LOCATIONS
Most people think that underwater cinematography is mostly done at very glamorous places like the Caribbean, Palau, Hawaii or Indonesia. The reality is that in the last 25 years, 65% of my work was done in swimming pools, rivers and lakes. Not to mention specially built tanks for this purpose.
Another exceptional advantage when your underwater cinematography shoot is done in New Mexico, is that you are automatically eligible for the “State of New Mexico Tax Rebate.” So… we have the know-how, the experience, resources, cameras, locations and an up to 40% tax rebate. There is no reason to go somewhere else to do underwater shots.
“Lets do it in New Mexico”
On tax incentives go to: https://nmfilm.com/why-new-mexico/incentives-2
EXTERIORS
Throughout the years I have been blessed with the opportunity to shoot underwater scenes for commercials, TV shows and feature length movies all over the World. During this time, long standing relationships have been made, a long list of contacts, places and various underwater environments have been explored. All these resources are available to my clients. If you have a specific need, reach out and most likely, a solution can be found.
Here are some photos of examples of underwater production locations I have used in the past:
SANTA ROSA, NEW MEXICO, USA
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New Mexico has been blessed to have locations for underwater cinematography productions like “Blue Hole” and “Perch Lake” in Santa Rosa, but also the convenience of pools and the possibility of installing large tanks inside a studio is an added asset to the film industry in New Mexico.
In detail:
Roughly 100 miles from Albuquerque, the city of Santa Rosa has a magnificent sinkhole with pristine water all year round, the “Blue Hole”. It is next to an open parking area making it fast and easy to transport equipment to the location. A new building that can accommodate cast, equipment, catering and whatever a small or large production needs has been added. The water is exceptionally clear, surpassing 100 feet. For practical purposes it is bottomless although it has natural platforms at various depths starting at knee height. The easy access for rigging lights and other equipment all around its perimeter makes it ideal for underwater film productions whether TV commercials, dramas or feature films.
TANK INSIDE A STUDIO
This tank was 14 feet deep and 80 feet in diameter.
On tanks go to: http://www.bhtank.com/about_us.php
SWIMMING POOLS
Swimming pools can be “dressed” to accommodate underwater cinematography productions. “Blue screens” are very commonly done this way. Also, small to very large tanks can be installed inside studios. My best experience has been using “Agricultural Tanks”. The circular tank’s walls are easily installed using bolts and a liner is placed inside to contain the water. The only requirement is the need of a solid, structurally sound floor that supports the weight of the water. Most industrial warehouses and facilities do have the structural integrity base needed to support the weigh.
