Erin And Ben Napier Explain The Biggest Challenge Of Shooting Home Design TV Shows
If you love watching HGTV's Erin and Ben Napier, you may see how much effort goes into shooting their home design TV shows. In a TikTok video, the "Home Town" co-hosts were asked by @HGTV what the biggest challenge is for them during a shoot. While filming a reality show may come with a variety of obstacles, without hesitation, Ben Napier replied, "It's the weather." Hot or cold, rain or snow, certain types of weather can alter a moment of filming, especially outdoor shots. Whether you're shooting footage for a film, television show, or video, the natural light is always shifting.
While the couple typically films in their hometown of Laurel, they've branched off with their new series of "Home Town Takeover" to other parts of the south and now the mountains, which both have different climates to Mississippi. Wherever the home renovation team is, the daily forecast can also hinder them on a physical level. "The weather dictates our energy," adds Erin Napier. From schedule restraints to waiting on materials, hiccups naturally occur while working on a home renovation. However, having cameras onsite adds even more drama that arrives from the sky and beyond.
The weather decides what's captured or not
When it comes to Erin and Ben Napier on set, the design team has to be ready to shut down for outside work and filming at any time, especially when a heavy storm might move in. Erin Napier says, "It dictates what we can film and what we can't film" (via TikTok). While it can generally take a few months to shoot a one-half-hour program, sometimes unforeseen weather impacts the quality of daylight for capturing scenes. Additionally, because the Napier's renovation shows tend to focus both on the interiors and exteriors of homes, including businesses, it can take even longer to call it a wrap.
Sometimes the locations that the Napiers journey to for filming their home design shows may take some acclimation. Within "Home Town Takeover" the duo has filmed in two small towns outside of their hometown. Season 1 was filmed in Wetumpka, Alabama, which was mildly similar to their hometown. However, in response to what they think of season 2's bright Colorado town, Ben Napier said, "Fort Morgan is sunny" (via TikTok). With elevation being a factor compared to other parts of the country, the heat of the sun in Colorado can be much more intense and likely to burn your skin faster. Erin Napier chimed in, "I've never seen so much sunshine."
The snow must go on
Outdoor filming can be a challenge for Erin and Ben Napier on many levels. In addition to the capricious weather, lighting is a huge factor in getting a proper, ready-to-air reel. With the clouds and sun always on the move, the right level of light is crucial. If there's less light to work with, a reflector might be necessary when the design duo is interviewing their clients outside or showing a final reveal. This helps creates more soft, natural light. Too much sun isn't ideal either, as it can be blinding and make everyone squint while looking uncomfortable.
Whatever the forecast, the Napiers seem to move through it to get the job done. In season 2, episode 10, the couple renovated the cozy Cross House for owners Anne and Russ. By removing the roof from the back patio, they made it open and ready for entertaining, although it was snowing on the big reveal day of shooting. Despite the fact that they couldn't completely see the brand-new roof and grounds, the back patio renovation was a highlight for everyone even in the snow (via Youtube). Through the wet, dry, and windy, Erin and Ben Napier keep their renovations going no matter the unexpected.