Company:
Blast Films
Client:
Channel 4
Services Provided:
DOP Services, Camera Package
About
Secret Life of the Zoo Chester Zoo | Award-Winning Observational Documentary
Capturing Chester Zoo on Screen
Secret Life of the Zoo Chester Zoo is an award-winning observational documentary series filmed at the UK’s most popular zoo in Cheshire. The programme uses specialist cameras and innovative techniques to capture animal behaviour in stunning detail. Clever narration ties the stories together, giving audiences a unique look at both the animals and the dedicated zoo keepers.
Tomorrow’s Creative on the Chester Zoo Documentary
In 2018, Tomorrow’s Creative proudly supported Blast Films on season 8 of Secret Life of the Zoo Chester Zoo. We supplied an experienced Director of Photography (DOP) to film on location throughout the summer. Working with the production team, we ensured the documentary’s visuals reflected the humour, drama, and natural beauty of life at Chester Zoo.
Filming the Observational Documentary Series
The Chester Zoo documentary required a variety of filming techniques. Our DOP captured everything from towering giraffes to tiny insects. At times, this meant waiting in a custom-built hide for hours to catch the perfect shot. As a result, the series gives viewers a truly authentic window into animal behaviour.
Specialist macro photography was also used during the Chester Zoo filming. For example, one sequence focused on spiders, revealing how the female consumes the male after mating. These striking moments, rarely witnessed in such detail, helped cement the series as one of the UK’s most popular natural history documentaries.
Why Secret Life of the Zoo Chester Zoo Stands Out
The observational documentary remains a favourite because it combines cutting-edge filming with powerful storytelling. Viewers see the daily lives of animals in unprecedented detail. In addition, they gain a deeper appreciation for the work of zoo keepers and the importance of conservation.
Work With Us on Your Next Documentary
👉 At Tomorrow’s Creative, we provide Directors of Photography, camera operator services, and documentary filming crews for productions across the UK. From natural history filming to observational documentaries, our team has the skills to bring your story to life. Get in touch via our contact page to find out how we can support your next project.
Kit we provided
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Sony FS7 -
Canon 100mm Macro -
Canon 70-200mm