Hi Sean.
Obviously (as most if not all members) saw the piece National Geographic did on you and Josh Wurman. To be straight up and honest here... I think your probably about half nuts on this venture.
Now that I have that out of the way, I have to admire your spirit to get that shot that no one else has. As a budding videographer, I think I can understand to a small degree what drives you to get out and do this. Joining forces with Josh Wurman and the DOW Team was one of the better moves you made and lends some credence to what you are doing.
There's been lots of debate in the chasing community about the wisdom of doing what you are attempting to do. I can see three different angles here.
1. Money - To a Cinematographer, thats the key. That's how you put bread on the table. IMAX is known for getting the shots in BIG splendor that no one else has.
2. To be in the books as doing something no on else has done before.
3. Actually contribute to science.
The wisdom side comes in when others see this. Most of us have enough sense that we won't attempt it. Even with the research you've put into it, I don't think this is my cup of tea. However, others (as testified by the Gator Borothers, I can't remember their real names) are going to get out there after seeing something like this and get themselves or others killed or injured.
On that note, tell us more about what you are doing. Straight from the horses mouth so to speak. Let's hear it in your own words and not a PR speech.
I'm really curious. This isn't some frivolous post trying to trip you up or ridicule you. I'm really curious. Especially if I encounter you in my little neck of the woods. I might even hit you up about IMAX Cinematography!
John Diel
[edit] Can't type worth a darn and others jumped right on this didn't they?