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/
Team Bean had an incredible experience filming in the coastal waters of the Galápagos Islands, testing out our fins in one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet.
These waters are home to countless rare species, including the elusive white-tip reef sharks and the endangered Galápagos penguin, making every dive an adventure.
We felt so fortunate to have the chance to explore and document this extraordinary place—it was truly a highlight of 2024.
#TeamBean #GalapagosIslands #MarineLife #CoastalEcosystems #UnderwaterFilming #BiodiversityHotspot
One year ago, our crew found themselves sailing through the middle of the Southern Ocean, en route to Antarctica.
It was one of our favourite assignments to date—being thrown into such an unknown, untamed landscape was humbling and inspiring and pushed us to grow, not just as filmmakers, but as individuals. Capturing the beauty of wildlife and an environment few have experienced was unreal.
The experience was full of challenges and beauty, leaving us with unforgettable memories and a deeper passion for what we do.
#SouthernOcean #Antarctica #Filmmakers #RemoteLocations
Earlier this year, our crew camped in the Knysna Forest while filming our documentary Elephant Alone.
We delved into the history of this ancient forest, where hundreds of elephants once roamed, discussing the bittersweet reality that only one remains today through fascinating stories and little-known facts shared by the locals we interviewed.
After a long day of shooting, we’d gather around the campfire, reflecting on what we’d learned. Those evenings became a big part of the documentary itself—us, as a crew, learning and grappling with the same questions as our audience.
Should new elephants be reintroduced to restore the forest’s legacy, or should the last elephant be left to live out its days in solitude, marking the end of an era? The experience left us all deeply connected to the story and to one another.
#ElephantAlone #KnysnaForest #SpillTheBeans #BTS
While on assignment at Sabi Sands, our crew captured this wildlife sighting.
A massive hippo was lounging in the water, its tiny ears almost comical against its huge body. In the background, a leopard rested on the riverbank, looking perfectly at ease.
As we filmed, the hippo emerged from the water, opening its mouth wide in that signature hippo style. It’s these everyday moments in nature that always leave us in awe.
#Hippopotamus #SabiSands #OnAssignment
Team Bean had the opportunity to greet the wild horses roaming near Ushuaia, Argentina.
They are a resilient group with an intriguing history, descended from settlers’ horses who braved the wild life at the edge of the world. Over generations, they’ve adapted to the chilly winds and tough terrain, growing thick coats and sturdy frames to keep cozy. They’re part of the unique spirit of Ushuaia, adding a wild charm to the landscape at the “end of the earth.”
#BTS #SpillTheBeans #WildHorses #Ushuaia #Argentina
Join us with a behind-the-scenes look at our crew on assignment in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where we documented the illegal wildlife trade that’s taking a toll on the region’s wildlife.
Elephants, rhinos, and pangolins are some of the most vulnerable species, relentlessly targeted by poachers to satisfy the demands of the black market. It was shocking to see the national park’s vaults filled with confiscated ivory and bags overflowing with pangolin scales, a stark reminder of the urgent threat they face.
But there’s a reason to feel hopeful. Over the last decade, Garamba National Park has seen incredible changes, thanks to the tireless work of anti-poaching units and organisations like African Parks. Their dedication is helping to turn the tide, offering a renewed sense of hope for these magnificent animals and the future of their habitat.
#SpillTheBeans #BTS IllegalWildlifeTrade #IWT #DRC #GarambaNationalPark #AntiPoaching #AfricanParks
Over the weekend our very own Oli Caldow got married!
It was such a joyful day - where friends and family gathered to celebrate Oli and his now wife, Lee.
James was the best man (of course) and together with his best man speech, he had a video made to showcase some of the best moments we have had with Oli over the past decade.
@oli_caldow & @lee__caldow - we wish you both a very happy marriage and we love you both dearly x
Thank you @rainheart_777 for the video.
The Black Bean crew takes a breather, turning into coffee enthusiasts on the roadside.
Oli and Sacha, bound for the expansive plains of the Great Karoo, savour a quick coffee break amidst the quiet stretch. When it comes to early mornings and endless highways, coffee becomes more than just a beverage—it’s the unsung hero of any shoot.
#BTS #SpillTheBeans #MiddleOfNowhere #CoffeeBreak #GreatKaroo
Earlier this year, our crew had the incredible opportunity to visit Penguin Island, a small, rocky landmass off the coast of the Antarctic Peninsula known for its scoria cone.
Witnessing its unique landscape was truly amazing. The volcanic eruptions that formed the island may have disrupted the environment, but such natural disasters often create opportunities for new ecosystems to emerge.
As the landscape evolves, it supports new plant species and provides habitats for wildlife, contributing to the resilience and biodiversity of the area, even in such a harsh climate.
#BehindTheScenes #PenguinIsland #Antarctica #VolcanicLandscape #ExploreAntarctica
