Ran Levy-Yamamori Films in Algoa Bay
By Ran & Karen
Wednesday, 14th August 2024It was an absolute pleasure for us all at Raggy Charters to host Ran Levy-Yamamori of Eco-Nature Productions. Conservationist, Educator and so much more. Assisting Ran in getting footage for his work and fight again cetaceans in capativity.
In Ran's words:
"As an independent filmmaker deeply passionate about marine mammals' welfare and ocean conservation, I often find myself wrestling with a challenging dilemma: How can I capture the powerful stories of these magnificent creatures when resources are so limited? The emotional and financial struggle of documenting marine life weighs heavily on my heart.
Purchasing footage seems like a straightforward solution, but the harsh reality of working on a near-zero budget quickly shatters that hope. Stock footage prices are prohibitively expensive, leaving me with only one desperate option: whale watching boats and countless hours of uncertain waiting.
The process is emotionally exhausting. There's a profound mix of anticipation and frustration – watching hours slip away, hoping for that perfect moment, only to have a whale breach just as your camera points elsewhere or to have your battery die at the most critical moment. Each missed opportunity feels like a personal defeat, a missed chance to tell these animals' stories.
My documentary, "It's About Time," is more than just a film – it's a heartfelt mission to expose the cruel reality of marine mammals in captivity. I'm driven by a deep, burning desire to show the world the stark contrast between these intelligent, free-spirited creatures in their natural habitat and their tragic imprisonment in places like Sea World. The emotional weight of their suffering propels me forward, despite the challenges.
Filming in marine facilities is relatively straightforward, but capturing wild marine life requires patience, luck, and the generosity of incredible people. My journey took me to South Africa, where I experienced an overwhelming sense of gratitude and hope. When I reached out to local boat operators like Dave Hurwitz from The Boat Company, Wilfred Chivell from Marine Dynamics, and Lloyd Charles Edwards from Raggy Charters, I was met with unexpected kindness.
The initial days were heart-wrenching. Spending nearly ten days in Port Elizabeth – With Lloyd’s amazing team, in the world's dolphin capital – without seeing a single fin tested my resolve. The emotional rollercoaster of hope, disappointment, and persistent determination was intense. But then, miraculously, my luck turned. The universe seemed to conspire to help me capture the footage I so desperately needed.
What touched me most was the profound respect these marine operators showed towards the animals. Their environmental consciousness and gentle approach moved me deeply. I felt humbled and privileged, almost overwhelmed by their generosity and the beautiful marine life I was fortunate enough to witness.
Despite working with virtually no budget, I discovered something far more valuable – the incredible human connection and shared passion for marine conservation. This journey has been more than just a filmmaking expedition; it's been a transformative emotional experience that reinforced my commitment to giving these magnificent creatures a voice."
Here is a short from “It’s About Time”:
Some more footage that Ran captured in Algoa Bay:
Team dinner with Ran before we said until next time!
