The story of the man who found Middle Earth, New Zealand's first movie location scout.
Dave Comer was a highly respected and renowned photographer and film location scout, popularly known as ‘The man who found Middle Earth’ for his central role in finding what are now the world famous locations for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. He lived much of his life in and around Fiordland, New Zealand, photographing the region from the 1970s until he died in late 2014.
A Place for the Heart presents some of his most beautiful and compelling images, alongside the story of Dave's life and work – from the early years jetboating in the Hollyford Valley, to his involvement in the helicopter venison industry, to over thirty years in the international film industry. Above all, A Place for the Heart tells of Dave's deep understanding and love of Fiordland.
Written by his wife Peta Carey, the narrative follows not only Dave's life, but her own journey in making sense of his legacy.
A Place for the Heart is told through stories, letters and magnificent photography, and with a foreword by Sir Peter Jackson, offers a moving insight into one mans lifelong connection and understanding of the New Zealand wilderness.
Author Information:
PETA CAREY was just seventeen when she first met photographer Dave Comer in
Fiordland staying in touch as she then lived and worked around the world as a
documentary film maker and feature writer, before reuniting fifteen
years later.
When Dave died from cancer in late 2014 Peta was left with the overwhelming task of archiving his lifetime's photography, and realised there was a powerful story to tell alongside the images.
Now based in Queenstown, Peta Carey is a fulltime writer, and mother to their daughter Billie.