7 November 2006
Filming in the jungle is a challenge at anytime, especially when there are kids and animals involved. Luckily the shoot was in the tree tops above Australia Zoo in a purpose built tree house full of well behaved animals under the very competent control of Bindi Irwin.
Bindi is the host of Bindi The Jungle Girl, an animal adventure series for kids and adults alike. Surrounded by lizards, koalas and a noisy bird, Bindi introduces stories about animals from around the world featuring Steve, Terri, Wes Mannion and Bindi herself.
Producer/Director John Stainton hired Suzi Lucas to record sound and Craig Lucas as DOP.
John wanted snappy, energetic handheld camera work for all the tree house segments. Craig tested and then purchased an EasyRig 2.5 from Lemac to achieve the mobility and control needed for the shots. The EasyRig transfers the weight of the 970 digi-beta to the operator's hips and with an LCD monitor on top, the camera is easy to operate all day at Bindi's eye level. The EasyRig is suitable for all broadcast cameras around the 8 to 12kg weight including HD cameras. If needed, a light weight autocue can be fitted with minimal effect to the balance or operation of the EasyRig.
Six episodes were shot in July, seven more in November with another thirteen planned for 2007.
Bindi The Jungle Girl will premier on Animal Planet in 2007.
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