Hello friends! We’re just back from Fallen Leaf Lake and our first ‘wide-shot’ open water test with Camille. Having made contact with the local ‘keeper of the dock’ (the kind Mike Basso,) we checked in with him and ran our first test. Suffice to say that 62 degree water was a little shocking for Camille (as it would be for most in an ankle length gown.) One factor I forgot to estimate was the altitude (6000′) which shortened her breath, and hence, our underwater time.

We were able to get shots of approximately 3-4 seconds before having to resurface. I’m encouraged, however, because we have not gotten Camille in to see dive master (Jim Steele) nor model trainer (Iara Mandin) as of yet. In essence, we went blind. As you can see by the photos, she did great!

Several HUGE things were learned in just 2 days:

• We can get wide shots! I thought this an impossibility thinking that we would only shoot in the pool, however, when I realized that we only need a few wide shots, then it dawned on me that we can show the expanse of the water and still have Camille use a pool (now then…where to find that deep pool?!)
• The General Store and Cafe family, the Basso’s, were so amazing in welcoming us, feeding us, and showing us a good time that it only seems perfect to film there. What’s more we can patron the cafe when shooting the above scene and wide shots. It’s a win-win for everyone!
• We shot at both morning and evening, with light coming from two directions and realized that we need to be shooting the lake scene just before sunrise, as we only have until about 9am before the wind kicks up and we lose the glassy water.
• I was able to connect with Camille on a personal level and really share the main character (Gillian’s) thoughts and motivations, as well as some vital backstory. I feel she really understands the depth of the character and storyline now and I am pleased with our exchange.
• With some help from fate, I found out that I’m better at blackjack than I thought 😉

Overall, solidifying this location makes #2 of the main locations that we need taken care of (two weeks ago, we were ecstatic at receiving the blessing of the Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland for a Library scene.) The other locations (deep heated pool, wood working shop, and the other ‘undisclosed’ location) are still in progress.

This is going to be magical, thanks for following the journey! ….. Onward and forward!