Capturing Nature: Bringing Wildlife to Life in Hotel Brand Films
When we’re commissioned to create a hotel brand film, incorporating local wildlife—whether on land or sea—is sometimes essential. Over the past 15 years, we’ve refined our skills in capturing animals in their natural habitats. While we wouldn’t claim to be on par with David Attenborough‘s team, we’ve made significant strides in our ability to bring the beauty of wildlife to the screen. Frigate Island Seychelles was a joy and a challenge to film. View the example here!
Filming wildlife effectively requires a combination of preparation, understanding animal behaviour, and technical skills. Here are key strategies to enhance your wildlife cinematography:
Preparation and Research
- Understand Animal Behaviour: Familiarise yourself with the species you intend to film. Research their habitats, feeding patterns, and social behaviours. This knowledge will help you anticipate their movements and increase your chances of capturing compelling footage
- Scout Locations: Before filming, visit the area to understand the terrain and find the best spots for filming. Engaging with local park staff or wildlife enthusiasts can provide valuable insights into where to find specific animals at different times of the day
- Plan for Patience: Wildlife filming often involves long waits. Filmmakers may spend weeks in the field to capture just a few minutes of footage. Understanding that patience is crucial will help you stay focused and prepared for the unexpected.
Technical Skills
- Use Appropriate Equipment: Long telephoto lenses are essential for capturing detailed shots of wildlife without disturbing them. A good camcorder with interchangeable lenses allows for flexibility in shooting
- Manual Focus: When filming, use manual focus as much as possible to avoid distractions caused by autofocus hunting. This ensures that your subject remains sharp, especially in complex environments
- Utilise Hides: Setting up a portable hide can help you get closer to wildlife without being detected. Ensure that your hide is well-camouflaged and positioned safely to avoid accidents
Ethical Considerations
- Respect Wildlife: Always prioritise the well-being of the animals. Avoid disturbing their natural behaviours, especially when young animals are involved. This not only protects the wildlife but also enhances the authenticity of your footage
- Avoid Staging: While some filmmakers may use trained animals or controlled environments for specific shots, strive to capture genuine wildlife behaviour. This maintains the integrity of your work and respects the natural world
By combining thorough research, technical proficiency, and ethical practices, you can significantly improve your wildlife filming experience and outcomes.
