Documentary Filmmaking: Engaging with Wildlife

What makes a wildlife film truly engaging? Is it simply the beauty, drama, and unpredictability of the natural world, or does our own way of looking shape what we find compelling?

In this session, we will explore the process of documentary filmmaking, from the fundamentals of conventional filmmaking to the unique challenges and possibilities of wildlife filmmaking. We will look at the questions that emerge during research and development, the process of working with wildlife subjects, and the ethical considerations involved in representing and filming animals in their natural environments.

Beyond the technical aspects, the session will invite us to examine how we engage with wildlife. What does it mean to observe without disturbing?
Where do curiosity and intrusion begin to overlap? How do we recognise and respect the natural boundaries of wildlife, particularly when animals share our increasingly urban spaces?

Through these questions, we hope to better understand how to respectfully interact with wildlife, and how media can influence our expectations.

📅 11 September 2026
🕒 Time: 6:30 – 8:00 PM

About the presenter: Bhavani is a 23yr old, who recently completed her Masters of Arts in Film & Television. She is based in Switzerland and is currently pursuing media production within Documentary.