Today, I’m thrilled to share an incredible journey behind the scenes of The Dockman Episode Six, Where the mantra “if at first you don’t succeed, try again” became our guiding light. Join me as I take you through the ups and downs of capturing Jerry’s relentless pursuit of a flawless dock installation.

It all started on a freezing November day, a chilly backdrop for Jerry’s ambitious project: replacing an old, worn-out wood dock with a cutting-edge EZ Dock system. I was there, camera in hand, ready to document every step of this transformational journey.

But as any story worth telling goes, things didn’t go smoothly right off the bat. Our attempts to fit the new piling brackets to the dock hit a snag. Measurements didn’t match up, brackets didn’t snugly slide into place – it was a filmmaker’s nightmare unfolding in real time. All the while a bystander was watching, and commenting, adding pressure to the situation. 

However, Jerry embodied the spirit of perseverance. Determined not to be thwarted by setbacks, he rallied. Calls were made, adjustments planned, and a collaboration with Great Lakes Lift EZ Dock OEM ensued. Overnight, longer brackets were in our hands, courtesy of the incredible teamwork behind the scenes.

Back on-site, amidst bustling fishermen and unexpected challenges, Jerry didn’t lose heart. As the videographer capturing this unfolding drama, I witnessed the power of persistence firsthand. Even as bolts refused to budge and hardware demanded replacements, Jerry’s resolve remained unshaken.

The theme of “if at first you don’t succeed, try again” echoed throughout. Jerry’s unwavering determination became a beacon of inspiration. He improvised, strategized, and problem-solved on the fly, turning setbacks into stepping stones. Much like my own journey with the film making process. 

There were tense moments, uncertainties, and a fair share of running back and forth to hardware stores. But with each setback, we were one step closer to success.

And then, just like in a cinematic climax, it happened. Brackets aligned, bolts secured, and the dock transformed before our eyes. It wasn’t a picture-perfect process, but it was a testament to Jerry’s resilience and the power of persistence.

As I reviewed the footage later, the narrative became clear. It wasn’t just about dock installation; it was a story of triumph born from perseverance. Jerry’s journey mirrored the age-old wisdom: sometimes success isn’t immediate, but it’s always within reach for those who persist.

So, fellow viewers, take this tale to heart. Embrace the setbacks, tackle challenges head-on, and remember, if at first you don’t succeed, try again. You might just capture your own moments of triumph along the way. And remember to watch The Dockman Series on Amazon Prime now!

As a videographer and producer, every shoot presents its own set of challenges. But when it came to filming “The Dockman Episode Five,” I knew this one would push both me and my Sony camera equipment to the limit. Five days in freezing 30-degree temperatures and below? Challenge accepted.

The mission: document the installation of an incredible floating dock on Orchard Lake, just days before Christmas. This wasn’t your average dock. It spanned a whopping 8 feet wide and stretched an impressive 260 feet long. Its unique design? To accommodate a UTV driving across it, granting access to the lake.

Day one kicked off with excitement and nerves. With the chilly air nipping at us, the team hustled to orchestrate the installation. Offloading each section of the dock without causing any damage was the primary goal. My Sony gear was my trusted companion, enduring the cold alongside me, capturing every meticulous detail. I moved quickly, capturing the dock off-load.

But as with any project, challenges emerged. Tree tagging issues slowed us down initially. Some trees marked to stay were directly in the path of the dock’s route. It was a dilemma, and the pressure was on to find a solution. This was an attempt at filming a real, unscripted adventure with the dockmen, with real events and challenges from the task at hand that naturally unfolded. I kept my cameras rolling, capturing the tension and the determination of the team as they strategized their next move.

After resolving the tree tag debacle, progress surged forward. The installation schedule even stretched into the new year. Jerry recorded with a gopro the day my cameras couldn’t be there. Nevertheless, the moment of truth arrived: a UTV was to drive across this colossal structure. My cameras were poised, ready to capture this pivotal moment.

The UTV rolled onto the dock, and my Sony gear faithfully documented every second. The tension in the air was palpable, but the dock stood firm, proving its strength and design. A collective sigh of relief and exhilaration swept through us. The footage captured was a testament to our perseverance and the quality of the equipment that endured the harsh elements.

Five days of filming in freezing temperatures pushed me and my Sony gear to our limits. But it was worth it. The footage captured the dedication, challenges, and triumphs of installing this magnificent floating dock. As we wrapped up, the sense of accomplishment was undeniable.

The Dockman Episode Five was a testament to teamwork, determination, and the resilience of both the crew and the Sony cameras that braved the elements to capture every moment of this incredible journey. Watch the Dockman Series on Amazon Prime video now.

As a videographer, I often find myself immersed in diverse worlds, capturing stories that unveil the essence of professions as everyday heroes. Recently, I had the privilege of shadowing The Dockmen for a day, delving into their world from sunrise to sundown.

From the crack of dawn, when most are just beginning to stir, the dockman’s day commences. Luckily, I gave a GoPro camera to dockman Garrick, who dockumented his day. It had to be captured this way, because this man begins work as soon as he rolls out of bed. 

What struck me most was the sheer work ethic that resonates in every movement and decision made by these professionals. They don’t just work; they embrace the tasks with a passion that becomes a measuring unit for my own filmmaking efforts. It dosn’t matter what’s required of them, changing breaks, constructing a seawall, operating heavy machinary- they take on all tasks creating a well rounded skill set. 

As the day progresses, my camera follows the dockmans steps, capturing their physicality and resilience in the face of demanding labor. Dock removal season is no cakewalk; it’s an arduous journey marked by relentless effort. Each swing of a hammer, each lift of steel panels—moments frozen in time by my lens, showcasing the unwavering dedication and determination of these workers.

But amidst the laborious tasks, there’s an undeniable camaraderie and lightheartedness. The banter, the shared laughter—those brief instances of camaraderie amidst challenging work illustrate the humanity and spirit of these dockmen. And it’s the bright spot in many of their days. Something to look forward to.

The day culminates in the office, where administrative tasks take precedence. Emails, phone calls, and reflections on the day’s endeavors paint a holistic picture of their work. As I capture these moments, I can’t help but admire the dockman’s unwavering dedication and commitment to their craft.

Ultimately, filming The Dockmen isn’t just about capturing a day’s work; it’s about encapsulating the ethos of dedication and passion. Their work ethic serves as a beacon, inspiring me to push the boundaries of my own craft. The day spent behind the lens with The Dockmen wasn’t just about documenting; it was an invaluable lesson in resilience, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Watch the entire dockman series on Amazon Prime Video today.

We had started on filming this installation of a kayak launch system without a clear plan for the footage. For the first three episodes of The Dockman, we logged the footage, knowing it’s potential to form something great one day. Little did we know that this endeavor would kickstart The Dockman series, which can now be watched on Amazon Prime Video. The EZ Dock Kayak Launch Testing became the focal point of our story, and it all began with the installation process.

From the get-go, challenges surfaced. Plans had to adapt on-site, with our team rolling the entire kayak launch system down a 200-yard boardwalk, aiming to protect it from any scratches. I followed along behind the camera, as the drama unfolded. We filmed most of that day, until the installation came to a hault due to weather. 

With the installation complete, we returned with a camera and the Dockmen, highlighting the features of the kayak launch, emphasizing its ADA and UA approval for optimal accessibility. Innovation Hills Park in Rochester Hills served as the backdrop for our filming, showcasing the city’s dedication to enhancing its recreational spaces, so we showcased that in the episode.

The resilience of the system was tested when severe weather struck. Despite the unexpected surge in water levels and some minor damage, the kayak launch held up admirably. Its durability proved unmatched, making it a standout feature for the kayaking community.

Finally, we wrapped up the Dockman series by revisiting the dock with Garrick and Jerry. Their test run of the kayak launch marked the perfect conclusion to our narrative. The ease of access and the smooth functionality of the launch were evident as they maneuvered through the waters.

Our journey came full circle, from capturing the installation process to witnessing firsthand the practicality and durability of the kayak launch. The Dockman series provided an insightful glimpse into the meticulous planning and execution behind such innovative recreational installations.

Being behind the lens for “The Dockman” is always an adventure, and our recent trip to YMCA Camp Echo in Fremont, Michigan, was nothing short of exhilarating. As the producer tasked with documenting the installation of a dock using Easy Dock technology, I was in for a day filled with incredible moments and insightful discoveries as I continued to learn about the dock and hoist industry.

Garrick, Jerry, and I set off bright and early, knowing we were in for a day-long journey that would culminate in a full dock installation. The anticipation was palpable as we embarked on this venture, eager to showcase the efficiency and simplicity of EZ Dock technology in action.

Arriving at the serene Lake Ryerson, the scene was set for an exciting day of work alongside the camp’s directors, counselors, and maintenance crew. As the installation progressed, our cameras diligently captured each step. From unloading parts to maneuvering sections into the water and coupling them together, every moment was a testament to the straightforward nature of Easy Dock.

What struck me most was the collaborative spirit that infused the entire process. Volunteers, some new to the task, seamlessly adapted, forming an assembly line and contributing to the installation. It was inspiring to witness how quickly they grasped the concept, showcasing the user-friendly nature of the technology. I followed the action from behind the camera. This episode was filmed with a Sony camera and DJI Mavic Pro drone.

Beyond the technical aspects, the camaraderie and shared purpose stood out. This project wasn’t just about installing a dock; it was about enhancing the camp experience for future generations. The dock’s safety, durability, and ease of use meant that campers would have a reliable and enjoyable platform to experience the lake for years to come.

Capturing these moments on camera felt like preserving a legacy. As the day drew to a close, and the dock stood proudly in the water, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. This wasn’t just a film shoot—it was a documentation of the positive impact that a simple yet innovative technology could have on a community.

Reflecting on our journey back, I couldn’t wait to share this story with our audience. Through the lens of “The Dockman,” viewers would witness not just an installation but a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the joy of creating lasting experiences.

As the sun set on our day-long excursion, I knew this episode would carry the spirit of YMCA Camp Echo—the dedication, the joy, and the promise of many summers filled with laughter and adventure.

Stay tuned as we bring this remarkable journey to your screens, showcasing how a dock installation isn’t just about assembling parts; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. You can watch the complete first season of the Dockman now on Amazon Prime Video.

As the filmmaker and producer behind The Dockman Series, I feel there is a lot to be said about the blue collar workers in America. Putting a spotlight on this hard working group of people has only proved to be compelling and a continuing learning experience for me behind the lens. Many people who sit behind a desk for work may never know what it’s like being an outdoor contractor or to work as hands in the field. 

What started as a simple idea evolved into an engaging reality show, all thanks to Jerry’s keen interest in hosting and showcasing the dynamic between him and his brother.

Our filming process for Episode One spanned an entire year, alongside Episode Two and Three, giving us an extensive library of footage. We adopted a unique approach, filming everything first and then piecing together the narrative during the final stages of construction in Metamora. It wasn’t until later when we went back to episodes 1 -3 to edit them into an “episode”
 type format, and named the series “The Dockman”. 

In Episode One, the focus of our attention was the awe-inspiring project that involved the installation of a seawall, rockwall, and dock combination. It was a year-long endeavor that I meticulously documented through photos and videos sourced directly from the job site. 

From navigating the complexities of permitting during a pandemic to battling extreme weather conditions, our team encountered numerous challenges. Yet, amidst these obstacles, the dedication of the crew shone through as they maneuvered heavy machinery, mitigated grade differences, and ensured minimal disruption to the environment.

The narrative unfolded through the lens of perseverance—a testament to the team’s resilience in the face of adversity. Despite machinery breakdowns, freezing temperatures, and even a pause due to bitter cold, the crew persisted, pushing through each setback. Again, the blue collar worker prevails through it all. It takes balls to getup in the morning and face below freezing temperatures for your office day after day. 

As we look back on the journey, from the initial concept to the final product, The Dockman Episode One stands as a testament to the sheer dedication and resilience of the team, making it a riveting experience to capture and share. Watch the complete Dockman Series now on Amazon Prime Video!