Behind the Love: How being on set can help you grow.

Being behind the scenes on a film shoot is always an exhilarating experience, but when it's centered around interviewing foster caregivers, the emotional stakes become undeniably higher. As the cameras rolled and the caregivers began sharing their stories, there was an unspoken strength that radiated in their words. Their dedication to transforming children’s lives was awe-inspiring, yet the stories were so deeply moving that the intensity of their emotions permeated the entire set. This work was to eventually become the LoveStrong campaign.

A Deeper Understanding

Before stepping onto the set, the entire team was acutely aware that delving into a topic as sensitive as foster caregiving might unearth feelings of shame and guilt often associated with such profound experiences. We approached each interview with delicate caution and immense respect for the stories we would hear. However, what unfolded on set was beyond our expectations. These caregivers, with their unwavering courage, blew us away by confronting these challenging emotions with incredible honesty and openness. Their willingness to share vulnerabilities and triumphs in front of the camera not only enriched the storytelling but fostered a deeper understanding of their invaluable contributions. They turned what could have been a daunting and emotionally fraught experience into a testament of empowerment and resilience. Each caregiver's story was a powerful reminder of the positive impact that love and perseverance can have, overcoming past adversities to shine a light on a truly rewarding journey. This work became what we eventually called LoveStrong and the end results were better than expected. 

The Ranger team traveled from Calgary to Edmonton for a multi-day shoot, as all the caregivers were based there. To streamline our work, we rented an Airbnb where we could film during the day and stay overnight. Upon arrival, we met our talented filmmaker, Dave, at the house and began prepping for the busy days ahead. We planned to conduct interviews in the main living room and capture still shots in the basement, ensuring an efficient and productive shoot. 

Courage Under The Lights

Fostering is a sensitive topic, and we understood that caregivers might feel apprehensive about sharing their experiences. As each caregiver arrived at the Airbnb and rang the doorbell, we knew it could be an emotional and unusual experience for them. They had volunteered for the interviews, knowing only that they would be asked a few questions on camera. I was truly impressed by their immediate strength. Despite admitting how odd it felt to meet strangers with cameras in an unfamiliar house, their courage shone through within minutes.

Each caregiver recounted their journey, revealing the challenges and triumphs they faced along the way. It was impossible not to feel the profound impact of their work. With every shared tear, the atmosphere grew heavy, connecting everyone involved in the project to the core of the caregivers' experiences. Crew members, typically focused on technical details, found themselves moved to tears by the sheer depth of passion and love these individuals embody. 

Through misty eyes, we witnessed how vulnerable yet profoundly courageous these caregivers are, drenched in a mix of hope and heartache. Their narratives didn’t just touch the audience; they reshaped perspectives. Ultimately, the shoot reminded us of the incredible resilience foster caregivers possess and the extraordinary difference they make. It was a day not only about capturing stories on film but truly acknowledging the emotional weight these caregivers carry and the triumphs they achieve every day.

By Kyle Bruce