How the Cinematography of Nat Geo’s ‘Lion’ Combats AI Slop with Patience, Imperfections, and Biscuits

National Geographic is airing Lion, a four-part documentary series directed by Jon Favreau. Director of photography Sophie Darlington detailed the cinematography process to IndieWire, explaining how the production avoids AI slop by embracing patience and imperfections. The visual approach aims to bring viewers as close as possible to a lion pride in action. The series premieres tonight at 8 p.m. on National Geographic, with various streaming platforms providing access to the documentary for audiences.