EW Swackhamer directed this fine episode and many others, credited for a ton of classic shows, such as THE FLYING NUN (with Sally Field), THE PARTRIDGE FAMILY and BEWITCHED. I agree with the last reviewer, this may be the most poigant episode of 'em all, written by Dorothy Cooper, who wrote for MY THREE SONS.
Enter Daniel J. Travanti (HILL STREET BLUES) playing John Cooper, a senior photography student, who snaps Gidget's picture and is love in bloom? Hats off to Don Porter in a Mr. Cleaver-ish type of role, though smoking a pipe, but quite the philosopher. Dad is needed in this one, all because Gidge is gently pushed aside. John has a significant other and his interest in Gidget is strictly photography.
An early role for Travanti, who at this time landed an interesting role as a bouncer in the thriller, BUNNY LAKE IS MISSING, which has become a cult film.
Gidget and her dad make a marvelous team, and although the comedy is there, this episode changes the pace a bit and is relatable, especially to all us teens who had their fair share of puppy love on the rocks.
Note, Gidget's house was on the old Columbia lot in Burbank where they filmed BEWITCHED for years and a slew of other tv shows and movies going back decades. It also turned up in a few THREE STOOGES films. The historical lot was torn down in 2023 to make way for new office buildings and sound stages.
Never forgotten.
SEASON 1 EPISODE 15 restored color/Columbia dvd box set.