The first day Tina arrived on set, she got there super early. The night was flirting with the day. The light slowly creeping its way into existence. She liked being first on set. To breathe it all in before the movie madness ensued. It also set a tone and an expectation for the crew. Tina walked around noticing a few safety concerns that needed to be taken care of immediately. Making mental notes of each one. Not expecting to see anyone else on set this early, Sam startled Tina. She arrived shortly after Tina wearing a leather jacket and jeans. She watched Sam from the shadows, going over some notes Tina assumed, checking a few lights and a couple of cameras. Sam paused for a second taking in deep breaths. Tina was pleased to know that someone cared enough to get a jump-start on the day. She had to know this person.

“Excuse me. Hi,” Sam jumped hearing Tina’s voice. Watching Sam, Tina realized she was trespassing on her morning ritual.

“I’m Tina Kennard. The new producer.” Tina beamed. She was professional and welcoming.

“Hey. We heard another suit was arriving today.” She tried to sound calm. The beauty of the blonde struck Sam. Those hazel eyes shimmered like stars in the night. It felt as though Tina was looking right at her heart. Tina’s smiled radiated joy. Sam had to look away or she was sure Tina could read her thoughts.

“I’m, uh, the DP,” Sam stuttered. “Sam.”

Tina tried to mask her surprise. When she went over the crew list on the plane, she assumed Sam was a man. Most Directors of Photography were men. She should have known better from watching some of the clips. Tina was pleased with the artistic and technical decisions Sam was making. Sam captured the photographic heart of the film. She knew how to tell a story through a shot. She was brilliant at using lighting techniques to affect emotions. Her interpretation of the script and cinematic style and tone decisions were spot on. Tina had a feeling she was going to enjoy working with Sam.

They chatted until other crew members started rolling in. The next day it was more of the same. Tina arriving first. Sam shortly afterwards. They began their mornings chatting over coffee waiting for the others. When Tina really started analyzing their interactions, a sudden revelation brought her to immediate tears.