Navigating Risk

Documentary filmmakers Nova Ami and Velcrow Ripper discuss the challenges and protocols of filming in dangerous environments, drawing from their experience creating "Incandescence," an immersive NFB documentary about increasingly intense wildfires. They share essential insights on establishing safety boundaries with crews, navigating restricted zones and building relationships with authorities like BC Wildfire, and protecting both people and equipment in extreme heat and smoke conditions. Learn what training, gear, and contingency planning proved critical when filming in active wildfire zones, plus how to build trust with Indigenous knowledge keepers while balancing impactful storytelling with crew safety and wellbeing. Presented by the Documentary Organization of Canada (DOC) and hosted by Film Picnic, The Checklist is a podcast for documentary filmmakers who want practical guidance, creative strategies, and industry insight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.