the girl & the boat

Yesterday was a very cool day. 

I wasn’t ready to go when it was time. I think there were so many things on my mind and I needed a little more rest. But I was genuinely looking forward to our shoot.

The weather was cool and the environment at the dock was quiet and safe. I saw Kristen right as I parked. We sat in the back of my car and checked in. In her presence, I felt comfortable sharing how I was feeling. I knew she would receive it and give me permission to feel. Right afterwards, Christy arrived. She was her usual bright and bubbly self, but with a far-off mindset. She shared with Kristen and I the reason for her state and I was inspired by her vulnerability.

Immediately, I felt ready to take on the day. 

I asked to be guided to the boat so I could feel grounded on our set and prepare the equipment.

Kristen walked ahead of me along the docks lined with boats. Our peaceful trek gave me a chance to take in the environment. I tried to imagine what it would be like to live on one of these boats, to be on the ocean for days, weeks at a time. 

We arrived and I came to grips with our bobbing set. I stood on the dock and prepared myself to transfer our precious equipment. Kristen got aboard first and walked me through what I needed to do. We got everything secured and I got to work. Then, Kristen and Christy left to greet the others and I had some time alone. This allowed me to further settle my mind and body and make sure the gear was ready to begin.

Our DP and leader Christiana, along with Aria (our young Kristen) and her mother Barbara, arrived soon after followed by Ron, who played the father.

Quickly after, our progression into shooting was quick and I lost track of time for a couple of hours. Our young actress was personable and engaged naturally with everyone. We were impressed with her performance since she hadn’t been given an opportunity to prepare for the scenes with no lines. Kristen shared her experience along the way to help Aria get into the mindset of each scene. Aria delivered an expressive performance and made the shoot a breeze.

Ron, who played the father, was just the right fit. He is a kind and friendly person with acting chops. He was mean and rough as his character called for, but warm between takes. This kept the mood light on set. We felt comfortable, and this was crucial especially because we were in such tight quarters. 

I moved through the day by keeping a general eye on things. This was where I was able to meet everyone. I believe that worked for the others and I am so grateful for that. There were a lot of things to have my hands on throughout the day and I felt free to support and keep things fluid.

Most significant, I tried to remember to look up and out at times. I wanted to remember that I was on a boat recording footage on a beautiful day. This is not a bad way to live! I felt glad and calm amidst a more stormy inner mindset that I had put to rest inside. 

Photos by Christy Curry