The Truth and Legend Podcast

Gerrit shares some of his most rewarding recordings, including yellow-billed loons and barred owls. In this part of the conversation, They discuss the challenges of recording audio in the Arctic, including dealing with bugs and wind. They also talk about the techniques Gerrit has developed for documenting birds and wildlife, including the use of blinds. They discuss the importance of ethical filming and the need to balance conservation with capturing valuable footage. They also touch on Gerrit's work in the National Petroleum Reserve and Isenberg Lagoon, and the efforts to protect these areas. Finally, they discuss Gerrit's company, Tragopan, which produces photography blinds and other equipment for wildlife photographers. In this final part of the conversation, Gerrit and the hosts discuss the different types of blinds used for bird photography, including laydown blinds, one-person blinds, and chair blinds. They also share their experiences with encountering bears while in the blinds. Gerrit mentions his plans to explore the Colville River special area and film raptors and landscapes there. The conversation ends with a discussion about camera gear, including Gerrit's use of Nikon and Canon cameras and Michael's experience with RED cameras.

The conversation touches on the role of social media, particularly YouTube, in showcasing their work. They also discuss the challenges of capturing audio and video in the field. The conversation explores the elusiveness of moose and the fascination people have with them. The hosts discuss the process of creating content and telling stories about moose behavior. They also talk about the naming of individual bulls and the challenges of observing and understanding their behavior. The stages of a moose rut and the infatuation people have with moose are also discussed. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the mystery and complexity of moose. In this conversation, MooseMan and Michael Mauro discuss their experiences with bears and share their techniques for managing and organizing video files. They talk about the importance of naming and categorizing videos, as well as the different approaches they take. MooseMan prefers to organize his videos chronologically, while Michael uses dates and brief descriptions. They also discuss the size of their video libraries and the process of deleting unwanted footage. The conversation highlights the importance of memory and attention to detail when managing video files. They also discuss the coexistence of bears and moose in the wilderness and share humorous anecdotes. The conversation concludes with MooseMan and Michael expressing their gratitude and appreciation for their experiences and the opportunity to share their videos with others.

Lee also talks about the challenges and rewards of leading trips to Yellowstone National Park. In this part of the conversation, Lee Hoy discusses the highly admired workshop leader Lisa Langell and the challenges and rewards of being a tour guide. He also talks about the importance of diversifying and adapting in the workshop industry. Lee shares his thoughts on the demands of being a workshop leader and the value of hard work and honesty in photography. He emphasizes the importance of practice and learning from failure, as well as the benefits of shooting vertical and getting composition right. Finally, Lee discusses his process and philosophy behind his YouTube channel. In this conversation, Lee Hoy discusses the importance of field craft and composition in photography. He emphasizes the need to learn and master these skills to capture better images. Lee also talks about teaching photography techniques and his desire to help others improve their skills. He shares his experience with understanding the circadian rhythm of natural light and using tools like the live graduate neutral density filter. Lee expresses his passion for creating a photography show that is educational, entertaining, and inspirational. He believes in the value of authenticity and hard work in photography and encourages photographers to embrace their failures as opportunities for growth. Lee also discusses the rise of authentic content on YouTube and the potential for creating cinematic educational content.

Doug emphasizes the importance of camera experience and problem-solving skills in filmmaking. He also discusses the diverse wildlife and habitats in South Carolina and the opportunities they provide for filming. Additionally, Doug talks about the use of drones and new probe lenses in his work and shares his experiences filming prothonotary warblers in nest cavities. The conversation covers various themes related to wildlife production and photography. The topics discussed include problem solving and pre-production work, creating a disturbance-free environment for wildlife filming, networking and building relationships in the industry, developing story ideas, marketing oneself as a story developer, the challenges and success of producing a TV show, balancing production quality and budget constraints, the potential of YouTube and online platforms, the future of wildlife production and workshops, and the challenges of filming in extreme conditions. Doug and Michael discuss their experiences with camera equipment and problem-solving techniques while filming in extreme conditions. They share stories of overcoming camera overheating issues and the creative solutions they devised to keep their equipment cool. They also discuss the potential impact of Nikon's acquisition of RED cameras and the future of the industry. Doug emphasizes the importance of teaching and sharing knowledge through his YouTube channel and workshops.

Eric shares his recent birding trip to Homer, Alaska. He discusses the challenges of filming birds in noisy environments and the difficulty of finding specific bird species. Eric also talks about photographing sea otters and the impact of ice on wildlife photography. Additionally, Brandon and Michael share their experiences on a wild horse photography trip and the challenges they faced in snowy conditions. In this part of the conversation, Brandon and Michael discuss their experiences exploring the wild horses and sage grouse in the area.

TakeawaysAI video generation technology is becoming increasingly advanced and can create realistic videos that are difficult to distinguish from real footage.Effective workflow and data management systems are crucial for managing large amounts of data in photography and filmmaking.Living in New Zealand offers unique opportunities for wildlife photography, with diverse bird and reptile species.Interacting with wildlife, such as whale sharks and great white sharks, can be thrilling but requires caution and respect for the animals.Taking necessary safety precautions is essential when encountering wildlife, especially in regions with venomous snakes and other dangerous species. Photographing wildlife in Australia offers unique opportunities to capture stunning shots, but it also comes with challenges such as encountering venomous snakes.Writing and publishing a book requires discipline, dedication, and the ability to adapt to unexpected challenges.Alaska is a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to observe and photograph bears and other wildlife in their natural habitats.Meeting fellow wildlife photographers and enthusiasts in remote locations can lead to unexpected connections and shared experiences. A boat-based trip to Alaska offers incredible opportunities for wildlife photography, including the chance to film wolves.A good bag is an essential piece of gear for traveling, as it can greatly enhance the overall experience.Bug nets and sunscreen are important for protecting oneself from insects and the sun while out in the field.Memorable wildlife encounters, such as seeing wolves and eagles, can leave a lasting impact on photographers.Choosing the right lens for video is crucial, and having a versatile range can allow for capturing a variety of shots.A reliable camera bag is essential for protecting gear and ensuring it is easily accessible during photography trips.Taking precautions to protect gear from dust and moisture is important, especially in dusty or humid environments.Planning future photography trips and exploring new locations can keep photographers inspired and motivated.Photographing eagles can be a rewarding experience, and understanding their behavior can lead to better shots.Closing remarks and expressing gratitude for the conversation and the opportunity to share experiences.

TakeawaysBirding clubs and communities provide opportunities for people to connect with nature and explore urban environments.New Jersey is a biodiverse state with various habitats that attract a wide range of bird species.Unusual bird sightings, such as white ravens and rare ducks, generate excitement and interest among birders.Filming wildlife documentaries in 3D requires careful planning and post-production work to create an immersive viewing experience. AI can be a valuable tool in productions, making tedious tasks easier and filling in gaps in cinematography.While AI can assist in certain aspects of filmmaking, it cannot replicate the creativity and nuance that humans bring to the process.There is a need for increased diversity in wildlife filmmaking, with efforts being made to promote the inclusion of women and underrepresented groups.Building networks and connections is crucial in the industry, as it can lead to job opportunities and collaborations.Creating a unique reel that showcases storytelling skills and a distinct perspective can help filmmakers stand out in a competitive industry.Taking control of one's career and actively pursuing personal projects can lead to greater fulfillment and opportunities. Explore podcasts and books on various topics, including wildlife, science, history, and AI.Take action to protect and conserve wildlife and the environment.Consider the ethical implications and regulation of artificial intelligence.The future of wildlife filmmaking should incorporate educational components and have a positive impact.Watch 'The Velvet Queen,' a thought-provoking film about the process of filmmaking and the importance of patience and stillness.

The conversation explores the themes of trading time for money, feeling stuck in monotony, and the desire for a different lifestyle. It delves into finding passion and making a living, breaking free from traditional career paths, and discovering fulfillment in work. The speakers discuss the importance of finding happiness and balance in life, taking time to pause and reflect.

James discusses how he is using his time during the slow period to hone his skills and work on personal projects. He also talks about the shift towards human interest stories in wildlife filmmaking and how the industry is craving more stories that connect humans to the planet. James shares his experience of overcoming his fear of being in front of the camera and the importance of staying active and relevant in the industry. He also talks about his Emmy-winning series 'Island of the Seawolves' and his favorite species to film. James discusses the challenges and failures he has faced in wildlife filmmaking and the gear he uses, including the Z CAM. He shares his plans for his YouTube channel, which include sharing his experiences and teaching wildlife cinematography. Finally, James talks about the importance of storytelling in wildlife filmmaking and the need to protect and conserve our planet. The conversation covers various topics related to content creation, including the challenges of creating content, the benefits of working with a team, the editing process and tools, the importance of outsourcing and delegating tasks, and the role of AI in content creation. The speakers also discuss the importance of learning from mistakes, the role of thumbnails and titles in attracting viewers, the impact of AI on storytelling, and the appeal of raw and organic content. They also touch on the future of AI in the film industry and the shift towards authentic and imperfect content. The conversation concludes with a discussion on content strategy and the enjoyment of content creation. In this conversation, the topics discussed include monetization and finding your voice on YouTube, the comparison between YouTube and Hollywood, the potential of YouTube as a platform, the importance of the algorithm and consistency, the challenges of succeeding on YouTube, and the massive audience that YouTube offers.

They discuss data storage and backup methods, including the use of NAS (hardware), Shotput Pro (software), and Disk Catalog (software). The importance of organizing and cataloging footage is emphasized, with the mention of Chronosync (software) as a tool for creating identical backups. The benefits of color coding files and naming footage by camera are discussed. The podcast concludes with a discussion on when to delete files from memory cards. Finally, Michael, Eric, and Brandon discuss their favorite shots from their GoPro footage, including an underwater American Dipper shot and a bear encounter.

He talks about the challenges of camp management on film shoots. Evan also highlights his time on the Summer Arctic shoot and the valuable lessons he learned from the team. In this part of the conversation, Evan discusses his experience joining an amazing crew of filmmakers and photographers. He shares how he learned the art of filming and the importance of storytelling. Evan also talks about encountering the elusive Stellar's Eider and the excitement of capturing rare shots. He reflects on his journey into photography and the realization that all cameras are essentially the same. Evan shares his love for the Arctic and the significance of the region for wildlife. He recounts being left behind in the Arctic and making the most of the experience. Evan also discusses his passion for flying and the valuable lessons he has learned from experienced pilots. He highlights the challenges and rewards of living and working on a boat in remote locations. Finally, Evan talks about the unique lighting in Alaska and its impact on photography and filming. In this conversation, Evan shares his experiences filming in the Arctic and the challenges they faced, including a tsunami warning. He discusses the preparations they made and the lessons they learned from the experience. Evan also talks about his future plans and offers advice for young people interested in pursuing similar careers. Additionally, he highlights the importance of stabilized binoculars for wildlife observation.

In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics related to shooting in snow, adjusting exposure, color grading, and future plans for the podcast. They share insights on metering off snow, dealing with clipped highlights, and the challenges of shooting in snowy conditions. They also discuss the importance of professional color graders and the subjective nature of color grading. The hosts consider the possibility of having guests on the podcast and seek input from the audience on potential topics. They also mention upcoming video ideas and merchandise, including posters. The conversation concludes with a discussion on exposure concepts and engaging with the audience.

In this conversation, Michael describes the perfect situation he encountered, where a mama bear and her cubs were feeding on a caribou carcass near Sable Pass. The location provided a safe and accessible spot for wildlife photography. The mama bear created an island of safety by digging gravel in the river, protecting her cubs from potential threats. Michael discusses the equipment he used and the challenges he faced. He also reflects on the permit system and the impact of the experience. In this part of the conversation, Michael shares his recommendation for exploring Denali National Park with a bike. He also discusses the resources he used in the past to find photography inspiration, such as photo clubs and magazines. The conversation then shifts to lessons learned from early photography trips, including the importance of never stopping shooting and the challenges of planning and preparation. The hosts also discuss the idea of creating a merchandise store and upcoming photography trips. In this conversation, Brandon and Michael discuss the process of creating a short film and how to capture the essence of a trip or conservation message. They also explore the idea of collaborative storytelling and the benefits of working with a group of people. They conclude with some housekeeping and future plans for their projects.

They discuss the challenges and possibilities of camera traps and the importance of weatherproofing. In this part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the challenges and experiences of photographing in small Alaskan communities, using camera traps to capture wildlife footage, and filming American dippers. They also delve into the complexities of managing storage for wildlife photography and offer insights into improving workflow and storage solutions. The conversation covers topics such as networking and data storage, bird count updates, video settings for wildlife shooting, the reintroduction of wolves in Colorado, and wildlife protection and bear spray.TakeawaysImpulsive purchases can lead to unexpected adventures and experiences.Loyalty programs can be a valuable way to reward customers and build brand loyalty.Camera traps offer unique opportunities to capture wildlife behavior.Weatherproofing and proper setup are essential for successful camera trapping. Photographing in small Alaskan communities provides a unique opportunity for capturing wildlife footage without the fear of theft or disturbance.Camera traps are a valuable tool for capturing elusive wildlife behavior and can provide unique perspectives.American dippers are fascinating birds that live in water environments and have unique behaviors that make them challenging to photograph.Managing storage for wildlife photography can be a complex task, requiring careful organization and backup systems.Improving workflow and storage solutions can enhance efficiency and productivity in wildlife photography. Networking and data storage are crucial for managing large amounts of video footage.Bird counts provide valuable information about bird species and populations.Choosing the right video settings for wildlife shooting depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.The reintroduction of wolves in Colorado has sparked debate and raises questions about wildlife management.Bear spray is a common and effective deterrent for wildlife encounters.

Takeaways * Attending bird conferences and events can provide inspiration and new ideas for conservation efforts. * The new community feature on YouTube allows for additional engagement and sharing of content. * Pro tips can enhance outdoor adventures and improve wildlife filming techniques. * Sharing knowledge and experiences is important for learning and improving in various fields. Capture wildlife behavior by studying animal patterns and using magnetic fields. * Use Angelbird CF Express B - https://amzn.to/47ZtSn3 cards for efficient and reliable storage. * Use music to inspire creativity and enhance the mood of your footage. * Organize your gear with Tenba cubes - https://amzn.to/3NvYZy6 for easy access and efficient storage. * Consider using the DaVinci Resolve Speed Editor - https://amzn.to/48fuYKU for faster and more efficient editing. * Reflect on your work and set goals for improvement in the coming year.

The Truth and Legend Podcast is a companion to the hosts' wildlife photography and cinematography YouTube channel. The hosts transitioned from corporate jobs to pursue their passion for wildlife photography and cinematography. GoPro cameras can be used as effective camera traps to capture wildlife behavior. The moose rut is currently in progress, with various stages of behavior observed. Filming in remote locations comes with challenges such as clearance issues and last-minute jobs with tight deadlines. Having reliable gear is crucial for successful filming in challenging environments. Hiking uphill at the end of the day can be physically demanding and challenging. Editing videos can be a complex process that requires attention to detail and storytelling skills. Preparation and attention to detail are key to successful filming. Shooting scenic shots can be challenging but adds depth and beauty to videos. Portrait photography can be rewarding but also comes with its own set of challenges. Editing your own work helps identify areas for improvement and enhances your skills. Finding reliable crew members can be difficult but is crucial for successful video production. Sharing behind-the-scenes stories and engaging with the audience is important for building a connection and seeking feedback.

The conversation covers various topics related to bird sounds, birding experiences, and YouTube channel growth. The chapters include discussions on bird calls and displays, the Merlin app and eBird, rare bird sightings, the Big Year competition, the intersection of birding and photography, and the anxiety and excitement of posting YouTube videos. The conversation also touches on the process of editing videos and the importance of feedback and critique. In this final part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the challenge of finding what's interesting to viewers and how to capture it on film. 

The Truth and Legend Podcast is a companion to the hosts' wildlife photography and cinematography YouTube channel. The hosts transitioned from corporate jobs to pursue their passion for wildlife photography and cinematography. GoPro cameras can be used as effective camera traps to capture wildlife behavior. The moose rut is currently in progress, with various stages of behavior observed. Filming in remote locations comes with challenges such as clearance issues and last-minute jobs with tight deadlines. Having reliable gear is crucial for successful filming in challenging environments. Hiking uphill at the end of the day can be physically demanding and challenging. Editing videos can be a complex process that requires attention to detail and storytelling skills. Preparation and attention to detail are key to successful filming. Shooting scenic shots can be challenging but adds depth and beauty to videos. Portrait photography can be rewarding but also comes with its own set of challenges. Editing your own work helps identify areas for improvement and enhances your skills. Finding reliable crew members can be difficult but is crucial for successful video production. Sharing behind-the-scenes stories and engaging with the audience is important for building a connection and seeking feedback.

The Truth and Legend Podcast is a companion to the hosts' wildlife photography and cinematography YouTube channel. The hosts transitioned from corporate jobs to pursue their passion for wildlife photography and cinematography. GoPro cameras can be used as effective camera traps to capture wildlife behavior. The moose rut is currently in progress, with various stages of behavior observed. Filming in remote locations comes with challenges such as clearance issues and last-minute jobs with tight deadlines. Having reliable gear is crucial for successful filming in challenging environments. Hiking uphill at the end of the day can be physically demanding and challenging. Editing videos can be a complex process that requires attention to detail and storytelling skills. Preparation and attention to detail are key to successful filming. Shooting scenic shots can be challenging but adds depth and beauty to videos. Portrait photography can be rewarding but also comes with its own set of challenges. Editing your own work helps identify areas for improvement and enhances your skills. Finding reliable crew members can be difficult but is crucial for successful video production. Sharing behind-the-scenes stories and engaging with the audience is important for building a connection and seeking feedback.