Red Rock Canyon Highlights

Social media trailer for a 15-minute theater film at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

Red Rock Canyon Highlights

Social media trailer for a 15-minute theater film at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Finding the story that needs to be told.

Red Rock Canyon is an immensely popular national conservation area on the doorstep of Las Vegas – a harsh, yet fragile landscape that supports an incredible diversity of life. Over two million visitors come to Red Rock annually, and most cruise the 13-mile Scenic Drive. But unfortunately, that’s all most people ever see of an incredible and scientifically important landscape that spans over 300 square miles – larger than many national parks.

The Southern Nevada Conservancy came to us because they wanted a theater film that would do two things – introduce visitors to this incredible area: beautiful canyons, unique plant and animal life, and rugged wilderness areas – things that 95% of visitors never take the time to see or explore. Equally important, SNC wanted a strong conservation message – a film to inspire the visitor to love and support the national conservation area, and the importance of treading lightly during their visit.

We researched and planned a year-round shooting schedule to highlight the seasonal cycles of the weather and the rhythms of the desert plants and animals. Along the way, we interviewed people who enjoy and support the area. They talked about their love for the area, the breathtaking views, and described how to dress appropriately – as well as emphasizing the importance of drinking water, knowing your limits, and how to recognize dangers of the desert.

Sometimes great things come by just being prepared to be surprised. On this shoot we met a marine biologist in the middle of the desert, looking at fossils left due to the fact that this desert was once an ancient ocean bed. We also met a man with a radio antennae who we discovered was a herpetologist studying Gila Monsters. Because of our willingness to go where the story leads, both of these people volunteered to be a part of the film and helped highlight the abundant incredible stories to be found within Red Rock Canyon.

In nature, you really never know what you’re going to find; the story often evolves in surprising ways.

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