Interview with Underwater Cameraman Duncan Brake

Our Media Director, Duncan Brake, has filmed for many TV shows, including some featured on the upcoming Shark Fest and Shark Week. He shared some of his favorite shark experiences with us.

Make sure to follow his filming adventures on Instagram!

Duncan filming "Joker," the tiger shark. Credit: Jillian Morris

What is your favorite shark, and why

The Great Hammerhead Shark is my favorite. They’ve fascinated me since I was a kid. What fascinated me and terrified me as a kid became an animal I’ve gotten to spend a lot of time with. 

Duncan filming a great hammerhead. Credit: Dominique Gorton

What has been your favorite shark to film?

Tiger sharks are my favorite to film because each one has a unique personality. When they swim by you, they make eye contact with you, which is really cool.

Duncan filming a tiger shark Credit: Grant Johnson

What has been the most challenging shark to film?

The sharks you have to film for a TV show when you only have a limited schedule and limited weather window. 

What is the most incredible shark thing you’ve ever filmed?

I have three!

1. Cyclone feeding of manta rays ( flat sharks) in Hanifaru Bay 

2. Lemon shark giving birth 

3. Oceanic whitetip sharks trying to mate

WATCH LEMON SHARK BIRTH VIDEO BELOW

Who is someone you would love to film swimming/diving with sharks?

David Attenborough has been a lifelong role model. He has voiced some of the projects I’ve worked on, but it would be amazing to share the ocean with him. 

Any advice for people interested in a career as a cinematographer?

Learn the associated skills that go along with filming. Nowadays, everyone has a camera, so the best camera you have is the one in your hands. 

What is your favorite shark fact?

Tiger sharks can invert ( throw up) their stomach.

What is one species you would love to film?

Epaulette shark