Natural History programmes

[Pecker]

In the midst of much discussion about thed relative merits of HD, the one thing everyoned appears to be in agreement about is the quality of natural history programmes like 'Planet Earth' and 'Great British Summer'.

Even comments about the BBC's Preview loop always end up praising the shots of waterfalls and elephants more than just about anything else.

So, why is the picture on these programmes so good compared to everything else?

Steve W

[Starburst]

Probably becuase they don't have DP's or Directors who are shooting for mood or effect as you do in movies and television entertainment. Natural History tends to lean towards clarity and detail to make the most of the wonders of nature unless conditions (night shooting, underwater etc) limits what they can do.

[Pecker]

I think you're right.

Additionally, iif you asked a lot of people what the best looking PQ is that they've seen on TV, they might well come up with something from a natural history programme.

Many of us might go on holiday to the Lake District and go "WOW!" at a beautiful view of a mountain or waterfall, where as we wouldn't say that at the view of someone drinking a pint in a pub.

Scenic things look great, irrespective of the definition.

It's clear from a number of documentaries about these programmes that the camermen are extremely dedicated to their work, and are given a great degree of freedom of time to set up and wait for shots. This will also improve the PQ.

Most (though not all) shooting conditions are condusive to good PQ (bright daylight in Africa - lots of time to set the shot up). Unlike a TV drama shot on a set with artificial lighting.

Steve W