Ben Cunningham On How Streaming Reshaped Natural History Filmmaking

Ben Cunningham ACS has seen firsthand how streaming platforms transformed natural history filmmaking. From the content boom of the late 2010s to today’s production slowdown, he shares an insider’s view of how subscription models, budgets, and changing audience habits have reshaped opportunities for cinematographers and storytellers alike.

We discuss the rise of Netflix and Apple TV commissions, the impact of global demand for 4K+ wildlife content, and why the industry is now facing turbulence as streaming platforms refine their business models. Ben also reflects on the tension between technical perfection and authentic storytelling, the ethics of conservation-driven filmmaking, and where he hopes the genre will go next.

Follow Ben on Instagram at @ben_cunningham_acs

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