The MyNaturewatch project is using a research through design approach to develop DIY devices supporting new ways to engage with nature (and technology). For instance, My Naturewatch Camera is a wildlife camera that uses computer vision to take pictures when it sees movement. Used outdoors with a bit of bait, the cameras help their users collect images of local birds, foxes, badgers, hedgehogs and deer. The project openly publishes everything people need to make the devices in the form of easy-to-follow ‘recipes’ including links to shops for parts and downloadable software. The deployable designs were featured on BBC SpringWatch in 2018, and so far 1500 – 2000 have been made by people young and old (often working together), in the UK and internationally, and with a wide variety of technical expertise.

This talk will focus on a case study in which we worked with a local cinema (Lewes, Depot) to use My Naturewatch Cameras to create a local nature trailer. The process included the cinema in a study of back garden nature in a new and unexpected way. Due to the number of independent cinemas and the appeal for participants to have their photos presented publicly on a big screen, it is an interesting way to actively engage audiences.

The intention is for the participation to influence people’s behaviour towards immediate back garden wildlife over time, discussed as a family, group or community. This output is a collaboratively captured, created and edited film from a community workshop. The trailer aired for two weeks at the venue, during easter holiday family viewings.