A couple of years ago, during my final year at university, I had to share some specialist media kit for a group project. We were tasked with producing a short local documentary, and our department only had one high-end digital video camera and a single set of professional lighting gear available for our entire team of four students.
To be honest, it was quite challenging at first because we all had very tight deadlines and distinct creative ideas for our individual segments. To make sure no one fell behind, we sat down and drew up a detailed timetable, allocating specific two-hour filming slots for each person. Whenever one person was shooting an interview, someone else would act as a sound technician or manage the tripod, which turned the whole thing into a collaborative effort rather than just waiting around idly for your turn.
Initially, I felt a bit frustrated by the whole arrangement. Creative work often depends on spontaneous inspiration, and having to stick to a rigid schedule felt quite limiting. I was constantly worried that bad weather or a rescheduled interview might ruin my allotted slot and put me behind schedule.
However, in hindsight, having to share that gear was a bit of a blessing in disguise. It forced us to communicate properly and plan every single shot meticulously before even switching the camera on. Because we couldn't afford to waste battery life or dawdle, our footage ended up being far more disciplined and professional than if we'd all had our own gear and worked completely in isolation.