Who we are
Phil
Phil is an award-winning videographer, recognised for his work in the 2013 Tasmanian BOFA Film Festival, where he won Best Film in the “Essence of Tasmania” category for his documentary Tasmania Look Closer. As the videographer, editor, and producer for Into the Wild Films, Phil is responsible for bringing each project to life from start to finish.
Joan
Joan ensures that Into the Wild Films runs smoothly behind the scenes. She takes care of everything from organising expedition logistics to managing travel plans and providing creative guidance, allowing Phil to concentrate on the filmmaking process.
About me
The journey of an amateur natural history film maker.
Into the Wild Films is the culmination of a decade-long journey—a blend of two lifelong passions: a deep love for Australia’s landscapes and wildlife, and an appreciation for the art of filmmaking.
My interest in filmmaking began in my teenage years, crafting home movies with friends and family using my parents’ Super 8 camera. Although I didn’t pursue filmmaking as a career at first, I spent 25 fulfilling years as a Civil Engineer before stepping away from the profession in 2018.
The early 2000s brought a shift, as affordable digital filmmaking technology broke down barriers for amateur creators. Paired with the rise of platforms like YouTube, these advances allowed anyone to share their work with a global audience. My nephew Blake was the one who introduced me to the world of digital media, and once I discovered it, a world of possibilities opened up.
My earliest films were born from a desire to capture the sense of awe I felt in the heart of the natural world. With my first DSLR camera in hand, I began experimenting with cinematic compositions and pairing them with instrumental soundtracks, crafting pieces that reflected the tranquility and wonder of those experiences.
In 2021, I took on the challenge of creating my first narrated documentary, Natural Wonders of the Daintree. This project marked a significant step forward for my channel, demanding far more time and effort than my previous work. When I asked my audience if they wanted to see more documentaries, their response was an enthusiastic and resounding “yes!”
Today, I operate as a one-person production team—handling everything from writing and filming to sound recording, editing, and publishing. While I enlist a professional narrator for voiceovers, my partner Joan plays an essential role, offering unwavering support at every stage.
Through my work, I aim to inspire a deeper appreciation and understanding of Australia’s natural history. Our country’s beauty is both awe-inspiring and delicate. Some of its wonders are incredibly rare and must be protected. It’s crucial that we preserve these landscapes and wildlife, finding ways to coexist harmoniously so that both humanity and nature can thrive.
Phil – Into the Wild Films
On Expedition
Our days often begin before sunrise, heading out to remote locations and embarking on long treks with heavy camera gear in tow, climbing and scrambling over rugged terrain. Wildlife rarely adheres to a script, so every day is unpredictable. The experience is a rollercoaster of emotions—from the thrill of anticipation to the exhaustion of a long day’s work. There’s the pure elation of capturing the perfect, once-in-a-lifetime shot, contrasted with the frustration and disappointment when you realize that a critical shot was out of focus.
