there cares: a silky, black, fitted, Alain Manoukian V-neck dress that hits just above the knee, which my stylist friend Ruth brought over from Paris. ($85) Comfortable but sparkly rhinestone-studded Lucite wedge sandals by Beverly Feldman from the Sak's Outlet. ($79) To ward off the chill, a soft black, 3/4 length Ellen Tracy walking coat that was on sale at Bloomingdale's. ($200) A flashy blue topaz and diamond pendant necklace that my husband gave me (Priceless!), with pave faux diamond earrings from Nordstrom Rack ($39). Flexees (cheaper AND better than Spanx) to hold it all in -- and a SMILE (free)!

Then, a quick change into a warmup suit and fleece-lined Merrell's for the long drive home.

Just another friendly tip from your favorite San Diego video production company!

The Oscar Race is On!

2010-01-06T16:28:00.000-08:00

The march to the 2010 Oscars began in the desert Tuesday night as A-list stars strolled down the glamorous red carpet at the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards. Solana Productions’ HD video crews were once again in first position for “Entertainment Tonight,” capturing arrival interviews and exclusive backstage video with Oscar hopefuls Jeff Bridges, Morgan Freeman, Mariah Carey, Jeremy Renner, Hollywood legend Clint Eastwood, actress Michelle Pfeiffer and many others.

Palm Springs, CA – For the 12^th year straight, video crews from Solana Productions, Inc., were in prime position at the Palm Springs International Film Festival, as Oscar hopefuls Jeff Bridges, Morgan Freeman, Mariah Carey, Marion Cotillard, Jeremy Renner, Quentin Tarantino and other Hollywood stars were spotlighted at the 2010 Awards Gala.

An HD crew and producer from the San Diego video production company were once again in first position on the red carpet as stars arrived for the festival gala. During the gala ceremony, two Solana crews were given exclusive backstage access to shoot additional interviews and footage with Bridges, Freeman, Carey, Cotillard, Renner, Tarantino, Michelle Pfeiffer, Anna Kendrick, Helen Mirren, composer T Bone Burnett, and directors Eastwood (“Invictus”), Rob Marshall (“Nine”), Jason Reitman (“Up in the Air”) and Lee Daniels (“Precious” Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire.”

The Solana crews used Sony XDHD cameras to shoot the celebrity interviews and footage.

Also backstage, a video technician from Solana Productions, Inc., recorded the three-hour-long ceremony in high-definition with a Sony HD player/recorder.

Other celebrities attending included Sean Penn, Diablo Cody, Shoreh Aghdashloo, Eva La Rue, directors Norman Jewison and Scott Cooper and producer Jerry Weintraub.

Solana Productions was tapped by “Entertainment Tonight” and its sister show, “The Insider,” for the high-profile assignment – as they have been for the past 11 years.

One Solana HD crew recorded “ET” host Mary Hart’s exclusive backstage celebrity interviews, which involved a complicated lighting arrangement. Solana has worked with Hart every year at the film festival since she became involved in 2003. The other Solana HD crew rolled on the red carpet as the stars arrived and shot exclusive backstage as the honorees and presenters posed for official photographs.

Bridges (“Crazy Heart”) received the Desert Palm Achievement actor award, presented by Pfeiffer, his co-star in “The Fabulous Baker Boys.” Mirren’s (“The Last Station”) Career Achievement Actress Award was presented by Freeman, who also received the Career Achievement Actor Award, presented by his “Invictus” director Eastwood. Director Marshall presented his “Nine” star Cotillard with the Desert Palm Achievement Actress Award. Tarantino (“Inglorious Basterds”) received the Sonny Bono Visionary Award, presented by Cody. Director Ivan Reitman presented Kendrick with the Rising Star Award for “Up in the Air,” while Reitman’s son, Jason, who directed “Up in the Air,” received the Director of the Year Award, presented by director Norman Jewison. Carey received the Breakthrough Actress Performance Award for “Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire,” presented by its director, Daniels. Renner (“The Hurt Locker”) was presented with the Breakthrough Actor Performance Award from Aghdashloo. Penn presented Burnett with the Frederick Loewe Award for Film Composing for “Crazy Heart.”

Solana Productions, Inc., is a San Diego video production company specializing in HD broadcast, cable, corporate and internet productions. More information is available at solanaproductions.com.

Palm Springs Film Festival

2010-01-02T10:48:00.000-08:00

Kicking off the New Year with coverage of Tuesday's A-list gala at the Palm Springs International Film Festival! Jeff Bridges, Mariah Carey, Morgan Freeman, Helen Mirren, Jeremy Renner, Anna Kendrick and directors Jason Reitman and Quentin Tarantino headed for the red carpet. See it all on Wednesday's "ET" and "The Insider."

This high definition video production will be shot with our Sony XDHD cameras. It's the 10th year we've covered the event and it's always a feast of fashion, fun and backstage surprises!

San Diego Video Production

2009-07-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

This manic event is about to roll into town and once again Solana Productions is ready to capture every detail. We have three crews, including producers and production assistants, credentialed and ready for assignment. Bookings have already come in for a couple shows, including Entertainment Tonight.

We really scrambled for ET last year providing a lot of same day coverage. This required satellite feeds and some tricky logistics. You can basically rule out parking at, or near, the convention center after about 7:00am. Pedicabs and taxis are the way to go, although after what happened last week keep an eye on your driver!

We are shooting in both SD and HD for this San Diego video production. It seems like SD refuses to die but our XDHD cameras have become the clear choice for show clients.

NEA 2009 Convention

2009-07-07T15:48:00.000-07:00

The National Education Association called on Solana Productions to help with many facets of their 2009 Convention. This included a producer, editor and crews to cover the Town Hall Meeting with Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

Duncan talked tough about what's expected from teachers and they responded with some questions of their own about the Obama administration's policies.

Immediately after the program ended producer Rory Bennett cut several packages that were posted to YouTube for news programs to use. In addition, the entire program was converted to Flash for the NEA's website.

Other aspects of this San Diego video production included documenting the refurbishing of an Elementary school, work with Habitat for Humanity and the San Diego Food Bank. Thousands of NEA volunteers contributed to the NEA's efforts to leave San Diego a better place. You can view the results here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmJu6YPBYUE&feature=channel_page

ET Taps Solana for Manilow Shoot

2009-07-06T14:42:00.000-07:00

The stunning death of Michael Jackson has spurred news and magazine shows to scramble. It seems like every day there are new details emerging about the King of Pop's tragic life.

One of MJ's happier moments came during a tribute performance by Barry Manilow at the 1984 American Music Awards. Entertainment Tonight relied on Solana Productions for XDHD field production on this exclusive interview.

The San Diego video production involved extensive lighting and setup in Palm Springs on very short notice. The Solana crew had just finished a San Diego video production of the refurbishing of a school for the National Education Association when the call came.

For the complete story and video clips please visit:

http://www.etonline.com/index.html?tag=barry-manilow

X-Men Premiere

2009-04-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

Whew! We just returned from one of the most exciting road trips ever -- to the "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" premiere in Tempe, AZ. We packed up the Suburban, gassed up at Starbucks and hit the road at 6:00 am Monday. By early afternoon we were in place in Tempe on the red carpet.

Hugh Jackman was a terrific interview and kept us in stitches all night. We also chatted with co-stars Ryan Reynolds, Liev Schreiber, will.i.am from The Black Eyed Peas and more!

Tempe won a nationwide contest to host the event and thousands of fans turned out to cheer on the stars.

We shot for a couple hours and then raced to a satellite uplink to send the HD scenes on to ET's offices in Studio City. Although we are a San Diego video production company, Solana Productions shoots all over the west. Please follow this link to check out some of the footage we shot.

http://www.etonline.com/news/2009/04/73303/

San Diego Video Production

2009-04-26T15:33:00.000-07:00

Solana On Scene As John Walsh Tracks Craigslist Murder

SAN DIEGO, CA – A video crew and producer from Solana Productions, Inc., spent two days on the scene with John Walsh last week as the “America’s Most Wanted” host tracked police developments in the case against accused “Craigslist Killer” Philip Markoff.

"Authorities do think they have the right man. They're almost sure," Walsh said in an exclusive interview shot in HD (high-definition) by the San Diego video production company. "They believe that this is a rookie serial killer: Someone who preyed upon women using the Internet to lure them where he needed to get them. Many serial killers start out with victims that they don't murder, working up to the murders."

Solana Productions, Inc., is a San Diego video production company that specializes in broadcast, cable and corporate productions for all formats, including HD, Betacam, and DV. The company, which covers productions throughout Southern California and the West, is staffed by Emmy award-winning photojournalists and nationally recognized producers. More information about the company is available at www.solanaproductions.com.

Walsh was in San Diego to tape an upcoming show on the escalating drug violence south of the U.S. border, but kept in close communication with Boston law enforcement officials as the Craigslist case unfolded. He revealed that police reportedly made a preliminary match between the gun found in Markoff’s apartment and the weapon used to kill Julissa Brisman at the Copley Marriott on April 14. Walsh also said that Markoff’s fingerprints reportedly matched those found on plastic restraints and duct tape left at the murder scene.

Markoff was said to be suicide watch in a Boston jail, being held without bail on murder, kidnapping and robbery charges in the brutal killing of Brisman, an out-call Manhattan masseuse, and in the robbery of an alleged prostitute.

Solana Productions recorded two interviews in San Diego with Walsh for TV’s “The Insider,” which airs nationwide in syndication. Both were shot with a Sony XD camera in a “live talkback” style made popular by ABC’s “Nightline.”

On Thursday, Solana videotaped the TV host in La Jolla, where he was scheduled to speak to business executives. The following day, Walsh met the Solana crew and producer on location in San Ysidro, just north of the U.S.- Mexico border, where he was taping “America’s Most Wanted.”

Markoff, an engaged Boston University medical student arrested April 20, is accused of using Craigslist.com to lure in his victims. Some reports say he had a gambling addiction and was using robberies to finance his habit. But, according to police, when the masseuse, Julissa Brisman, fought back, he shot her with a pistol that he stashed in a hollowed-out copy of the medical book, Gray's Anatomy.

Authorities say they have accumulated evidence in the case that includes panties from the victims found in the Boston-area apartment Markoff shared with his fiancee.

In Walsh’s interviews, he noted that serial killers often retain possessions of their victims as “trophies,” and urged women who may have had encounters with Markoff to come forward.

"Police think they have three women that were victimized by this guy, and I wouldn't be surprised if more come forward with more publicity," he said. "Police are looking for more information about this guy. They need to build an airtight case, so if you were a victim of this guy or you were contacted by this guy, go to police. You can remain anonymous, but they need to know how many victims there are out there to built this solid case."

About Solana Productions, Inc.

The company was founded in 1995 by director/producer Rory Bennett, a former TV correspondent and newspaper reporter, and EMMY award-winning producer/photographer Kurt Snider.

Solana Productions specializes in creative field production throughout Southern California for some of TV’s most successful shows, including “Entertainment Tonight,” “Dr. Phil” and “Oprah.” The company also produces corporate videos for several Fortune 500 companies, including Hewlett Packard, Ford and Wells Fargo. Los Angeles and San Diego video production services include webcasting and streaming video for pay-per-view events.

The company has a combined 25 EMMY awards for producing, writing, photography and editing. This is in addition to Silver and Bronze medals from the New York Film Festival, two national Iris awards and a Gracie award.