Wildlife
Film News - Jobs / Internships / Volunteering / Footage Wanted, Competitions, Training, Events & other opportunities!
Please see below various opportunities, submitted by members and subscribers, or gleaned from other sources. Some are paid positions, some are voluntary. If you're a newcomer, we suggest that you get as much experience as you can, so offering your services for free when an opportunity arises will most-likely be worth it in the longterm, both on your CV, in the gaining of skills and the all importance of meeting/building relationships with people working in the industry. Entering competitions is highly recommened too. You may win, but even if you don't there's the exposure gained!
NB. The issue of Wildlife Film News where the item was first included in is shown beneath the photo. Do contact us if you have any problem contacting the employer or find that the opportunity is not as described or no longer available.
If you are a non-full member and would like an item/advert placed on the site/WFN, please make a payment here for £25.
It's been developed through FF:W insight and feedback from the industry. The survey will reveal new insight into opportunities and obstacles to working in sector, as well as how the industry is approaching sustainability. We hope to find out about the good as well as the not so good - all in a safe, completely anonymised way that adheres to strict ethical guidelines.
If you haven't taken the survey yet, please, spare a few minutes to share your experience and help gather urgently needed data on inclusion and sustainability in our industry. Depending on your answers, it can take as little as 2 minutes, at most, 15.
It is open to anyone who works in wildlife film & TV, or film and TV that might not traditionally be considered wildlife/ natural history, but has a significant interest in the natural world. New entrants to the industry and recent leavers can also take part. Please share far and wide!
Contact the lead researcher jane.dawson@uwe.ac.uk if you have any questions or want to learn more. Massive thanks.
Supported by FF-W, UWE Bristol and University of Bristol.
Bristol-based Natural History production company Wildstar Films has announced that applications are open for its Wildstar Academy mentoring and training scheme.
The scheme is aimed increasing the number of people from under-represented groups working in wildlife and premium factual documentary making.
The Wildstar Academy provides fully funded placements to “underrepresented individuals who are looking for a step-up in their careers and who may not have access to the opportunities, training, or contacts to help them build their profile.” Successful applicants receive in-depth training as a member of one of Wildstar’s teams on-high profile productions on location around the world, followed by long-term mentoring and support in the industry.
Working with leading industry professionals, the programme focuses on skills such as field directing, producing or cinematography as well as providing an opportunity to work with some of the innovative, high-end equipment developed by the Wildstar tech team.
Applicants should come from a group currently underrepresented in wildlife filmmaking such as females, indigenous people, disabled and neurodivergent candidates, and Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates. They should also have a proven level of experience in television and content production and a desire to progress in the world of TV, film or content creation.
Applications can be made through the Wildstar Academy website and are open until midnight (GMT) on 30th June 2024.
Vanessa Berlowitz and Mark Linfield, co-Founders of Wildstar Films said: “Wildstar is committed to making our industry more diverse and representative of audiences around the world. The inclusion of global talent through our Wildstar Academy programme has provided different perspectives and made the stories we tell richer and more authentic. By supporting new voices in this way, we will add depth not just to our content but natural history filmmaking more widely, representing our natural world in the way it deserves. We are really look forward to bringing on board the next talented group of Academy trainees.”
Previous Alumni of the Wildstar Academy include Kenyan Faith Musembi who received a placement as a Director on the groundbreaking female-led Queens production team, before becoming a Producer and Director of her own episode in the series – the first ever black woman to have this role on a landmark premium documentary series. Since then, she has been working as Producer Director at the BBC Natural History Unit in Bristol.
Faith Musembi said: “I had privileged access to some of the most accomplished minds in natural history filmmaking. An access that saw my skillset nurtured, developed and accelerated in a way that would have otherwise never happened. So when I say that that the mentorship support changed my life, I am not being hyperbolic.”
Specialist chimpanzee field guide and camera operator Diana Kanweri was the first Ugandan woman to work at the Ngogo Chimp Project and built on her passion for camera work to contribute footage for Netflix’s Chimp Empire. As part of the Wildstar Academy she has been offered three international shoots as a camera assistant, including filming macaws with world-renowned wildlife cinematographer Martyn Colbeck.
Diana Kanweri added: “The Academy has broken the barriers in my way, this opportunity for camera training and mentorship is so helpful, I have been learning all about long lens operating and camera settings, I believe I can take this one on. Martyn Colbeck, my mentor made this all easy for me, teaching me not only to operate cameras but also the art of filming, shot sizes, composition, framing and timing and also how the editor would use the footage.”
The Wildstar Academy is a partnership with NEWF, RED and Wildlife Direct.
Queer Nature Photography Awards – The call for applications is now OPEN
The Narwhal Rainbow Alliance, a not-for-profit committed to protecting biodiversity and promoting diversity, is organising The Queer Nature Photography Awards 2024 in Amsterdam.
Why the queer nature photography awards?
Nature is queer, but many people do not know this. That's a shame because by spreading this knowledge people can better understand that 'being queer' is natural and this (bio)diversity should be celebrated.
Queer nature and animal stories have the potential to:
Contribute to the self-acceptance of queers
Contribute to the acceptance of queers by non-queers
Reach new targets groups and involve them more in stopping the current extinction wave by combining queer nature stories with the state of nature.
The Queer Nature Photography Awards gives a stage to our colourful world and offers a fresh perspective on queer topics.
EDGE Fellowship 2025-2027
– The call for applications is now OPEN
EDGE of Existence: Become an EDGE Fellow
NB. We are only receiving applications from Asia and the Pacific.
One of the most effective ways in which we work to secure the future of EDGE species is by strengthening, supporting, and diversifying conservation leadership. The EDGE Fellowship is a 28-month fellowship for local early-career conservationists from lower- and middle-income countries. We equip these emerging conservation leaders—EDGE Fellows—with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities required to advance their careers and spearhead effective conservation efforts for the world’s most unique and extraordinary species.
Each fellowship involves a comprehensive programme of support and professional development opportunities comprising:
Six weeks of training in person: A four-week Conservation Tools Course in the focal region and an advanced two-week Conservation Impact Course in the UK, plus access to additional online training;
A grant of at least £10,000 for project implementation: The opportunity to fully manage your own budget plus dedicated support to leverage additional funding; and
Continuous mentorship and access to training and coaching opportunities with ZSL and our partners: Wrap around mentorship and access to unique training and coaching opportunities with ZSL and our partners.
You may be eligible for an EDGE Fellowship if your work focuses on an EDGE species included on the 2024 curated list, you are an early career conservationist with less than ten years of paid experience, and you are a national of the country where the proposed focal species occurs.
If you are fascinated with the natural world and can’t wait to kickstart your career in TV, this researcher opportunity on a landmark wildlife series in Bristol could be the one for you.
Blue Planet III is the third series for the BBC's multi-series blue-chip landmark Blue Planet - making six episodes of high-ambition, premium wildlife content. Nearly a decade after the release of BBC’s Blue Planet II, our oceans are going through rapid, unprecedented change on a monumental scale. Combining our deeper understanding of the oceans with a whole new generation of camera technology, Blue Planet III will reveal how our planet is changing faster than at any other time in human history and how ocean species are faring in the face of this change.
They currently have a coveted opportunity for a trainee researcher to join their editorial team for a year working closely with the Researchers, Assistant Producers and Producers.
This placement will provide an opportunity for you to gain an understanding of blue-chip Natural History filmmaking.
National Geographic reveals 2024 cohort of the Field Ready mentorship program
National Geographic Content and the National Geographic Society have unveiled the 2024 cohort of the Field Ready Program, an initiative that aims to give emerging filmmakers an opportunity to advance their careers in the fields of natural history, science, exploration and documentary filmmaking, while also increasing the diversity of perspectives across these genres.
Now in its fourth year, the program matches up each participant, each of whom is an accomplished filmmaker or photographer and a certified National Geographic Explorer, with a mentor who will counsel them on their career trajectory as well as specific projects. From May 13 to 17, they will travel to National Geographic headquarters in Washington D.C., where they will receive RED camera training and certification and take part in networking, presentations and workshops with staff members from National Geographic Content and the National Geographic Society.
The selected filmmakers will then engage in an “externship” project hosted by their mentor and Nat Geo production partners, which will be determined by the growth area that they are most interested in, ranging from frontline production to in-office experience in development or production management.
CALL FOR ENTRY
PITCHING SESSION
FRIDAY, 13th SEPTEMBER 2024
Filmmakers focusing on the natural world are invited to take advantage of this unique opportunity to pitch their planned film project to a board of commissioning editors, producers and distributors at the PITCHING SESSION of the International Wildlife Film Festival GREEN SCREEN 2024.
The pitching session is public and follows international rules.
Submissions from Sweden and France are especially welcome, as this year's festival will focus on Sweden as its country theme, and the successful format of bilateral exchange will continue with the French Connection.
This years GREEN SCREEN Pitching Session will again be an in-person-event in Eckernförde.
Due to possible climate-relevant constraints of long-distance travel, there will be an additional possibility of virtual presentation of pitches and online participation of experts as well.
To participate, the following must be submitted:
An Exposé, describing the project should be described, including approximate shooting time, locations and the people involved
A short CV
An approximate budget idea
If available, a trailer or other footage.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE : MAY 31st 2024!
If you are interested, please contact Pitching directors Annette Scheurich and Anne Olzmann via pitching@greenscreen-festival.de.
The sooner we know who plans to pitch, the better, even if not all documents are ready.
A pre-selection panel will select 8 to 10 participants for the pitching session by 1st August 2024.
Some of the projects that have been presented in recent years have already been produced. Participation is always an enriching experience!
As the promotion of emerging talent in nature film has always been a concern of GREEN SCREEN, submissions by newcomers and ambitious young filmmakers are encouraged.
See you at GREEN SCREEN in Eckernförde September 11th – 15th 2024!
Introducing the My World Film Grant + FREE Collective events and resources!
The My World Film Grant provides emerging filmmakers with both $30k in financial support and mentorship through the editorial process in creating a short 10 to 20-minute film on a nature or environmental story.
This grant is a collabration with Amberjack Films and Schoolyard Films, in partnership with Jackson Wild.
You must be a member of the Jackson Wild Collective to apply.
BBC Studios Social invites shortform digital pitches
The commissioning team from BBC Studios Social is inviting indies to pitch “fresh, short form concepts that extend and enrich existing IP, engage loyal fans, and reach new audiences on digital platforms.”
The available production opportunities are online now and cover many of the top brands in the BBC Studios Social portfolio. On the Kids & Family side, commissioners are interested in “food and fun family-related” ideas for Bluey as well as “playful activity-focussed content” for the Hey Duggee. Youth-skewing ideas are welcomed for both Top Gear and digital-first comedy channel Funny Parts.
On the factual and unscripted side, BBC Earth is looking for concepts that “capture the splendour of nature in accessible formats” for their new vertical channels and a spread of ideas across space, sustainability and the human body are sought for BBC Earth Science.
To view the open brief and submit pitches, interested parties should visit events.bizzabo.com/bbc-studios-social-briefing, where full details of what the commissioning team are looking have been released.
The submissions portal is now open and closes at 23:59 BST on Sunday 21 April 2024.
Attention, story tellers of the natural world! This is your opportunity to be part of the very first European Wildlife Film Awards!
The European Wildlife Film Awards (EWFA) honor outstanding films that focus on nature-, wildlife- and conservation themes in Europe.
All selected films will be screened at the EWFA´s own nature film theatre, located in the `Botschaft der Wildtiere´ (Wildlife Embassy) in Hamburg HafenCity, Germany. Very generous prizes will be awarded to the winning films!
This June, Wildscreen are taking their iconic Festival to Arusha!
Building on the success of our 2023 Wildscreen Festival Nairobi and with support from BBC Studios Natural History Unit and Tanzania based non-profit AFRISOS, we’re proud to be launching a new two-day event for 2024: Wildscreen Festival Tanzania.
The new mini-festival will feature African storytellers and filmmakers sharing their expertise and experience alongside key global industry players. Content will span headline talks, panels, workshops, commissioning sessions and networking and is open to all aspiring and established African film industry professionals as well as the global natural history film industry.
The event will be programmed with the support of a Festival Advisory Board, chaired by Faith Musembi, Producer/Director (BBC Studios NHU)
Entries for Wildscreen Festival 2024's Panda Awards and Official Selection are now open!
Submitting your film for consideration has never been simpler, now accepting submissions exclusively through FilmFreeway, our Earlybird submission discount window closes February 23rd!
Panda Awards
The world-renowned ‘Green Oscars’ of the natural history industry recognise the very best in the craft of wildlife filmmaking across 14 categories, selected by juries of industry experts across the globe.
The 2024 competition also welcomes the return of the Children’s Award, recognising the importance of connecting younger generations with nature, and a new Special
Recognition Award for Field Craft to recognise the skill, craft and importance of local, in-country field crew within the natural history genre.
Before submitting your work, please review our competition Rules & Guidelines.
Introduced in 2020, our Official Selection showcases creative and bold stories that spark positive and restorative action for our natural world, acting as a global launchpad for new and diverse voices.
From short and feature films to extended reality productions, the Official Selection aims to platform a variety of unique formats from authentic, indigenous & underrepresented voices in Natural World Storytelling.
Before submitting your work, please review our competition Rules & Guidelines.
Get ready for World Wildlife Day with Jackson Wild!
It's time to get ready for World Wildlife Day 2024!
Jackson Wild have teamed up with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) again this year for their World Wildlife Day Showcase, one of the global events that will accompany the UN WWD 2024 celebrations and help illustrate this year’s theme: "Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation."
For this year's showcase, they're going beyond just films. They'd love to see augmented reality projects, mobile apps, games, and any other media or digital projects that you think encompass this year's theme. From highlighting the transformative power of technology in safeguarding our natural world, to utilizing filmmaking technologies to advance scientific understanding and conservation efforts, to projects that integrate the interactive potential of digital media and technology to foster connections with the natural world, we aim to curate a diverse showcase of projects that provide a well-rounded look at the relationship between technology and wildlife conservation.
Films must be 25 minutes or less (not including end credits), and all projects must be available globally at no cost (including virtual streaming or in-person screenings) from March 4, 2024 to December 31, 2024. The priority submission deadline is Monday January 8th, 2024, but we will continue to review projects on a rolling basis after this time. Best of all: this showcase is free to enter!
Introducing Wildscreen's EDGE of Nature: Short Film Fund – Applications are Open!
Delivered in partnership with On the Edge, this new short film fund will catalyse new and creative projects by emerging filmmakers globally, bringing new perspectives and fresh approaches to natural world storytelling.
Think out-of-the-box storytelling, engaging Gen Z audiences and spotlighting EDGE species and habitats.
Grants up to £15,000 will be available to filmmakers globally.
Applications open Thursday 7th of September.
The EDGE of Nature: Short Film Fund is your chance to bring your natural world film project to life! Delivered in partnership with On the Edge, the fund will platform unique stories and storytelling talent from across the international wildlife production and conservation ecosystem, spanning off-screen to on-screen talent. Applications will be open to filmmakers globally.
Grants of between £2,000 to £15,000 are available.
Successful grantees will receive training, support, mentorship, and their films will be previewed at Wildscreen Festival 2024.
WHAT IS EDGE?
Discover more about EDGE species, EDGE zones and the EDGE of Nature: Short Film Fund below.
EDGE SPECIES
EDGE species are Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered species in the plant, fungi and animal kingdoms.
They collectively represent billions of years of evolutionary history. When they’re gone, there’s no replacing them.
Click here to discover which species are categorised as EDGE species.
EDGE ZONES
EDGE Zones add up to less than 1% of earth’s land collectively but hold one-third of the planet’s terrestrial vertebrates.
They are spread across five continents, from the humid forests of Madagascar to the mountainous Western Ghats region of India.
Have an aspect of an Edge Species or Edge Zone as the central focus
Be a film-based short (minimum 1 minute, maximum 40 minutes). It can be any genre, including animation and genres other than traditional Natural History
Not have any finance already secured or agreements in place from a broadcaster, platform, sales agent etc. and cannot have previously been broadcast, transmitted or commercially distributed in any form
To read the full Terms and Conditions, including further project eligibility criteria go here
APPLICANT CRITERIA
To be elgible to apply, applicants must;
Be 18 years of age on or before the 1st October 2023.
Not have any professional (i.e. broadcast) Producer or Director credits (please note that this does not include student projects).
Have less than five cumulative years of paid experience within the film and television industry.
Have a maximum of one Assistant Producer credit.
Not be in full time education at any point between October 1st 2023 and November 1st 2024.
An application can be submitted by one person or a team. If a team, only two people can participate in the virtual live pitching session in October 2023. Full applicant eligibility is outlined in the terms and conditions.
WHAT YOU NEED TO APPLY
To apply you must provide a;
To apply you will need to provide a Project Treatment, Project Budget and Project Plan.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications are now open! To apply;
Complete the online application form (here). An application overview is also available. Please note that all applications must be submitted via the online application form. Applications submitted in any other format will not be accepted.
Application deadline 5pm BST, Thursday 5th October 2023
Mangrove Photography Awards 2023 – Open for submissions until 23rd July!
Mangrove Action Project is running their ninth annual Mangrove Photography Awards. The competition invites photographers of all levels around the world to contribute their images to highlight the beauty and fragility of mangrove ecosystems and inspire conservation action to protect them.
Mangroves are one of the world’s most important ecosystems, and one of the most threatened. Today, less than half the world’s original mangrove forest cover remains, making the Mangrove Photography Awards a crucial platform to “intrigue people about the magnificent ecological role mangroves play in all of our lives", according to awards ambassador Dhritiman Mukherjee.
There are six categories that appeal to a range of interests and approaches, including a photojournalism multiple image category, allowing the photographer to tell important mangrove stories. This year’s competition will be judged by conservation photographers Octavio Aburto, Daisy Gilardini, Daniel Kordan and Fulvio Eccardi.
Last year’s competition received over 2000 entries from 68 countries. You can view the winners here. All entries will be celebrated as an online mangrove exhibition on 26th July, World Mangrove Day. The overall winner will be crowned the Mangrove Photographer of the Year, with winners announced for each of the categories, as well as this year’s Young Mangrove Photographer of the Year, in September 2023.
More information on the free competition can be found on the website.
Call for wildlife filmmaker to create a film celebrating the Ealing Beaver Project and showcasing urban wildlife and a pioneering community conservation initiative
We seek a captivating, informative and celebratory film that chronicles the project's journey, including the following elements:
Site Preparation: Showcasing the preparation of Paradise Fields, including the beaver enclosure construction, encompassing the erection of a beaver-proof fence and measures to safeguard trees.
Community Engagement: Highlighting the active involvement of the local community in the project.
Volunteer Activities: Documenting the diverse range of volunteer contributions and their impact, which will be aligned with point 1.
Ecological Surveys: Capturing the ecological baseline surveys conducted to assess the project's environmental impact.
Beaver Translocation: Tracking the wild beavers' relocation from Scotland to Paradise Fields in Ealing.
Release into Paradise Fields: Portraying the historical moment when the beavers are released into their new habitat.
Interviews: Featuring engaging conversations with project leaders, volunteers, community members, experts, and local politicians, providing various perspectives on the initiative.
We have a budget of maximum £5,000 for the film, with applications assessed on value for money. We anticipate commencing filming in July 2023, with the beaver release scheduled for Autumn of the same year—providing a rich filming period. The final film will be premiered at the Ealing Beaver Festival in May 2024.
We are seeking filmmakers with a passion for natural history, dedicated to producing outstanding results through collaboration and community involvement, and delivering a high-quality film suitable for all audiences. The filmmaker must also be willing to work with the local community and other filmmakers to integrate potential additional footage which has been captured by a third party.
As the world’s leading animal photojournalism agency, it is our mission to document the stories of animals in the human environment. Our growing network of contributing photographers, videographers, writers and fixers extends throughout the world, allowing us to capture content from a wide range of animal industries. We also connect these stories to broader issues, such as climate change, and explore solutions to these important problems.
Our current focus areas are:
Animals farmed for food
Farmed and wild fish and crustaceans
The future of food – e.g. vegan innovation and technology
Though we do consider animal stories covering other topics, priority is given to stories that fall within our current areas of focus, or those which can be used to help further the campaign efforts of partner NGOs.
If you would like to contribute to We Animals Media, please fill out the appropriate form below. Before submitting, please take a moment to explore our strategic plan.
We look forward to reviewing your submission, but please note that we are not able to contact everyone. A member of our team will be in touch if we are interested in licensing your visuals or taking the next step with your pitch.
Are you an aspiring animal photojournalist or videographer but aren’t yet ready to pitch us a story or submit work for the stock platform? Please explore the We Animals Media Masterclass, a self-paced instructional video series developed to foster the next generation of animal photojournalists. Check it out at: weanimalsmedia.org/masterclass
Jackson Wild Executive Director Lisa Samford to step down after twenty years in role
By Jackson Wild
27th March 2023
In a letter to the board of directors, Lisa Samford has announced that she will be stepping down from her position as Executive Director of Jackson Wild in September, following the organization’s summit in Jackson, Wyoming.
Samford has held the position of Executive Director for twenty years and has grown Jackson Wild to be an internationally recognized Summit, film competition, and conservation convening.
In her letter, Samford states:
“I have spent a lot of time reflecting about what we have accomplished together over the years: creating innovative global partnerships, accelerating the amplification of underrepresented and inclusive perspectives, elevating impact-driven storytelling, facilitating professional development, and constructing world-class pipelines for early career filmmakers in the climate, conservation and nature film sectors.
I feel honored to have witnessed such amazing transformation and growth in the global community we have built together and am deeply grateful for the relationships and partnerships that have developed in the process. To say that this has been a privilege is an understatement.”
Bill Gardner, Board Chair of Jackson Wild said:
“We will miss Lisa’s leadership, vision, and the inclusive community that she has built during her tenure as Executive Director. Because of Lisa’s tireless efforts, Jackson is known globally for its convening power and dedication to excellence in filmmaking and conservation. The board of directors of Jackson are immensely grateful for all of Lisa’s contributions.”
The board will begin a search for a new Executive Director in the coming months. Interested parties may send an email to: board@jacksonwild.org
ABOUT JACKSON WILD:
For over 30 years, Jackson Wild has been a catalyst for accelerating and elevating impactful storytelling at the nexus of nature, science, and conservation. Through innovative and collaborative community gatherings, skill-building initiatives, and mentorship programs, Jackson Wild creates an inclusive forum for storytellers to more deeply illuminate connections to the natural world and our collective responsibility to the wild.
Jackson Wild’s international board members include: African Wildlife Foundation, ARRI, ARTE France, BBC Studios, Blue Ant Media / Love Nature, Conservation International, Doclights, GBH, Gorongosa Restoration Project, HHMI Tangled Bank Studios, Humane Society International, International Fund for Animal Welfare, National Geographic Content, National Geographic Society, Nature/WNET, Netflix, NEWF (Nature, Environment, Wildlife, Filmmaking), Off the Fence Productions, ORF Universum, PBS, RED Digital Cinema, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Smithsonian Channel/Paramount, Sony Electronics, The Nature Conservancy, Terra Mater Studios, Wanda Films, Wildstar Films, and World Wildlife Fund US.
Call for Documentary Project: “Environment and Belonging” – National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) South Africa
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), would like to invite all filmmakers, to submit proposals for a short documentary film that speaks to people and their connection to environment and/or wildlife.
Africa is on the frontlines of the climate crisis but it’s not on the front pages of the world’s newspapers. Every activist who speaks out is telling a story about themselves and their community, but if they are ignored, the world will not know what’s really happening, what solutions are working. The erasure of our voices is literally the erasure of our histories and what people hold dear to their lives – Vanessa Nakate (Climate Justice Activist)
The call seeks to award funding to six stand-alone short documentary concepts to the value of up to R250 000,00 (Two Hundred And Fifty Thousand Rand Only) each for the production of short environment and/or wildlife documentaries in keeping with the theme of “environment and belonging”.
South Africa joins other nations celebrating World Environment Day on 5 June every year.
The world is facing three major environmental crises: climate change, biodiversity and nature loss as well as waste pollution. This is driven by human activity and unsustainable patterns of consumption and production. The world’s most vulnerable communities are often the worst impacted by the environmental crises.
In response to environmental crisis, The National Film and Video Foundation is seeking to approve 6 stand-alone short documentaries that bring awareness to people’s relationship with environment and/or wildlife, under the theme “Environment and Belonging”.
The proposals must demonstrate relationships between people and environment/wildlife, it should be solution driven and celebratory.
In an effort to reinforce the importance of supporting the creative and informative works of BIPOC creators, the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital (DCEFF) has established the DCEFF Vantage Grant to provide pitch training and funding to emerging BIPOC filmmakers. This $12,500 grant will be awarded to a qualifying filmmaker to assist with a short film or first feature in any stage of production that addresses a timely environmental issue.
The Vantage Grant responds to the need for representation in reflective works that are created by members of the very communities most impacted by environmental issues. DCEFF recognizes that racial inequities should be considered when addressing environmental issues such as climate change, food security, sustainability, etc. These issues impact underserved communities at a disproportionate scale, yet many films that highlight these topics are created by filmmakers who do not identify with communities most impacted.
The Vantage Grant has become an extension of DCEFF’s commitment to expanding the storytelling pipeline, amplifying the voices and supporting the works of BIPOC creators.
An open call for applications will be launched on December 12th, 2022 for eligible filmmakers or producers to submit their proposals. Finalists will receive extensive pitch training from Judith Helfand, co-creator of Chicken & Egg Pictures, filmmaker (A Healthy Baby Girl, Blue Vinyl, Cooked: Survival by Zip Code) and professor at the Columbia University School of Journalism. Judith Helfand will emcee the live pitch program on March 26, 2023.
The DCEFF Vantage Grant will be the culminating award given to a winning pitch determined by an industry panel of environmental leaders and subject experts.
The DCEFF Vantage Grant is made possible through the support of Prince Charitable Trusts.
AUCEF Classroom in the Wild 2023 Applications Open!
Applications are now open for the 2022 Classroom in The Wild Spring Break, March 2023!
This workshop is part of SOC's experiential learning initiative and is intended for participants to gain hands-on filmmaking experience in the wild.
The focus of CitW is on learning skills in environmental and wildlife photography and filmmaking and on safety and survival skills while in potential harsh conditions.
This year’s program will take place in Shenandoah Valley.
Experienced Production Coordinator Wanted at Brighton-based Bigwave Productions – POSITION FILLED
Bigwave Productions are looking for an experienced Production Coordinator to join their Brighton team.
Bigwave specialize in high-end wildlife, science, and adventure programming for broadcasters worldwide.
The role will involve assisting the PM setting up shoots in USA/Africa/Aus & UK for a 6-part series.
Ideally, they would like someone who has worked on an international series, but most importantly someone who has experience organising the logistics of a production.
They are looking for someone to join the team now or the beginning of January, until April.
Based in Brighton, or able to work from there. Please send CVs to – No longer taking applications.
Find out more about the company here: bigwavetv.com – POSITION FILLED
The Sunny Side of the Doc Global Pitch call for projects will officially close its doors on December 12th 2022, 23:00 GMT. Seize your chance to pitch your climate change focused documentary to +100 key decision makers from the field and get valuable feedbacks on the spot!
The winner will receive €3,000 and two accreditations for #SSD23 in La Rochelle in June 2023.
We are looking for stories that are important, powerful, original, committed and engaging, highlighting societal, economic, political, geo-strategic and human issues, across a wide range of themes essential to the survival of our societies. We are also open to scientific or environmental approaches, preferring stories that include societal concerns or concrete solutions. Read more about the call for projects here.
This third edition dedicated to climate change and its consequences on our societies will be held online on February 7 and 8, 2023.
Running for over 10 years, BAFTA albert is the leading sustainability organisation for the film and television industry. albert brings the screen industries together to educate, enable and celebrate efforts to reduce environmental impacts and inspire audiences to act for a sustainable future.
albert engages with broadcasters and producers as well as educational partners, enabling the production community to align with albert’s aims and ensuring albert’s tools, resources, communications and initiatives are relevant to those markets.
We believe that the screen industries offer the greatest opportunity to tackle the climate crisis.
This is a brand new role and it’s a hugely exciting time to join our friendly team as we scale our business.
Role purpose
According to the albert Carbon Calculator, TV production contributes 5.7tonnes Co2e per hour of TV, while the average tent-pole film production produces an average of 2,840 tonnes Co2e and as a global industry spending over 200bn USD globally we also have a complicated and significant supply chain to influence.
The work albert does to educate, enable and celebrate our industry has grown significantly in recent years with demand from all UK broadcasters and streamers, from BBC to Netflix, mandating our certification and international territories expanding quickly.
The Head of Industry Sustainability will play a crucial role in managing the albert consortium, which includes the likes of Sky, ITV, Discovery, and many others including indies. To serve the needs of the consortium, they will need to develop and maintain the albert certification standards and initiatives such as the Creative Offset and Creative Energy Schemes, oversee the evolution of the carbon calculator toolkit, conduct data analysis for emissions reporting and the Studio Standard and manage the growing certification team.
Ideally you will be
A climate/carbon expert with relevant qualifications (degree level or higher).
Up to date in your understanding of carbon management and biodiversity frameworks and standards, and related debates.
A proficient project manager.
Able to confidently and clearly communicate information to an uniformed audience.
Experienced in coalescing a variety of stakeholders towards common goals.
An excellent team leader.
Highly motivated and organised.
Knowledgeable of the TV or film production industry.
Familiar with albert tools, resources, certification and training.
Production Coordinator Wanted At River Road Films – POSITION FILLED
River Road Films is a natural history documentary production company based in Vancouver, BC Canada. We are currently hiring a new production coordinator.
If you have natural history documentary experience and are interested in working for us, read on.
Production Coordinator
Role & Responsibilities:
Assist the Production Manager and creative team in the logistical planning of film shoots in diverse locations around the world, including remote and challenging locations.
Plan and book accommodations and transportation for crew and equipment.
Participate in research such as identifying and securing filming locations.
Draft filming and drone permit applications.
Office tasks including answering the phone, door, and ordering supplies.
Organise and track administrative responsibilities, such as crew covid testing - with an emphasis on deadlines.
Assist with other administrative documentation such as carbon footprint impact assessments and risk assessments.
You:
Exceptionally organised and detail-oriented.
Have superb written and verbal communication skills.
Comfortable and confident speaking to people on the phone.
Calm under pressure and enjoys problem-solving.
3+ years experience in documentary film production, travel or adventure tourism industry.
Basic computer fluency required.
Beneficial: Background in biology or ecology
Beneficial: Driver’s Licence, additional language skills
Contract details: 12 months+ starting January 2023
Rate: $225-300/day - negotiable depending on experience
Application Process:
River Road Films is looking to recruit talent from diverse backgrounds. Those who self-identify as Indigenous, Black and/or People of Colour or persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Applicants must be Canadian. Preference will be given to those who are B.C. residents as of December, 2022.
Please send a cover letter, CV and list of references (minimum 2) to – No longer taking applications.
Successful applicants will be required to provide government-issued proof of vaccination for COVID-19 before beginning work.
The competition invites photographers of all levels around the world to contribute their images to celebrate the beauty and diversity of mangrove forests and inspire action to conserve them. Mangroves are simultaneously one of the world’s most important ecosystems, and one of the most threatened. Last year’s judge Robert Irwin said “Today, less than half the world's original mangrove forests remain, it has never been more important to promote the conservation of these fragile ecosystems through inspiring photography."
There are six categories that appeal to a range of interests and approaches, including a new category; Mangroves & Stories, which showcases a photographer’s portfolio of work illustrating a commitment towards conservation that tells a powerful story about our mangroves. This year’s competition will be judged by conservation and wildlife photographers Beverly Joubert, Dhritiman Mukherjee, Bertie Gregory, and Nadia Aly.
Last year’s competition received over a thousand entries with some unique images showing the underwater world of mangroves, magnificent and endangered wildlife, fly-over aerials, and a passion to protect and restore these vital ecosystems. All entries will be showcased as an online mangrove exhibition on 26th July, World Mangrove Day. The overall winner will be crowned the Mangrove Photographer of the Year and receive $500, with winners announced for each of the categories, as well as this year’s Young Mangrove Photographer of the Year, in September 2022.
Wildscreen wouldn't be anywhere without our amazing volunteers. Apply to join our team, whether you're in the UK or further afield! You don't have to be UK based to volunteer for Wildscreen Festival 2022! This year we are going hybrid, meaning you can be a part of the Wildscreen team from where ever you are in the world! Gain invaluable festival work experience and see some of your favourite speakers!
Wildscreen Film Festival volunteers are absolutely vital to making the festival a success. The festival wouldn’t be able to take place without our hardworking team of volunteers who give up a week of their time to help deliver our biennial event.
This year is an especially exciting year for the festival as we’ll be celebrating our 40th birthday and our first ever hybrid edition. As such, there will be both in-person and remote roles available to apply for.
We’re looking for friendly, enthusiastic and committed individuals to join this year’s festival team in helping to create a festival that celebrates diverse and indigenous voices, that tells impactful stories and raises awareness to the planetary crisis we are facing.
Whether you are interested in event management, social media and marketing, filming and photography, or just meeting new people, there is a role for you!
We particularly encourage applications from those who are significantly underrepresented in our sector, including those identifying as women, LGBTQIA , ethnically diverse individuals, low-socioeconomic backgrounds, neurodiverse, or disabled.
First established in 1971, the National Film and Television School (NFTS) has evolved to become a leading global institution, developing some of Britain and the world’s top creative talent in film, television and games. It is widely acknowledged to be the top school of its kind in the UK and one of the best internationally, being named as one of The Hollywood Reporter’s top international film schools for over a decade. The NFTS is a registered charity (313429).
We are currently recruiting for four roles: Head of Television Entertainment, Head of Directing Documentary, Head of Editing and Head of Composing. These are key senior roles at the NFTS, each provides a unique opportunity for someone who is excited about imparting their knowledge to, and inspiring the next generation.
Graduates from the TV Entertainment, Documentary, Editing and Composing departments are among some of the most well-regarded professionals working today including Natalie Holt the composer of Obi Wan Kenobi, Lucia Zucchetti the editor of the Essex Serpent, James Newton the director of Grenfell: The Untold Story and Abigail Dankwa the Director of Grayson’s Art Club.
As an experienced film and/or tv professional you will have knowledge and practical experience of industry customs and practices and production processes, a proven ability to define the style and structure of a film or television project, and importantly understand the necessity of engaging positively with the other key production departments. Some previous experience of teaching and learning is preferred.
Applicants need to be excellent communicators possessing strong interpersonal skills and a passion for student learning.
For further information about this role and details of how to apply, please visit nfts.co.uk/jobs
Closing date for applications: 10th July 2022
Please note that we are unable to sponsor candidates for these roles, so we are only able to accept applications from candidates who are able to demonstrate their right to live and work in the UK. If you do not have the right to work in the UK, we will not be able to progress your application.
At the NFTS, people are at the heart of what we do. We’re an inclusive employer and are committed to equality of opportunity, and building a culturally diverse workforce. We are committed to being an anti-racist organisation and to increasing our representation of staff from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds.
The Earth can't wait any longer ... demand change now – International Animal Rescue
Biodiversity is crucial to the survival of our planet. It's the variety of life on Earth, in all its forms and interactions. It is the most complex feature of our planet and everything we see around us depends on biodiversity - but it also is fragile and in great danger.
May 22nd was International Day for Biological Diversity, and we're asking you to play your part! We want to bring the world together to send a powerful message to the leaders who are attending COP15 later this year, the UN conference focusing solely on biodiversity.
We can only do this with your help - submit a video to us today on what nature means to you and together, we can call for immediate action to save the biodiversity of Earth.
We Need Your Help Urgently – Represent your country!
2021 was one of the hottest years on record, with severe heatwaves and extreme temperatures in much of the world. Fuelled by the heat, catastrophic wildfires engulfed everything in their path. Human lives were lost and homes destroyed, while millions of wild animals and their habitats were wiped out.
Every day, all across the world, animals, plants and ecosystems are losing out to the disastrous impacts of human activity. We're constantly warned that the clock is ticking and time is running out to reverse the effects of climate change and biodiversity decline - and yet these issues seem repeatedly to drop down the list of global priorities.
We are urging immediate action now to save our planet's biodiversity; without it, there will be no water to drink, no food to eat. The world we know and love today simply won't exist.
Submit a video today on what nature means to you and help us send a powerful message to those attending COP15. We want to send a united message from every country in the world and to do that, we need your help.
We call on world leaders to put the planet first and focus on halting the decline in biodiversity for all our sakes - please join us in adding your voice.
Record a short video of yourself in nature and tell the world, why it’s important to you and why it must be protected. And finish by saying “COP15… Are You Listening?”
Channel 4 has issued a cross-genre ‘climate emergency’ brief to suppliers, inspired by the pledge it made at Cop26.
The broadcaster is seeking a small number of ‘high impact’ shows which will inspire viewers to engage with the debate and empower them to help make change. Joe Lycett vs The Oil Giant and Celebrity Trash Monsters have been referenced as the kinds of ‘provocatively funny’ shows of interest, while there is also room for more ‘thoughtful’ pieces.
At heart, all ideas must be of scale and demonstrate imagination, distinction and drive.
They should also:
help audiences feel empowered and energised about living sustainably.
bring big talent to the agenda.
hold power to account with bold ideas that entertain and sustain.
prioritise impact over quantity when it comes to commissioning in this space.
provide an alternative to the tone and content of other broadcasters.
Small shows specifically about the climate and preaching to audiences is off the agenda.
Chief content officer Ian Katz said: ”Climate change is, quite literally, the burning issue of our age but sadly often makes for rather eat-your-peas television. We’re looking for ideas that are inventive or audacious enough to make our viewers sit up and think about what they can do to help solve the problem - and ideally empower them to actually do something about it.”
C4 was among the 12 broadcasters to sign up to the The Climate Content Pledge in November, committing to use their content to help audiences tackle climate change and inform sustainable choices.
Each department has assigned a dedicated climate lead to manage the ideas:
Pridelands Wildlife Film Fest is looking for volunteers with a passion for wildlife conservation and filmmaking to help launch #Kenyas1stwildlifefilmfestival
Whether you're in video editing, web development, graphic design, communications, social media, fundraising, accounting, auditing, program development/coordination, marketing, advertising, administration etc, there's space for you on the PWFF team.
Write to communication@pwff.africa with what you'd be willing to help with and let's collaborate in making history.
Thank you in advance to all applicants.
Pridelands Wildlife Film Fest, (PWFF), is the first of its kind film festival in East, West, North and Central Africa, dedicated to wildlife and conservation factual storytelling with African storytellers at the heart of the narrative. The annual event will be a convening of industry stakeholders from Africa and the world over, where opportunities to learn from each other, network and collaborate are fostered to produce groundbreaking series/films while promoting local engagement, inclusion and diversity in natural history filmmaking. Visit: www.pwff.africa
2022 Jackson Wild Media Lab
Applications Now Open!
Apply now to be a Jackson Wild Media Lab Fellow in Austria this September!
The Jackson Wild Media Lab is an immersive science filmmaking workshop that brings scientists and creators together to learn from leaders in the profession and work together to develop effective tools to communicate about science, nature and conservation.
Media Lab fellows will work with instructors and mentors to gain hands-on filmmaking experience with professional equipment, learn the science of science communication, and expand their networks with peers and industry professionals.
This highly competitive program will cover all expenses associated with travel, food and lodging during the workshop and the Jackson Wild Summit.
The 2022 Jackson Wild Media Lab will take place September 20-30, 2022 in Neusiedler See - Seewinkel National park, Burgenland, Austria. Applications are due June 3.
BBC Studios’ Natural History Unit (NHU) is the leading producer of wildlife programming, creating award-winning content with a world class reputation.
Our output ranges from ambitious landmarks (Green Planet, Dynasties, and the forthcoming Frozen Planet II) to children’s programming (Deadly Dinosaurs and Andy’s Adventures), as well as ground-breaking adventure, formatted, presenter lead, feature docs and event programming such as Endangered for Discovery, The Year The Earth Changed for Apple TV+ and the BAFTA winning Springwatch for the BBC.
We are seeking a Junior Editor for a new high profile Landmark Natural History series.
The role will provide entry-level craft editing skills and will manage and develop junior post-production colleagues.
Role Responsibility
Predominantly edit Pre-Edits, Making-ofs, Digital and Development work.
Provide creative and delivery services to production teams.
Edit Assistant training, support and line management if appropriate.
Media management oversight
Provide mentoring and training of non-technical colleagues in technical post-production workflows and technologies/equipment.
Liaise with external post-production suppliers, and technical production stakeholders where necessary.
Work as assistant editor for nominated productions, working under the general direction of the editor and deputising for them if required.
Provide and maintain required standard and quality of information and metadata across required media, platforms and systems.
Work closely with the post-production supervisor/manager in order to ensure an efficient workflow through all stages of the production process
The Ideal Candidate
A detailed knowledge of Avid Media Composer, and ideally Adobe Premiere Pro
Proficiency in HD, UHD, HDR and RAW workflows
Craft editing skills with the ability to undertake editing tasks without supervision
An ability to articulate and communicate creative ideas, narrative outlines and visual styles.
Knowledge of file-based production processes and content production systems.
Understanding of the fundamentals of audio and video, including digital technologies and formats
Experience with the television production process and broadcast delivery requirements.
Experience of a busy production or similar environment and the ability to work calmly under pressure.
Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with a wide range of people at different levels.
Advanced problem-solving skills and the ability to apply them to operational situations.
(Re)Wild Holland Documentary - Wildest wildlife of the Netherlands - Trailer – from John Akerman
Enjoy some of the most amazing nature moments witnessed by member John Akerman this past year.
He says "When I needed to move to a new house, I decided to switch from the usual urban environment to something more rural. I filmed in nature next to Veluwe national park for one year and made the most I could out of it, waking up early and staying overnight in wild places all over the country to share what is left of the sheer beauty of Dutch nature. By deep listening and staying present in any new path or route life guided me to, I stumbled upon beautiful places and creatures people drive hours to get a glimpse of. I am grateful to share some of these amazing moments I experienced. I hope they will inspire to reconnect with (your) nature as much as I did."
Featured places in this film include the Wadden Islands Texel and Ameland, Veluwe, Utrechtse Heuvelrug, Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen, Noord Hollandsch Duinreservaat, Oostduinpark, Nationaal Park Hollandsche Duinen, Oostvaardersplassen, Arkhemheen (polder), Putterdijk, de Bieschbosch.
Animal species seen: Owls and other birds (of prey) , Seals and other mammals, in the beautiful Dutch wadden islands, wetlands, forests and heathlands.
The idea behind this film is to get an up close an personal connection with the animals to reconnect people with their surroundings, become aware of who falls victim of their consumerism and everyday polluting behaviors, but especially animal agriculture and industrial agriculture which needs to feel and understand who their victims are ... but presented in a very indirect, subtle way.
In the full movie the main message comes in at the very end ... so people can digest all the beauty without their minds going into denial. If you'd like to work with John on this project, or distribute the film, please get in touch with him here: info@aquinox.nl
Wildscreen Marketing and Communications Manager Role
Wildscreen has been at the forefront of natural world storytelling for 40 years, now we need someone to help us tell our own story. Could it be you?
We’re looking for a purpose-driven and creative communicator who will develop and execute innovative and effective marketing plans and activities.
We are looking for someone with a strong track record in developing and implementing multi-platform marketing and comms strategies and experience in community growth and management.
Deadline for applications: Midnight on 5 May 2022.
New Head of Department Wanted – Science and Natural History at the National Film & Television School
By NFTS
30th March 2022
Full Time Head of Science and Natural History position available at NFTS
For half a century, the National Film and Television School (NFTS) has developed some of Britain and the world’s top creative talent. It is widely acknowledged to be the top school of its kind in the UK and one of the best internationally.
We are now recruiting for a Head of Science & Natural History. This is a unique opportunity for someone who is excited about imparting their knowledge to, and inspiring the next generation of Science & Natural History film and television-makers.
Our two-year MA course, Directing and Producing Science & Natural History, is the only course of its kind in the UK and aims to give students the skills they need to direct science and wildlife productions.
Working closely with the Director, Director of Curriculum and Registrar, the Head of Science & Natural History is responsible for devising and revising the curriculum, including projects, exercises and workshops, in conjunction with fellow tutors. The ideal applicant will be an experienced Director or Producer with solid knowledge and practical experience of industry customs and practices, strong editorial skills and, importantly, understand the enormous value and contribution made by other departments (Editing, Sound and Music etc) to Science & Natural History projects.
Applicants need to be excellent communicators possessing strong interpersonal skills and a passion for student learning. Some previous experience of teaching and learning is preferred.
Variety’s Top UK Film School 2020 and recipient of the 2018 Outstanding Contribution to British Cinema BAFTA, the NFTS is one of the world's leading film, games and television schools and celebrated its landmark 50th anniversary in 2021. NFTS alumni have gone on to win 13 Oscars and 152 BAFTAs with graduates including; double Oscar winning cinematographer Roger Deakins (1917) creator of global Netflix hit Sex Education Laurie Nunn and BAFTA winning director, Lynne Ramsay (You Were Never Really Here). The NFTS is a registered charity (313429).
For further information about this role and details of how to apply, please visit www.nfts.co.uk/jobs
Please note that we are unable to sponsor candidates for these roles, so we are only able to accept applications from candidates who are able to demonstrate their right to live and work in the UK. If you do not have the right to work in the UK, we will not be able to progress your application.
At the NFTS, people are at the heart of what we do. We’re an inclusive employer and are committed to equality of opportunity, and building a culturally diverse workforce. We are committed to being an anti-racist organisation and to increasing our representation of staff from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Wildscreen Festival 2022 is seeking an experienced content producer who is passionate about delivering outstanding, thought-leading content.
Working closely with the CEO, Head of Events and Festival Advisory Board Chair, you will produce all industry content for the 2022 hybrid Wildscreen Festival and help to create an engaging and world-leading wildlife film festival programme.
For more information including, remuneration, a detailed job description and deadline, please click here.
Paid Entry Level BBC Job Opportunity: Junior Camera Assistant, The Watches BBC Studios NHU
BBC Studios Natural History Unit (NHU) is acknowledged as the leading maker of television and radio programmes on wildlife and natural history anywhere in the world.
Renowned for innovative production techniques, the makers of the BAFTA Award winning Live wildlife event Springwatch, are now launching a new 12 month entry level position of Junior Camera Assistant.
The role is aimed at individuals with a passion for British Natural History, demonstrated by their knowledge of UK species and a track record of field wildlife observation. This is a unique opportunity for anyone with a desire to follow a career in wildlife filmmaking to grow and develop expertise using a range of technical equipment including drone and long lens, across multiple broadcast platforms including Facebook and Instagram as well as BBC 2 linear output. Across the contract, the successful candidate will be supported by the expertise of the Springwatch team and the NHU.
You will have the opportunity to work alongside some of the industry's top wildlife camera operators and technicians as well as programme makers, who will help you to develop your camera skills. You’ll have the opportunity to gain knowledge about filming for LIVE wildlife programming as well as working behind the scenes in the production offices and providing assistance/shooting in the field. Please note the role can include travel to locations across the UK. This opportunity is aimed at those who can demonstrable enthusiasm for the subject matter. However, qualification to degree level is not required in this instance.
All our UK wildlife content is acquired from freelance operators. There are no BBC staff positions in this category. Consequently, on completion you will be released to compete for work in the freelance market, either in the NHU or elsewhere.
Your application should include links to a showreel or a selection of up to six photographs you have taken of British wildlife.
Location: Bristol/remote/on location
Interviews will take place via Zoom w/b 11th April 2022.
You must be available to start in late April 2022 to apply for this role.
Video Essays Call For Presentations – Animals in the American Popular Imagination virtual conference
Animals in the American Popular Imagination Virtual conference – 12-16 September 2022
In his book Animals on Television (2017), Brett Mills states that "representations of animals often function to highlight cultural understandings about what it is to be human." Nonhuman animals have been unwilling objects of the hu- man gaze: humans have been exploiting animals (real and imagined) on the basis, and the attendant continued perpetuation, of self-assigned human superiority and centrality. This anthropocentrism is also why humans primar- ily define animals, their agency, their intelligence, their emotional lifeworlds, etc. by projecting onto them human ideas and discourses. Innumerable popular culture artifacts and performances revolve around nonhuman animals, from reality TV shows on Animal Planet and iconic characters such as Lassie to animals as parts of wrestler gimmicks and animals in sports team names. These and other popular culture artifacts touch on animal-related matters of all kinds, from narratives in which heroic pets seem to take center stage to meat preparation and consumption. All of these figurations of animals allow us to explore how we treat and discursively construct animals.
This international conference will focus on the representation of animals and human-animal relations in American popular culture, in all its forms, across media, past and present. While we list a few thematic clusters here, pro- posals that do not fall into these will, of course, also be considered.
The program is organized and hosted by the PopMeC Association for US Popular Culture Studies and the Austrian Association for Cultural Studies, Cultural History, and Popular Culture.
In response to popular demand, we welcome proposals for video essays. We will feature them on the website and participants will be able to comment on the videos. You can submit a proposal as indicated below (for either one individual submission or a cluster of videos), specifying that it is a video essay; if you’d like to discuss your essay(s) live, please just mention it in your email so that we can organize the video session in the best way possible. Please note that video essays are not pre-recorded presentations.
Deadline for submissions: April 24, 2022
We accept abstract proposals for individual presentations (300 words) or full panels (3-4 presenters, 250-word description of panel plus abstracts of all papers). Please, email your proposal to popmec.animals@gmail.com as a single attachment (.doc, .docx, .odt) including name, affiliation (if any), and contact email.
BBC Studios’ Natural History Unit (NHU) is the leading producer of wildlife programming, creating award-winning content with a world class reputation.
Our output ranges from ambitious landmarks (Seven Worlds, One Planet, Dynasties and the forthcoming Frozen Planet II) to children’s programming (Deadly Dinosaurs and Andy’s Adventures), as well as ground-breaking travel, adventure, formatted, presenter lead and event programming such as Endangered for Discovery, The Year The Earth Changed for Apple TV+ and the BAFTA winning Springwatch for the BBC.
The successful candidate will be the creative driving force for BBC Studios Natural History development, through promoting and championing creativity, innovation and collaboration. The Head of Development is a key leadership role in the NHU, there to liberate and sell the ideas born from the NHU to the BBC and non-BBC clients, nationally and internationally.
This post-holder will lead the Natural History development team; will work closely with executive producers within the NHU and production executives, together with senior editorial and business colleagues in BBC Studios Factual. The post holder will have a determination and appetite for new business; they will be collaborative, always eager to bring people together to generate the best ideas and able to work across BBC commissioning teams and controllers, new relationships with external channels, BBC Studios Sales and Distributions, and international partners. The NHU’s Head of Development is a pivotal role in the projection of the NHU both internally and outside the BBC.
The priorities for this post-holder are as follows:
Lead Natural History development in Bristol and in so doing, be based in Bristol.
Work with Head of the NHU and executive team to build and maintain the development strategy of the department.
Develop an expert knowledge of audiences.
Build and manage the BBC Studios Natural History slate.
Build and manage the non-BBC slate.
Lead on key relationships with international partners.
Help Head of NHU to build a development pipeline driven by creativity, reputation, purpose and profit.
New Climate Media Faculty Position at American University, Washington D.C.
JOB OPENING: Professor of Climate, Environmental Justice, Media and Communication
School of Communication, American University, Washington D.C.
The School of Communication at American University seeks an open-rank faculty member to serve as Professor of Climate, Environmental Justice, Media and Communication beginning August 1, 2022 whose work and expertise focuses on public understanding of climate change, environmental justice, and immediate and long-term impact. This encompasses experience in the use of media and communication to frame and advocate for policies and issues associated with climate change and climate misinformation. This expertise thus spans climate, health, and social justice and is open to a broad range of applicants, from academic, professional and creative sectors, with expertise in the communications industries, including investigative and science journalists, strategic communicators, filmmakers, conservationists and social advocates. We welcome applicants with expertise in investigative reporting, science journalism, strategic communications, social justice, environmental filmmaking, and media arts. Professional communication experience with environmental justice activism and movements is a plus.
Include a letter of application, curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, recent teaching evaluations, and recent published papers as well as a statement of past and/or future contributions to diversity and inclusion through teaching, research, and service.
Please contact Aisha Green, Faculty Coordinator,+1 202-885-2133 or aisha@american.edu if you have any questions.
World Wildlife Day Film Showcase to highlight efforts to conserve endangered species and ecosystems
Geneva/New York/Jackson Hole, 17 November 2021 – The Secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), Jackson Wild, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) announced today that they will organize an international film showcase on the occasion of the 2022 celebration of the United Nations World Wildlife Day.
This marks the seventh edition of the World Wildlife Day Film Showcase. Along the celebration’s theme of "Recovering key species for ecosystem restoration", organizers will seek to highlight films that explore the threats to wild fauna and flora, their central importance for their habitats and ecosystems and for the communities who live near them, and the numerous initiatives to conserve them.
Participating films will be shown throughout 2022 and will help raise awareness of the status of the world’s most vulnerable species but also showcase the power of long-term and innovative conservation efforts.
CITES Secretary-General Ivonne Higuero said: "Some 38,000 species are considered to be under threat in international trade and, without them, the habitats and ecosystems they sustain would likely be at great risk themselves. Though this should alarm us, it is also essential that we remember that we have the power to change course. Conservation efforts have and can continue to bring back endangered species of wild fauna and flora from the brink. We believe that films participating in this year’s World Wildlife Day Film Showcase will greatly help us raise awareness of the urgent need to address these threats and help us spread an important message of hope."
Lisa Samford, Executive Director of Jackson Wild said: "As we confront the threats of accelerating climate change impact widespread and global biodiversity collapse, the role of local stories that directly connect us with nature and the species who share our beautiful and resilient planet has never been more important. It is crucial that we work together now to transform and protect our planet’s natural systems in regenerative and sustainable ways."
Timeline and planned activities
The call for entry will close on 7 January and finalists will be announced in mid-February 2022. Winners will be presented at a high-level online celebration of UN World Wildlife Day on 3 March 2022. The films will then be made available for free, on an educational online streaming mechanism throughout the world.
Award Categories and Descriptions:
Species in Crisis (Long Form and Short Form): Awarded to the film that most effectively explores current challenges and communicates solutions to the environmental, social-economic and sustainability issues facing endangered species of wild fauna and flora, their habitats and ecosystems.
The Web of Life (Long Form and Short Form): Awarded to the film that most effectively showcases the rich diversity and complex behavior of one or more endangered species, how these species affect their ecosystems and the chain of ecological issues that will occur if the species is lost.
Stories of Hope (Long Form and Short Form): Awarded to the film that most effectively celebrates the work of local and indigenous individuals or groups committed to raising awareness or involved in the conservation, and/or sustainable management of endangered species of wild fauna and flora and their ecosystems, and how these communities are working to save species from extinction.
People & Endangered Species (Long Form and Short Form): Awarded to the film that best communicates humanity’s social, cultural, economic and/or environmental interdependence with endangered species and what may be lost if the species goes extinct.
Micro Movie: Awarded to the best film focused on endangered species 5 minutes in run time or less.
Additional Award Categories may be added prior to the finalist announcement to honor as many worthy films as possible.
There is no entry fee for submission. Films must have been completed after January 1st, 2019 and must prominently feature an endangered species as defined by the IUCN Red List. Entrants must identify qualifying species on the entry form. A streaming link to the full film must be made available for free, educational, online streaming either freely or by request as part of the 2022 World Wildlife Film Showcase: Endangered Species hosted by Jackson Wild on the Eventive Platform. Submissions in all languages are welcomed. Programs in a language other than English must be subtitled in English for presentation to the judges and for streaming as part of the World Wildlife Day Film Showcase. Eligible entries must complete an online submission form via www.jacksonwild.org.
Call for Judges
Interested in being a preliminary judge for the World Wildlife Day Film Showcase? The time commitment is 10 to 15 hours over the course of approximately 3 weeks. We also have shorter assignments in the range of 1 to 5 hours for our Micro Movie and Short categories. Judges who might be interested in committing more time over the judging period may review multiple rounds. If you have any questions about judging please contact: dana@jacksonwild.org Apply: jacksonwild.org/wwd-judge-application.html
GroupM’s Motion Content Group Sets Positive Impact Production Fund
GroupM’s Motion Content Group has set up a new funding initiative to support projects that inspire positive change in areas such as diversity, equity, inclusion and sustainability.
The Positive Impact production funding will support stories across blue-chip documentaries, high-end TV drama, landmark series and films. Content considered for investment is not limited to any format, genre or media platform.
Motion will collaborate with media owners, producers, networks, platforms and creatives to identify and develop eligible projects, empowering talent from underrepresented backgrounds alongside more established voices.
The first local deployment of Motion’s Positive Impact production funding, the Diverse Voices Accelerator, launched in May 2021 in the U.S. The U.K launch will be followed by further markets around the world to be rolled out in 2022.
Jackson Wild wants your input and advice to create a space specifically for the Queer Natural History Community to gather, share, and make waves!
Jackson Wild is currently working to help develop a new initiative for LGBTQ+ people within our industry.
The idea is to create a safe and affirming space to build connections/community, get opportunities, and find resources.
A big part of this will coincide with the Collective, so we want to hear your input on what a safe space like that would look like for you!
We've created an anonymous survey for people to fill out to provide Jackson Wild with suggestions on the best way to create a space dedicated for people in science, nature and conservation who identify as LGTBQ+
Link to Jackson Wild LGBTQ+ Initiatives Anonymous Survey: forms.gle/FxzyWyTCWDwpUahY6 NB. This survey is completely confidential and is in no way attached to your gmail!
From the editor: "I suspect that most of you already know, but the editor of this newsletter and producer of Wildlife-film.com, i.e. me, is an openly gay man. I have not experienced any direct homophobia from within the wildlife film-making community but I have no idea if the fact that I have always been openly gay has negatively impacted on my career (or lack of) as a wildlife film researcher ... It is a pretty privileged white straight man-dominated industry after all! Although I suppose that I'm just an under-privileged white gay man!" Jason Peters
Position: IWFF Film Coordinator Must be in & or around Missoula, MT.
The Film Coordinator will be working with a small, dedicated, and fun team to produce the 45th International Wildlife Film Festival. Our team works out of the Roxy Theater and requires partial in-person hours during the day while other hours may be completed remotely. Production tasks involve; coordination of film submissions, supporting preliminary juries, receiving film assets, filmmaker relations, organizing spreadsheets, lining out festival events, supporting 80-100 film screenings during festival week, and marketing & press outreach.
Time Commitment: The festival operates on a ramped-up timeline leading up to the festival dates of April 23-30. This position reaches full-time hours when the festival is about four weeks out. The position starts in early December at about 20 hours per week through March. There is flexibility in the weekly schedule to accommodate other responsibilities. Full-time availability for the month of April and during the week of the festival is a MUST.
River Road Films (Vancouver, BC) Hiring Directors, Editors, Story Researcher, and Production Co-Ordinator for International Documentary Series
River Road Films is a long-established natural history documentary television and film production company based in Vancouver, producing prestigious work for CBC, Netflix, Warner Brothers, the BBC and many other top broadcasters/platforms. Some recent work includes “The Wild Canadian Year” for CBC Television (winner of Best Science / Nature Series at the Canadian Screen Awards) and “The Great Bear Rainforest” IMAX feature film.
River Road Films is looking to fill multiple positions on a new international documentary series shooting across six continents. Contracts starting in January 2022 for directors, story researcher, and production coordinator. Editor positions starting later in 2022.
Applicants must be Canadian. Individuals who self-identify as Indigenous, Black and/or People of Colour or persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
For more detailed job descriptions and application information, please visit: www.riverroadfilms.ca/work
Netflix and Unesco search for African film-makers to ‘reimagine’ folktales
Competition opens to find six young creators in sub-Saharan Africa who will be funded to produce movies for 2022
For Nelson Mandela they were “morsels rich with the gritty essence of Africa but in many instances universal in their portrayal of humanity, beasts and the mystical.”
Passed down through the generations, whispered at bedtimes and raucously retold by elders, folktales have long been a mainstay of African cultural heritage.
Now some of those tales – perhaps the one about a scheming hyena or a snake with seven heads – are to gain fresh global recognition as a new competition aims to find the next generation of film-makers from sub-Saharan Africa. Unesco has teamed up with streaming giant Netflix to find and fund six short films “reimagining” folktales that will premiere in 2022.
“We want to find the bravest, wittiest, and most surprising retellings of some of Africa’s most-loved folktales and share them with entertainment fans around the world in over 190 countries,” the UN cultural body and production company said in a joint statement.
Winners of the competition, which opened on Thursday 14th Oct, will be trained and mentored by industry professionals and given a production grant of $75,000 (£55,000) through a local company. Entrants must be citizens and residents of a country in sub-Saharan Africa and be aged 18-35.
Cop 26 filmmakers solidarity film – Call for Video Submissions for Beyond the Frame
FF:W is producing a 90sec Graphics film of 'The Big Discussion' to introduce the discussion panel at COP26 alongside our selection of.short films produced for delegates at the Imax Theatre.
We need as many videos as we can muster by the end of the day on Wednesday 13th October. Apologies for the short deadline. and I am grateful for your time and help!
FFW is bristol, UK BASED, but we have an International reach and encourage any wildlife filmmakers to join us.
Submit your film for 2022 Films for the Forests competition
Awaken. Energize. Transform. Our 2022 theme embodies Films for the Forest’s bold vision— leverage the power of visual storytelling to propel global audiences into action for rainforests.
Filmmakers, this year we’re challenging YOU to create and share films that will inspire and move audiences to take powerful action that changes the future of our forests. You’ve got the vision - we have the forum.
Our F3 Team is Growing! We are looking for volunteers who have proven experience in managing professional social media accounts and/or creating social media content. If you are interested in contributing your skills, expertise and passion to the wonderful cause of protecting rainforests and adding to the growth of an international organization, we'd love to connect with you! Applications are being accepted via VolunteerMatch, click here for more information about our positions.
Factual prodco and distributor Off the Fence moves into Canada
Netherlands and U.K.-based factual specialist Off the Fence has opened its first Canadian office in Toronto.
Led by Imelda Wiebers, director of Commercial and Business Affairs (pictured left), the producer-distributor told Playback Daily the plan is to seize the quickest opportunities under a recently unveiled content strategy focusing on three areas: history, science and tech, and relationships between people and the planet including natural history, travel and adventure, lifestyle, crime and impact.
“We are looking to invest further into our content pillars … specifically across science and ancient history, as well as offer Canadian wildlife co-production opportunities,” says Weibers.
The Toronto operation – incorporated on May 7 – is planning to hire Canadian employees shortly.
Reporting opportunity on great apes and gibbons – Mongabay
Ape species are in a fight for their lives that will play out over this century and Mongabay will continue to report this story to raise public attention about the issues facing great apes and gibbons.
Mongabay welcomes new story proposals for print, video, data, and multimedia reporting.
WFN are seeking a logger for four weeks, to upload and categorise WFN’s digital media.
WFN is a UK-registered charity offering funding, training and profile to grassroots conservationists across the Global South. We support pragmatic, sustainable projects that are based on science and led with passion, benefitting wildlife, habitats, and people. To-date, WFN has channeled more than £18 million to over 200 conservation leaders in 80 countries.
WFN has amassed 15TB of video footage and 40GB of photos over 28 years from the conservationists we support. The charity also works with Icon Films to produce a collection of short films each spring that celebrate new grantees, narrated by Sir David Attenborough (see the 2021 films here), as well as photographing and filming our annual awards ceremony (watch the 2021 online ceremony here).
This is an exciting opportunity to work with WFN to develop our new digital media database, by uploading and logging our videos and images to Google Photos. This will act as the charity’s archive as well as an easily accessible source of content for communications and PR – enabling us to amplify vital conservation efforts more effectively. You can look through our 2020 Communications Impact Report here.
We are seeking a logger to work as a contractor for a 4-week period from early September, to upload and log WFN’s digital media. They will spend up to five days working from Icon Films’ office in Bristol and the remainder from home. Ideal applicants will have extensive knowledge of and experience in Google Photos, a meticulous attention to detail and keen interest in the natural world.
How to apply: once you have read the full Terms of Reference, please send your CV with a brief covering email expressing your interest in this contract, to info@whitleyaward.org with the subject line ‘Digital Media Archive Logger’
Application deadline: Friday 20 August, with interviews taking place from w/c 23 August.
ScreenSkills funds mentoring for over 250 people in under-represented groups
ScreenSkills, an industry-led skills body for film, TV, VFX, animation and games, will fund mentoring for more than 250 people from groups under-represented in screen industries.
The organization is contributing £130,375 (US$180,279) in funding to set up 10 partnerships with other screen-related bodies to provide mentoring opportunities, as part of the ScreenSkills Mentoring Programme. The program is also supported by the National Lottery funds as part of the British Film Institute’s Future Film Skills Strategy.
Three of the new initiatives will support nearly 60 deaf and disabled mentees. These initiatives are Beacon Film’s Future Vision; TripleC DANC’s mentoring programme for deaf, disabled and neurodivergent writers and directors; and Media Trust & ScreenSkills Reframing Disability Mentoring Programme in partnership with BBC 50:50. All of the mentors in the Media Trust program will also be disabled.
Another new initiative is the Bristol-based Wildscreen Emerging Talent program. Recruiting from Wales, the program’s goal is to increase diversity in wildlife film and natural history, supporting emerging talent who have missed out on in-person opportunities because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program will prioritize people in roles in areas with skill shortages.
Redford Center, IF/Then Shorts set nature-focused pitch competition at DOC NYC
The Redford Center and IF/Then Shorts, an initiative of Field of Vision, have partnered to launch the Nature Access Pitch for short documentary films exploring access to nature.
The pitch is open to original, stand-alone doc shorts in production, and each filmmaker will pitch their submission to a jury of industry leaders, filmmakers and environmental experts.
Up to six finalists will be selected to participate in the live, in-person pitch event at DOC NYC this November.
The winning filmmaker will receive a US$25,000 production grant and a year of mentorship from IF/Then and The Redford Center that includes production support, creative feedback, distribution consultations and festival strategy.
Two honorable mention prizes of $5,000 production grants and distribution consultation will also be awarded.
Marking the first partnership between IF/Then Shorts and The Redford Center, the pitch celebrates docs that spotlight the social, emotional, physical, mental and community health benefits of time spent out.
Junior Production Manager - Natural History Landmark, Bristol
The BBC Natural History Unit is looking for Junior Production Managers to join two super-landmark series delivering in 2024; an ambitious and diverse seven-part landmark series for BBC One and a new aspirational and creative 10-part series for a major US broadcaster.
The roles would suit experienced PCs or JPMs looking for line management experience and those seeking to develop their skills before progressing to PM level. Both JPM positions are pivotal members of the production team; you’ll work very closely with the Production Manager and will provide support to the rest of the Production management team. The successful applicants will have the opportunity to develop their skills, knowledge and experience of high level Natural History production management within a very supportive environment.
These roles are offered initially for 12months but with the expectation that the successful applicants could retain the positions for up to three years to enable them to experience large scale production throughout all stages of production (contingent on greenlight).
SCOTLAND: The Big Picture is a charity that supports and enables the transformational recovery of nature across Scotland. Our vision is of a vast network of rewilded land and water, where wildlife flourishes and people thrive.
We are a small but agile andprogressive team that works in a spirit of collaboration with many different interest groups to increase the area of land and water committed to rewilding, to return lost or threatened species and to promote rewilding and its benefits for nature, climate and people. Learn more: www.scotlandbigpicture.com
DESCRIPTION OF ROLE
We believe passionately in the power of storytelling to help turn the tide for
nature recovery in Scotland. We create impactful communications that we share
across multiple platforms with a large and diverse audience. Our goal is to
inform perspectives, inspire action and influence change.
We are looking for a dynamic and creative photographer and videographer to
join our team and to expand our influence in the rapidly evolving arena of
Scottish rewilding, or ecological restoration.
You will have at least a basic knowledge of, and experience in, visual storytelling
using both stills and video cameras, although the position will offer extensive
training and introduce you to a wide range of in-the-field experiences. You will
be expected to work remotely and often unsupervised and deliver high-quality
content with creative flair in a wide range of situations.
You’ll be a natural, self-motivated and organised communicator, able to build
strong relationships both internally and across a wide sector of interest groups.
You’ll also be an effective forward planner, able to manage a range of outputs
simultaneously while maintaining a critical eye for detail and design.
You are also likely to be motivated by the opportunity to work as part of a small
team to shape our growth and influence.
The role is on a full-time basis for a 12-month period and would ideally suit
someone based in the Scottish Highlands, although consideration will be given
to applicants based elsewhere.
KEY DUTIES
Photography and videography: Carry out varied photographic and filming
commissions, including the use of UAVs (drones), ranging from wildlife to
landscapes to people. This is a position suited to someone with skills and
ambitions in the photographic journalism sector, as storytelling is at the heart of
our advocacy objectives.
Image/footage cataloguing: You will be required to carry out a certain amount
of office-based work to organise and catalogue your material and that of other
team members.
Video editing: Working alongside other team members, you will be involved in
developing and outputting a range of video material from short trailers to
longer, documentary-style films.
General:
• Attend regular team meetings both digitally and in person
• Attend evening and occasional weekend events, as required within the nature
of the post. * Our administrative base is near Kingussie, Inverness-shire..
Vacancy: Head of Natural History Unit, BBC Studios
The BBC Studios’ Natural History Unit is the leading producer of wildlife programming in the world, creating award-winning, ratings-smashing global content.
Our output ranges from global landmarks (Seven Worlds, One Planet, Dynasties and the forthcoming Frozen Planet II) to children’s programming (Deadly Dinosaurs and Andy’s Adventures), as well ground-breaking travel, adventure, formatted, presenter lead and event programming such as Endangered for Discovery, The Year The Earth Changed for Apple TV+ and the BAFTA winning Springwatch for the BBC.
This is a unique opportunity to lead a world class team as Head of the Natural History Unit and the ideal candidate is someone who has a deep understanding of the unit’s heritage and legacy but has a vision of how to evolve it for the future during a time of unprecedented growth for the unit and the genre.
The Head of the NHU will provide strategic and creative leadership to the executive team and, ultimately, be responsible for the production and development pipeline editorially, strategically and commercially. With the Head of Production and the Head of Commercial for the genre, they will marry a creative vision with a commercial plan.
Proven experience and reputation in the global market is essential – you will need to sustain and nourish relationships across the world, cementing established client relationships and forging new partnerships and you must have a passion to deliver exceptional programming every time.
Working closely with the Managing Director of Factual, Tom McDonald, you will be responsible for delivering a clear, creative strategy for the Natural History Unit bringing your own vision to the opportunities – and the challenges – ahead and have bold, innovative thoughts on how to do things differently to maximise creative opportunity for the unit and its teams.
You will enable the sharing of ideas and create a clear editorial vision for the lifecycle of natural history content across all platforms coupled with a commitment to creating a diverse staff base and supporting diversity onscreen in order to reflect all audiences.
Natural History is a highly competitive market and the new Head of the NHU will need to ensure that the unit is as nimble as possible to match the speed of the industry – an aptitude to adapt, evolve and change according to changing audience appetites will be vital.
The new Head will be an inspirational leader both in the UK and the US. They will develop NHU LA as the NHU’s presence in North America, while also being at the forefront of the move to the new Bristol premises.
Are you aged between 13-24 and have you always dreamt of turning your idea into a film? The time is now.Submit your idea and if you win, we'll turn it into a film for WaterBear and premier it at the 2022 Aegean Film Festival.
This is a chance for you to imagine a better tomorrow by creating an inspiring documentary script about our world. All you need to do is submit your idea. If you win, you’ll be able to turn your vision into a reality with the help of WaterBear’s production team who will produce your documentary, with a budget of up to 25,000. The winning documentary will be premiered at the Aegean Film Festival and distributed by WaterBear.
What’s more, you can all become a part of the growing community of young filmmakers, activists and artists fighting to change the world and join the teams of WaterBear and the Aegean Film Festival.
Vegan Organic Network "Save our Wildlife" Short Video Competition – Call For Entries
1st prize: £500, 2nd prize: £300, 3rd Prize: £200 and more prizes to be announced.
Winning entries will be part of our social media campaign targeting the public and delegates attending COP26 the UN Climate Change Conference being held in Glasgow this November.
Our film competition aims to spread the message that:
To Save our Wildlife we must move to a Plant Based Food System.
Of all mammals on Earth, ONLY 4% are WILDLIFE, 60% are farm animals and 36% are humans.
By adopting a plant-based food system, land used by farm animals can be converted to wildlife habitats.
80 percent of the world’s agricultural land is used for farming animals (livestock farming).
When we remove the farm animals from our food chain, corn and soya fields required for animal feed can be transformed into nature reserves.
World agriculture must move towards “people nourished per hectare”.
Veganic agriculture is green, clean and cruelty free, it uses less land, water and fossil fuel resources than farm animal (livestock) dependent systems and creates a wildlife friendly environment where nature can thrive.
Make a short film and help spread this urgent message to your friends, family, community and to politicians around the world.
Applications now open for the NFTS Science and Natural History MA by NFTS
16 March 2021
Applications are now open for the next intake of the National Film and Television School’s Directing and Producing Science and Natural History MA, starting in January 2022. Generous scholarships and bursaries are available.
The NFTS runs the only MA course of its kind in the UK, designed to fast track you into the industry. Run in partnership with BBC Studios, the course aims to give students the skills and expertise needed to direct science and wildlife productions, the know-how to produce and direct entire shows and the ability, confidence and knowledge to generate and pitch ideas and formats to commissioning editors.
The course includes masterclasses from industry experts, including the world-renowned BBC Natural History Unit, and work experience is available at major wildlife production companies. Our graduates have the opportunity to build a brilliant list of industry contacts and relevant skills for a career as a Producer/Director.
“I definitely feel that the course rewards those who are able to work independently and think on their feet. For all the benefits of working in larger crews at the NFTS there’s certainly something to be said for the more solitary nature of the Science and Natural History MA; it teaches you to become a jack of all trades.” – George Petty, 2020 graduate. George’s graduation film Life on The Rocks, won the Best Emerging Filmmaker category at the prestigious Jackson Wild 2020 Awards, the Newcomer Award at Germany’s Naturvision Film Festival and was selected as a Panda Award nominee in the ‘Emerging Talent’ category at Wildscreen Festival.
“We don’t have time to waste in terms of addressing the climate emergency and I’ve always seen film as a great tool to act as a catalyst for change. The Science and Natural History MA at the NFTS really lets you fully immerse yourself in film for two years while getting to meet and collaborate with other like-minded people in all fields. It’s really helped me gain an understanding of the intricacies of the entire film process from conception all the way through to post.” – John Davies, a current student of the course. John has already had industry success, even before graduating with his first year film, The Flying Gold of Arabuko, receiving a special mention in the Short Film category at the Naturvision Film Festival 2020.
To follow in George and John’s footsteps and #StandOut in the film and television industry, apply at nfts.co.uk by Thursday 6 May ... Later extended until the 7th of July.
First established in 1971 and due to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2021, the National Film and Television School (NFTS) has evolved to become a leading global institution, developing some of Britain and the world’s top creative talent. It is widely acknowledged to be the top school of its kind in the UK and one of the best internationally.
In 2018, the NFTS was awarded both the BAFTA for Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema and the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education. With a graduate employment rate of over 90%, the NFTS runs more behind-the-camera courses than any other film school in the world.
Supported by key industry partnerships, students benefit from world class tuition and an outstanding programme of exclusive Masterclasses. All courses are designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to make an impact in the industry as soon as they graduate.
Production Co-ordinator pool, The Natural History Unit BBC Studios Bristol
Bristol is looking to hear from Production Coordinators who are becoming available over the next few months to work on a raft of exciting new projects in our Natural History Unit
Candidates must have experience of setting up foreign filming, be confident at negotiating rates and raising contracts, and have a good working knowledge of archive and copyright clearance, and reporting.
We would be interested to hear from anyone who has previous landmark experience and experience of organising complex shoots in remote and challenging areas, including aerial and water based filming.
We can offer flexible start dates, varying contract lengths, and career development opportunities.
VMI helping to launch UK’s first Apprenticeship Standard for Camera Technicians
Back in 2019, VMI Managing Director, Barry Bassett, first contacted the TV Industry body, ScreenSkills in order to investigate whether it might be possible to set up a formal apprenticeship standard for UK Camera Rental companies. The idea was that this programme would include a high level of training in order to enable school leavers to enter our industry and at the end of the programme, become fully-trained camera technicians with a full-time job.
After 18 months of work and planning, the new “Camera Tech” Apprenticeship Standard was finally approved in February 2020 ready for its first intake in the spring of the same year and then COVID struck…
Clearly, with the TV Industry so badly affected by a universal shutdown in shooting during the Spring and Summer of 2020, subsequent months have seen temporary recoveries followed by multiple setbacks but at last the green shoots of recovery look in sight, so with some trepidation, it now looks likely that we can expect our first intake of apprentices to occur this year after all.
There is a lot riding on the success of the first cohort of apprentices, since we hope that this will become a regular route for school-leaver-entry into our industry. As a result, we have been keen not to rush this through and risk it floundering due to weak interest from rental companies still concerned about the fallout from COVID but we have renewed confidence of a successful Summer/Autumn 2021 start after all...
Cosponsored
by The Nature Conservancy, this year’s theme is “Your Favorite Wild Animal” and the
celebration will be held during the DC Environmental Film Festival, which takes place from March
18 - 28, 2021.
This competition is free to enter and includes five categories for worldwide
submissions:
K-8
High School
College/University
Nonstudent
DC/Maryland/Virginia K-8
The winner in each category will receive a cash prize and recognition at DC-EFF and on the CEF and Nature Conservancy websites.
The Eco-Comedy Video Competition exists to promote the use of comedy to engage audiences.
Around 30% of animal and plant species are at risk of extinction, according to the Red List released in December, which is an inventory of threatened species maintained by the International Union of Conservation and Nature (IUCN). Raise awareness about your favorite wild animal through the power of comedy.
BBC Studios launches accelerator program for assistant producers
BBC Studios, the commercial arm of the BBC, has launched the application process for its Assistant Producer Accelerator Program.
The initiative will offer 14 year-long contracts to researchers looking to “supercharge” their careers by becoming assistant producers.
Successful candidates will be provided with the best-in-class bespoke training and mentoring as well as a job placement in the genre in which they excel in order to make the career transition. Key genres will include documentaries, entertainment, factual entertainment, science and the National History Unit.
The scheme will offer placements throughout all BBC Studios Production bases from around the UK, including in Bristol, Cardiff, Glasgow, London and Salford.
Candidates from such underrepresented groups as the LGBTQ+ community, those with a disability, ethnic minorities, lower income groups, and different backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
The application process will be open for seven weeks – closing on Jan. 31, 2021 – with an expansive outreach program and several open house briefings in the form of ‘Open Day’ Zoom sessions and one-on-ones.
Studio Silverback is building a new team to create a 12x20’ series on climate change to be broadcast worldwide online.
The series will film through 2021 and will be broadcast towards the end of the year ahead of COP26. This highly ambitious series has been commissioned by a leading tech company to reach a big global audience with the stories of those impacted by climate change and the people creating the most inspiring solutions.
We are looking for a Series Producer (preferably part time), 2 X Producer/Directors and an Assistant Producer. The successful candidates will, at their respective levels, have excellent, proven experience of uncovering new stories, organising complex shoots and delivering impactful sequences that cover both the human and natural worlds.
The PDs especially must have excellent, international field experience, a journalistic talent for finding stories on the move and experience of directing high quality sequences, managing interviews and working with talent. Experience with capturing sound, flying drones and filming with high-end cameras will be advantageous. Driving licence essential.
The aim is for all contracts to start in January 2021 (with some flexibility to start later if needed) and last until November 2021.
Please email your CV to Elly Salisbury on jobs@silverbackfilms.tv Closing date for applications is 6th January 2021.
If you don’t hear back from us by 30th January, please assume that on this occasion you have not been successful in being shortlisted for interview stage.
Studio Silverback are an inclusive employer and particularly welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and under represented groups.
Toronto-based Documentary Visual Researcher, Gina Cali, is looking for 4K footage of Hedgehogs in the UK ... in gardens, road kill and walking along UK roads. HD is potentially acceptable too.
She is also looking for drone visuals over Nottinghamshire and footage of blackbirds.
We are looking for contributors to send us recordings of the wind, for inclusion in a digital
recreation of a sound sculpture by artist Mike Blow.
Description
We are creating a web-based version of the work Aeolus’ Cabinet (2015) by Mike Blow. The
original work is based on a vintage index card cabinet which has been modified and is
exhibited as a sonic sculpture. When each of the drawers is opened it triggers a recording of
the wind to play from within it. There is a different wind sound for each drawer and it is
possible to play multiple sounds simultaneously to create unique compositions. Each drawer
is labelled with the name of the wind it ‘contains’.
The online work will be a virtual 3D model / game of the original cabinet, accessible through
a web browser, that will operate in the same way as the real thing. Each of the virtual
drawers will be assigned a wind recording sound. Opening the drawers will trigger the
sounds, and display information about the recording and a bio of the contributor.
As the pandemic has limited opportunities for showing the original work we have secured
funding to make an online version of the cabinet. This exciting opportunity will allow us to
broaden the scope of the project by:
involving collaborators from around the world by asking them to send recordings of
the wind for inclusion in the project,
supplementing the wind recordings with extra information such as location, details
and photos about the wind and the recording, and a biography of the person who
submitted the recording,
reaching a larger and more diverse audience than with the physical object.
What we are looking for
A good quality sound recording of the wind, around 5 minutes in length and in wav
format. Recordings of famous winds (see here, or here) with names are especially
desirable. The direct actions of the wind on objects is perfectly acceptable; whistling
around buildings or through trees, making flags flap or boat rigging sing, leaves
skittering along the ground, and so on.
A single-paragraph description of the recording; where it was recorded, the name of
the wind or storm if it has one, any story connected with the recording.
The name and a photo of the recording site if you have one, and/or a latitude and
longitude location.
A single-paragraph bio.
Payment
For the recording / information as specified above, we will pay:
100 gbp (UK pounds) for an existing recording that you already have in your
collection
250 gbp plus reasonable expenses for a special trip to capture a specific wind. We
are especially interested in ‘named’ winds, e.g. Mistral, Chinook, Ghibli, Freemantle
Doctor etc
All submissions will be checked and we reserve the right to reject any that are deemed
unsuitable (e.g. in terms of content or quality).
How to be involved:
If you would like to contribute to the project or have questions, please email Edmund
Harcourt ed@hogarthproductions.co.uk with details about the recording you would like to
submit.
Oxford Scientific Films are looking for an highly organised Production Coordinator, or experienced Production Secretary looking to step up, to join a fantastic team for a 9 month contract starting ASAP.
We are looking to build a dynamic and diverse team to make an exciting new four-part factual series for a major SVOD platform.
The role will be mostly working from home for the time being with the option to be in our London office part time when necessary, then in a studio for a few weeks in early 2021.
The ideal candidate will have the following experience/skills:
• Comprehensive knowledge of setting up shoots in foreign locations,
including organising visas and carnets
• Studio filming experience inc. knowledge of art dept/props
• Recent knowledge of filming under COVID-19 guidelines
• Dealing directly with contributors
• Organising camera equipment, negotiating with kit houses
• Knowledge of post-production workflows and schedules
• Creating risk assessments and call sheets
• Managing paperwork and data storage throughout the production
• Completing post-production paperwork for multiple commissioners
• Full driving licence
Plimsoll Productions look for Production Co-ordinators for an exciting brand new commission!
Plimsoll is looking for experienced PRODUCTION COORDINATORS to start between November and February for initial contracts of 6-24 months.
We have several opportunities for some super Co-ordinators coming up in our NATURAL HISTORY department – working with some amazing teams for US & UK broadcasters and streamers.
You’ll need foreign filming experience in Natural History, Specialist Factual, or Adventure Documentaries, and will possess excellent logistic skills and multi-tasking capabilities. We use PMI, so experience preferred but not essential.
Please send your CV, availability and rate to production.careers@plimsollproductions.comClosing date: 4 December 2020 We welcome applications from under-represented groups.
Due to the number of applicants, we can’t respond to everyone, so if you haven’t heard from us in 2 weeks, you have not been selected this time. Thanks for your application and please see facebook.com/plimsollproductions for future opportunities.
BBC Studios NHU is looking for a Junior Camera Operator for a BBC One Landmark series
BBC Studios Natural History Unit (NHU) is acknowledged as the leading maker of television and radio programmes on wildlife and natural history anywhere in the world. This is for an ambitious new NHU major landmark project for BBC1 delivering in 2023.
All wildlife content is acquired from freelance operators; there are no BBC staff positions in this category.
Consequently, on completion you will be released to compete on the freelance market for work, either from the NHU or elsewhere. This opportunity is aimed at those with sufficient relevant skills and experience to enable rapid progress to full professional competence.
You will need to include a link to your showreel as part of your application. In addition to this, complete sequences will be advantageous.
*Please note if you do not include a link to your showreel we will not consider your application*.
The BBC NHU runs a 12 month Junior Camera Operator scheme that aims to develop an emerging camera operator by providing experience for them working alongside existing experts in their field and increasing their ability to operate at the very highest level of natural history filming.
After the success of previous schemes we wish to select a further position to embed with the production team of a major landmark Natural History series. Capturing in UHD and making use of cutting-edge camera technologies, this is an exciting opportunity to learn about the latest wildlife production and photographic processes as well as preparing work in the production offices, advising, testing and prepping kit as well as providing assistance and shooting in the field.
You must be able to provide evidence of highly proficient camerawork, and ideally have broadcast or corporate credits.
Wildlife TV & filmmakers everywhere - we need your help!
We’re in the middle of a climate and biodiversity crisis but our business is also booming.
Please vote in FF:W’s Big Discussion to help build a picture of what we as an industry want our wildlife tv programmes to achieve and how we go about making them at this critical time.
Currently around 100 people have voted -THANK YOU if that includes you -but we need at least over 200 to build a more meaningful picture. It's a quick yes/no/pass on existing statements and we encourage you to add your own for others to vote on.
We’re using a system called Pol.is - a ‘real-time system for gathering, analysing and understanding what large groups of people think in their own words, enabled by advanced statistics and machine learning.’
The more voters we get the more accurate the picture we'll build of current attitudes within the industry and you can see some of the interesting results developing already.
Example yes/no/pass statements you can vote on currently include:
‘I am frustrated by the inefficiency of multiple productions filming the same sequence’
‘
I know where to learn about best practice on how to communicate effectively about the climate and ecological crisis’
‘Programs are getting harder and more expensive to make as the climate crisis makes wildlife behaviour less predictable’
Once we’re over the threshold we’ll be generating a report to share and help inform how we might tackle these issues going forward, encouraging collaboration across production companies.
We’d love your input, whatever department, level or location, we need all perspectives. Please share widely with your wildlife tv/film friends and networks. Thank you.
Filmmakers for Future: Wildlife is a grassroots community of Bristol based wildlife filmmakers with two main aims:
1 – to collaborate on ways of reducing the environmental impact of wildlife filmmaking
2 – to encourage content that raises awareness of the climate and biodiversity crisis, and which inspires real change
If you’d like to know more or are interested in joining please check out our website, thank you.
Wildlife film-maker in Pennsylvania/New York region wanted!
A US-based film-maker is looking for a wildlife film-maker who can capture a few beautiful shots of a Pennsylvania winter, for inclusion in a drama.
So, if you're based in/around the Pennsylvania/New York region and are looking for a few days work, please get in touch asap.
Archive footage request from Madelaine Westwood for a COVID: Pandemic film
Born Free and Nutshell Productions are producing a short film about the effects of a pandemic on humans and wildlife, with the aim of changing behaviours that could prevent any new pandemic in future.
As Born Free, along with other charities, have had fundraising badly affected by the current situation I wonder whether owners of related footage would be willing to donate it to this important film.
The categories we seek are:
Pandemic - ambulances, hospital wards, patients, people wearing face masks, closed venues, headlines
Globalisation - airports, ships, docks
Pollution - plastic in seas, oil spills, destruction of forests, palm oil plantations, orang-utan, bush fires
Wildlife trade - animals in cages, wet markets, bats clustered in cages, captive apes or pangolins
These are not definitive lists - any related material will be considered.
I am happy to answer any questions that you may have. I can be contacted at madelaine@nutshellproductions.co.uk Thank you very much for your support.
BBC Studios NHU are looking for a Bristol-based Development Producer
Job introduction
The Development Producer will create and develop the best natural history ideas for broadcasters across the planet. Working in close collaboration with the Head of Development they will originate ideas and move the slate forward with drive and creative vision.
The post-holder develop projects independently, which fit the overall strategy for the Natural History Unit with the aim of securing numerous commissions. They will write treatments, cut promos, negotiate access, liaise with talent and pitch ideas.
They will provide editorial support to the team; in areas including the development of commissioned projects, research of content to support ideas and helping to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the development slate.
Role Responsibility
Lead the development of successful pitches in response to commissioning briefs.
Implement the development strategy alongside the Head of Development.
Proactively undertake research to identify and develop new ideas/materials and new on screen talent.
Sourcing content and developing high quality programme treatments and pitch documents.
Pitch ideas to various commissioners and partners.
Develop editorial judgment and skills by supporting the editorial team with current developments.
Tracking all projects on the slate and any new developments.
Organise materials and facilitate development initiatives - brainstorms, away-days, workshops, etc.
To act as an ambassador promoting the Natural History Unit both within and outside of the BBC.
Develop and nurture new diverse development talent in the natural history genre.
Manage teams members work loads and priorities.
Are you the right candidate?
Proven experience in the generation of ideas that have resulted in commissions, and proven experience in running a successful team that has generated commissions.
Strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate administration systems.
Ability to work unsupervised, exercising initiative and assessing priorities but referring issues upwards where appropriate.
Excellent administrative and organisational skills
Knowledge of key onscreen talent and new talent within the genre, with ability to develop strong working relationships with talent and agents.
An awareness of the financial consequences of editorial decisions. Good knowledge of the budgeting and cost implications of natural history filming.
A broad based knowledge and a familiarity with conventional and specialised sources of information and research techniques.
An understanding of and the ability to interpret editorial intentions, and to contribute to the generation of ideas and the resolution of script problems.
Experience of handling confidential and/or controversial information with tact and sensitivity.
An enthusiasm and interest in popular entertainment. A broad passion for television, short form and radio.
Excellent people skills.
Sound awareness of individual creative approaches, with an understanding of how to manage different styles in order to get the most out of people.
Proven expertise in returnable factual format business.
Ability to develop and manage a wide range of complex internal and external relationships.
Broad natural history knowledge and sound understanding of the external trends and forces within the genre, with good knowledge of commercial opportunities.
Understanding of the global market, trends and opportunities.
An ability to balance budget challenges with maintaining world-class reputation.
A respect and understanding of the BBC audiences.
An appreciation of the impact of the digital trends and the effect it is having on the way in which audiences consume BBC content.
Excellent pitching skills, practiced in using different pitching styles and methods and production of must-have sizzles.
Programme making experience is preferable, or an awareness of how productions work.
Understanding of building relationships and winning business from terrestrial and subscription channels beyond the BBC.
Ability to write and produce high quality and visual treatments and proposal. Experience of In Design and Premiere would be an advantage.
Technical Producer Wanted by Wildscreen (Freelance late August - October 2020)
Wildscreen are looking for an experienced, driven and technical producer to support our small, dynamic and ambitious team deliver the 2020 Wildscreen Festival Virtual Edition.
Work with us
Position: Wildscreen Festival - Technical Producer
Location: Remote working, potentially required to be in central Bristol during 19-23 October
Contract: Freelance late August - October 2020
Fee: Fixed fee of £6,000 (approx 34 days @175 per day)
The Role
We are looking for an experienced, driven and technical producer to support our small, dynamic and ambitious team deliver the 2020 Wildscreen Festival Virtual Edition.
Wildscreen is seizing the opportunity for evolution in light of the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the reimagined virtual event will be the most accessible Wildscreen Festival to date, with more people than ever before being able to tune in to its ground-breaking content and benefit from the events unrivalled networking opportunities.
The online edition of the Festival will include everything that our international industry expects, including keynotes, masterclasses, sessions, commissioner meetings, film premieres and screenings with director interviews, and a new programme of one-to-one meetings.
Panda Award submissions and Official Selection films will also be available over a three-month period between 17 September to 16 December, accompanied by all the industry content released during the Festival week itself which takes place from 19-23 October 2020.
The Technical Producer will take ownership and responsibility for the technical planning, delivery and execution of the virtual Festival, supporting the Festival team and our freelance content producers to deliver an amazing, seamless industry programme.
Deadline for applications: Thursday 13 August 2020 at 5pm.
In honour of World Mangrove Day on July 26th 2020, the Mangrove Action Project is hosting its 6th annual Mangrove Day Photography Contest.
The contest helps to raise the profile of mangrove forests and inspire conservation action.
This year, the competition will be judged by four renowned conservation and National Geographic photographers – Cristina Mittermeier, Steve Winter, Octavio Aburto, and Jennifer Hayes.
NB. The closing date for entries is 24th July 2020, at 11.59 pm GMT.
NHU Landmark Producer pool, BBC Studios Bristol
BBC Studios Natural History Unit is developing several new landmark productions following on from the recent success of Seven Worlds, One Planet and Primates.
They are looking for a number of experienced and enthusiastic Landmark Producers to become part of a pool to be appointed as and when work starts on the new projects.
Each Producer will be highly creative and organised, with excellent storytelling skills, visual flair and the ability to take an innovative, ambitious and imaginative approach to delivering outstanding content. They will have a clear and committed understanding of the constraints of budget and be a very good team player. The role includes involvement at every stage of the production process including research and pre-production; location and/or studio filming; and post production.
Discovery Channel links with Explorers Club on $1 million scientific grant
American pay-TV network Discovery Channel has partnered with The Explorers Club, a non-profit world leader in exploration, to launch a grant that will fund “the next frontier of explorers.”
The Explorers Club Discovery Expedition Grant will consist of a US$1 million fund dedicated to advancing “significant exploration and scientific discovery.” The program will allow explorers to share their scientific findings and discoveries across an array of scientific journals, as well as via Discovery Channel’s linear and digital platforms.
Selected finalists will be chosen by an independent panel of accomplished explorers, researchers and academic scholars, in conjunction with The Explorers Club and Discovery.
Interested parties may find the pre-application process here.
New Scottish competition is launched for musicians who are in tune with nature
A new Scottish national contest is being launched, calling on musicians of all genres – whether rock, rap, folk, classical or anything in between – to show their love of nature by writing music inspired by the coasts and waters of Scotland’s beautiful nature reserves.
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and Feis Rois have partnered up on this first-ever competition for Scotland to inspire people to connect with nature through music.
The competition, called In Tune with Nature, will be judged by a panel of well-known faces from the Scottish music industry – including Julie Fowlis, Vic Galloway and Karine Polwart – and is part of the celebrations for the Year of Coasts and Waters.
Entrants aged 16 and over are invited to compose a piece of music inspired by one of 10 national nature reserves across Scotland.
Winners will receive a £500 cash prize, as well as the opportunity to take part in live performances throughout the year. Every winner will also make a film on the nature reserve which inspired their music with a professional film-maker.
Filmmaking story tellers of the natural world are invited to take advantage of this unique opportunity to pitch their planned project to a board of commissioners, producers and distributors at the PITCHING SESSION of the International Wildlife Filmfestival GREEN SCREEN 2020.
To participate, the following must be submitted:
An Exposé, describing the project should be described, including approximate shooting time, locations and the people involved.
A short CV.
An approximate budget idea.
If available, a trailer or other footage.
The Pitching Session itself is open to the public and follows international rules:
The presentation of your project may take up to seven minutes.
After that the attending experts and decision makers are invited to evaluate the project and, if applicable, to express their interest.
If you are interested, please contact Pitching directors Annette Scheurich and Udo Zimmermann via pitching@greenscreen-festival.de.
The sooner we know who plans to pitch, the better, even if not all documents are ready.
A pre-selection panel will select 6 to 8 participants for the pitching session from the submitted projects by 1st August 2020.
Some of the projects that have been presented in recent years are now in production! Participation is in any case an enriching experience!
As the promotion of emerging talent in naturefilm has always been a concern of GREEN SCREEN, submissions by newcomers and ambitious young filmmakers are encouraged. Please feel free to spread the word!
See you at GREEN SCREEN in Eckernförde!
September 09th-13th 2020
Footage Wanted of Arctic Wildlife for an International Co-production!
Producers of a film about polar bears, an international co-production, are looking for footage of polar bears hunting seals and footage of seals inside an agloo (seal den).
After two years on concrete blocks, undergoing a transformation into the world's most advanced (and coolest) research vessel, OceanXplorer is floating. This is a major milestone for a vessel of this size. Soon, it will be on its way to explore the Indian Ocean with National Geographic and BBC Studios, and we're seeking a Digital Producer/Editor to live aboard and tell the story from the field.
Research and develop multiple story ideas for digital distribution based on working concepts and themes for OceanX and BBC’s upcoming series for National Geographic
Assist with the booking of characters for multiple stories across the series
Support the Executive Producer with the management of pre-production budgeting, scheduling, and other logistical items (e.g., creation of pre-pro books, travel, releases, as well as support on prod slate updates)
Support the creation of pitch decks for the digital content for the upcoming National Geographic series
Help the Executive Producer with other special projects (e.g., creation of standard tools and templates), as needed.
Footage Wanted of Panama Rainforest Wildlife for Climate Change Doc!
Producers of a film about Climate Change, which will first telecast on a Canadian broadcaster, are looking to license footage in HD or 4k footage of the following species:
Baird’s Tapir
Wandering Tapir
Jaguar (in Panama only)
Giant Anteater
White-lipped Peccary
Tapir in rainforest
The story is set in the Panama Rainforest - but they will consider any footage of the species shot in their natural environment.
We are looking for 1 Junior PM to work on Eden, a new mini landmark Natural History series.
Start date: Jan 2020 to approx. Nov 2020 to cover filming period. This may be extended according to production requirements up to 12 months.
Interviews are expected to be held w/b 16/12/19
BBC Studios Natural History Unit is embarking on a spectacular BBC One landmark production following on from the recent success of Seven Worlds, One Planet and Blue Planet 2. We are looking for a number of experienced and enthusiastic Producers to work on this major ground-breaking project.
Each Producer will be highly creative and organised, with excellent storytelling skills, visual flair and the ability to take an innovative, ambitious and imaginative approach to delivering outstanding content. They will have a clear and committed understanding of the constraints of budget and a be a very good team player. You will take responsibility for one or two programmes. The role includes involvement at every stage of the production process including research and pre-production; location and/or studio filming; and post production.
These roles are subject to greenlight. Please be aware we will be interviewing for these roles the week commencing Monday 16th December so please ensure you are available prior to completing an application.
BBC Studios Natural History Unit produces a range of technically challenging live shows, features based documentaries and super-landmark series such as Blue Planet II, Springwatch, Deadly Dinos and The Natural World.
The role will be based in Bristol but you may be required to travel to locations across the UK. In general normal office hours will apply however, the nature of the role means that a flexible approach to working time will be necessary.
Edit Assistant, NHU Landmark Expedition, BBC Studios
BBC Studios, Natural History Unit is looking to recruit a Technical/Edit Assistant for Mission Ocean X (working title) a six part series commissioned by National Geographic.
BBC Studios Natural History Unit is embarking on a spectacular BBC One landmark production following on from the recent success of Seven Worlds, One Planet and Blue Planet 2. We are looking for a number of experienced and enthusiastic Assistant Producers to work on this major ground-breaking project.
These roles are subject to greenlight. The interviews are expected to commence the beginning of January.
Edit Assistant required on NHU Landmark Expedition, BBC Studios Date posted: 04/12/2019 Location: Bristol, England, United Kingdom
BBC Studios, Natural History Unit is looking to recruit a Technical/Edit Assistant for Mission Ocean X (working title) a six part series commissioned by National Geographic.
FROM BBC STUDIOS NATURAL HISTORY UNIT - THE MAKERS OF BLUE PLANET II, WITH OCEANX MEDIA & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER JAMES CAMERON, COMES THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE
Alucia2 can dive deeper, get closer and explore recesses of our seas inaccessible until now. Mission OceanX will capture the whole story of life on-board Alucia2, showcasing cutting-edge science, the thrill of exploration and extraordinary wildlife film-making. Mission OceanX has one goal... to push the boundaries of knowledge at the final frontier on Earth... our Oceans.
Each episode will have a singular, stand-alone mission that holds fast to one common theme... to take away a deeper understanding of our seas than ever before and leave behind a hopeful future. Each mission’s success rests with a cast of scientists, explorers and crew.
Role Responsibility
The role requires a technically proficient person. You'll be expected to manage your own time efficiently and to work flexibly to fulfil the role. You'll need a friendly attitude and a willingness to work co-operatively as part of a team. You should have the ability to assess priorities and adapt to fast changing circumstances and be able to work under pressure to set deadlines. You’ll be required to undertake a range of operational duties and to assist Editors and Post Production as and when required. Establishing and maintaining good management of media, operational and technical standards.
The Ideal Candidate
Efficient management, storage and ingest of all production media
Experience of UHD and proxy workflows and working with non-standard frame rates in a professional post-production environment
Demonstrates a working knowledge of end to end digital workflows
Excellent organisational skills with experience of maintaining detailed technical logs for large volumes of media and the ability to manage own time and workload effectively
Experience in assembling field download kits, and briefing location teams on offload techniques
Diligent liaison with post production houses to facilitate a smooth running media management process and all stages of post from capture to delivery.
Ability to juggle tasks effectively and prioritise requests from different quarters, especially if shooting/post production schedules overlap
Experience of working with both Avid Media Composer and Adobe Premier platforms
An interest in developing editor skills by assisting directors/editors with sequence assemblies, creating promos, trails, and web content.
Demonstrates good editorial judgement in relation to selection and suitability of material
Ideally, applicants should demonstrate a passion and creative thirst for natural history programme making, be a strong team player, and work well under pressure with a calm, unflappable disposition.
This role potentially involves working on location onboard Alucia 2 for some of the expeditions.
If you have an available position/competition/footage request and would like it included here, in Wildlife Film News/promoted on social media, please send all info, including any photo/logo's, to news@wildlife-film.com. For inclution in WFN, please make sure you send prior to the end of the month.
Do contact us if you have any problem contacting the employer or find that the opportunity is not as described or no longer available.
