NETFLIX Review - "Tales By Light" Photography Documentaries

Shot in different 15 countries over the course of a year, Tales By Light is a six part documentary series charting the efforts of some of the worlds best photographers, in their pursuit of stunning and exotic imagery.

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This "Netflix Original" was produced by Canon Australia and cinematographer Abraham Joffe. Billed as "must see TV" for photographers and cinematography fans, it was on my list for a long time but I just got around to watching it recently, and of course, I binged, because, Netflix. Six episodes in 2 nights. Lord forgive me.

Each episode gives us some insight to the creative process of some very talented shooters, namely Art Wolfe, Darren Jew, Krystle Wright, Richard I'Anson and Peter Eastway. All having different personalities and approaches, these insights into planning and execution range from almost haphazard, to downright poetic. Photos aside, the cinematography is impressive, and coupled with such exotic subjects, I was reminded of Ron Frickes seminal "Baraka" from 1992, a comparison I'm sure cinematographer Joffe would be pleased with.

Episode 1, "Submerged" opens with Darren Jew diving to shoot Humpback whales on a "heat run"; a frenzy of racing whales taking part in a mating ritual. A spectacular start to a series that continues the spectacle for all six episodes, taking us around the world from the Himalayas to Antarctica, Africa, and beyond . If I was to levy any criticism it would be the constant dramatic music, which some may find jarring. Every frame is beautiful so the relentless orchestral jingling is perhaps a bit overkill.

If you're interested in photography, this series is truly essential viewing. You'll come away educated, entertained and beyond inspired. I was delighted to find out that another season is in the making, but that may be some time in the making. Even if photography isn't your thing, the sense of adventure and exploration makes for gripping viewing. I would absolutely recommend this show to anyone.

You can watch Season 1 of Tales By Light on Netflix.

https://www.netflix.com/ie/title/80133187
If you don't have a Netflix account, there is a free one month trial.

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All images © Canon Australia