Are there any pre-requisites for applicants
Students attending the course should have a genuine interest in documentary filmmaking and a passion for wildlife, animal behaviour, conservation and the environment. No experience or academic qualifications in camera-work or editing are needed. A basic understanding of computers is preferable and all lectures are given in the English language. There is no age restriction, but you should have an open mind and enjoy teamwork. Before the course starts, you will be sent information on the location, and you should start to develop an idea for your 3 minute film that you will make during the course relevant to the location you are based at.
What Equipment is provided?
You will be given access to camera equipment, including Sony HVR-Z1E HDV cameras, Sony PD 170, Canon XL2, tripods, location sound equipment and editing suites (Apple iMac and Final Cut Pro).
Are there Internships Available
Internships within production companies in general are popular and therefore competitive, but especially so in the wildlife filmmaking industry. They are granted according to aptitude and skill, regardless of age and usually involve voluntary work in exchange for gaining experience. The Wildlife Film Academy course offers a level of training that makes students more attractive to production companies who seek interns with wildlife filmmaking knowledge. The Wildlife Film Academy has established a number of contacts with production companies, who have agreed to consider internships for some students after the course. Although they cannot be guaranteed, the Wildlife Film Academy will assist you to find internships in the industry.
What are the employment prospects
It depends on the talent and drive of the individual concerned. The course provides an ideal opportunity for aspirant filmmakers to achieve a good grounding in all aspects of wildlife filmmaking which will prove attractive to any potential employer. You will gain the right contacts, training on how to market yourself, and creative skills to develop you in the right direction to make you more suitable for employment in the wildlife filmmaking industry.
What are the Facilities like?
Students stay in shared canvas rooms (2 students of the same gender per room) on raised platforms interlinked by walkways, which have an en-suite shower and toilet. Each room is equipped with fans but there is no air-conditioning. Three meals are served daily and include an early morning snack, light brunch and a delicious dinner. There’s a boma for campfires, a swimming pool and communal area. There are no banking facilities at the reserve, no internet access and no cellphone reception. It is a good idea to bring snacks such as crisps or nuts for the month as they cannot be purchased at the reserve.
Do I need a visa to enter South Africa
You can enter South Africa on a tourist visa for three months. Please contact the department of Home Affairs at www.home-affairs.gov.za for further information. The Wildlife Film Academy can provide a letter to assist with your visa application, if needed.
How do I contact you?
For any other questions please do not hesitate to email us on info@wildlifefilmacademy.com