Capturing Conflict: Alessandro Pavone’s Journey as a War Journalist in Dubai

Alessandro Pavone, a seasoned war journalist based in Dubai, has spent years documenting some of the world's most volatile conflict zones. With extensive experience in Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, and Afghanistan, his career as a video journalist in Dubai has taken him across dangerous landscapes, telling human stories from the frontlines.

Pavone's latest assignment for PBS Frontline led him to Somalia, where he worked alongside correspondent Jane Ferguson to produce three critical stories on piracy, climate change, and security. His journey took him from Mogadishu to Somaliland, requiring him to adapt quickly to challenging conditions. Shooting inside armored vehicles, following Somali police at night, and working with minimal equipment were all part of the job.

Equipment for Conflict Reporting

For a war journalist in Dubai, the choice of camera gear is crucial. In Somalia, Pavone opted for the Canon C300, a camera that allowed flexibility in tight spaces while providing excellent color accuracy. When filming at night, he relied on the Sony Alpha a7S Mark II, a small yet powerful low-light camera that captured stunning footage under difficult conditions. He used the same camera in busy markets to remain discreet while covering human smugglers in Turkey. Additionally, he employed GoPro cameras to document situations where stepping outside the vehicle was too dangerous.

Packing for such assignments requires strategic thinking. Pavone insists on traveling light—just a single backpack with essential gear. He avoids large Pelican cases, which attract unwanted attention at customs and can slow down movement. Most importantly, he never checks in his cameras and lenses, ensuring he is always ready to start shooting upon arrival.

The Reality of Filming in War Zones

Covering conflicts means facing extreme dangers. In Mosul, Iraq, Pavone spent months documenting the battle between Iraqi forces and ISIS. Working alongside Jane Ferguson, he captured footage of fierce urban warfare while staying alert to the constant threat of gunfire. In one intense moment, Iraqi soldiers signaled for him to take cover—a stark reminder of the risks involved in war reporting.

Airport security presents another challenge. Carrying bulletproof vests often leads to questioning and, in some cases, confiscation. Pavone recalls an assignment where officials held onto his vests for the entire duration of the shoot. Despite these obstacles, he remains committed to ensuring his colleagues' and his safety.

Adapting to Different Filming Environments

As a video journalist in Dubai, Pavone also takes on commercial projects, balancing war reporting with corporate and documentary work. His assignments range from filming conflict-ridden landscapes to capturing stunning visuals for The Travel Show on BBC. While he enjoys experimenting with filming techniques, he emphasizes that storytelling remains at the heart of his work.

For a climate change documentary in Somalia, he used a DJI Mavic drone to capture the devastating effects of drought. Operating the drone in Somalia’s extreme wind conditions was a challenge, but the footage provided a powerful visual representation of the crisis. In contrast, using drones in Dubai is a complex process, requiring costly permits that make them less practical for everyday shoots.

Pavone is also critical of the obsession with high-end equipment. While he has built his gear collection from a modest $5,000 setup to one worth $45,000, he believes that great storytelling transcends technology. “You can film a compelling story with an iPhone,” he says, emphasizing that the power of a documentary lies in its narrative, not just its visuals.

The Editing Process and Storytelling Approach

Once filming is complete, Pavone shifts to post-production. For the Somalia project, he spent five days editing on Adobe Premiere Pro in Dubai, working closely with Jane Ferguson to ensure the footage aligned with the script. His workflow involves daily file transfers, ensuring backups are securely stored with both himself and the correspondent.

Despite years in the industry, Pavone still feels the pressure to improve. Every assignment teaches him something new, whether it’s refining his shooting techniques or experimenting with creative editing. As a video journalist in Dubai, he stays up-to-date with emerging trends, continuously pushing himself to innovate.

From BBC to the Battlefield

Pavone’s career started far from war zones. With a degree in Journalism and Communication Studies, he began as an assistant producer at the BBC, handling budgets and logistics. However, his passion for filmmaking led him to Afghanistan, where he decided to master his camera skills. Quitting his job, he purchased his first DSLR and soon found himself in high demand.

His work has evolved alongside the changing landscape of journalism. With shrinking production budgets, he has expanded his skills beyond filming—now incorporating scripting and producing into his portfolio. From long-form documentaries to short clips optimized for platforms like Instagram, Pavone adapts to new formats while maintaining his commitment to impactful storytelling.

Even after covering some of the world’s most harrowing stories, he remains driven by the desire to tell human narratives. “Every day, I think about the next story,” he says. “If I wasn’t doing that, I’d quit.”

For Alessandro Pavone, being a war journalist in Dubai isn’t just a profession—it’s a calling. Whether filming in conflict zones or capturing everyday life, his goal remains the same: to tell the best human story possible.

Contact Alessandro Pavone Today

Get in touch today for inquiries about documentary filmmaking services in Dubai and beyond. Let’s bring your story to life with compelling, high-quality cinematography.

Contact: +971 55 847 6982 | a.pavone@mac.com

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2018 - BroadcastPro - Story telling in conflict zones: Interview with Alessandro Pavone