Jake Willers interviews wildlife filmmakers including cinematographers, producers, directors and sound recordists to hear their personal career stories, get advice and inspire others to achieve their wildlife filmmaking goals.
That One Time On A Shoot - with My Octopus Teacher cinematographer Roger Horrocks. Roger describes the most incredible experience he's had filming underwater and likens it to a techno party in a ten story building in Berlin!
At 36 years old Roger realized he no longer wanted to be a senior executive of a fortune 500 company so he resigned and pursued a career in wildlife filmmaking. Roger Horrocks is a wildlife cinematographer with 15 years of experience filming behavioural sequences for the BBC, Netflix, Disney and National Geographic. Roger has worked from the frozen poles to the tropical equator and is experienced in documenting both open-water and benthic-based stories and behaviours. Roger developed his underwater field craft as a competitive spear fisherman while studying for an Honours Degree from the University of Natal in South Africa. He continued to dive while working in the digital and financial services sectors, and furthered his management training at the UCT Graduate School of Business and the London Business School. In 2007 he began working for the BBC Natural History on the Nature's Great Events series directed by Hugh Pearson, and began his apprenticeship under cameramen Didier Noirot and Doug Anderson. During this period he narrated and co-directed three documentaries with Craig and Damon Foster. The first of these "Into the Dragon's Lair", was nominated for an Emmy for best Cinematography in 2010, and the sequel, 'Touching the Dragon" was selected as one of the feature shows for National Geographic's 125th centenary year celebrations. Roger was also nominated for Best Narration at Jackson Hole . In 2011 he shot his first blue chip sequence for John Downer's "Earthflight", for producer Rob Pilley. This was followed by a long term assignment from John Downer to film bottle-nose dolphins for the "Spy in the Pod" series which aired on BBC One in 2013, and two sequences on the BBC Atlantic series for producer Ted Giffords 2010. In 2015 and 2016 he spent 110 days filming for Silverback Films on Disneynature's "Blue", for director Keith Scholey and worked as a second unit DOP on the National Geographic "Into the Okavango" feature directed by Neil Gelinas. In 2017 Roger was appointed as the underwater DOP on the National Geographic Pristine Seas Expedition to Tristan da Cunha, led by Paul Rose, working for producer Alex Verville. For Blue Planet 2, released in October 2017, Horrocks received cinematography credits on four of the six main episodes, shooting for producers Jonathan Smith, Katheryn Jeffs and Joe Steven. For his contribution to the series has was awarded a BAFTA for Outstanding Cinematography in 2018. Between 2015 and 2018 Roger worked for producer Hugh Pearson on the Coastal Seas and High Seas episodes of the Netflix original series “Our Planet”, produced by Silverback Films. He won a nomination alongside cameraman Jamie McPherson for Outstanding Cinematography for a Nonfiction Program at the 2019 Prime Time Emmy Awards on Los Angeles. In 2019 Roger was one of two Underwater DOPs hired by Jonathan Smith of the BBC Natural History Unit to shoot underwater screensavers for Apple TV. He also began initial work on the oceans episode of Planet Earth 3, produced by BBC Studios. In 2020 Roger contributed two sequences to the Animal series on Netflix, produced by Plimsoll Productions., and worked on a sequence for Silverback TV for a new series to be released in 2023. In 2021 and 2022, Roger has been working exclusively on a new ocean series for Netflix, produced by Wildspace. Join us on the Behind the Wild Lens Podcast as we uncover the mesmerizing secrets and captivating stories behind your beloved natural history TV shows. Immerse yourself in the thrilling journey from the lens to your screen, guided by the unsung heroes - camera wizards, insightful producers, charismatic TV hosts, brilliant composers, editing maestros, and visionary directors. Let us pull back the curtain for an exclusive insider's peek into the enchanting realm of wildlife filmmaking. Prepare to be awestruck by the magic that brings nature to life before your very eyes! (Formerly the Master Wildlife Filmmaking Podcast) SUBSCRIBE wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
That One Time On A Shoot mini episode with George Vlad. George Vlad is back with a story about the time he recorded something he really wasn't expecting! George Vlad records sounds. He likes to focus on pristine natural soundscapes free from human influence, of which there are less and less every day. His quest to escape human-made noise takes him to remote and sometimes inhospitable parts of the world. This is more than fine with George as he loves exploring and doesn't shy away from adventure. His recent projects include the blockbuster movie Dune Part 2, Planet Earth III, Disney's Mufasa: The Lion King and Sony Playstation video game Horizon Forbidden West. Join us on the Behind the Wild Lens Podcast as we uncover the mesmerizing secrets and captivating stories behind your beloved natural history TV shows. Immerse yourself in the thrilling journey from the lens to your screen, guided by the unsung heroes - camera wizards, insightful producers, charismatic TV hosts, brilliant composers, editing maestros, and visionary directors. Let us pull back the curtain for an exclusive insider's peek into the enchanting realm of wildlife filmmaking. Prepare to be awestruck by the magic that brings nature to life before your very eyes! (Formerly the Master Wildlife Filmmaking Podcast) SUBSCRIBE wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
George Vlad records sounds. He likes to focus on pristine natural soundscapes free from human influence, of which there are less and less every day. His quest to escape human-made noise takes him to remote and sometimes inhospitable parts of the world. This is more than fine with George as he loves exploring and doesn't shy away from adventure. His recent projects include the blockbuster movie Dune Part 2, Planet Earth III and Disney's Mufasa: The Lion King and Sony Playstation video game Horizon Forbidden West. Join us on the Behind the Wild Lens Podcast as we uncover the mesmerizing secrets and captivating stories behind your beloved natural history TV shows. Immerse yourself in the thrilling journey from the lens to your screen, guided by the unsung heroes - camera wizards, insightful producers, charismatic TV hosts, brilliant composers, editing maestros, and visionary directors. Let us pull back the curtain for an exclusive insider's peek into the enchanting realm of wildlife filmmaking. Prepare to be awestruck by the magic that brings nature to life before your very eyes! (Formerly the Master Wildlife Filmmaking Podcast) SUBSCRIBE wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Fredi has directed some of the most successful natural history series in existence... he also knows where the record button is on a camera! ________________________________________ Behind the Wild Lens Podcast Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of what it takes to make your favorite natural history TV shows and landmark series from the camera people, producers, TV hosts, composers, editors and directors who make them. This is a sneak-peak behind the curtain of wildlife filmmaking. (Formerly the Master Wildlife Filmmaking Podcast) SUBSCRIBE wherever you get your favorite podcasts. ________________________________________ Athletic Greens is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit athleticgreens.com/EMERGING.
The Master Wildlife Filmmaking Podcast is getting a much needed rebrand. The new name is 'BEHIND the WILD LENS'. Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of what it takes to make your favorite natural history TV shows and landmark series from the camera people, producers, TV hosts, composers, editors and directors who make them. This is a sneak-peak into the lives of wildlife filmmaking professionals! SUBSCRIBE wherever you listen!
Ben and the team at Fin & Fur Films blends strong messages with beautiful filmmaking in all their films and Deep in the Heart is no exception. ____________ Are you interested in becoming a wildlife filmmaker or further your career in the industry? If so, check out my free video training at: https://www.jakewillers.com/mentorship In this video training you'll learn the method I use to remain laser focused during my productions and how to create image sequences that tell a story! If you want to get the BTS on the podcast guests, extra podcast content, CatchUp Conversations and more check out the Patreon page to get more info: https://www.patreon.com/MWFP _______________ Athletic Greens is going to give you a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit athleticgreens.com/EMERGING.
From directing Bear Grylls in a camel carcass in the Sahara to becoming an Author & Novelist Tony has had a diverse palette of roles. ____________ Are you interested in becoming a wildlife filmmaker or furthering your career in the industry? If so, check out my free video training at: https://www.jakewillers.com/mentorship In this video training you'll learn the method I use to remain laser focused during my productions and how to create image sequences that tell a story! If you want to get the BTS on the podcast guests, extra podcast content, CatchUp Conversations and Ad-free podcast episodes then check out the Patreon page to get more info: https://www.patreon.com/MWFP
Being swarmed by bees, stampeded by elephants and eating tribal delicacies are just some of the daily activities Hazen finds himself enduring! Are you interested in becoming a wildlife filmmaker or furthering your career in the industry? If so, check out my free video training at: https://www.jakewillers.com/mentorship In this video training you'll learn the method I use to remain laser focused during my productions and how to create image sequences that tell a story! If you want to get the BTS on the podcast guests, extra podcast content, CatchUp Conversations and Ad-free podcast episodes then check out the Patreon page to get more info: https://www.patreon.com/MWFP
With 20 million YouTube subscribers, and over 4 billion views on the Brave Wilderness channel Coyote has learned a thing or two about building a brand from the ground up. ________ Are you interested in becoming a wildlife filmmaker or further your career in the industry? If so, check out my free video training at: https://www.jakewillers.com/mentorship In this video training you'll learn the method I use to remain laser focused during my productions and how to create image sequences that tell a story! If you want to get the BTS on the podcast guests, extra podcast content, CatchUp Conversations and Ad-free podcast episodes then check out the Patreon page to get more info: https://www.patreon.com/MWFP
From Nature Photographer to Wildlife Filmmaker, Jayaprakash has taken the leap and now spends the majority of his time filming wildlife in Singapore for NGOs.
Andy Casagrande IV knows a thing or two about sharks as he spends most of his time underwater with them. Andy's not afraid to give away great advice and inspire a new generation of filmmakers! ______ Are you interested in becoming a wildlife filmmaker or further your career in the industry? If so, check out my free video training at: https://www.jakewillers.com/mentorship In this video training you'll learn the method I use to remain laser focused during my productions and how to create image sequences that tell a story! If you want to get the BTS on the podcast guests, extra podcast content, CatchUp Conversations and more check out the Patreon page to get more info: https://www.patreon.com/MWFP
Barend & Henk chat about their TV series Rooted, how they got their start in the industry, and overcoming the challenges of filming during a pandemic.
Erin discusses her passion for long lens filming, how she navigated her way through the industry and why it so important to pursue your own goals.
From her beginning as a journalist & graphic designer to her current role as Executive Director of Jackson Wild, Lisa discusses the importance of drive and passion.
Jake speaks about his early years running a wildlife park, his move into wildlife filmmaking and how he now juggles his work and career.
Casey chats about his early years breaking into the industry, his latest film, and the passion that drives him to make wildlife films.
Jeff discusses filming in Yellowstone, working with Sir David Attenborough & Chris Morgan, and utilizing custom made camera traps to film mountain lions.
Miraca describes her career journey and delves into her process to find and develop story ideas for the BBC's landmark series Planet Earth 3.
Sophie shares her journey into wildlife filmmaking, the importance of a strong message in her films and diversity in the future of the industry.
Janet discusses her, not so straight forward, journey into the wildlife filmmaking industry and offers some great insight into Nat Geo Wild's program selection process.
Ivo discusses his journey into wildlife filmmaking as well as how he managed to persuade Canon to build the CN20 lens, now synonymous with wildlife filmmaking.
Rob shares his career story, chats about his film Hollywood Fox and explains why his latest ventures, Wild Propaganda and Mammalz, are so important.
Rob discusses his passion for science communication, why he's chosen his particular career path, the ups and downs of it all and his new book.
Doug discusses how he broke into the industry meeting David Attenborough and crew in the Antarctic, how advances in filming gear has changed his workflow, and so much more.
Nate talks with Jake about grant writing, gear obsession, the importance of insurance and contingency plans, and the need for a healthy balance between filming and family.
Dan discusses his films 'Queen of Birds' and 'To Find a Harpy', his global explorations, the importance of having a management agency, and his Wilderland Film Festival.
Patricia discusses working on marketing the landmark series Planet Earth II and Blue Planet II and how marketing strategies are evolving.
Judy’s story is certainly not the norm. Judy is a former college biology teacher now following her passion for wildlife filmmaking. When Judy retired from her teaching career, she immediately bought a Red One Camera and headed to Yellowstone to film. She now spends the majority of her time in Yellowstone gathering footage for documentaries, stock footage libraries and her youtube channel. Judy’s goal is to educate viewers on the wildlife that inhabits our planet and to understand its plight. Judy’s YouTube channel ‘Epic Nature’ has a diverse variety of films with subjects ranging from lions to slime molds and wild dogs to butterflies.
Stephen talks about his start in the industry, his time at the BBC, founding Humble Bee Films and working with Nigel Marven and Sir David Attenborough.
Dusty explains how he became a wildlife filmmaker, his experience filming in bear dens, and the dreaded burnout and depression that struck during the fundraising and making of his latest film.
Ben tells us how he broke into the industry, stories from his latest project filming in the wilds of Alaska, and shares some valuable filmmaking advice.
Gaelin shares her story of studying as a marine scientist and filming with National Geographic to founding Global Ocean Exploration to share her passion for the ocean, marine conservation and photography.
Cody’s passion for nature has helped him to carve out a niche in the natural history genre, working with networks including Discovery, Smithsonian, Netflix, IMAX and many more.
Alex's passion for macro-wildlife cinematography is evident as he explains his aspirations as a wildlife filmmaker.
Dereck & Beverly describe their lives living together in the wilds of Africa, their conservation achievements and the all to recent buffalo incident.
Chris Morgan explains his career path and talks about the many adventures with bears that have shaped his life and films working with PBS, BBC, Discovery and National Geographic Television.
Stephanie describes her path to becoming the host of one of the longest running wildlife TV shows in history and how hard work, passion and an adventurous spirit are essential to fulfilling your dreams.
Inspirational story of how Patrick's passion for the blue whale lead him to become a cinematographer on the BBC's Blue Planet 2.
Jake talks with National Geographic cameraman and host of Man Among Cheetahs, Bob Poole at the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival 2017
Join Jake as he talks with filmmaking couple Richard and Carol Foster from their Belize jungle studio.
Join Jake Willers as he talks with the Maverick Wildlife Filmmaker Kim Wolhuter.
Join Jake Willers as he talks with Filmmaker Hardy Jones about his experiences exposing the dolphin slaughter in Japan.
Join Jake Willers as he talks with both IMAX 3D Director and Producer, Howard and Michele Hall.
Join Jake Willers as he talks with IMAX Producer, Author and Distinguished Film Producer in Residence at American University, Chris Palmer.
Join Jake Willers as he talks with the Director of Science and Exploration Media at National Geographic, Vanessa Serrao.
Join Jake Willers as he talks with filmmaker Ali Alvarez about her new film Muerte Es Vida or Death Is Life.
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