We filmed The Plans I Have For You in the depths of the winter and during some of the more challenging months of the pandemic. To limit exposure, our crew size was small – five when needed, and three of us whenever we could pare down. While none of our subjects were immunocompromised, many were, by nature, unable to leave their home. Even for those who could, the winter season and the pandemic greatly limited what we were able to film.

Our challenge was to create a professional and visually coherent piece despite these factors. We sought ways to keep our subjects active and occupied, and we broke up conventional scenes with unexpected coverage. Compelling interviews were a priority. For interstitial material, I focused on the natural world and textural details, which were more easily photographed with a small and nimble crew.

Because of the small crew size, our footprint was largely limited to handheld and sticks. To reintroduce some visual interest, I brought along a number of dulled glass shards of various colors and densities. The glass would create a warp in the image that helped to visually describe the intangible aspects of the story –physical pain, mental stress, uncertainty towards the future.

While the small crew size limited the scope of the production, it also afforded us the flexibility to follow unexpected turns in the story, as well as access to some of the more intimate aspects of the subjects’ lives. We attended an AA meeting, sang car karaoke, and witnessed a (successful!) proposal.

The camera can be an awkward presence in many situations, and I think it’s invaluable to work alongside a kind and professional crew. I’m not sure that we would have been allowed into a number of these situations if their presence hadn’t been so positive.

The project took on a number of exciting iterations during the edit. A spinoff documentary even began to take shape. Ultimately, though, the film was never released. While I think we did a good job as storytellers, brand alignment and the post-pandemic surge in content swept it away.

It is sad when a documentary doesn’t reach its audience – the subjects share their time and their lives with us, and the hope is always to give them something in return. During this period in our lives, though, I think we all appreciated the opportunity to speak with and listen to other people.