If you’re an animal lover, you just might be a fan of networks such as National Geographic and Animal Planet. Today, it seems like animal-focused content is as prevalent as it’s ever been. Perhaps because as more companies turn to streaming their content, more opportunities are available for creators.

After all, a camera is a powerful tool to have. But when it’s paired with an ambitious individual, the possibilities are endless.

One passionate filmmaker from South Africa is one of these creators. Garth De Bruno Austin has had quite the adventure during his years as a filmmaker. His work can be seen in BBC’s, How to Grow A Planet and Natures Miracle Orphans.

In addition, he was the camera operator and second director of photography for the award-winning web series, Greenfields.

“I started playing with my parents PowerShot camera at around the age of 10-11 and I think for me, it gave a great basis for the love of filmmaking as it wasn’t about the best camera gear, it was solely because I had a passion for creating,” he says.

Fortunately, his aspirations to become a filmmaker have been working for him. While shooting his feature documentary, Disunity, which is about the rhinoceros poaching crisis, he encountered a friendly baby rhino that was in need of a belly rub.

Ironically, it was the belly rub that captured the attention of many as it isn’t something one sees every day.

The video was shared by his girlfriend, Morgan Pelt, who is also a filmmaker and an environmental scientist.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMLNDChDsdW/?utm_source=ig_embed

Austin also shared the video on his YouTube page where it’s been viewed over one million times! To accompany, he wrote a description of his own.

“If a rhino walks straight up to you while you’re filming and wants some rubs… you better rub that rhino like your life depends on it! Lucky for me she left my URSA Mini 4K camera alone!”

He’s right about that! Clearly, the camera seems to be his lifeline! Still, the interaction is as innocent as it is sweet. Many who commented on the video also thought the interaction was worthwhile.

“You are such a lucky man, congratulations! And keep doing what you do in order to keep them alive and safe.”

“Too bad you didn’t have a big scrub brush, Garth. They love having their back scratched, I can personally attest to that. But then the big thing probably would have followed you home. Amazing video and an amazing experience!! HOOAH for ya!”

“Awwwwwww how cute!!”

But Austin is very aware that those watching the video might be tempted to follow suit and approach wild animals. Thus, he also states:

“Do not try and do this with a truly ‘WILD’ rhino as it may end up with you being killed! Also, I did not approach this animal, it was completely her decision to let me come into her personal space and touch her. Once she had enough, she walked away and continued grazing.”

We hear his message loud and clear!

If you’d like to see more of Garth De Bruno Austin’s wildlife adventures, you can check out his work on his YouTube and Instagram page!

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Sources: edelkrone, Majestic Animals