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The Overview
In a race against time to protect endangered rhinos, Icily TV was tasked with documenting Ezemvelo Wildlife’s high-stakes dehorning operation in the
Hluhluwe-Umfolozi game reserve. Supported by Stihl, this mission aimed to safeguard rhinos from poachers by removing their horns before they could
be targeted and taken out. With a very short window, Icily TV’s small, nimble team had to capture footage under extreme conditions,
all while keeping the process seamless for the Game Capture Unit.
The Challenge
Ezemvelo Wildlife’s Game Capture Unit was working under immense pressure. With a tight timeline to dehorn rhinos before poachers could act, the team was handling up to 50-60 rhinos per day. In this high-stakes environment, every minute counted. It was vital that Icily TV were documenting the process without interfering with the operation. The team needed to stay fast and flexible as time was of the essance in this project as we had to work alongside helicopters, which had costly flight times, making efficiency even more critical all while battling throught an extremely hostile terrain that is filled with thick bush, wild animals and many other hazards.
The Solution
To meet these demands, Icily TV deployed a lean, 2-person team, each handling multiple roles, including both video and audio. We used a minimalistic
camera setup to avoid interfering with the Game Capture Unit’s workflow.
The Blackmagic Pocket range of cameras provided the ideal solution—lightweight, durable, and capable of high-quality, run-and-gun shooting. We equipped them with small, lightweight cine lenses and with the built-in cmaera ND filters this allowed us to achieve beautiful, cinematic shots while maintaining portability.
This setup gave us the flexibility to move quickly and capture the operation in
real-time, all while ensuring redundant backup with SSD recording.
Our approach was perfectly suited for the challenging terrain and the presence
of wild animals. Every piece of gear was streamlined and portable, allowing us to react instantly to any situation. We were able to get into position quickly and keep up with the fast-paced dehorning operation, all while respecting the need for minimal disruption. The added challenge of working around helicopters meant that every shot was timed precisely, maximizing the limited air time and ensuring the production didn’t hold up the operation.
The Results
The project was a complete success. Stihl and Ezemvelo Wildlife were more than satisfied with the outcome, as Icily TV delivered exactly what they needed. We provided a comprehensive long-form video documenting the full dehorning operation, capturing the intensity and urgency of the mission. In addition, we produced a high-paced, engaging short-form video designed to raise awareness and highlight the critical work being done in a more dynamic, audience-friendly format.
Both videos not only met the technical and logistical needs of the project but also captured the essence of the operation—showcasing the dedication of those involved in this crucial wildlife protection mission. The footage resonated with viewers, effectively communicating the importance of the dehorning operation while also delivering content that could be easily shared across social platforms to reach a wider audience.
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Why Choose Icily TV?
At Icily TV, we specialize in being fast, flexible, and highly responsive. We understand the importance of adapting to the unique needs of every project,
particularly when working in harsh environments. Our ability to build camera setups tailored to each job allows us to remain nimble and efficient, no matter the challenge. We live to be reactive, ensuring that we never slow down the work of our clients, especially when lives and the protection of endangered species are at stake.
