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Behind the Lens: Filming for When Whales Walked: Journeys in Deep Time

Working as a cinematographer for the PBS documentary When Whales Walked: Journeys in Deep Time was an unforgettable experience that brought together my love for wildlife storytelling and conservation. This documentary delves into the evolutionary history of some of Earth's most iconic creatures, including whales, birds, elephants, and crocodiles, unraveling how these species adapted and flourished over millions of years.

The Crocodile Segment: A Journey Through Time

For this production, I had the privilege of capturing aerial, underwater, and terrestrial footage for the crocodile segment. One of the most exhilarating aspects of the shoot was diving into the gin-clear underwater Aven cave system to film scientists uncovering an extraordinary range of fossils. These included the remains of the extinct elephant bird and, most incredibly, the skull of an ancient horned crocodile.

Exploring the submerged caves was both a technical challenge and a privilege. The caves, with their stunning visibility and haunting beauty, were a time capsule from Madagascar’s ancient past. Filming the discovery of the crocodile skull was a highlight—a moment that offered a tangible connection to the prehistoric world and a reminder of how much life has changed and adapted over millions of years.

Returning to a Source of Inspiration: The Sacred Lake of Anivorano

Another deeply meaningful moment of this project was returning to the Sacred Lake of Anivorano in northern Madagascar, a location with a profound connection to my journey as a filmmaker. This lake was featured in one of David Attenborough’s early BBC documentaries, on Zoo Quest. Watching that episode along with other episodes in the series on Madagascar as a young, up-and-coming filmmaker inspired my first journey to Madagascar and ignited my passion for exploring and documenting the natural world.

Standing on the shores of the Sacred Lake, retracing the steps of a broadcasting legend, was both humbling and deeply motivating. Filming here felt like coming full circle in my career, reinforcing my commitment to conservation storytelling.

The lake holds great cultural significance for the local community, who believe its crocodiles are sacred ancestors. This reverence has inadvertently contributed to the species’ protection, demonstrating how traditional beliefs can align with conservation efforts.

A Deeper Message

Crocodiles are living links to the prehistoric world, embodying resilience and adaptability. This theme resonates throughout the documentary, offering a powerful reminder that understanding the past can help us navigate the present and safeguard the future of our planet’s biodiversity.

Being part of this production was an honor, allowing me to combine my technical expertise with my passion for storytelling and conservation. I hope the film inspires audiences to appreciate the interconnectedness of life on Earth and the urgent need to protect its extraordinary diversity.

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