Africa behind the lens
Tell us about you, Dani.
I am an Assistant Producer/Director and I've been working in the Natural history television industry for 7 years. I have worked for many broadcasters including the BBC, Nat Geo and Apple. I have spent most of my film shoots within African countries including Kenya, Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa.
What is the best thing about filming in Africa?
It's difficult to choose one thing! I love the food and the local people but the best thing for me about filming in Africa are the amazing landscapes. Every African country I have visited has been so different, from mountains to sand, every time you arrive it's just mind blowing. I love the ever changing landscape, from the big skies to the epic thunderstorms.
What challenges do you come across whilst filming in Africa?
I have filmed in both the day and the night, in a vehicle and on foot, which are all totally different experiences. The majority of our challenges come with understanding the animal's behaviours, so we are in the best position to be able to capture the action. With this comes great planning and of course great drivers!
Safety of my team is of the utmost importance so lots of preparation is done months before we even visit the country to film. That along with the odd camera breakdown, vehicles getting stuck in mud or water, every film shoot brings new challenges.
What has been the most memorable project you have worked on?
The first ever project I worked on, I was fortunate to visit Kenya and spend 4 weeks filming lions and zebras. For me this is the most memorable as it was my first taste of Africa. The days were long, we were filming out for 12-14 hours a day, which is standard. The great thing about this is we really get to know all of the larger animals quite personally and by the end you don't want to leave. I have seen small lion cubs grow over a month and have also witnessed both interesting and surprising behaviours.
Do you work with local people whilst filming?
Every time I have been in Africa I've always worked with local people. From the drivers and guides to the people that work within the camps, they all become part of the filmmaking family. We share experiences with them on a daily basis, trust them to keep us safe and get us from A to B. It's always great to see everyone's happy faces after a long day!
What are you working on next?
I am currently working on a new wildlife series and for now that is all I can share ;)
Do you have a favourite national park and why?
I really love Naboisho conservancy in Kenya. With one of the best places to view lions, not as many people and amazing rocky landscapes, it's a rugged and beautiful place with amazing views. You can peacefully watch lion, leopard and cheetah and it has an amazing selection of smaller wildlife including many birds. Some of my favourite include the owls.
What do you love most about Nyayo magazine?
What I love most about Nyayo magazine are the personal stories. This is something other travel and culture magazines lack. It is great to see stories from local people's perspectives, whether that's protecting the last male Rhino to climbing Kilimanjaro, it's great to get stories from the guides, rangers and local people. It reminds me of the stories I share with the many local faces that I get to work with.
For me Nyayo's design is beautifully simplistic, which allows you to breath and feel a sense of calm.
Favourite sundowner?
I love Amarula, whether it's ice cold or in coffee. For me it's the perfect end to the day. Everytime I return from Africa, that is what comes home with me as gifts!
Interview with Dani Godwin