2023 has been an incredible year for the Wild Island Film School. Every student has been a joy to work with. As always, the Isle of Mull has thrown every imaginable weather day at us. From high winds and flash flooding to heatwaves and stunning, cloudless skies. Whatever the weather, the landscapes and backdrops of
Back in 2021, Harry Nixon signed up for the residential wildlife filmmaking course on the Isle of Mull. Harry had visited the island back when he was a child with his parents. He was interested in working in television and wanted to know if the Wild Island Film School could help him in any way.
Wherever appropriate, I encourage students to put themselves in their films. This often means questioning why they’ve come to Mull and the real reason behind making a film. Year after year, the answers are increasingly personal and can often surround challenges of confidence and self belief. Storytelling is self expression and whether you physically appear
A friend recently commented on one of my student’s films. He thought it was brilliant, but asked “what did the student do?”. This was because the student appeared throughout the film, so it looked liked I had made the film for him. I was really taken aback and the comment stayed with me all evening.
I am happy to announce the 1 day Wildlife Filming Experience on the Isle of Mull. This is a one-to-one experience where you can try your hand at filming nature and wildlife under safe guidance. Try out broadcast quality cameras and learn fieldcraft. Have a unique adventure absorbing the nature around you. A real adventure
I was longing for a return visit from my migratory Spotted Flycatchers friends. Like everyone, I’ve become accustomed to cancelled visits due to the pandemic. The summer was late starting, after a cold snap in spring – the garden was quieter than usual. The world felt vulnerable. I’ve never taken wildlife for granted. Having shared
We have just completed our last 2019 course on the Isle of Mull. October saw Sean and Adam joining us at our base cottage on the island. Prior to their arrival we had worked with them via email to develop their concept ideas, progress to storyboarding and creating shot lists. This is a vital stage
Brian travelled up from Wales to join the February Isle of Mull, wildlife filming course. He joined one other student, Ruth, a dentist also from Wales. Brian is a retired teacher and loves taking nature photography, so naturally wanted to have a go at filmmaking with his DSLR. This is Brian’s film. As a musician,