Check out the underwater video with model Amber Mekush, shot in Thailand.

We arrived on a cool, sunny morning. Calm pervaded MoalBoal's Blue Orchid Resort where people of various nationalities gathered for the making of The Nautical Angels Calendar. Over a hearty breakfast of eggs, cereal, and toast, Director, Mick Gleissner, discussed the shots with the crew: stylists, producers, divers, renowned ocean life photographer, Gutsy, and the models, Michelle from LA, Daphne from Singapore, and Amanda from the Philippines. We were in for a great challenge: not only did the crew have little experience in underwater photography, we were just entering the jellyfish season. However, our excitement for the project mitigated some the daunting tasks ahead. On the beach, we were met by a man on a dingy with one of the brightest grins we'd ever seen. With a chuckle he revived the engine and away we went towards a gallant sailboat, The Angel Stalker. On board, the crew got to know each other before the models got made up and dressed for a test shot. Wild child that she is, Daphne started playing around with the M-16, firing at invisible targets on board and doing scorpion kicks. Meanwhile, Michelle sat and had her make-up done while chatting about her modeling experience in America. Finally it was time to get clicking, and the models plunged into the jellyfish forest, ready for their close-ups.

Between shoots, the models would rub down their skin with vinegar to kill the toxins of jellyfish. The photographers would come on board and review their digital captures on Mick's laptop, chattering animatedly about the results. They would be ready for the actual photo-shoot and the next day, and it was time to return to the resort For a goodnight's rest.

As the sky faded out to navy blue, the team at Blue Orchid communed 'round the orange glow of candles, drinking beer and swapping stories in a virtual peace pipe ceremony. Everyone was a little wet from the dingy ride back to shore, but everything was deliciously new and the fresh flavors were intoxicating. Tomorrow would be an adventure we could barely anticipate.

The next morning, we packed and prepared for the photo-shoot. Everyone on the Angel Stalker had something to do in a hurry. With a knife in her teeth, Michelle dove into the sea and pulled herself down the anchor chain like a fierce Bond girl. Daphne and Amanda followed. There were many more shots afterwards where the girls posed with laptops, ukuleles, cell-phones, and guns, even wrestling with each other underwater. The shoot was both thrilling and demanding, but, we left with an experience that we would take with us for many years to come...