Wildlife Filmmaking Challenges and Solutions

Karen Bass, the series producer for National Geographic's America series, discusses the challenges and innovative techniques used in wildlife filmmaking. The project aims to capture amazing wildlife stories across the Americas. In Peru, the team faces the challenge of filming without disturbing half a million nesting seabirds. They use a mobile box to approach the birds without causing harm, despite the difficulty and discomfort involved.

What is the main goal of the America series produced by Karen Bass?

• To showcase American cuisine

• To capture amazing wildlife stories across the Americas

• To explore urban life in America

• To document historical events in America

What is a common challenge faced by wildlife filmmakers?

• Securing funding for projects

• Getting permission to film in urban areas

• Locating animals to film

• Finding suitable filming equipment

What unique challenge is faced at PTO San Juan in Peru?

• Presence of numerous nesting seabirds

• Difficult terrain for vehicles

• Extreme weather conditions

• Lack of filming equipment

What is the main concern when approaching the seabirds at PTO San Juan?

• Running out of filming time

• Getting lost in the area

• Disturbing the birds and risking them leaving their nests

• Finding a place to set up camp

What innovative method is used to approach the seabirds without disturbing them?

• Using a box to conceal themselves

• Wearing camouflage clothing

• Approaching at night

• Using a drone

How do the filmmakers move while inside the box?

• They walk normally

• They shuffle along like a turtle

• They crawl on their hands and knees

• They use a remote control

What is the main advantage of using the box method?

• It allows close proximity to the birds without disturbance

• It is very comfortable

• It is quick and efficient

• It is cost-effective

What is the main purpose of the mobile box on legs?

• To transport equipment

• To approach birds without causing disturbance

• To provide shelter from the weather

• To act as a decoy

What is a humorous aspect of the box method mentioned by the filmmakers?

• The box is shaped like a bird

• The box is brightly colored

• They look faintly ridiculous

• The box makes funny noises

What is the filmmakers' reflection on the effectiveness of the box method?

• It was ineffective and abandoned

• It performed very well despite looking ridiculous

• It scared the birds away

• It was too costly to continue