While shooting the Crop to Cup story of Red Espresso tea, we were surprised to find out that due to the altitude and remoteness of their tea lands, the Red Espresso rooibos bushes have to be hand harvested using traditional methods from local tea farmers. This is unlike many of the other rooibos farmers in the Cederberg region, who use mechanization and irrigation to increase crop size. Their tea takes longer to grow in these harsh conditions, which in turn produces a rich and bold flavour in each cup. As the client, Red Espresso came to Hermanus Gerber and myself with the need for a film that can truly tell their unique story as a brand. They needed the entire process captured from crop to cup. As director, camera operator and editor of this film, I enjoyed every minute of this shoot and we were warmly welcomed by all who participated. I love making creative promotional brand videos for companies that have such a beautiful story to tell.
