Canada’s vast and diverse landscapes extend beyond its majestic mountains, expansive forests, and sprawling lakes. Beneath the surface, a hidden world of caves and karst formations awaits exploration. The adventure began weeks before the cameras started rolling, with meticulous planning and countless meetings to align logistics, creative vision, and technical requirements. Collaborating with a major European TV producer, our team joined forces with their European crew to capture these subterranean wonders in a way that had never been seen before.
This was more than just another documentary project; it was a journey into the unknown. The challenge of transporting cutting-edge filming equipment to remote cave systems in Canada, some of which are only accessible by helicopter, was a story in itself. The crew’s excitement was palpable as we packed gear, planned routes, and coordinated with local experts to ensure that every detail was taken care of. The use of advanced communication technology such as Starlink provided an innovative edge to the production, ensuring real-time updates and seamless coordination despite the remoteness of these breathtaking locations. With each step, excitement grew for the incredible adventure that lay ahead.
The Significance of Cave Exploration
Caves are natural archives that preserve geological events, unique ecosystems, and even human history. The producers of this ambitious project were deeply strategic in choosing to highlight Canada’s caves, which have the ability to tell a multidimensional story that combines adventure, science, and visual splendour. Months of collaborative research with our team ensured that each location captivated audiences with its beauty while also adding meaningfully to the story.
Karst landscapes, formed by the dissolution of soluble rocks, cover approximately 20% of the world’s surface, making them invaluable for their geological significance and role as freshwater reservoirs, providing an estimated 16% of global drinking water. But the cinematic allure of caves extends beyond science. These subterranean worlds evoke a sense of mystery and excitement, enticing explorers and filmmakers to document the untold stories that lurk in the darkness. Each cave featured in this production is a portal into Earth’s hidden wonders, and by filming their intricate formations and fragile ecosystems, we build a cinematic bridge that connects viewers to the wonders beneath our feet.
For the producers, it wasn’t just about showcasing nature’s artistry; it was about creating a spectacle that would pique people’s interest and highlight the importance of conservation. The stories told in these caves go beyond visuals; they reveal humanity’s relationship with the Earth, making the film more than just an adventure, but also an important chronicle of exploration and environmental stewardship.
Castle Guard Cave, Alberta
Castleguard Cave, Canada’s longest cave system, which stretches over 21 kilometres beneath the Columbia Icefield in Banff National Park, presented a unique technical and logistical challenge. Reaching this remote location necessitated extensive planning, including helicopters to transport the camera crew, spelunking gear, and specialized lighting equipment. Every piece of equipment, from backup batteries to stabilization rigs, had to be meticulously catalogued and secured for the arduous journey. Our team also worked closely with Parks Canada to ensure that all steps followed environmental regulations, preserving this pristine wilderness.
Once on-site, the difficulties increased. The harsh conditions necessitated strong protective measures against the elements and wildlife. Wildlife monitors and barriers were installed to reduce encounters with local wildlife, and all food and waste were carefully managed to leave no trace. Inside the cave, the team used advanced bridging techniques to navigate intricate ‘vadose’ passages, ensuring safety while minimizing environmental impact. Every moment required precision, from placing delicate LED lighting to capturing the majestic yet fragile beauty of the cave’s formations.
This unique environment, which is home to rare species such as an endemic crustacean, emphasized the significance of the expedition. Castleguard Cave’s designation as a globally significant Key Biodiversity Area added a profound sense of responsibility to the production, as the images captured here were intended not only for storytelling but also to raise awareness about preservation and the extraordinary ecosystems beneath our feet.
Bisaro Anima Caves, British Columbia
Bisaro Anima Cave, near Fernie, British Columbia, tells a story of both wonder and ingenuity. As Canada’s deepest cave, descending to an incredible depth of 674 meters, it required not only technical expertise but also a deep respect for the land and its history. This expedition required weeks of planning, from assembling specialized vertical caving equipment to coordinating with local Indigenous communities, whose oral traditions described the land as a site of transformation and spiritual significance. The name “Anima,” which means soul or breath, seemed to echo these stories, adding an emotional layer to the journey.
Transporting the filming equipment—delicate cameras, powerful LED lights, and backups for every critical component—to such a remote location was a feat in and of itself. Helicopters transported loads through steep alpine terrain, while our team hiked through dense forests to set up camp near the cave’s entrance. Every aspect of the operation required a balance of precision and adaptation, as unpredictable mountain weather and the risk of flooding within the cave kept the crew on high alert.
The descent was a slow and deliberate process. Our team collaborated closely with experienced speleologists to set up safety lines and guide the filmmakers through the cavern’s complex vertical passages. As the cameras rolled, they captured not only the cave’s stunning formations, but also its eerie, otherworldly silence—a stark contrast to the busy world above.
According to Indigenous legends, Bisaro Anima was a place where the Earth’s spirit could be felt the most strongly. Some stories describe it as a place where ancestors communicated with the natural sounds of dripping water and echoing chambers, their voices guiding the living through times of transition. These stories inspired reverence in the expedition, reminding us that caves are more than just geological wonders; they are sacred spaces woven into the land’s cultural fabric.
The unexplored passages continue to beckon, hinting at mysteries yet to be revealed. For the filmmakers, capturing the essence of Bisaro Anima was more than just a technical challenge; it was a journey into the heart of a hidden world that requires both exploration and preservation.
Jawdrop Cave, West Kootenay, BC
Jawdrop Cave, located in the remote wilderness of the West Kootenay region, was a natural wonder, with a breathtaking entrance marked by a waterfall plunging into a dark, shadowy pit. This recent discovery piqued interest not only for its dramatic beauty, but also for the challenges it presented to even the most experienced explorers. To navigate the rugged terrain and reach the cave, aerial reconnaissance was required.
The journey was as much about the people as the location. Days began early, with the team gathered around a makeshift campfire, sipping coffee and sharing stories that alternated between laughter and quiet anticipation of what was to come. Meals became moments of camaraderie, with shared plates of hearty stews and fresh bread brought along by the local cavers who guided us, making the exhaustion of the trek bearable. Every step closer to the cave strengthened the bond between the team—a mix of filmmakers, spelunkers, and cultural historians eager to capture not just the visuals, but also the spirit of the place.
Local Indigenous stories heightened the expedition’s significance. According to legend, the cascading water guarding the cave entrance was placed there by the land’s spirit to protect the secrets contained within. These stories, passed down through generations, described the cave as a sacred space, where the Earth whispered its stories to those willing to listen. As we approached the entrance, the waterfall’s roar felt less like a barrier and more like a ceremonial welcome, instilling respect and reverence for what lay beneath.
Inside, the cave revealed a labyrinth of chambers and corridors, each more striking than the next. The crew worked hard to get every detail, like the shimmering walls that seemed to breathe with the mist from the waterfall and the eerie echoes that made every step sound louder. However, the shared experience of exploring such a remote and culturally rich location made the strongest impression. Jawdrop Cave was more than just a destination; it was a journey into the collective human spirit, where adventure, storytelling, and conservation efforts coexisted harmoniously.
The Use of Starlink in Remote Expeditions
Throughout our explorations, maintaining communication in remote and subterranean environments was critical—not just for logistical reasons, but also as a lifeline to the production team in Paris. The European producers were meticulous in their approach, requiring real-time approval for all key decisions. Whether it was a creative change to the script or a change in the day’s filming schedule due to unforeseen circumstances, their input was unwavering. Starlink satellite technology changed this dynamic by providing high-speed internet that allowed for seamless communication, instant data transfers, and even the ability to share daily footage for review.
This contrasted sharply with a similar production we supported in the Yukon a few years ago. At the time, all communication was based on slow and expensive satellite text messages. Decisions from the Paris Headquarters were frequently delayed, resulting in frustrating pauses in the workflow. Footage transfer was impossible; the team had to wait until they returned to base before sharing visuals, which stifled creative feedback on the ground.
However, Starlink removed those barriers. The team could immediately notify the producers of any unexpected challenges or breakthroughs, such as a sudden change in weather or the discovery of a visually stunning but logistically complex chamber. This fluidity not only kept the production on track, but it also fostered a collaborative environment in which real-time communication between field and headquarters improved overall storytelling. In the remote wilderness of Canada’s caves, where every hour counts, this innovation was nothing short of revolutionary.
Challenges and Solutions for Cave Filming
Filming in caves presents unique challenges such as limited lighting, cramped spaces, and the preservation of fragile ecosystems. For this production, we used two Arri Alexa Mini LF cameras, one provided by the client and the other by our team. The Mini LF cameras, known for their high image quality, dynamic range, and versatility, were ideal for the caves’ tight, low-light conditions. Their small size allowed for easy navigation through narrow passages while producing cinematic-quality footage that captured the intricate textures and vibrant colours of the cave formations.
The importance of having backup equipment was stressed during the planning stages. A third camera was available at the Vancouver rental centre, providing an extra layer of security in the event of a technical problem. This made our double-camera setup—one provided by the client and the other by our team—critical to ensuring smooth operations. Such precautions extended to our power systems, which included multiple batteries and a fully redundant backup system to ensure uninterrupted filming.
The DJI Mavic 3 Pro drone, which is equipped with advanced obstacle avoidance technology, accompanied the Mini LF. This enabled us to capture breathtaking aerial footage of expansive chambers and vertical shafts, providing unique perspectives that would otherwise be impossible. For tighter spaces or scenarios that required an even more compact solution, we used a smaller drone outfitted with propeller guards to ensure safety in confined areas. In addition, a lightweight cable cam system was used to improve dynamic movement, adding fluidity and visual interest to the production.
The team’s use of drones and cable cams allowed them to capture captivating shots that brought the cave environments to life, highlighting their grandeur and complexity. These tools, combined with careful planning, expanded the production’s creative possibilities while ensuring safety and respect for the caves’ fragile ecosystems.
Maintaining power and data integrity in such remote environments was critical to the operation’s success. To ensure uninterrupted filming, we implemented a robust double backup system with multiple batteries. Starlink satellite technology was another game changer, allowing us to send daily footage directly to the client’s offices in Europe. This real-time capability allowed the producers to provide immediate feedback, ensuring that each scene met their precise vision. Compared to previous productions, such as a difficult shoot in the Yukon where communication was dependent on delayed and expensive satellite messages, the fluidity provided by Starlink transformed our workflow.
By combining cutting-edge technology and meticulous planning, we were able to overcome the challenges of cave filming, preserving the delicate ecosystems while bringing the subterranean world to life in unprecedented detail.
Our collaboration with the European tv producer revealed the hidden wonders of Canada’s subterranean landscapes, combining scientific exploration with cultural storytelling. Working with European producers, who are known for their meticulous approach, brought a unique dynamic to the project. Every major decision required approval, which frequently involved late-night discussions or early-morning updates. While this was difficult, it also fostered a strong sense of community, and evenings were frequently concluded with shared dinners and stories, making the experience memorable.
The use of advanced technologies such as Starlink enabled us to maintain constant communication with the producers in Europe, ensuring that every scene met their exact specifications. The occasional surprise—such as dealing with unexpected wildlife visitors—enhanced the adventure and provided a few laughs. Travelling through Canada’s remote landscapes and discovering these hidden gems heightened our appreciation for the natural world.
Films.Solutions is committed to supporting productions in even the most challenging environments, where the love for storytelling meets the demands of rigorous exploration. With top-of-the-line equipment and, more importantly, a passionate and skilled crew who thrive on adventure, we ensure that every moment is captured with precision and care. Our dedication to safety, creativity, and the art of filmmaking makes every project not just a task, but a shared journey. With this adventure complete, we’re already looking forward to the next story waiting to be told.
