Some Stunning Images

January 24, 2013 Wisconsin Public Television Leave a Comment

Life on Fire has been the surprise hit of the winter…at least on my TV. Not since Planet Earth have I watched with such amazement as the latest camera technology sheds light on the finer workings of our natural world. Narrated by Jeremy Irons (also on Shakespeare Uncovered in February) Life on Fire is a six-part series that explores volcanoes and the effects on the environment around them.

My favorite episode so far has been “The Surprise Salmon.” The narrative follows Sockeye Salmon from the ocean to their spawning grounds inside a volcano’s crater. Crazy as that sounds, the most memorable part of the film occurs at a rapids far from the volcano. Images of grizzly bears plucking salmon from Alaskan rapids are common, but have you seen this natural wonder in slow-motion high-definition clarity? That scene occurs at minute 26, but I recommend you watch every equally interesting bit of this film. And don’t worry about watching episodes out of order. Each is directed independently and focuses on one region or volcano.

If you end up liking the camera work in Life on Fire, read on for two other recommendations.

Oregon Field Guide “Time-Lapse Photography”
I follow Oregon Public Broadcasting on Facebook, and around the New Year they shared the most watched video* from their outdoor travel show, Oregon Field Guide. I watched it twice, putting it on pace to be the most watched video again this year. Watch as award-winning photographer Ben Canales leads a photo-safari to Olympic National Park where he reveals the amazing tricks to getting stunning time-lapse video.
*Editor’s Note: I mistakenly stated that the “Time-Lapse Photography” video was the most watched video. In fact, a time-lapse photo by Ben Canales was the most popular photo posted to the Oregon Field Guide Facebook page. The most watched video in Oregon Field Guide history is a feature on electric drag racing, viewed more than 2.5 million times. That said, both video features are well worth your time.

NOVA “Rise of the Drones”
The technology behind unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs, or as the public calls them, drones) is enough to amaze any person. But the cameras and the computer processors that help filter the terabytes of images are equally amazing. Watch this investigative piece from NOVA to find out what might be hovering over your house right now.

NOVA

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Alyssa Beno

I am the editor of Airwaves, our monthly program guide for members. When I’m not highlighting our incredible programs, I’m pedaling the countryside, hiking at a state park, making soy candles, thrift shopping or hanging out with my husband and miniature schnauzer.

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