Worksheet for Planet Earth Documentary Series
Mr. Patricia
The "Planet Earth" crew has captured images of the planet that have never before been seen. How did
they slowly float above the canopy of the Amazon rainforest? How did they film a snow leopard hunt
on a near-vertical face of a Pakistani mountain range? How did they catch a great white shark leaping
from the ocean to kill a seal? More than 70 camera people worked seven-day weeks all over the world
to put together "Planet Earth." The smash-hit BBC version was narrated by acclaimed British
broadcaster David Attenborough.
Exercise:
While viewing these documentaries, I would like you to take notes. For homework, I want you to
construct a 2 page paper (typed, double spaced, size 12 font using Times New Roman). DUE
MONDAY The paper should be based solely on the experience from the cinematographer's point of
view. As a filmmaker for the “Planet Earth” documentary, think about and construct a paper with the
following thoughts in mind. Your paper should be named, “The day in the life of a Planet Earth
cinematographer.” Discuss your thoughts about their life and many of the challenges that they faced
during production.
1. Camera crews endured conditions that many living things can't even survive, often for long
periods of time away from any human contact. The "Planet Earth" team gave new meaning to
the expression "suffering for your art."
2. A major challenge the crews faced was in the quarters they shared. Huts and tents became their
home away from home.
3. Aside from the weather and the housing, the crews also withstood dizzying heights and
dramatic depths.
4. In creating "Planet Earth," the filmmakers wanted to capture images that had never been filmed,
shoot in locations that no cameraman had ever been to and use equipment in new and
innovative ways.
5. Underwater cameramen dove through the ice of Lake Baikal, the world's deepest lake at nearly
one mile, to capture scenes of the ocean-like life underneath. The lake was so cold, boiling
water was poured over the air tanks and regulators to keep them from freezing mid-dive.
6. Poisonous plants, predatory animals and harsh weather were just a few of the dangers the
"Planet Earth" production faced. Getting the shot is important, but keeping everyone safe from
harm is paramount.