For most visitors, Devil’s Lake is all about the stunning bluffs and scenic hiking trails. But for this episode, our team took the adventure underwater. We caught up with production crew member Lindsey to hear what it was really like filming a dive and what went into capturing a side of the lake that many people never get to see.
What was the hardest part of filming the lake dive?
According to Lindsey, the biggest challenge was figuring out who could actually film underwater.
“Photographers must either be dive certified or film only from the shore or a boat,” she explained. “We had to rely on the divers to use GoPros.” That meant trusting the dive team to capture the underwater perspective while the production crew coordinated everything from above the surface.
How did you prepare for shooting in and around the water?
Preparation started long before cameras were rolling. The crew held multiple planning calls with the dive team to make sure everyone understood their role.
“We had multiple calls with our dive team as to who could film,” Lindsey said. “Only dive instructors could film. The actual class participants needed to focus on learning how to dive and safely.”
Keeping safety first allowed the production team to document the experience without distracting the divers who were there to learn.
What gear was essential for capturing the dive safely?
Underwater filming called for some specialized equipment. GoPros were the primary tool for capturing footage below the surface, while drones helped showcase the beauty of Devil’s Lake from above.
The crew also noted that it is possible to use professional Sony cameras underwater with specialized housings that protect the equipment while diving. Combining these tools helped create a well-rounded view of both the landscape and the underwater world.
Did anything unexpected happen during the shoot?
One unforgettable moment happened when a diver picked up a rock, grabbed a crayfish, and fed it to a bass.
“It was definitely the money shot of the shoot,” Lindsey shared. “It was cool that this happened in the first place. Actually getting footage of it was AMAZING!”
As with many outdoor productions, some of the best moments cannot be planned. They just happened, and the team was ready to capture it.
What’s the biggest takeaway from the shoot?
For Lindsey, the experience offered a fresh perspective on one of Wisconsin’s most photographed destinations.
“Devil’s Lake has been filmed and photographed a million times, but the diving element is often overlooked,” She said. “It was cool to focus on something that not everyone gets to see. I loved taking people on an adventure that they themselves might otherwise never see.”
That spirit of discovery is exactly what made this segment of the Baraboo episode special. By going below the surface, the team was able to share a side of Devil’s Lake that many visitors never experience and invite viewers along for the adventure.