National Geographic Incredible Animal Journeys

Cinematographer Talks Tech and Wildlife Conservation

- By Lindsey Feth

An escort whale answers the call of a dying whale that is tangled in rope. (National Geographic for Disney/Kim Jeffries)

The extraordinary adventures of the natural world are celebrated in the National Geographic series Incredible Animal Journeys. Hosted by Jeremy Renner, the show captures animals going on epic migrations that are dangerous but necessary. From the icy terrains of the Antarctic to the deep Pacific Ocean, Incredible Animal Journeys illustrates the strength and determination of diverse species on our planet.

(National Geographic for Disney)

Innovation & Tech Today had the opportunity to speak with Kim Jeffries, the cinematographer and underwater camera person whose work is in the “Ocean Odysseys” episode of the upcoming series. This specific episode partly follows the fascinating journey of a humpback mom leading her newborn calf across the Pacific, risking it all for the next generation.

Innovation & Tech Today: How has tech evolved in wildlife filmmaking, and what role do you think it plays in capturing animal activity, especially for a series like Incredible Animal Journeys?

Kim Jeffries: Without all this tech, we wouldn't be able to capture a lot of these things. We're using technology that allows us to be completely silent in the field, such as low-light technology. We actually did use that in the humpback whale sequence when we were shooting close to dusk or dawn.

A humpback whale spins on its ascent to the surface. (National Geographic for Disney/Kim Jeffries)