Filmmakers Academy Podcast

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast!

Ready to take your filmmaking to the next level? As a member, you'll get access to monthly virtual group coaching, exclusive networking events, and fresh content released every week.

Join today and take advantage of our Holiday Promotional Offer, the lowest price on Annual Membership we've ever offered: https://learn.filmmakersacademy.com/holiday-promotion-2025-secondary/

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

Two-time Academy Award nominee Dan Lausten, ASC, joins Finding...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast!

Ready to take your filmmaking to the next level? As a member, you'll get access to monthly virtual group coaching, exclusive networking events, and fresh content released every week.

Join today and take advantage of our Holiday Promotional Offer—the lowest price on Annual Membership we've ever offered: https://learn.filmmakersacademy.com/holiday-promotion-2025-secondary/

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

In this episode of Finding the Frame, host Chris Ha...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Interested in Rob's Film/TV Director's Field Manual? Get it now on Amazon!

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!D50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lig...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

In this episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, Shane and Lydia Hurlbut turn the microphone over to th...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

In this essential episode of Finding the Frame, host Chris Haigh sits down with Dale Nelson, the forme...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

In this compelling episode of Finding the Frame, host Chris Haigh sits down with Colleen Bell, the Executive Director of the California Film Commission, for a deep dive into her remarkable journey and her current ba...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

In this inspiring episode of Finding the Frame, hosts Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC, sit down with ta...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

Get your discount here: https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/checkout/new?o=83067&d=FAPOD50

In this episode of Finding the Frame, Chris Haigh interviews the exceptionally talented cinematographer and director Jessica Lee Gagné, known for...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

In this captivating episode of Finding the Frame, Chris Haigh welcomes the visionary cinematographer Adam Newport-Berra, whose diverse portfolio spans acclaimed feature films like The Last Black Man in San Francisco and the innovative AppleTV+ se...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

In this engaging episode of Finding the Frame, host Chris Haigh welcomes the talented young cinematographer Tucker K Anderson for an insightful conversation about his journey in the film industry. 

Tucker shares his beg...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

In this episode of The Inner Circle Podcast, hosted by ASC cinematographer Shane Hurlbut and Lydia Hurlbut, Shane dives deep into answering a variety of questions from members, offering his expert insights on cinematography techniques an...

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

Sign up today by clicking 👉 here.

In this episode of Finding the Frame, Chris Haigh interviews cinematographer Johanna Coelho, known for her work on HBO Max's The Pitt. Coelho discusses her journey from Franc...

In this episode of Finding the Frame, Chris Haigh sits down with Academy Award nominees Judy Becker and Lol Crawley, BSC, the production designer and cinematographer behind the visually stunning film, "The Brutalist." 

They discuss their artistic journeys, early influences, and the unique challenges of capturing the film's stark, imposing architecture. Crawley, known for his work on films like "Vox Lux," explains his choice of VistaVision for its ability to capture brutalist buildings without distortion, while Becker, whose credits include "American Hustle" and "Carol," shares her design inspirations and the emotional significance of the film's central location, t...

This episode of Finding the Frame features a fascinating conversation with acclaimed Australian cinematographer Judd Overton, ACS. Host Chris Haigh explores Judd's remarkable journey, from his early days in the remote Australian Outback to his current success in Hollywood. Judd, known for his bold framing, "shoot from the hip" style, and ability to create distinct visual worlds, shares his insights on a wide range of topics, making this a must-listen for aspiring and experienced filmmakers alike.

The episode begins with Judd's unique upbringing and how early encounters with film crews sparked his passion for cinematography. He then...

Get $20 off you first month to the Filmmakers Academy with PROMO CODE: FAPOD20

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

Join Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC for a candid conversation with directors Jordan Brady (a renowned commercial director & Filmmakers Academy mentor) and Jeannette Godoy (director of the inspiring documentary "Free 2 Be Me"). This episode dives into the often-challenging balance of career, family, and creative fulfillment within the demanding film industry. Jordan and Jeannette openly share their personal experiences navigating this delicate act, offering valuable insights for an...

In this episode of Finding the Frame, Chris Haigh welcomes the "Vigilante Team" – Jamee Ranta (producer), Wesley "Wuz Good" Armstrong (director), and Alain Fleury (producer, editor) – about their short film "Vigilante," which follows four friends with superpowers who protect their neglected neighborhood. 

The discussion delves into the evolution of filmmaking, comparing past decades to the present. The Vigilante team discusses the impact of factors like the rise of digital filmmaking, the dominance of streaming platforms, and the influence of social media on the creative process. They explore how these factors have affected storytelling, risk-taking, and the overall filmm...

Chris Haigh is back with another episode of Finding the Frame, and this time, he’s diving headfirst into the wonderfully weird world of Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice with the film's editor, Jay Prychidny, CCE. Also in the house is all-around Beetlejuice fanboy (and creative director of FA) Steven Napolitano. 

Ever wondered how you go from splicing VHS tapes as a kid to cutting one of the most anticipated sequels of all time? Jay spills the secrets to his success, revealing how a childhood obsession with movies and a passion for building stories led him to the editing room. He also...

Get ready for an exciting new season of Finding the Frame! This season, we’re thrilled to welcome Chris Haigh as the new host of the series. Chris brings his unique insights and passion for the industry and dives deep into the world of film, chatting with industry professionals and sharing their insights. 

In this episode of Finding the Frame, host Chris Haigh explores the creative process behind the award-winning feature film "Good Girl Jane." Sarah Elizabeth Mintz (writer/director) and Jake Saner (DP), the filmmakers behind the film, discuss their collaborative approach, the challenges of shooting in...

Get $20 off you first month to the Filmmakers Academy with PROMO CODE: FAPOD20

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

In this mu...

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

In Episode 16 of the Inner Circle Podcast, Shane Hurlbut, ASC and Lydia Hurlbut answer questions from Filmmakers Academy members, offering valuable insights on various aspects of filmmaking. 

They provide expert advice on the challenges of transitioning from an editing career to cinematography, even at a later age. Then, they delve into the technical aspects of documentary filmmaking, focusing on handheld camera techniques, equipment choices, and the importance of capturing cinematic visuals. 

Shane, drawing from his extensive experience, of...

Get $20 off you first month to the Filmmakers Academy with PROMO CODE: FAPOD20

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

This episode of the Inner Circle Podcast dives into the world of social media for filmmakers, featuring Kyra Hurlbut, alongside her parents Shane Hurlbut and Lydia Hurlbut. Kyra, a social media expert herself, shares valuable insights on how filmmakers can leverage platforms like Instagram and TikTok for marketing, networking, and staying informed.

Kyra emphasizes how social media is an investment in one's career. It's...

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

In this episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, Shane Hurlbut, ASC and Lydia Hurlbut welcome a man of many talents, George Billinger, for an inspiring conversation. The legendary Steadicam operator and camera operator opens up about his unconventional journey from firefighting to becoming a sought-after filmmaker. 

Shane and George have worked together on multiple projects including Drumline, 11:14, and Terminator Salvation. The conversation dives deep into the realities of filmmaking, exploring the importance of mentorship, collaboration on Steadicam operations, and t...

Get $20 off you first month to the Filmmakers Academy with PROMO CODE: FAPOD20

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $20 off your first month by using the promo code FAPOD20. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

[Learn More He...

Get $20 off you first month to the Filmmakers Academy with PROMO CODE: FAPOD20

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast! 

Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today. 

Join today and get $50 off your first year of Annual All Access by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

Get $20 off you first month to the Filmmakers Academy with PROMO CODE: FAPOD20

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

DP Sherri Kauk joins Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC to discuss her career in the film industry and her latest feature film, Drugstore June. Throughout their conversation, the trio touches on topics like gender diversity and its impact on creativity and development, leadership and power dynamics of the film industry, and managing stress and work-life balance while in film production. 

But most of all, S...

Get $20 off you first month to the Filmmakers Academy with PROMO CODE: FAPOD20

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

Come on board and bring along all your hopes and dreams! In this episode, we welcome back one of our most popular ASC cinematographers. The gifted eye behind the lens of the live-action One Piece Netflix adaptation, Nicole Hirsch Whitaker, ASC, joins Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC at Filmmakers Academy. 

This episode is jam-packed with knowledge, so you might want to keep a notepad o...

Get $20 off you first month to the Filmmakers Academy with PROMO CODE: FAPOD20

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

Your success as a professional filmmaker is a direct result of your mental and physical fortitude. In this episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, former Olympic athlete and coach, Dr. Terry Schroeder, joins Lydia Hurlbut in the Filmmakers Academy studio. 

Together they discuss Dr. Terry’s history as an Olympian, key insights filmmakers should consider to prevent injury, and ideal supplements to ensure health and...

Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member: https://bit.ly/302orWv

Join today and get $20 off your first month by using the promo code FAPOD20. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

The power of community will amplify your success in the film industry. In this episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, Lydia Hurlbut and Shane Hurlbut, ASC discuss the value of community and how filmmakers cannot live on an island if they want to thrive. 

Now in 2023, we’re...

Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member: https://bit.ly/302orWv

Join today and get $20 off your first month by using the promo code FAPOD20. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers!

In this episode, FA CEO Lydia Hurlbut and her cinematographer husband, Shane Hurlbut, ASC, explore the ever-changing film industry. Ever since its inception in 1895, the landscape of the industry has evolved with technology, updated methodologies, and even ways audiences watch what is now dubbed “content.” However, with the advent of t...

Award-winning Editor Zack Arnold, ACE (Cobra Kai) stopped by Filmmakers Academy to join Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC on the Inner Circle Podcast. A champion of wellness for his fellow post-production peeps, Zack shares healthy changes that filmmakers can start today that will make an astronomical difference tomorrow. And it all starts with your mindset. 

Zack recently semi-retired from his role as a Hollywood film and television editor, with a long list of credits that range from Empire to Glee and Burn Notice. Now in the next phase of his life, Zack transitioned to a career strategist a...

Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC welcome Nigerian filmmaking entrepreneurs Carolyn Seaman and Thomas Jeffery onto the Inner Circle Podcast.

Recognized as one of Nigeria’s 20 most innovative women in Media & Tech and listed in the 50 Most Outstanding Female Pacesetters in Africa, Carolyn produces films and documentaries focused on social change. She heads the Girl Nation Film Academy where she trained hundreds of young African women to write, shoot, direct, and edit their own films. Carolyn also serves as the festival director of WIFFEN (Women’s International Film Festival: Nigeria), a nonprofit organization selected as the best company for...

There are countless ways to enter the industry and pursue a job as a cinematographer. Typically, you work your way up the ladder from a production assistant or in the camera department and must take chances to prove your mastery. Todd Dos Reis, ASC joins Shane Hurlbut, ASC on this episode of the Inner Circle Podcast to talk about his career trajectory.  

Keep reading to discover how Todd started as a PA working on Russell Carpenter projects before moving sideways, backward, and up to become the seasoned ASC cinematographer he is today. 

Listen to the full...

Shane and Lydia welcome pro-baller-turned-cinematographer Darrell Wonge to the Filmmakers Academy studio to discuss his career pivot and learn everything from his networking strategy to how he handles the stress of set life while managing his crew. 

After suffering a career-ending injury, Darrell turned his efforts to cinematography. At first, he didn’t have the experience and knowledge but he was determined to become better. So, he approached it like basketball. Where at one time he would be in the gym four times a day for training, he employed that same regimen to his growth as a cin...

Grammy-nominated and award-winning producer Jamee Ranta visits Filmmakers Academy to share the moment she became a successful producer on the music video ‘Remind Me To Forget’ by Kygo, and the technical obstacles she overcame. She then gives some must-know advice to producers young in their careers and reveals what she learned in her latest music video ‘Candy Necklace’ with Lana Del Ray. 

Want to learn the art of producing? Become a Filmmakers Academy member today to access Jamee Ranta’s full course!

To watch the full video interview, become an All Access member today!

As an All...

You often hear “take it three stops down” or “four stops over,” but what does that actually mean?

In this episode of The Inner Circle podcast, Shane Hurlbut, ASC takes a deep dive with Ed Lachman, ASC into the El Zone System and standardizing exposure in the digital age.

Throughout this interview, the two ASC cinematographers discuss the lack of specificity in IRE values, waveform monitors, and false colors. In fact, they’re not consistent from one monitor platform to the next. Lachman explains how the El Zone System changes all that and brings the cinematogr...

Award-winning filmmaker and activist Edgar Esteves drops into the Filmmakers Academy studio to chat with Brendan Sweeney about what it takes to create a successful business in the film industry. Listed in Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2020, Edgar discusses some serious truths about the industry, like whether you need an agent or representation, or if you can navigate a prosperous career on your own. Not only that, on top of crucial insights into how Edgar manages his own business relationships, he shares his journey filming his debut feature film in Africa.

This is a must-watch for filmmakers rising in...

Finding the Frame’s first guest ever, director of photography Brendan Uegama, CSC, returns to talk about his work on Hulu’s unauthorized Mike Tyson biopic miniseries, Mike.

Mr. Uegama describes the prep with Director X, explaining how the wealth of archival footage they found on YouTube informed their decisions, and how they recreated the world where one of the world’s most dangerous and notorious boxers became a legend.

Mike is available to stream exclusively on Hulu.

Watch the full episode as a member of Filmmakers Academy or listen for free pretty much a...

In our 13th episode of Finding the Frame, cinematographer Rafael Leyva visited the studio at Filmmakers Academy to sit down with host Brendan Sweeney and discuss everything from his preference for shooting on film to that one time he courted Steven Spielberg for 2nd unit on West Side Story.

Rafael Leyva specializes in feature films and focuses on capturing compelling stories on 35mm. In 2019 the International Cinematographers Guild of America named him as one of their Generation Next DPs. He has lensed for clients such as Disney Pictures, SONY Pictures, Netflix, FOX, NBC, Hallmark, Lifetime Channel Network...

In our 12th episode of Finding the Frame, Award-winning Director/Producer Jason Baum drops into the FA studio to talk about his career, most notably the epic Grammy win for his work on Kendrick Lamar’s HUMBLE and his collaboration with Spike Jonze on the 5x Emmy-nominated documentary feature film Beastie Boys Story. Jason has worked with other visionary directors in addition to Spike Jonze, including Ava DuVernay, Joey Soloway, and Hiro Murai.

Become a member to watch the full interview: https://bit.ly/302orWv

Keep up with Jason Baum here:

http://jasonbaum.co...

In episode 11 of Finding the Frame, Oscar nominee Camille Friend stops by Filmmakers Academy to talk about her illustrious career, work on Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and her recent nomination for Best Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling. 

Become a member to watch the full interview: https://bit.ly/302orWv

Keep up with Camille Friend here:

https://www.instagram.com/camille_fri...

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0295518/?...

Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here:

https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/

https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/

Duration: 01:16:35

Filmmakers Academy host Brendan Sweeney sits down with cinematographer and Oscar nominee Mandy Walker ASC, ACS to discuss her work on Elvis, career journey, advice for filmmakers, future of filmmaking and more! 

Keep with Mandy Walker, ASC, ACS here:

https://www.instagram.com/mandywalkerdp/

https://www.mandywalkerdp.com/

Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here:

https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/

https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/

Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://b...

In episode 9 of Finding the Frame, Oscar-winning costume designer Deborah L. Scott discusses her work on Avatar: The Way of Water, along with her career, working with James Cameron, and more!

Join as an all access member to watch the full interview: https://bit.ly/302orWv

Keep up with Deborah Scott here:

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0779045/

Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here:

https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/

https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/

Learn filmmaking from artists at the...

In episode 8 of Finding the Frame cinematographer Oren Soffer discussed his career, how he got started as an international filmmaker, his features "Allswell" & "Fixation", and much more!

Become an all access member and watch the full episode: https://bit.ly/3x7bnge

Keep up with Oren Soffer here:

https://www.orensoffer.com/

https://www.instagram.com/orensofferdp/

Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here:

https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/

https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/

Follow us on Instagram: https...

In episode 7 of Finding the Frame, we welcomed re-recording mixer Karol Urban, and sound mixer Stephen Tibbo from the Cinema Audio Society to discuss production/post-production sound, the theory of sound capture, how they starter their careers and Cinema Audio Society.

Learn more about the Cinema Audio Society here: http://bit.ly/3AVIzZW

Become an all access member and watch the full episode: https://bit.ly/3x7bnge

Keep up with Karol Urban here:

https://www.instagram.com/mistressmix...

https://www.linkedin.com/in/karolurban/

In our sixth episode of "Finding the Frame", we chatted with cinematographer Charlie Sarroff and colorist Dave Cole about their collaboration on the hit film "Smile." They discussed the DP and colorist relationship/workflow and how they brought the film's visual language to life.

Become an all access member and watch the full episode: https://bit.ly/3x7bnge

Keep up with Charlie Sarroff here:

https://charliesarroff.com/

https://www.instagram.com/charlie_sar...

Keep up with Dave Cole here:

https...

In our fifth episode of "Finding the Frame", we welcomed Natalie Kingston to discuss her latest work "Blackbird", career, and journey from Louisiana to Hollywood.

Become an all access member and watch the full episode: https://bit.ly/3x7bnge

Keep up with Natalie Kingston here:

https://www.nataliekingston.com/

https://www.instagram.com/natalieking...

Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here:

https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/

https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/

Follow us on Instagram...

In episode 4 of "Finding the Frame" we welcomed Michael Dallatorre to discuss his career, working at Panavision, the New Filmmaker Program, and his latest works "Studio 666" and "Emergency."

Keep up with Michael Dallatorre here:

https://www.michaeldallatorre.com/

Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here:

https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/

https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmakers_academy/

Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@filmmakers_academy

Learn filmmaking from artists...

In episode 3 of "Finding the Frame", we welcomed Matthew Chuang, ACS to discuss his career, latest works "Blue Bayou" and "You Won't Be Alone", and the approach he has towards cinematography.

Keep up with Matthew Chuang, ACS here:

https://www.instagram.com/mattscope/

www.matthewchuang.com

Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here:

https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/

https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmakers_academy/

Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@filmmakers...

In episode 2 of our "Finding the Frame" series, we welcome Alice Brooks, ASC into our studio to discuss her latest film "tick, tick...BOOM!", her journey to becoming a cinematographer, and the process of shooting musicals.

Read the full blog post here: https://bit.ly/3NaiKsD

Keep with Alice Brooks, ASC here:

https://www.instagram.com/_alicebrooks_/

https://www.alicebrooks.com/

Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here:

https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/

https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/

Follow...

FINDING THE FRAME



Episode 01 - Cinematographer Brendan Uegama, CSC

April 8th, 2023

Hosted by Brendan Sweeney

Introducing our new series “Finding the Frame” where we interview industry professionals about their career and latest projects. This episode we sat down with cinematographer Brendan Uegama, CSC about his latest HBO Max project “Moonshot” starring Cole Sprouse and Lana Condor.

Watch the trailer here:

 • Moonshot | Offici...  

Keep up with Brendan Uegama here:

https://www.instagram.com/brendanuega...

https://www.brendanuegama.com/

Keep up with Brend...

INNER CIRCLE PODCAST



Episode 01 - Beauty in the Chaos

April 25th, 2023

Hosted by Shane Hurlbut, ASC & Lydia Hurlbut

In their debut episode since their hiatus, Shane and Lydia address one of the biggest challenges filmmakers face – a healthy work/life balance. The duo dives into such demands as time and travel that keep filmmakers away from their families, sharing personal anecdotes and ways to overcome such issues and how to plot a course for success both in your career and personal life!

Make sure to subscribe for more...

What I’ve learned over the last 25+ years is to be “flexible” because each shoot is going to be different. I’ve had shoots that are easy and shoots that could not have been more complex. It’s taught me the importance of always being ready and to at least be prepared with the essentials on each shoot. Today, Lydia and I are going to talk about some of the things you’ll need to consider as you get further into your career.

We hope you enjoy!

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmakers_a...

Throughout my career, I’ve been blessed with some of the best crews, mentors, and leaders in my day-to-day. Working in the film industry is no easy task, but when you surround yourself by people that want to elevate you, that’s when creation enters the unique stage of growth and evolution. Today, Lydia and I are here to talk about some of the rigors that we’ve faced over the last 30 years. Whether it’s from financial decisions like buying equipment or the next step in my career…. We want to pave the road and shine a light on the oth...

Being a filmmaker can be demanding creatively, logistically, and personally. Throughout the years, Lydia and I have always tried to stay true to ourselves and our needs. It’s never easy staying on top of projects, our home life, staying in touch with friends and family, keeping up with movies, etc… What keeps us grounded, creative, and passionate is prioritizing the essentials (i.e. family, friends, and our relationship) and acknowledging everything else is supplementary. By doing this, we’ve taken control of our lives, moved onwards and upwards in our careers and somehow managed to stay grounded!

In t...

The end of each year is always a time to reflect on what you have accomplished, what has changed, and where you are hopefully going. For Lydia and myself, it’s been a crazy year with another feature in the books, an ever-changing schedule, and the unknown of what lies ahead. While it is never easy, it’s fun and worth the ride to be doing what I love.

In this podcast, Lydia and I want to wrap up the year and spread as much knowledge to help give you a jumpstart in the new year. We wish...

What’s beautiful about this industry is that everyone has their own unique approach to handling creative situations and business choices. Over the course of my career, I’ve enjoyed the opportunity of learning from the greats that have paved the path for us today. Whether it be a cinematographer, director, producer, grip, etc… Everyone carries something you can learn and it’s important to soak in that knowledge.

With this podcast, Lydia and I want to share some pearls of wisdom for on and off set,  how I’ve handle certain lighting situations on set and ways Lydia...

Women in the film industry make up a big part of our most creative voices and storytellers. We have filmmakers like Jane Campion, Reed Morano, Patty Jenkins, Lynne Ramsay, Kathryn Bigelow, Sofia Coppola,  Kelly Reichart, Agnes Varda, Andres Arnold, and so many more. Right now, we are seeing the male-run industry flip on its head and more female filmmakers are getting the chance to create and express themselves.

Lydia and I are here to talk about what this means to us and how we are seeing a new style of filmmaking enter the forefronts; characters with a d...

Women in the film industry make up a big part of our most creative voices and storytellers. We have filmmakers like Jane Campion, Reed Morano, Patty Jenkins, Lynne Ramsay, Kathryn Bigelow, Sofia Coppola,  Kelly Reichart, Agnes Varda, Andres Arnold, and so many more. Right now, we are seeing the male-run industry flip on it’s head and more female filmmakers are getting the chance to create and express themselves.

Lydia and I are here to talk about what this means to us and how we are seeing a new style of filmmaking enter the forefronts; characters with a d...

Your reel in the film industry is the one constant you are always going to have to face. This is your identity, your style, your passion, and those that don’t know you need to be able to tell that by the end of it.

Throughout you career your are going to make a lot of decisions that, for better or for worse,  will sculpt the outcome on how your shoots go, and your career, and how your life goes. What I want to help with is guiding you not only on your career, but how to sta...

When you begin your career as a filmmaker, you tend to only consider shots, the art behind the craft, and all of the creatives choices you are ready to make. Time and time again, it can be a rude awakening for those that enter into the industry and that don’t consider the business aspect of the process. YES – being creative is a big part of our game but that is maybe 40% of the job at the most.

Everyday as filmmakers we deal with budgets, lists, meetings, treatments, pitches, producers, and countless logistical issues that most wouldn’t imag...

As a cinematographer, I have always been influenced and inspired by light. To me, light makes my job fresh, new, and exciting. Not everything about lighting has to deal with the quality it emits and which fixture you are going to pick. To really be a wizard at lighting, you need to understand the light itself, how it runs, and ultimately its limitations when out in the field.

Time and time again, I see filmmakers boning themself when they ask for big sources and have no clue what is necessary to power one of those lights. This...

As a cinematographer, I’ve always been fascinated by light! It’s extremely easy these days to get caught up by the ever-evolving tech out there and what’s hot. But at the end of the day, your bread and butter is always going to be the lights you choose to tell that story. Whether you go for strictly practicals or the big guns like 18K’s, you are making a choice for why you go down that route. Just like choosing a lens or a type of film stock, you need to choose why this light works for you.

When prepping for your next production there are a lot of things to consider. What gear you want to use to tell your story, how you want to collaborate with your director and/or cinematographer, and what shots your want to get the best coverage for the script. With technology and shooting styles changing constantly, it can be hard to keep up with what’s new, what’s in, and how to apply it to your craft.  

For this month’s podcast, Lydia and I take you through the process of breaking down your script with the team to...

A lot of young cinematographers start out fixated on equipment and the creativity of the filmmaking process. While that is a big portion of what we do, it isn’t the only thing we do. To make your sets run effectively and efficiently, you want to have pre-production in the bag. While pre-production might not be your favorite part of the process, it is undoubtedly the most important part to unleashing your ideas. This month Lydia and I discuss how we cope with the rigors of leading into a shoot and how to manage whatever is thrown at you!

Great filmmaking is more than just the newest and coolest gear, it’s also about teamwork, working with all types of personalities, and leadership. This month Lydia and I sit down to answer your questions about how to deal with difficult people on set while maintaining professionalism, how to ensure your crew hold their work to a high standard, as well as what to learn first when you’re starting out, gear for solo/indie work, and when to rely on “go to” looks.

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A camera can only take you so far as you make your way along your cinematic story. There’s a whole other element that is both native and dependent to a professional-looking image — lighting. Applying lights is the key to creating multiple dimensions. Good lighting will give your work that specific tone you’re looking for on the screen. You see, understanding the significance of cinematic lighting is the other half of the battle. A lot of times you will see aspiring filmmakers pick up a camera and think they can just shoot their scene devoid of decent lighting and co...

It’s tough breaking into the industry and knowing whether you are making the right decisions, or not. Should you dive-in straight as a DP or go up the ladder from the bottom? Are you scared to make the leap into a freelance lifestyle? It’s a lot to wrap your mind around when first starting out in the business.

Lydia and I  discuss my path to becoming a DP and how having someone to lean on in tough times is key!

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...

This month’s podcast covers how to put your camera through the ringer and get the most out of it.

Shane discusses how it’s one thing to own a camera, but it’s another to understand its full potential. Camera tests are key when it comes to knowing when and where to apply your camera, as well as when and where not to. Shane takes you step by step on how to understand the soul of your sensor.

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This month’s podcast covers how to stay on the ball and figure out what works best for you to successfully manage your career and personal life.

Lydia discusses what has worked for her and shares her tips to help you figure out your schedule, how to manage the storm, all while keeping calm and staying strong.

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of th...

This month’s podcast covers your questions on setting up your lighting.

Shane discusses lighting backgrounds first, set ups and ratios as they pertain to moods, white balancing the night, lighting tips to create a darker mood, lighting for different skin tones, and smoke and hazers.

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://bi...

This month’s podcast covers your questions on planning coverage and when to roll.

Shane discusses rolling during rehearsals, coverage and storyboarding, color grading, aspect ratios, and more.

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This month’s podcast covers your questions on good work ethics shaping you as a leader. Lydia discusses challenges faced by Lydia and Shane, advice for those with families who want to pursue this line of work, the importance of energy and self care, and inspiration for the Inner Circle.

This month’s podcast covers your questions on getting into the business. Shane discusses building relationships with vendors, putting together a reel, the pros and cons of getting into the union, and eye correction.

This month’s podcast covers your questions on topics related to lenses, filters and cameras.

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This month in her podcast, Lydia answers your questions on film crew attitudes, growing in the business, and breaking into the business, as well as adding her point of view to some questions asked of Shane.

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://bit.ly/302orWv

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In this month’s Inner Circle podcast, I cover your questions on:

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This month in her first podcast, Lydia answers your questions on work/life balance and talks about her philosophy on making career decisions.

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://bit.ly/302orWv

Check out our blog filled with career advice, free assets, gear talk, and on set stories:

https://bit...

This month’s podcast focuses on your questions around understanding workflows in relation to camera technology.

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://bit.ly/302or...

In this month’s Inner Circle podcast, I answer your questions about:

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<...

In this month’s Inner Circle podcast, I answer your questions about career issues in the industry.

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In this month’s podcast, I answer some great questions regarding the industry’s attitude and give you first hand advice on how to stay motivated, how to lead and inspire your crew, and making the best out of difficult personalities and situations. Topics include:

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This month, the Inner Circle podcast covers your questions on:

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://bit.ly/302orWv

...

There was a bit of a glitch with the podcast last week, so I’ve recorded a new one for you. In this podcast, I answer questions on how to shoot film, choosing a film school, budget vs high end lenses, and more.

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My July podcast is all about camera technology from formats and exposure to the emotion and motivation of focus pulling and much more. Topics covered include:

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This month’s podcast focuses on your lighting questions. Specifically, I cover these topics:

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Thank you to everyone who submitted questions for this month’s Inner Circle podcast. Just a reminder that you can submit more questions here-

http://www.hurlbutvisuals.com/blog/2014/08/submit-your-podcast-questions/

This month we cover:

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Thank you to everyone who submitted questions for this month’s Inner Circle podcast. Just a reminder that you can submit more questions here-

http://www.hurlbutvisuals.com/blog/2014/08/submit-your-podcast-questions/

This month we cover:

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Hello Inner Circle team from our tests on my new project. It’s time for the March podcast, where I answer your questions. This month we cover:

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://bit.ly/302orWv

...

The podcast this month focuses on taking your lighting technique to the next level, including commentary on light quality and essential tools, lighting large spaces, powering your lights, Chimera soft banks, Rosco LitePads and DIY lighting. You can find the questions down below. Be sure to submit your own questions for future podcasts. Thanks.

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Hello from Sundance, an amazing experience this year. Below you will find our January podcast, where I answer your questions. You can either stream it or download the file, whichever works best for you. You’ll also see that we’ve provided the questions, along with the timecode for each question. You asked, and we’ve added it! Soon, we will add that retroactively to the older podcast posts as well.

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Happy Holidays everyone! My family and I are off to Thailand until the beginning of January. We will be back and ready to rumble around January 10th. Enjoy the December podcast, answering your questions.

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It’s time for the November Inner Circle podcast, where I answer your questions. This month, the podcast is themed around lighting questions, and I’ve included the actual questions below.

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://bit.ly/302orWv

Check out our blog filled with career advice, free assets, gear talk, and on set stories:

https://bit.ly/3CzwFn2

It’s time for the October Inner Circle podcast, where I answer your questions. This month, the podcast is themed around camera questions.

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://bit.ly/302orWv

Check out our blog filled with career advice, free assets, gear talk, and on set stories:

https://bit.ly/3CzwFn2

It’s time for the September Inner Circle podcast, where I answer your questions. This episode focuses on lighting, and I will try to answer as many questions as possible in an hour. We’ll go into specific scenarios and some low budget alternatives.

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Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers Academy and become a member today: https://bit.ly/302orWv

Check out our blog filled with career advice, free assets, gear talk, and on set...