Yesterday I had the opportunity to work with X-Weighted, a reality program that challenges individuals, couples and families  to lose weight by changing their diet and fitness activities.

In this show, a family was challenged to bike 4.5 km into Little Elbow and then climb 3.5 km to the top of Nahahi Ridge in Kananaskis country located on the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.  The challenge for the camera crew was to keep ahead of this very energetic group.

As Production Assistant, it was my job to carry the lead camera, batteries and other gear.  All in all, it was about 80 pounds of kit to carry up a 1300 meter elevation gain while hustling ahead of a family working to beat a fitness challenge.  To say that there was a fitness challenge for the crew as well would not be an exaggeration.

It had rained a great deal the day before and we were concerned that, if the rain continued, the shoot would have to be cancelled.  Fortunately, the only challenge we had was the occasional muddy trail and muggy atmosphere.  The views of the Elbow Valley were spectacular with Glasgow Mountain, Cornwall Mountain and  Banded Peak dominating the horizon.  The clouds and wind (especially near the ridge line) were a blessed respite from the hot sun.

It was fascinating to see how television gets made.  The team of producers, directors, sound and cameras work cohesively together to capture the trials and tribulations of the family as they made their way on bike and on foot.  I was impressed by the positive attitude and cooperative approach to solving problems as they occurred.  I was especially impressed with how Al Leader selected interesting camera angles with his crew — you really got a sense of a compelling story being told by the visuals created.

He worked cooperatively with the other DPs: Glenn Crawford and Lisa Fryklund  who would bring their unique perspectives into the mix.

The sound guys also performed under challenging conditions as the 50 – 60 km winds buffeted everyone on the ridges.

Supporting this crew were the Producers who were responsible for equipping, provisioning and feeding us.  Kristin Hursh packed us a sensational lunch, especially the tortilla wraps and prepared special meals for those with dietary preferences.

Lisa Mathews was the person who contacted me through the Calgary Outdoor Club to be Production Assistant, along with Ian and Ewan as well as to act as unofficial guide up the mountain.