Black Bean Productions

A while ago, team bean travelled to Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya for a shoot we’ll never forget. We had the rare and humbling chance to see and film the last three northern white rhinos—Sudan, Najin, and Fatu. Witnessing them up close was a powerful reminder of just how fragile their existence had become. Since then, Sudan, the last male of his kind, has passed. Now, only Najin and Fatu remain, and their future is uncertain. They’re part of hundreds of local extinctions happening around the world—species disappearing because of habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, leaving behind gaps in ecosystems we’re only beginning to understand. #OlPejeta #NorthernWhiteRhino #Conservation #LocalExtinctions

Seals, with their gentle eyes and playful nature, are a vital part of our oceans. There are 36 species found across the world, but nearly one-fifth of them are endangered. Climate change is shrinking the sea ice they rely on, while commercial fishing threatens their food supply and puts them at risk of entanglement. If we don’t act now, these incredible marine animals will continue to struggle. Supporting conservation efforts, pushing for sustainable fishing, and tackling climate change can make a real difference. This Seal Day, let’s come together to protect our seals and their ocean home. #SealDay #WorldSealDay #ProtectOurSeals #MarineConservation #ClimateAction

Forests are one of our strongest defenses against climate change. They store carbon, keep our air clean, and support countless animals, plants, and communities. Their rich soil helps grow food, their trees provide shelter, and their roots prevent erosion. But forests are disappearing fast, and with them, everything they sustain. Now is the time to act. Whether it’s supporting conservation efforts, planting trees, or protecting the forests we have left, we all have a role to play. This Forest Day, let’s work together to make a difference. #ForestDay #InternationalDayOfForests #ProtectOurForests #Reforestation #ClimateAction

Oli shares how patience can lead to unexpected moments in wildlife filming. On assignment in Garamba National Park, while filming a troop of baboons across the river, a hippo unexpectedly entered his frame—a shot captured simply because he remained still. By waiting, he demonstrated how a simple scene can transform into something beautiful as animals move naturally through their environment. This approach not only delivers authentic footage but also builds a deeper connection with wildlife. In the end, the best shots often come to those who are willing to wait. #BTS #SpillTheBeans #Filmmaking #WildlifeFilming

While our final films may appear seamless, the reality is far from easy—we navigate unpredictable weather, language barriers, delayed flights, and the challenges of filming in remote locations. Every assignment is an opportunity to hone our craft, deepening our planning, refining our narrative, and evolving our unique style with every shoot. Over the past 13 years, these experiences have enriched our films and shaped us as filmmakers. Despite every obstacle we face on the ground, we’d do it all again because each challenge fuels our passion for storytelling and reminds us why we love what we do. #SpillTheBeans #Filmmaking #BehindTheScenes #FilmmakingChallenges

This World Wildlife Day, let’s remember that protecting nature isn’t just about saving animals and ecosystems —it’s about securing our future too. Our planet’s health and our own well-being are deeply connected, and investing in wildlife conservation means investing in a better world for everyone. With so many species at risk, now is the time to take action, support sustainable solutions, and ensure that both people and wildlife thrive together. Every effort counts—because when nature flourishes, so do we. Get involved, support conservation efforts, and be a voice for wildlife—because the future of our planet depends on what we do today. #WorldWildlifeDay #InvestInPeopleAndPlanet #WildlifeConservation #PeopleAndPlanet

While out in the bush, @jamessuter spotted his favourite spider resting on its web. The golden orb spider is the largest known web‐spinning spider and makes the largest orb webs—in fact, large enough and strong enough to accidentally catch small birds. Their silk is incredibly strong—so much so that, weight for weight, it can be even tougher than steel! These arachnids, native to southern Africa, craft intricate webs using several types of silk from special glands. Not only do their clever webs catch all sorts of flying insects, helping to keep nature in balance, but they also serve as a reminder that even the smallest creatures can have a huge impact on the environment. #BehindTheScenes #GoldenOrbSpider #BushWalk #Arachnids #SpiderSilk

With their distinctive black-and-white stripes—nature’s own fingerprints—zebras are among the most remarkable animals on Earth. They roam the African grasslands in close-knit herds, playing a vital role in the ecosystem alongside elephants, lions, and countless other species. But as wild spaces shrink, so does their freedom. If we want to keep zebras wild and thriving, we must protect the lands they call home. This Zebra Day, let’s stand up for conservation and ensure these incredible animals always have room to roam free. #ZebraDay #ProtectWildSpaces #RoamFree

Back in 2015, while filming for @singita_ at their Lebombo villa, we had one of those once-in-a-blue-moon moments—we came face-to-face with the “White Lion of Satara.” Born in 2014, this rare lion was part of a pride that roams the Singita concession, and its striking white coat, caused by a recessive gene, made it truly unforgettable. White lions like this are incredibly rare in the wild, with believed to be fewer than 20 remaining. In African mythology, it is believed that white lions were the sons and daughters of the Sun God and were gifted to man. It was one of those experiences we will never forget. #WhiteLionOfSatara #Singita #Lebombo #RareSightings

Education is the first step in inspiring the next generation to love and protect wildlife. The @grumetifund is making this possible by supporting young people in the communities around the Serengeti with scholarships, mentorships, and hands-on learning opportunities. From improving English skills to empowering girls through confidence-building programs, these efforts give students the tools they need to succeed and follow careers that make a difference. By investing in education, the Grumeti Fund is not just shaping brighter futures for these kids but also for the wildlife and ecosystems they’ll grow up to protect. #EducationForConservation #FutureWildlifeGuardians #GrumetiFund #EmpowerThroughEducation #WildlifeEducation

We had such an amazing time creating this video for Cheetah Plains, a luxury safari lodge that truly redefines the safari experience. This shoot was extra special for us at Black Bean because, for once, our directors and their kids got to step in front of the camera instead of working behind it. It was such a fun, memorable experience—combining family time with the breathtaking beauty of the African bush. We loved capturing the essence of Cheetah Plains: its elegance, exclusivity, and deep connection to nature. #CheetahPlains #SustainableTravel #FamilyAdventure

2024 | Our Year in Reflection As we reflect on 2024, we’re filled with gratitude for the incredible stories we’ve had the privilege to tell. From the icy landscapes of Antarctica to the open plains of Tanzania, this year reminded us why we’re so passionate about filmmaking, conservation, and the meaningful connections we make along the way. Take a moment to watch our “2024 - Our Year in Reflection” film and read the blog to see how your support has helped bring these stories to life. Thank you for being such an important part of our journey! #2024Reflection #YearInReview #FilmmakingJourney #MeaningfulConnections #OurYearInFilm #StoriesThatMatter #BehindTheScenes2024 #ConservationFilmmakers https://blackbeanproductions.com/2024-our-year-in-reflection/