Mike Gunton’s Wildlife Filmmaking Journey with iBestTravel
The BBC’s Planet Earth series has been educating us on the wonders of the natural world since 2006. Hosted by Sir David Attenborough, the show has taken us from the depths of the world’s deserts to the peaks of the highest mountains, allowing viewers to explore the richest wildlife our planet has to offer. As Planet Earth III finally premieres, we chat with series producer Mike Gunton about his experiences working on this iconic show and his favorite places for wildlife watching.
Four Decades of Nature Documentaries
Mike reflects, “I’ve been working in this industry for four decades. I didn’t start making natural history documentaries, but rather my own short films focused on social commentary. A random moment of fortune led me into natural history filmmaking, largely thanks to the opportunity to work with David Attenborough.”
“It has been an honor to work within the BBC’s Natural History unit. Our programmes deliver an extraordinary quality of imagery and storytelling that resonates globally, and I’ve collaborated with many of the best minds on remarkable projects that have graced our screens.”
Incredible Locations and Amazing Encounters
When asked about the most amazing place he’s visited during his work, Mike shares, “Choosing one is incredibly difficult! Filming a large species of lemur, the Indri, in Madagascar was unforgettable. Their striking appearance and haunting calls are still vivid in my memory. Additionally, flying over the Namib desert and witnessing hundreds of pitcher plants in the Madagascan rainforest left a lasting impression.”
The Challenges of Filming
“The duration spent in each location varies significantly,” he notes. “Some shoots last mere days while others may take months, depending on numerous factors like species, behavior, and the type of sequence required. The collaborative effort with local guides and scientists enriches our understanding of the habitat and the species we’re documenting.”
“Physical and emotional resilience is crucial; being away from home for extended periods can be tough. However, the rewards of capturing the intended shots make the effort worthwhile.”
Wildlife Encounters and Personal Experiences
One of Mike’s notable moments was encountering an irritable male rhino in Namibia. “I accidentally woke him, and we were equally startled. Fortunately, there was no harm done, just a huge rush of adrenaline!”
Moreover, being amidst the Indri lemurs in Madagascar remains his most memorable nature encounter, a testament to the beauty of wildlife.
Working with Sir David Attenborough
Mike describes Sir David as a supreme broadcaster, saying, “His legacy is monumental, both personally and professionally. Working with him is a masterclass in storytelling and wildlife conservation.” He recalls a memorable filming day in Kent, where the team captured breathtaking visuals against stunning natural backdrops.
The Future of Planet Earth III
“The upcoming series showcases our planet through a unique lens, highlighting the profound impact of humans on nature and how animals adapt to our changing world,” Mike explains. “With awe-inspiring visuals and powerful messages of hope, the series showcases nature’s resilience and our capacity for innovation.”
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
For those looking to enter wildlife filmmaking, Mike emphasizes the importance of immersion in nature. “Understand animal behavior, shoot as much as you can, and seek feedback. Collaboration and communication within a team are key to success in this industry. Keep exploring, asking questions, and remain persistent!”
Must-Visit Places for Nature Lovers
If Mike had to recommend a few locations for travelers, they would be the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica, Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, and the Zambezi River.
Planet Earth III airs for eight consecutive Sundays starting from Sunday, 22 October 2023 on BBC One and iPlayer.
