The road to success is rarely a smooth ride. Join us every other Thursday as Tanya Musgrave talks nuts and bolts with industry professionals as they share the steps on how they got their success today.
Leaving the comfort and security of a corporate gig to become your own boss can be frightening.
This week we walk with Steph Cullen, freelance filmmaker, on her transition from corporate life to freelancing. In this episode, she talks about creating legal contracts, insurance, and her favorite nonprofit.
Listen to hear how Steph has transitioned from corporate life to becoming a freelancer.
Key Points:
1:30 - How she got started
3:39 - Why she left the security of her corporate job
8:27 - Creating legal contracts
11:55 - Favorite gear
15:14 - Types of projects she takes on
16:06 - Something going wrong
20:30 - OMG Female Filmmakers
23:02 - Favorite Nonprofit to work with
24:48 - Highlight and lowlight of freelance experience
Links:
Nick Richey Episode
University of Idaho Law Clinic
Art List IO
Freshbooks
Website
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
If you have a passion for metal artwork, you might be interested in becoming a props fabricator.
This week Eric Anthony Leong, Props Fabricator, shares how he started in the industry. Eric's film resume includes Black Adam, Till, and Marvel. In this episode he talks about venturing into the industry, working on set, and setting rates.
Listen to hear how you can turn your passion for creating metal artwork into a film career.
Key points:
1:30 - Becoming a prop fabricator
7:29 - Venturing into the film and television world
11:03 - Getting details on how the props are being used
11:39 - Communicating with different departments
14:10 - Who eats the cost when someone makes a mistake
16:41 - Working on set
20:15 - Union requirements
23:08 - Setting rates
28:30 - Something going wrong with materials
30:10 - What is overlooked
34:32 - Tools of the trade
37:50 - Why he's in the industry
46:06 - Average build time
Links:
YouTube
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
In 10 days, we'll be having our 2nd annual virtual mixer on the Gather platform! Go to @practicalfilmmaker on insta or thepracticalfilmmaker.com to sign up!
Filmmakers/Showcase:
-John Quinn - Editor (Horror genre, The Chosen)
-Nick Richey - Indie Writer/Director of 1-800-HOT-NITE
-Alex Goetz - outdoor filmmaker (NatGeo, BBC)
-Nina Vallado - Documentary filmmaker (Student Academy Award finalist)
-Theo Brown - Indie Writer/Director - Feature
-Lenny Leonardo - Indie Writer/Director - Series
-Sydney Tooley - Writer/Director (Sun Moon with Sony Affirm)
Giveaways/Prizes include:
-1 TB NVMe SSD
-$30 Film Tools Gift Card
-Gaffe tape galore!
-Practical Filmmaker swag!
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
Should you skip film school?
This week Nick Richey, indie writer & director, shares how he went from an economics major in college to making feature films. In this episode, Nick tells how he skipped film school, making his latest project 1-800-Hot-Nite, and paying himself as a director.
Listen to learn if film school is right for you.
Key points:
1:24 - How he got started in the industry
6:45 - First feature film
9:25 - No formal education
11:34 - Something going wrong
15:14 - Investing in your career
18:54 - Latest film 1-800-Hot-Nite
23:30 - Favorite day on set
25:23 - What went wrong on set
32:50 - Screening went wrong
34:24 - Creating coming-of-age films
36:32 - Next project
38:28 - Making a distribution deal
48:34 - Paying yourself
54:06 - Favorite gear
57:29 - How to trust your guy on casting
Links:
Low Low Trailer
1-800-Hot-Nite Trailer
Studio Binder
Studio Binder YouTube
Shot Deck
Atlas Lens
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
When starting as a freelance producer, you will make mistakes, and it's okay.
This week Bryan Fellows, a freelance producer for Nascar, Nat Geo, and Disney+, shares how he overcame his mistakes from starting out as a freelance producer. In this episode, he talks about his career pivot, getting started in producing commercials, and the tools he uses to streamline his workflow.
Listen to avoid easy mistakes when starting out as a freelance producer.
Key Points:
1:36 - How he started
4:18 - Wanting to Direct
7:10 - Starting own production company
11:54 - When a project didn't work out
15:01 - Pivot point to producing commercials
27:22 - Getting started into the commercial world
31:37 - Learning on the job
35:12 - New software to help producers
36:48 - Turn around expectations
39:30 - Bidding on a job
42:06 - How to quote for his time
45:41 - Favorite tools
Links:
Episode 6
Where Spot
Video Village
Hot Budget
Movie Magic
Set Hero
Studio Binder
Frame IO
Wrapbook
Notion
Website
Instagram
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
If you have a passion for designing and like to manage large projects, becoming a set designer might be for you.
This week Cece Destefano, Production Designer, for Alias, Empire, and They/Them, shares how she got started in the industry. In this episode, she talks about how to get your big break, her favorite gear, and how to get started.
Listen to learn how to become a set designer for TV and feature films.
Key points:
1:26 - How she got started
6:03 - How to get your big break
11:08 - Big break
19:11 - Set structure for the production designer, set decorating, and art department
23:15 - Favorite set to build for Alias
29:07 - Top 5 resources
32:23 - Favorite gear
38:17 - Pay rate
40:39 - Something going wrong
43:31 - Budgeting for construction costs
47:52 - How to get into the industry
Links:
IMDB
Website
Artemis Pro
Spectro
Bosch Laser Measure
Sun Seeker
Scriptation
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
If you love fashion and making films, check out the Wardrobe Department.
This week we have Ashley Heathcock to share how she went from working for a local designer in New Orleans to designing costumes for TV shows and movies. In this episode, she talks about how she got started, the rules of the trade, and joining the costume guild.
Ashley has worked on Magnum PI, Bright, and Dawn of the Planet of the Apes.
Listen to learn how you can turn your love for fashion and filmmaking into a full-time gig.
Key points:
00:00 - Intro
2:05 - Getting started
5:49 - Wardrobe Dept terms
7:15 - Modifying and creating pieces
8:46 - What happens to costumes after the shoot
10:27 - Rules of the trade
11:21 - Aging and dyeing process tips
16:34 - Difference between a bad and good job
18:10 - How to get started
21:30 - How early in the process are you brought in
22:12 - Pay rate for costumers
22:44 - Prepping costume truck
26:21 - Expectations for pay
27:55 - What does it take to get into a union
32:38 - Getting started in the union
33:44 - Finding other costume designers
35:04 - Favorite Gear
39:35 - Something going wrong
43:55 - Weaving personality into the design
44:41 - Best places to get materials
Links:
IMDB
Local 478 Union New Orleans
Costume Desing Guild
Sync on Set
Mood Fabrics
Connect on Instagram
Website
What happens when you question your career in film?
This week Corey and Emily Critser share their journey of leaving LA for the South East and launching a commercial photography business. In this episode they share what skills transitioned from film to photography, bidding on jobs, and setting their rates.
Listen to hear how their risk paid off.
Key points:
1:09 - Transitioning from filmmaking to commercial photography
8:37 - Blending and photo and video projects
12:50 - What skills transitioned from film to photography
16:14 - Bidding jobs
22:23 - Working with an agent
26:35 - Setting rates
31:22 - Full-day shoot price range
34:45 - Favorite gear
37:37 - Something going wrong
42:59 - Managing work-life balance
Links:
Lanewood Studio
Instagram
Don't be tempted to jump straight into DPing your first gig.
This week Bryan Folwer, DP & Steadicam Op, shares how you can get started as a DP. In this episode, he talks about setting your daily rate, unions for DPs, and skills needed to be a DP other than knowing how to light.
Listen now to learn how you can get paid to be a DP.
Key points:
1:55 - How he got started
7:04 - Question to ask a DP when hiring
12:02 - Daily rate when getting started
18:40 - BBC Documentary
20:25 - Favorite types of shoots
23:27 - Unions for DP's
25:27 - Setting up benefits
30:41 - Favorite Gear
32:30 - Using a steady cam
34:29 - New gear
41:58 - Something going wrong
46:21 - How to get started as a DP
Links:
Fowler Films
Covert Coffee
Prolycht Orion 300 FS Kit
Godox Parabolic 128 Reflector Kit
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
If you give your art department the time and resources they need, they can turn a flat set into a dynamic space that will transport your audience into the world you’re trying to convey.
This week Clifton Chandler, Production Designer, shares his experience from working in the art department and what resources producers need to provide to make their sets look amazing. In this episode, he talks about the must have basics, how to stay organized, and how to hire for the art department.
Listen now to learn how to better work with your production designer.
Key points:
3:01 - Getting started in the art department
5:00 - Take-aways after first project
7:14 - Must-haves
10:08 - How to stay organized
12:05 - What to look for when hiring the art department
14:55 - Day rates for art department
18:31 - What if director doesn't like your work
26:17 - Rules to live by for art department
29:33 - Favorite gear
32:23 - Something going wrong
37:35 - Why the art department
Links:
Instagram
Website
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
Don't give away all your rights to a film distributor.
This week, Anthony Hackett, Director & Actor, shares his experience of getting burned in his first distribution contract. In this episode, he talks about the contract process, what to avoid in contracts, and working with investors.
Listen to avoid giving away your film rights to a distributor.
Key points:
1:28 - Journey into filmmaking
8:20 - Becoming a niche filmmaker
11:24 - Contracting process
14:48 - What to avoid in a contract
18:32 - Budgeting for indie films
25:54 - Working with investors
33:40 - Directing and acting
38:05 - What role did you need help with
39:47 - Favorite Gear
42:25 - What went wrong
Links:
SONset Friday
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
Thank you so much for joining us on our adventure.
We're taking a summer break to rest, recover, and get more great guests booked for the future.
We will be back in August. Enjoy your summer!
It can be tough finding time to work on passion projects after spending a day working on a commercial project. Myriad Video has found a way to merge their commercial work with their passion projects.
In this episode, Alysse Campbell, Manager of Orginal Content for Myriad Video, shares how they balance commercial work with narrative filmmaking. Alysse shares about pitching projects, self-funding passion projects, and her favorite gear.
Listen to hear how Myriad balances commercial work and narrative filmmaking.
Key points:
1:20 - Journey to becoming a filmmaker
4:15 - Current agency work
4:58 - Client budgets
7:54 - Pitching projects
11:06 - Self-funded passion projects
14:07 - Freelancer path
17:43 - Apprenticeship program at Myriad
20:53 - Favorite gear
25:34 - Something going wrong
Links:
Myriad Video
Myriad on Instagram
Film Freeway
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
Breaking down a script and scheduling scenes can take time away from being creative.
This week Ruslan K joins us to talk about his new software, Filmustage, that uses AI to help filmmakers save time breaking down scripts and scheduling scenes. In this episode Ruslan talks about his software, Filmustage, and how is using AI to help filmmakers save time.
Watch to see if FIlmustage would work for you and get a discount code.
Key Points:
1:24 - How he got started
3:02 - Replacing Movie Magic
4:35 - What is Neural Network Technologies
8:25 - Studio Binder integration
10:06 - Fixing issues
11:49 - Testing software
13:09 - Something going wrong
16:39 - Favorite Gear
18:12 - Views on AI
20:20 - Upcoming changes
20:57 - Pricing
23:07 - Starting a startup
Links:
YouTube Channel
Matt Hadley Episode
Filmustage use Discount Code Practicalfilmmaker30
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
It's cutting together and it looks good.
This week we follow up with Sydney Tooley in part 4 of her journey to completing her first feature, Sun Moon. She gives you an update on her progress and the struggles she's going through in post.
Watch to Sydney's latest update on her first feature.
Links:
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
Trying to make a film in a different country can bring a unique set of challenges such as language barriers and cultural differences.
This week, Sydney Tooley joins us for part 3 of her journey into making her first feature film. In this episode, she shares her journey to getting into Taiwan, how she connected with the crew, and how she tried to stay true to the culture.
Listen to hear how Sydney worked with an international crew, and her next steps to getting her film finished.
Key Points:
1:28 - Getting into Taiwan
2:40 - Filming in Taiwan
9:45 - Connecting with crew
12:47 - Bridging cultures
15:00 - Miscommunication
20:49 - Working with producers
21:09 - Working with studio
22:48 - Staying close to culture
31:51 - Delivery to Studio
Links:
Part 1
Part 2
Sonscreen Panel
Sun Moon Film Instagram
Sydney Tooley Instagram
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
The SkyPanel is more expensive than the Vortex 8, but is it worth it?
This week, David George compares the Cream Source Vortex 8 vs. the SkyPanel S60-C. In this episode, he reviews the features of each light, their pros & cons, and light output.
Watch to see what light you should use for your next project.
Links:
Vortex 8
SkyPanel S60-C
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
It can be hard balancing school and shooting your first feature film as a student filmmaker.
This week we talk with a panel of filmmakers live from the Sonscreen Film Festival, our sponsor, about how they were able to make their first features. The panel includes three former students and one current professor from Southern Adventist University. In this episode, they share how their project was funded, what their biggest expense was, and how they've transitioned into full-time filmmaking.
Listen to learn how these former students made their first feature film.
Key Points:
1:55 - After 95 (Production Company) Latest Production
4:24 - Michelle Noland Feature Filmmaker
5:42 - Nicholas Livanos Feature Filmmaker
8:46 - Sydney Tooley Feature Filmmaker
12:14 - How they raised funds for their projects
17:10 - Biggest Spend
19:18 - Transitioning from student to full-time filmmaker
28:13 - Managing life & filmmaking
31:11 - Working with an international crew
35:15 - Favorite gear
41:49 - Something going wrong
53:42 - Other jobs to pay bills
55:17 - Future plans with filmmaking
58:55 - Merging music & filmmaking
59:48 - Where to watch the panels' projects
61:42 - What would you do over again
Links
Michelle Noland Film
Voices Rising
Jared Jamison
Michelle Noland
School of Visual Art & Design at Southern Adventist University
Sydney Tooley
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
The Nanlux Evoke 1200 is cheaper than the Arri M18, but will it be reliable?
This week David George compares the Nanlux and Arri lights to help determine what kit you should use. In this episode, David goes over the features of each light, the color temperature, as well as the flood and spot.
Listen to see what light kit will work for your next project.
Links:
Nanlux Kit
Arri M18 Kit
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
Landing your first editing gig can be tricky, but there are a few ways you can stand out.
This week, John Quinn, editor, shares his tips on getting started as an editor in Hollywood. In this episode, he talks about working union vs. non-union, the benefits of having an agent, and tips on how to get into the industry.
John's resume includes Windtalkers, The Chosen, and The Grudge 3.
Listen to learn how you can get started as an editor in Hollywood.
Key Points:
1:18 - Why get into editing
4:19 - Getting the job for Windtalkers
6:55 - SciFi Channel Movies
9:03 - Cutting horror films
10:27 - Cutting the Chosen
14:28 - Why edit horror and faith-based films
18:50 - Comparing Union vs. Non-union
23:28 - Kappa Studios
25:42 - Are agents helpful
32:27 - How to stand out as a beginner
36:10 - Favorite Gear
38:01 - When something goes wrong
49:39 - Creative vision different from the director
54:30 - Best advice for cutting dialogue scene
55:55 - When to hire the sound house
58:24 - What would you tell your younger self
59:44 - The power of networking
62:08 - Getting fired
Links:
Kappa Studios
Christian Film Finishing Fund
Art Of The Cut
John's IMDB
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
Don't let a bad generator stop production.
This week, David George reviews the Mega Silent Generator from Tecno Gen on set. This 60-kilowatt generator can run 18-kilowatt lights along with video village and other gear. In this episode, David shows its features and shares how it worked during production.
Listen to see if this generator will work for your next project.
Pros:
⭐️ 20 amp courtesy outlets
⭐️ 240 volts 50 amp
⭐️ Block heater
⭐️ Battery charger plug
⭐️ Fully bunded fule take (a tank within a tank to reduce fuel leakage)
⭐️ 5 sets of three-phase cam locks
⭐️ Electronically controlled
Cons:
🚫 Main breaker on to turn on courtesy breakers
🚫 ECU temperature malfunction
Links:
Tecno Gen
It's okay to feel discouraged.
This week, continuing to update us on her feature film for Sony Affirm Pictures, Sydney Tooley shares her struggles as a first-time director and about the dark times, she went through after the first phase of principle production.
Watch a quick highlight reel of the amazing locations in Taiwan and the wrap of the shoot for “Sun Moon.”
Links
Sun Moon Film Instagram
Sydney Tooley Instagram
But What I Really Want to Do Is Direct: Lessons from a Life Behind the Camera
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
On this episode of G&G David George reviews the CRLS Lightbridge 100 and Alpha 18K. He talks about what it's like to use them on set and how they compare to the Arri Max 18K. Watch to learn more about the different roles the HMI lights play on set and what to look for when choosing one that works for you.
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Find more filmmaking resources
If you are an adrenaline junkie, becoming an action sports cinematographer might be a dream job.
This week, Ben Dann, cinematographer for Teton Gravity Research (TGR), shares his journey of traveling the world filming for TGR. In this episode Ben shares how he preps for shooting in the back country, favorite gear he uses, and how to get into the industry.
Listen to Ben to learn how you can become an action sports cinematographer.
Key Points:
1:30 - How he got started
4:17 - Internship at Teton Gravity Research (TGR)
12:02 - Working in the commercial world
13:24 - Prep work before filming in the back country
17:37 - Letting new people in to the field
22:40 - Freelancing with TGR
25:04 - Daily rates
29:42 - Jobs he would say no to
32:48 - Favorite gear
38:09 - Something going wrong
42:05 - Favorite Shoot
43:20 - How to get into the industry
44:08 - Upcoming Red Bull event
45:26 - Scope of work
Links:
Justin Fann Episode
David Allen Arnold Episode
Follow Dan on Instagram
This week David George gives you a quick comparison of the Lightbridge vs. the shiny board. He’ll be doing an update with experience on set, on whether or not the cost for the Lightbridge ($3500) is worth it over the traditional $350 shiny board.
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
If you want to get your film distributed, you need to be persistent.
This week, Aj Martinson, Producer/Director, shares how his persistence paid off to get his first indie film distributed. In this episode, he talks about finding his first distribution deal, film festivals, and self distribution.
Listen to get tips on how to find distribution for your film.
Key Points:
2:23 - How he got started
6:46 - Creating first project
15:12 - First distribution deal
24:13 - Shooting first documentary
37:27 - Film festival for documentary
42:03 - Self distribution
44:32 - Something going wrong
58:17 - Favorite gear
Links:
Section 3 Films
Panavision Grant
American Film Market
Cinando Database
Selling Your Film Without Selling Your Soul
Caption Max
The End of Blindness
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
If you've ever wondered how they film wildlife undisturbed., Alex shows you his set up.
Alex Goetz, wildlife filmmaker, has filmed for for the BBC, Nat Geo, and PBS. This week on Gear n' Gadgets, Alex shows you how he captures nature sequences on the down low.
Listen to see what gear he likes to use.
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Don't budget for distribution when producing a micro budget film.
Geoff Quan, Original Independent Films at Netflix, shares why you shouldn't budget for distribution and instead focus on making a high quality film. Geoff's resume includes Light of My Life , Blindspotting, and the Netflix biopic, Barry.
Listen to learn how to improve your next micro budget film.
Key Points
1:20 - How he got started
3:22 - Why producing
4:52 - What union is he apart of
5:33 - Distributing first film
9:45 - What he looks for in projects
11:17 - Why is he in the industry
12:22 - Working with the right people
14:48 - What went wrong on a micro budget film
18:27 - Difference working with non actors and big name actors
22:05 - Flawed System
24:40 - Finding the right people to help sell your film
27:40 - Working with a publicist
31:04 - How much should you budget for publicists and distrubtion
33:01 - Favorite Gear
35:19 - Future of indie filmmaking
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Impress your clients with a traveling video village perfect for their driving scene.
This week David George shows us his vehicle village setup for clients to watch a scene being filmed from a separate driving vehicle.
Listen to learn an alternative way for your clients to monitor car scenes.
Key Points:
:20 - Bolt 1000 Receiver
:52 - Monitor
1:50 - Conclusion
It can be scary taking a leap to start your production company, but it doesn't have to be.
This week Erik Harty, Executive Producer for Long Division Films, gives advice on how you can start your own commercial filmmaking company. Erik shares how to structure your company, what gear you should use, and what you should include in your portfolio when making a pitch.
Erik's company has worked on projects for Doritos, Geico, and Bank of America.
Listen to learn how you can launch a successful commercial filmmaking company.
Key points:
2:49 - How he got started
3:48 - TV/Film vs commercial filmmaking
8:57 - Getting into commercial filmmaking
11:40 - First big projects
15:30 - Company structure
17:46 - Starting your own company
28:11 - Networking with crew
31:16 - Favorite Gear
38:42 - Something going wrong
42:15 - How to create high end product
45:01 - What to include in your portfolio
Links:
Long Division
Hot Budget
Studio Binder
Erik on LinkedIn
If you're looking for a multi cam switcher for live streaming, check out the ATEM Mini Extreme ISO switcher.
This week, David George talks with Charles Coleman about the features and quirks of this switcher. The ATEM has eight inputs making it easy to stream a multi cam for podcasts, churches, or concerts. Charles also shares how he has overcome an issue with the audio feed within the software.
Watch to see if the ATEM Mini Extreme ISO would work for you.
Pros
⭐️ 8 inputs
⭐️ Stream to computer & record to external hard drive
⭐️ 2 HDMI outputs
Cons
🚫 Mic inputs 1/8
🚫 Audio phasing
Key points:
:15 - What is the Mini Extreme ISO
1:00 - Features
2:22 - Weird quirks
Links:
Coleman Creative
Atem Mini Extreme ISO Specs
Wildlife Filmmaking can be exciting, but it comes with a set of unique challenges most filmmakers don't experience.
This week Alex Goetz, Wildlife Filmmaker, shares how he broke into wildlife filmmaking for the BBC, Nat Geo, and PBS.
In this episode Alex shares how to get started, how filmmakers get paid, and the gear he uses to capture animal habits in the wild.
Listen to learn how you can get started in wildlife filmmaking.
Key points:
1:32 - Getting into wildlife filmmaking
7:14 - Crew in the field
9:06 - How long are shoots & getting paid
10:34 - How to get started in wildlife filmmaking
16:17 - Wildlife Film Festivals
17:42 - Union for Wildlife Filmmakers
19:19 - Day rates for outdoor filmmakers
21:44 - Gear he uses
27:05 - Oh no moment
29:28 - Toughest part of job
31:50 - Favorite story from the field
35:27 - Upcoming projects
Links:
Running Wild Media
Staff Me Up
Jackson Wild Film Festival
International Wildlife Film Festival
Wild Screen Film Festival
A Goetz Film
Alex Instagram
As we head into 2022 what questions do you have about filmmaking, what type of gear are you interested in upgrading this year, how can we help you improve your craft?
Leave your comment to let us know how we can help you.
Commercial filmmaking can be a lucrative and steady paycheck that many filmmakers may not consider within the typical model.
This week David Mancao producer for Sasha Group, shares how you can break into ad agency work, no matter where you live. David lives in a small market and produces projects for large brands throughout the U.S.
Listen to see how you can start working at an ad agency in your city
Key points:
1:22 - How he got started
8:20 - Getting started at Sasha Group
12:28 - Roles & culture at Sasha Group
18:15 - Money in commercial shoots
20:41 - Agency fees & contracts
23:23 - Creativity in job role
30:57 - Alternative filmmaking avenues
32:09 - How to connect with local ad agencies
37:31 - Favorite tools of the trade
38:47 - Something going wrong
45:32 - A/B testing before production
49:02 - Trends in ad agencies
Links:
Sasha Group
Studio Binder
Connect with David on LinkedIn
Video village on set is crucial—especially in current times when the ability to stream to remote clients sets your production apart.
In this Gear n' Gadgets, David George takes a deep dive with Kimbrough Davis on how he easily shares the feed from set to the different departments. Kimbrough is a video assist on commercial shoots for companies like Apple.
In this Gear n' Gadgets deep dive, learn how Kimbrough easily splits the audio and video feeds for different departments. He also shows his latest technology on how to stream feeds to remote clients.
Listen now to learn how Kimbrough easily splits the audio and video feeds and the latest technology on how to stream feeds to remote clients.
Key Points
:55 - Job title & responsibilities for video assist
1:54 - How he got started
4:41 - What kind of work he does
8:33 - New technology because of COVID
13:13 - Video Assist Cart
16:54 - Value on set
18:43 - QTAKE features
20:17 - Favorite technology Cube 655
Gear
Blackmagic Web Presenter
QTake Software
Blackmagic Smart Hub
Presonus Audio Box
Cube 655
Tanya here—keeping this short for your holiday (this is the week that wafts to the cosmos anyway, right?). What started as a typical Update and New/Old Year Sign-off morphed into something else.
I’d posted on Insta around Thanksgiving about having dinner with my biological cousins, and a friend mentioned that I should do an episode on it—well in a small fashion, here it is! And there’s a point to telling it, I promise.
But I hope throughout this crazy past year of near-strikes, on-set accidents, or gigs falling through due to these past 2 years just being crazy, that you guys are thriving out there.
Whatever path you end up going, may you enjoy your story.
Cheers,
-T
If you are looking for a reliable light unit on set, you might want to consider the Arri M40.
In this review, David George helps you decide if the Arri M40 is the right unit for your next project. He shares how to power the light, what quirks the light has, and how great the customer service is when something goes wrong.
The light was very reliable on set, but you might want to consider having a backup up unit in case something does wrong.
Listen to see if the Arri M40 will work for your next project.
Pros
⭐️ Reliable
⭐️ Great Customer Service
Cons
🚫 Costs
🚫 Generator to power unit
🚫 Consider a backup
Key points:
:10 - Generator to power the light
:24 - Ballast to power the Arrival M40
:52 - Set up on set
1:13 - Why you need a generator
1:54 - What quirks does this light have
2:51 - Owner issue with the unit
Links:
Arri M40
If you want to become a studio executive, how do you get started?
This week we talk with Noelle Green, Executive In Charge of Production at Netflix, on her journey to becoming a studio executive. In this episode Noelle shares how she became an executive, what it’s like working at Netflix, as well as their inclusion initiatives.
Noelle's filmography includes The Irishman, Bird Box, and Iron Man 2.
Listen to learn how you can become an executive at a studio.
Key points
1:39 - How she got started
2:39 - What is her role as an executive
3:44 - Difference between film and series
4:20 - What's a typical day like
6:20 - Getting started in the industry
8:27 - Joining a union
9:22 - How to become an executive
10:20 - Accounts help producers set budget
11:36 - Working with independent filmmakers at Netflix
12:19 - How to submit a film to Netflix
12:57 - Inclusion Outreach Network (ION) at Netflix
20:34 - Diversity programs at Netflix
21:26 - Favorite resources
24:44 - Netflix sharing performance numbers
27:06 - Global programming
28:02 - Facing challenges
30:30 - Creating a safe set
32:45 - Most challenging part of her job
Links:
Connect on Instagram
If you're looking for a production van that's easy to drive and fuel efficient the Nissan NV 200 might be what you need.
This week Liam Dunaway, Key Grip, shows David George how he maximized the space in his van for production. Liam shares why he likes the Nissan NV 200, how he customized it for his gear, and some of the challenges he faces with it.
Listen to see if the Nissan NV 200 will work as your next production rig.
Pros:
⭐️ Small & stealthy
⭐️ Flexibility
⭐️ Clearance for 4x4's
⭐️ Easy to park
⭐️ Fuel efficient
Cons:
🚫 Limited capacity for more gear
Key Points:
:27 - Drivers side set up
1:20 - Back set up
5:31 - Passenger side set up
Links:
Nissan NV 200
The world of action sports filmmaking follows a different set of rules.
This week we dive into the world of action sports filmmaking with Justin Fann, Teton Gravity Research Lead Editor & Director, about action sports filmmaking. In this episode Justin shares how you can get started, how their projects are funded, and the gear he likes to use in the back country.
Listen to hear how sports action filmmaking is different from the traditional Hollywood model.
Key Points:
2:15 - How he got started
4:50 - Where you can get started
6:40 - Roles in Outdoor filmmaking
8:55 - How to stay safe
11:48 - Setting up shots
14:14 - Budget for project
16:13 - How are projects funded
17:43 - What expenses the company covers
18:45 - Shooting Length
20:50 - Types of insurance to get
22:06 - What gear he likes to use
25:01 - Most dangerous situations
26:49 - What went wrong
31:34 - Most challenging part of the job
34:11 - Path to Teton Gravity Research
37:50 - Latest project
Links:
Teton Gravity Research
Stoke the Fire Trailer
Justin Fann Instagram
Website
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Thank you guys for listening—really appreciate your interaction. With the ones who have reached out, I know we're hitting our target market and I LOVE IT. Here's a teaser for our episode next week; til then, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
If you're going to use Joker lights, you might want to consider adding the Kurve 6 Kit to your lighting rig.
This week David George reviews the Kurve 6 from his latest project. He shares what he liked and didn't like about the light and the issues they had on set.
Watch to see if the Kurve 6 Kit will work for your next project.
Pros:
Easy to pack in case
Crank to tilt light
Change focus
Cons:
Spill light on the sides
Key Points:
:06 - What is a Kurve product
1:44 - Pros & Cons
Links:
Kurve 6 Kit
Joker 800
Joker 1600
Briese light
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Avoid most basic mistakes inexperienced Production Assistants (PA) make on set.
This week, Tanya talks with Jennifer and Monique about their experience as a PA and what they learned to help you become an experienced PA.
Jennifer "Jedon" Hatcher and Monique C. Shaw started out as PA's and saw a need to help aspiring PA's prepare for their first opportunity on set. In this episode, they share why they wrote the book Walkie Check? Good Check - The Complete Guide To Being A Production Assistant In The Television & Film Industry, the first thing PA's should learn, and working non-union.
Listen to be prepared for your next opportunity to become a PA.
Key Points:
1:50 - How they got started
7:28 - Why help PA's with your book
11:13 - Different PA roles
15:37 - Difference between commercial work and a feature
19:05 - First thing for PA's to learn
23:16 - When something goes wrong
28:45 - Working without a Union as a PA
37:40 - What do they want to create
42:37 - How much do PA's make
43:40 - Most interesting set location
Links:
First Team Productions
Walkie Check? Good Check - The Complete Guide To Being A Production Assistant In The Television & Film Industry
Report Abuse on Set
First Team Pros on Instagram
Whitney Lane
Imani Woodard Instagram
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Sometimes you have to try different things to find your passion. This week, Leslie Foster shares his journey into experimental filmmaking. They talk about going to grad school, paying the bills, and the difference between the film and art world.
Listen to Leslie share how he found his passion with experimental filmmaking.
Key Points:1:37 - How Leslie got started
4:38 - First film job
5:34 - First art installation
8:13 - Going to grad school at UCLA
11:51 - Goal after grad school
15:00 - Leslie inspired Tanya to get into film
17:37 - Paying the bills
24:29 - Difference between film and art world
28:53 - What do you look for when curating art
33:32 - Where to find a community when getting started
35:49- Reliable old piece of gear
37:43 - New Gadget that revolutionizes work
40:44 - Overcoming something going wrong
45:03 - Shifting from film to art
47:04 - Future projects
50:50 - Experimental film definition
Links:Leslie Foster Patreon
Leslie Instagram
Fusion 360
Evernote
Website
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Come hang out! Sunday Nov 7, 1p PST/4p EST - Go to our insta, @practicalfilmmaker and click the Link in Bio to RSVP.
Joining a union can be expensive, but is it worth the investment?
This week, Saul Cervantes, Local Union 728 member, shares why he joined the union and how it's helped him achieve his career goals. Saul talks about why he joined the union, what it takes to join, and the looming strike in Hollywood.
Listen to see if joining the union is the right investment for you to achieve your career goals.
Key points:1:21 - How he got started
3:11 - Strategies to achieve his goal
4:01 - Difference between rigging and striking
4:31 - Why he joined the Union 728
5:24 - Qualifications to join the union
7:37 - Joining another union
9:17 - Hollywood Strike
12:17 - Safety on set
14:57 - What he looks for in a beginner
16:35 - Skills to develop
18:56 - Tools he uses on set
20:50 - Reliable old tools
21:25 - Favorite new gear
22:19 - Current project
25:16 - Why you shouldn't go to film filmschool
Links:ShittyRigs
Shot Designer
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Is the SmallRig a better solution than a full cage for the Canon C70?
This week David George talks with Nick Evenson, Creative Director, who shares why he opted for the SmallRig over a full cage for his Canon C70.
Listen to see if the SmallRig will work for your C70.
Pros:
⭐️ Magnetic tool easily unscrew your base plate
⭐️ Easily mount top handle
⭐ 2 cold shoes
⭐ Easy access to camera controls
Cons:
🚫 Wiggle in camera cold shoe mount
Key points:
:09 - Rig on Canon C70
:20 - Baseplate Feature
:46 - Why Nick Bought the Small Rig
1:07 - Any Quirks
1:55 - Why The SmallRig
Links:
SmallRig for C70
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Korey Pollard is a 1st Assistant Director in the Director’s Guild of America and shares stories of working on Jack Ryan, The Orville, and 9-1-1. He discusses his recovery from addiction and trauma, and his passion for education. Listen to Korey and Tanya talk healthy boundaries in the entertainment industry.
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Are the Astera NYX bulbs worth the extra money?
In this review we cover the ins-and-outs of the Astera NYX bulbs to see if they are worth the extra investment. David George shares what he likes and dislikes about using the lights on set and few quirks you might come across when setting them up for the first time.
Listen to see if the Astera NYX bulbs are worth the extra money .
Pros:
⭐️CRMX Radios or cumin Radios built in
⭐️Control from app on your phone
Cons:
🚫No built-in battery
🚫Settings not saving without updated firmware
Key points:
:19 - What are the Aster NYX Bulbs?
1:19 - Interface
2:47 - USB power cable
3:27 - Suction-cup hat
4:33 - App Controler
5:26 - Setting not getting saved
Links:
Astera NYX Bulb
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Easily make your way on set to become a PA.
This week, BJ Pasinger shares tips he used to get on set to become a PA. In this episode BJ shares how he got started as a PA, networking as an introvert, and how it's okay to make mistakes.
BJ's resume includes STARZ show “Vida” and HBO’s “Insecure” and Netflix’s “Never Have I Ever.”
Listen to this guide on how you can become a PA in Hollywood.
Key points1:39 - How did he get started
10:10 - Difference in day playing and getting staffed
14:10 - Networking as an introvert
18:47 - Working on mental health
21:57 - Starting out as a PA
24:23 - Getting lost with Zendaya
28:04 - 10 years to get started
30:41 - Biggest surprise when getting started
33:50 - Strategies for moving to a writing gig
35:41 - Using Twitter for Advice
37:39 - Changing scripts on set
39:35 - Cues on what works & what doesn't when writing
43:25 - Gear that makes his job easier
51:22 - Future projects
LinksJulio Zepeda Episode
Lucas Tanaka Episode
Korey Pollard Episode
Raul Martin Romero Episode
Final Draft
Surveillance Headset
Run A Better Set
BJ Pasinger Instagram
BJ Pasinger Twitter
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
The Nanlux Dyno Series 650 C is a solid light, but its accessories may pose some challenges on set.
This week on Gear ‘n Gadgets, David George reviews The Nanlux Dyno Series 650 C. David shows you a few accessories, how to control the light unit, as well as some things to look out for when putting it together.
Listen to David share what he likes and dislikes about the Nanlux Dyno light.
Chapters:
:10 - Case
:35 - Softbox
3:08 - Power Supply
4:10 - Junior Adaptor
4:34 - Control Unit & DMX Controls
5:58 - Advantage over Skypanel
6:05 - Final Verdict
Links:Nanlux Dyno Series
Rolling case
Nanlux Octa Softbox for Dyno 650C (4')
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Every filmmaker has their own unique way of starting out in the industry.
This week we revisit past episodes to learn how a few filmmakers got their start. This anthology episode includes Alex Ferrari from Indie Film Hustle; Mike Wilds, filmmaker; Julio Zepeda, camera assistant; Taylor Morden, Last Blockbuster Documentary, and David Alan Arnold from Deadliest Catch. You'll learn what hacks they used to get started, and how you can apply what they did to your career.
Listen now to get ahead of the competition when starting out in the industry.
Key points:1:50 - Alex Ferrari: Get out of dollars for hours
10:04 - Mike Wilds: Getting Started as a PA
13:39 - Julio Zepeda: Loopholes in the union
23:00 - Raul Martin Romero: Get a start late in life
29:44 - Taylor Morden: Leaving corporate work for documentary filmmaking
38:35 - David Alan Arnold: Dropping out of college
Links:Alex Ferrari Indie Film Hustle Full Episode
Mike Wilds Full Episode
Julio Zepeda Full Episode
Raul Martin Romero Full Episode
Taylor Morden Full Episode
David Alan Arnold Full Episode
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Don't leave home without the essentials for your men's grooming kit.
Jill Pugh, key makeup artist, shares her must-haves for any makeup artist putting together a men's grooming and makeup kit. In this episode, she raves about her favorite tools, what products she likes to use, and shares tips on applying makeup without it looking caked on to the talent.
Listen to Jill share what must-haves you should include in your men's grooming kit.
GearTemptu Airbrush
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Zack Arnold, host of the Optimize Yourself Podcast, shares an episode from his podcast in this week's episode.
Zack is interviewed by Austin Coburn, a recent college grad, on how you can find a healthy work-life balance in the industry. In this episode Zack highlights the importance of setting boundaries, working with good people not good projects, and how you can overcome procrastination.
Listen to Zack to learn how you can start creating a healthy work-life balance.
Key Points:2:51 - About Today's Show
7:40 - All-nighters Get Worse After College
9:40 - Learn the Skills of Creating a Healthy Balance
17:53 - Building Habits
21:10 - Overcome Procrastination
31:52 - Enhancing Your Workstation
42:09 - Getting People To Take Walking Breaks
48:25 - Red Flags at Potential Jobs
54:33 - Qualities to look for in People
63:33 - Choosing Projects to Work On
68:25 - Investing in Your Health
72:04 - Combat Bad Work Habits
Links:Zack Arnold Interview with Tanya
Part 1 with Zack Arnold & Austin Coburn
Dear Hollywood
Connect with Austin on Instagram
ErgoDriven Desk
ErgoDriven Topo Mat
Mogo Seat
Optimize Yourself
Christal Schanes designed a system to make wigs stay in place to avoid a wig slipping off during production.
This week Christal, wig designer and founder of CHRISTALine Studios, shares how she secures wigs to talent without it falling off. The Silicone Gripping System grips the talent and the wig to create a secure fit that won't slip during shooting.
Christal also creates wigs and donates a portion of her sales to women suffering from hair loss due to a medical condition and can't afford a wig. You can support or donate hair to WIGwell.
Listen to Christal share how she uses The SIlicone Gripping System to make wigs stick in place.
GearCHRISTALine Studios
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Sydney Tooley is making her first feature length film for Sony's Affirm Films. She is the writer and director for Sun Moon coming out in 2022, and she's currently in the middle of production.
Follow her journey into how she got this film funded and the challenges she's faced along the way. In this episode, she shares how she pitched the film, assembled a crew overseas, and how she spent her budget.
Listen to Sydney share her experience as a first time director.
Key Points:
1:00 - How her latest project started
3:50 - Securing funding for project
8:28 - What helped in the pitch meetings
10:23 - Crew in Taiwan
15:29 - Plans for festival run
18:05 - Biggest budgetary items
18:58 - Working with a co-writer
20:47 - Spending money on the right things
26:04 - Best spent money
27:47 - Spending money on talent
32:55 - First female director in faith based space
Links:
Sun Moon Film Instagram
Sydney Tooley Instagram
https://www.syd2ly.com
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
The Zaxcom Nova is a game-changer for production sound mixers.
This week Gavin Harwell, production sound mixer, shares how the Zaxcom Nova helps him capture amazing audio. The kit allows him to record locally on each mic pack, control the mic pack remotely, as well as change frequencies without disturbing the talent.
Listen to Gavin share how the kit has simplified his job.
Gear:Zaxcom Nova
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Jim went from being a stay-at-home dad, to working on Avatar 2 & 3.
This week Jim Turner shares how he became a previs artist and what it’s like to work with James Cameron. Listen to him share stories from the set of Avatar 2 & 3, the importance of connections, and why indie filmmakers should invest in a previs artist for their projects.
Key points:1:25 - How he got started
6:28 - Transition from animation to previs artist
14:02 - Working on Avatar 2 & 3
22:36 - The importance of connections
24:52 - Why indie filmmakers should invest in previs artist
35:00 - Gear he likes
39:44- How to become known for something in your field
41:52 - What makes a good previs artist
43:43 - How to get your foot in the door
46:32 - What current project he's excited about
Links:
Maya Software
The Visual Story: Creating the Visual Structure of Film, TV, and Digital Media
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
If you're in a rush and need custom labels, coffee mugs, or t-shirts, check out the Cricut.
This week Elizabeth Long, art assistant, share's how the Cricut helps her make custom designs on set in as little a 5 minutes.
Listen to learn how you can enhance your set with the Cricut.
GearCricut
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
David George flips the mic and interviews your host, Tanya Musgrave, on producing, podcasting, and what happened to There to Here.
To get the right lighting for your film, you need more than just power and lights.
This week, Corey Brown, Key Grip, shares the gear he likes to help him get the lighting just right for his projects.
Listen to Corey share what lighting gear he prefers to use when lighting a scene.
Gear:
Wag Flags
Nova Aputure
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
When filming a humanitarian project in a crisis, it starts with putting the camera down and developing a relationship with your characters.
This week, Tim Wolfer, humanitarian filmmaker, shares his secrets of capturing compelling stories in the midst of chaos. In this episode he talks with Tanya about how he sneaks into foreign countries, ethics as a filmmaker, and capturing the insurrection at the Capitol on January 6.
Tim's recent film, The Right Girls, follows three transgender women as they make their way to the US in the 2018 migrant caravan.
Listen to Tim share how putting the camera down and developing relationships with your characters can help you capture better stories.
Key points:1:17 - Why he decided to become a filmmaker
3:00 - Getting into foreign countries
5:37 - What you won't learn in film school
7:17 - Why specialize in humanitarian films
10:55 - The Right Girls Film
15:37 - Ethics as a humanitarian filmmaker
16:20 - Steps to distribute docs
19:50 - January 6 Capital Insurrection
23:57 - The market in Baltimore
26:58 - Favorite Gear
30:10 - Building a good team
Links:Wolfer Productions
The Right Girls
Film Freeway
Sennheiser MKH 416
Tascam DR-10L
Stella Pro Lights
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
There's two essential tools every art department needs to make their job easier on set.
This week, Coby Wester shares why the Wagner Paint Gun and Command strips are essential in his tool kit.
Listen to learn how you can make your job easier in the art department.
Gear:
Wagner Paint Gun
Command Strips
The old way of making an indie film — submitting it to film festivals and finding a distributor — is dead.
This week Alex Ferrari, founder of Indie Film Hustle, shares the new realities of what it takes to get your independent film made in today's digital world.
Listen to Alex share how your film can make money in today's environment.
Key points:1:12 - How he got started
2:30 - Shooting a movie for the mob
3:27 - Starting Indie Film Hustle
12:00 - The problem with dollars for hours
14:12 - Multiple income streams for filmmakers
17:43 - What it takes to be a Filmtreprenuer
21:40 - Future of distribution
26:20 - How many indie films that make a profit
32:35 - Breaking of the mold of traditional filmmaking
36:06 - Talent worth the ROI
40:53 - What gear do you recommend
44:54 - Getting someone to work at a lower rate
45:32 - Getting started
50:00 - Exclusive Announcement
Show Links:Shooting for the Mob
Indie Film Hustle
Rise of the Filmtrepreneur: How to Turn Your Independent Film into a Profitable Business
Protect Yourself from Predatory Film Distributors/Aggregators
DaVinci Resolve
Blackmagic Cameras
SIGMA Lens
Filmmaking Process
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Get a signed agreement in minutes, not hours or days.
This week, John Harding, locations manager, share's the tool he uses to get e-signatures for location agreements. His preferred tool, eversign, helps him get signatures 90% faster than emailing a PDF.
Listen to John share why he likes eversign and how it can help you streamline pre-production.
*There is no paid endorsement from eversign.
Gear:
eversign
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
David Alan Arnold has one of the coolest and scariest jobs in the industry.
Every year he goes to Dutch Harbor, Alaska to film Deadliest Catch from a helicopter.
In this week's episode David shares how he got started as a helicopter camera op, and the crazy stories that come with the territory...from death spins and crash landing near hungry grizzlies, to the Cubs winning the World Series and running out of fuel over the Bering Sea.
Listen to hear some amazing stories from Alaska.
Key Points:1:36 - How He Got Started
10:26 - Favorite Story from Adventures
14:55 - Time on Deadliest Catch
18:02 - Why Do This Dangerous Job
24:01 - Tools of the Trade
30:30 - Favorite Old Piece of Gear
32:48 - How To Get Started
37:03 - Close Call on Job
41:19 - Favorite Shot
44:52 - Skills Learned Outside Film Industry
Links:Contact David
Help From Above: How I went from Sweeping the Floor to Painting the Sky
Cineflex
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Building a set doesn’t have to be costly or time consuming.
This week, Charity Honeycutt, production designer shares her favorite things to help her save time and money.
Listen to find more ways to make your set look amazing on a budget.
Gear:Wagner Paint Gun
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
When you imagine an in-house video producer, you might think of someone working in a cubicle with fluorescent lights glaring off their screen while editing the latest talking head video from the CEO.
But not all corporate jobs are created equal.
Blaise Douros has a corporate gig as an in-house video producer for KUIU, where he gets to film in helicopters, tell great stories, and travel to some of the most remote areas in the US.
Listen to Blaise share the upside of working at a corporate gig that doesn't suck.
Key Points:
1:15 - How He Got Started
7:23 - Shooting from a Helicopter
10:50 - Creative Freedom
14:21 - Working with a Team
16:04 - Creating a Product Video
19:25 - Best New Gear
30:06 - Favorite Old Reliable
35:42 - Best Skills for B2C Video Marketing
39:15 - How Do You Measure Success
Show Links
KUIU
Syrp
Auto Edit 3
Helios 44 Lens
Yashica Lens
KUIU YouTube
Portfolio
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
A lot has changed on set with COVID protocols but the tools remain the same.
Shane Palmer was a Production Coordinator who transitioned into a COVID Compliance Officer (CCO). She uses the same gear in her new role but for a new purpose to keep cast and crew safe on set.
Listen to learn how she has repurposed her gear.
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
After working on films like Star Wars and Basic Instinct, Eric Jewett put Hollywood in his rear view mirror.
Eric teaches at the University of Colorado Denver and develops micro budget films with his students.
Listen to Eric share stories from on set and how you can improve your micro budget film.
Show LinksArtemis app
Sun Seeker
IMDB
Key Points1:27 - How He Got Into the Industry
2:57 - Working on Star Wars
6:34 - Going from Film to Television
9:37 - Second Unit Directing
10:51 - Second Unit Directing for TV
12:54 - Moving to Colorado
13:59 - Producing Micro Budget Films
16:48 - Mistakes in Producing a Micro Budget Film
18:35 - How to Improve Micro Budget Films
20:21 - Transitioning to Teaching
23:30 - What Do You Miss From the 80's & 90's Filmmaking
25:16 - What Positives Do You See with Streaming Services
26:24 - What Gear or Gadgets Do You Use
31:16 - Working with George Lucas
34:36 - Favorite Project
36:11 - Current Project
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Low profile lights can come in handy when working in tight spaces on set.
Sam Wilkerson, swing and G&E, shares why he likes using the LiteMat 4 lighting in this week's episode of Gear n' Gadgets.
Listen to the latest episode of Gear 'n Gadgets to see if the LiteMat 4 can help you on your next project.
Links:
LiteMat 4
Aputure Light
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
It can be intimidating to reach out for help to someone you’ve never met.
Julio Zepeda, Camera Assistant, shares how asking for help enabled him to go from PA to camera assistant.
Listen to Julio share his success story and how he found a loophole into the Camera Union.
Connect with Julio:
Twitter
Instagram
Show Links
Jason Roberts Episode
Astera Lighting
Zero Optic
Cine Gear Expo
Pancro Lens Cleaner
Teradek 10,000
Preston
Alexa Mini
Key Points:
1:21 - How He Got Started
5:44 - Getting The FirstJob On Set
8:05 - Pivot from PA to Camera Department
11:20 - Horror Story
12:28 - Loop Hole into Camera Union
18:55 - Sets Opening
20:25 - What Has Changed Since COVID
26:21 - Difference between Digital Utility, Camera Utility, Assistant Camera, & Camera Assistant
29:08 - Difference Between A Good and Great Camera Assistant
30:37 - Mental Checklist
35:20 - Ask For Help & Be Honest
38:20 - Twitter DM
40:09 - How Do You Stay Updated with Latest Tech
40:51 - Favorite Gear
44:30 - Renting vs Owning Gear
44:23 - Learning New Gear
48:05 - Unspoken Rule On Set
50:09 - First 4 Years in the Industry
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
It shouldn't take tons of power to light your scene.
Tim Banks shares why he likes the Sputnik Lighting and how you can run multiple banks off one outlet.
Listen to the latest episode of Gear 'n Gadgets to see if Sputnik lighting will help you on set.
Gear ListSputnik Lighting
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
You don't need film school to become a successful filmmaker.
Mike Wilds shares how he got started in the industry without going to film school. He recently launched his own production company and is working with brands like The LA Rams, Bose and K-Swiss.
Listen to Mike share how he's been able to succeed on set without attending film school.
Key Points:
1:14 - How He Got started
4:17 - Transitioning from Basketball to Film Career
8:01 - Career Lowlight and Highlight
10:51 - Partnership with LA Rams
13:35 - Self Taught
16:07 - Working with Dyslexia
17:59 - Production Company Basic Films LA
19:11 - Ideal Direction
24:00 - Trust Other People
26:00 - Where to Get Started
Show Links:
Black History Month LA Rams
Mike Wilds on Instagram
Basic Films LA on Instagram
Email: basicfilmsbooking@gmail.com
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
NVMe offers great transfer speeds when you are in a rush to copy off memory cards from your cameras.
Darce Peter, on-set DTI, shares why he likes the NVMe hard drive.
Listen to this week's Gear 'n Gadgets to see if the NVMe can help you on your next project.
Gear list:Affiliate links help pay for the show.
Samsung SSD 980 Pro: $79.99
Intel’s 660p M.2 NVMe PCIe 1TB SSD: $99.99
Sabrent Enclosure: $26.99
SAMSUNG X5 Thunderbolt 3 SSD: Portable 2TB: $595.79
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
Dan Brown Jr., 5x Emmy Award-Winning composer, shares the best mics you can use to record loud noises like gunfire.
Watch the bonus video
Support the showAffiliate links support The Practical Filmmaker.
Rode NTG 4: $399.99
Senheiser MD 421 ii: $399.95
Senheiser Mkh 416: $999
Zoom F6 Field Recorder: $649.99
Become a Patreon MemberIt can be frustrating trying to find the right gear. At the Practical Filmmaker we ask the experts what they recommend.
Become a Patreon member today for $5 a month to learn what the industry leaders are using on set and help you choose the right gear that won’t let you down.
As a Patreon member you will get bonus content from guest interviews, and the reliable gear they use on set.
Enjoy this exclusive recommendation from Dan Brown Jr.
This free offer ends on April 30, 2021.
Become a Patreon Member
It can be hard telling a crew member what they did wasn't good enough.
Dan Brown Jr., a 5x Emmy Award-Winning composer, shares why expecting excellence from your team will help you create a commercially successful product.
Listen to learn why you should never have to apologize for expecting excellence from your team.
Key Points:1:19 - How he got started
5:10 - When to hire a composer
8:00 - Time frame for coming up with original score
8:54 - Scoring Pay Scale
9:54 - What he looks for in music
13:41 - Advice to aspiring composers
15:44 - Process for hitting emotional beats
18:42 - Working on Walking While Black: L.O.V.E. is the Answer
20:30 - Designing a signature sound
21:58 - What instrument have you used not as intended
23:40 - Creating crime sound effects
25:16 - How to sell your sounds
26:28 - The difference between a good mic and a bad mic
28:05 - How can I help
Show Links:CrimeSonics
CrimeSonics Twitter
Walking While Black L.O.V.E Is The Answer
IMDB
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Find more filmmaking resources
David George is on set, talking to G&E/AC Bennet Self on his favorite gear.
Key notes:
Cardellini Clamp
Aputure Bluetooth Lights:
This season we're bringing a new level of practicality to your fingertips! We'll be asking our podcast guests and David George will be joining as a regular contributor, asking crew on-set what their favorite pieces of gear are.
David George's episodes will be dropped every other Thursday that isn't airing a full-length episode, and the bonus content with our podcast guests will be released exclusively to our Patreon subscribers.
But we're airing some freebies so you can get a taste! Enjoy :)
Key Notes:
FrameForge
Artemis (app)
Without tension in your story, your audience will doom scroll while your film plays in the background.
Arthur Anderson – Second Unit Director and Producer for Mission Impossible, Paycheck, and Windtalkers – shares how the films he's worked on carry tension from the opening scene to the credits.
Listen to become a practical filmmaker.
Key points:
1:17 - How did you get started
3:40 - What do you remember about the first set
5:26 - Advice for starting out
8:44 - Transition from feature films to TV
11:09- What it's like being an action writer
13:40 - Secret to storytelling
16:02 - Keep a positive focus
16:49 - Second unit directing, what's involved
20:08 - How much creative leeway do you get
20:57 - Working with JJ Abrams
23:04 - Windtalkers production
29:09 - How does your philosophy of life impact your filmmaking
31:55 - Leaving Hollywood
33:58 - What's your current project
35:14 - Have an intention when you wake up
Links:
IMDB
My Prayer Warrior
Connect with the Practical Filmmaker
Follow The Practical Filmmaker on Instagram
Watch more episodes on YouTube
Support the show
Check out our website for more filmmaking resources
Yup you're seeing it right; we've come to the end of the road for There to Here. But! Stay put, and you'll get the same great content from "The Practical Filmmaker." Be on the lookout for title and album artwork changes. I'm SUPER STOKED because I'm setting up a brand new website (and learning lots about setting up an LLC). Onwards my friends—can't wait to go on this journey with you, starting at the end of this month. See you there :)
-T
Taylor Morden, documentary filmmaker, talks about his journey to becoming a documentarian and his experience in filming The Last Blockbuster.
Taylor describes what inspired The Last Blockbuster and what the 4-year process has entailed from its conception to its marketing and distribution. Listen to his insightful advice on budgeting, marketing, financing and distribution in this branch of filmmaking.
Show Links:
Pop Motion Pictures
Pick It Up Documentary
The Last Blockbuster
Here's To Life
Key Points
0:00 - Intro
1:00 - His journey to become a filmmaker
2:16 - Flash animation
5:00 - Starting out with a DSLR & making music videos
9:14 - The idea of his first feature film
14:58 - Personal investment in documentaries
19:20 - What inspired The Last Blockbuster
26:00 - How do you get people involved with the project
29:30 - Nostalgia’s role in the success and involvement of films
37:54 - Documentary budgets, financing and distribution approach
44:00 - Marketing in a documentary
51:00 - Scripting in documentaries
54:05 - Talking to subjects before interviews
55:00 - Scheduling interviews with subjects
55:47 - Ending documentaries vs. following in real time
57:00 - Streaming On-Demand The Last Blockbuster
Follow us on social media:
YouTube
José Miguel Vásquez is an Atlanta-based actor featured in The Walking Dead, Cobra Kai, and Netflix’s new mini-series released on Veteran’s Day, "The Liberator." He shares insight into his background and life as an actor, the status of the industry in Atlanta, and diversity in film.
José dives into his experience in shooting "The Liberator," using new Trioscope technology for a groundbreaking animation experience. He also talks about how he started a YouTube channel with his family and the challenges that come with growing an audience.
Listen to him as he shares encouraging advice for actors and entrepreneurs.
Key Points
0:17 — Intro
1:04 — His background
4:11 — Moving to Atlanta
6:30 — Status of Film Industry in Atlanta
8:16 — Experience with filming "The Liberator"
9:12 — Trioscope Technology
13:14 — Casting on the Thunderbirds & filming in Poland
17:50 — Teaching & Coaching
19:19 — Jose’s YouTube channel
20:50 — Future of his acting
22:12 — Difficulties of creating a YouTube channel
23:11 — Challenges of growing an audience
26:13 — Role of faith in their channel
27:00 — Work-life balance
30:11 — The impact of COVID
31:39 — Encouraging advice
33:43 —Plan B job for actors
36:06 — Dealing with morals as an actor
37:36 — The reason behind still being an actor
Show Notes
YouTube Channel MaJeliv
Variety News: The Liberator
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on social media:
YouTube
Maegan Philmore, Television Line Producer for NFL and Production Coordinator and Manager for TV series such as Dance Moms and Naked and Afraid, joins in conversation with Tanya to tell us more about her experiences working on reality TV.
Maegan talks about what it is like to shift from scripted to non-scripted content and its challenges. She also tells us fascinating stories about her experience at the Super Bowl and all the moving parts to live production. Maegan also shares an insight on how she has handled sanitary outbreaks in the past and how COVID has changed this particular side of the entertainment industry.
Listen to Maegan's great advice on what to do if you want to get started in this industry.
Show NotesListen to Jill Macy's InterviewStaff Me Up
WorkCare
World Health Organization Training
Key Points01:17 — Maegan’s background
03:05 — Shift from scripted to non-scripted content
05:33 — Difference between production coordinator & production manager
08:06 — Reality TV & the Union
11:30 — How to decide between scripted and unscripted TV
15:21 — Working as a producer on the Super Bowl
17:40 — Malaria, Guyana & Naked & Afraid
21:20 — Working in production & handling tropical diseases
22:57 — Her experience with COVID
26:06 — effects of COVID in her industry
29:06 — Advice to people looking for work
30:02 — Roles that have increased their demand
31:14 — Future roles for Maegan
32:30 — Work-life balance
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
media.colabinc.org
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Are you ever curious on what filmmakers and producers do to film at certain locations?
On this episode, Tanya talks to Kyle Hinshaw, Atlanta based locations manager for film and TV like Baby Driver, Walking Dead and Bad Boys for Life. Kyle walks us through the process of scouting and getting a location ready for a production crew. He also shares what the past few months have been like for him and how COVID has changed the way of production and technology.
Kyle shares details on what it’s like to work for different films and TV productions, dealing with state and federal governments, and getting clearance to film in different locations. Listen to his advice on what sets good professional location managers apart from the rest, and what you should do if you want to work in the film industry.
Show Links:
David Geroge Podcast
Jill Maxcy Interview
https://locationmanagers.org
Key points:
1:29 — Introduction
2:10 — Kyle’s backgrounds
7:27 — What is a location manager
10:15— How demand for location managers has grown
11:20 — Amateur vs Professional Location Managers
13:32 — Winning the Outstanding Location in a contemporary film for Baby Driver
15:23 — Getting clearance for locations
17:41 — His impressions on movies as location manager
19:50 — Working TV vs Films
22:20 — Covid impact for his industry
26:50 — Most drastic changes he’s seen after covid
27:30 — Thoughts on current changes in technology
30:05 — Scouting multiple regions/countries
32:42 — Difference between production designer locations & pre-existing ones.
36:00 — Making a location viable for production
37:05 — Budgeting for location as an indie filmmaker
39:18 — Getting state and government agreements/permits
40:49 — Making production aware of locations
42:54 — Commonly overlooked items in location management
43:19 — Future production roles
46:30 — Advice for filmmakers
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
media.colabinc.org
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Lucas Tanaka, Producer and Editor for NBC Universal Skycastle, shares with Tanya the nuts and bolts of working in the commercial world including the storytelling process, working with different clients, and the future of the industry after COVID.
Lucas emphasizes on the importance of project management skills and networking when freelancing. Listen to him share with Tanya about his journey, his current career and his future projects in film and media.
Key Points:
00:51 — Lucas’ background
5:00 — Freelancing vs a full-time job
8:00 — Telling stories through commercials
10:30 — How COVID impacted his current job
13:40 — Finding joy in the process
14:47 — What his day-to-day looks like
15:06 — Getting creative Working From Home
16:28 — COVID Compliance on set
17:41 — Producing & editing projects
18:43 —Working with Da Vinci Resolve
22:00 — Working with different softwares & cameras
25:15 — The future for NBC Universal Skycastle
26:18 — How to position yourself
27:45 — Shifting of roles
29:17 — Working with different clients
30:44 — Balance between accommodating clients and remaining firm on what’s agreed
32:40 — Crafting contracts
34:20 — Uniqueness of NBC Universal Skycastle
36:30 — How to choose your crew
38:30 — What he does outside of his job
Show Links:David Geroge Episode
Tom Wentworth Episode
Da Vinci Resolve
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
media.colabinc.org
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Jill Maxcy, First AD and Health Safety Supervisor with COVID 19 compliant services, talks with Tanya about what the new normal looks like for the film industry. As crew members and actors go back to work, Jill shares insight on safety plans, budgeting, and advice on how to position yourself during these times.
Jill went from being an AD into a Health Safety Supervisor and running her own small business in just a short period.
Listen to her full story on what she did to pivot her career during COVID and the role Health Safety Supervisors have in the future of film.
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
media.colabinc.org
Show Links:
10 ways to keep your crew safe on set
Saniset
COVID 19 Complence Set
John Hopkins Tracing
Women in Film
Safe Way Forward
Key Points:
1:05 Jill’s background
4:00 Becoming a COVID Compliance Officer
5:04 Getting the first job as a HSS
8:00 Authority of HSS on set
9:07 Working Union vs non-union sets
10:27 Plan for shooting
12:20 How much time protocols are adding to production days
13:05 Violation protocols to look out for as crew
15:34 Film school protocols
17:24 Protocols with actors & extras
18:35 How to position yourself
19:38 Budgeting HSS for indie films
21:03 Pivoting from AD to HSS
22:53 Partnership with SANISET
26:34 How to get training on COVID
29:32 Personal concerns with COVID
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Tami Cooper, President of Hollywood International Placements, Inc. shares with Tanya the role that product placement agencies play in film production, including working on preparing sets, getting brand deals and product clearance.
She also shares advice on how filmmakers can work with brands in their films, how to approach product placement agencies and where to find props and other staging materials.
Listen to Tami share the intricacies that come from working with brands on set, getting their clearance and working with production to provide adequate representation.
Key Points:
1:11 How she got started
2:34 What Product Placement International does
4:25 Conflict between paid and unpaid advertising
5:00 Working with different departments & getting clearance
6:54 Working with films vs. network television
8:00 How much it costs to have product placement services
9:50 What product placement means
11:21 Steps for filmmakers to get product integration in their films
13:00 Using product placement deals to finance films
15:00 The importance of product clearance in sets
17:00 What to look for in Product Placement Companies
17:38 The ideal deals between films and product placement companies
19:41 The future of product placement
21:36 Product use vs. product placement
23:18 Ideal timing to submit your deck to product placement companies
25:00 Setting up sets outside of LA
25:49 Opportunities for indie filmmakers
26:47 How to find product placement companies
27:10 Getting in touch with Tami Cooper
Show links:
Hollywoodprops.com
setdecorators.org
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Have you ever made a film but struggled with taking it to the next level?
Ross Putman, producer, sales and finance agent for Verve, shares valuable insight on the world of sales and distribution agencies. He offers excellent advice for filmmakers on how to sell films and what to look for in distribution companies, emphasizing the importance of networking and constantly making material.
Listen to Ross share with Tanya his expertise and advice for filmmakers to take their films to the next level.
Key points:
1:06 — Journey to becoming a sales agent
3:32 — What the sales agent job entails
6:00 — Difference between producer & sales agent
8:00 — Agent deals
9:42 — Global vs. Domestic Deals
11:36 — International Distribution
13:00 — Getting in touch with a sales agency for the first time
18:35 — The importance of networking
20:51 — How to decide how much to spend in a film
24:00 — The importance of collaboration in feature films
25:20 — Debunking the term “Story is King”
27:00 — Focusing on the strengths of your film
29:13 — Challenges of foreign/ international films
31:04 — Leverage during negotiations
36:00 — Sales discussions
40:30 — What sales agents look for in films
43:35 — How distribution deals work
46:40 — How filmmakers profit from distribution deals
48:17 — Derivative productions
49:00— How to get an agency to read your script
53:36 — Advice on budgets
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Greg Nicotero, SFX make up artist & Producer/Director of The Walking Dead, shares nuts and bolts of the SFX department, including tips on how to get started, working with CGI & SFX on The Walking Dead, the difference between working as a make up artist, producing director and the importance of collaboration in different film departments.
From a young age, Greg Nicotero, had always been passionate about horror films. Unable to translate his hobby into a career, he pursued a pre-med college degree, until he was offered his first job at Day of the Dead. Little did he know, this was just the beginning of a brilliant career in the film industry.
Listen to Greg share with Tanya fascinating stories of working with renowned directors & his experiences on the Walking Dead
Key points1:25 Greg’s background/journey
4:25 How he turned his passion into a career
4:54- His work in The Walking Dead
6:40 - Working with other departments as makeup effects people
7:46 - Experience with different directors
9:28 - Impact of Pre-Med background in Film
13:15 - How to get started in SFX
16:20 - Skills denoting talented makeup artists
19:00 - Challenges in film & COVID adjustments
19:40 - Developing next season of The Walking Dead
22:35 - COVID Protocols in TWD
24:00 - Technological threats to SFX jobs
26:11 - CGI vs. SFX decision process & collaboration
27:00 - TWD SFX & CGI
31:25 - Keeping the spirit of collaboration on set
31:57- Working on Sin City
33:00 - Experience in directing & how it helps him as a make up artist
33:59 – Working with actors on TWD
36:10 - Balancing work-life & career
37:59 - Working at Creepshow
Show notes:
IMDB profile
KNB EFX Group
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
It can be hard to set work-life boundaries when you know someone else could easily replace you.
This week Zack Arnold, award-winning editor (Cobra Kai, Empire, Glee) talks of the article he wrote Dear Hollywood: We Don’t Want to “Go Back to Normal.” Normal Wasn’t Working, and shares how he learned to set boundaries to create a healthy work-life balance in the industry.
Listen to Zack tell Tanya how reduced set hours saves production money, when to say no, and how his company, Optimize Yourself teaches how to overcome burnout.
Show notes:
Optimize Yourself
Optimize Yourself Podcast
Setting Boundaries in the Industry – Kory Pollard
Dear Hollywood: It’s Time For An Intervention About The Hours We Work
Parkinson’s Law
Zack's Guides
Key points:
1:17- How he got started as an editor
7:04- Experience during COVID
9:33- About Optimize Yourself
12:33- How to monetize his passion
16:46- How have people responded to your article Dear Hollywood: We Don’t Want to “Go Back to Normal.” Normal Wasn’t Working
20:47- Changes to help reduce hours
22:56- Clock-in/clock-out old way of thinking
25:16- Parkinson’s Law
27:57- How to overcome someone taking advantage of your time
29:40- When to say no
31:49- Indicator of being taken advantage of
35:35- The word Lucky
41:10- How much creative control he has as an editor
45:05- Having to use bad takes
48:37- The questions you ask determine the quality of your life
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
There to Here: Film & Media Podcast is an educational podcast where pros talk nuts and bolts, and how they got started.
Tanya Musgrave talks with industry experts and influencers as they share their journey in getting from there to here.
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
COVID has halted nearly all productions but there are a few that have been able to shoot.
Matt Hadley, gaffer, recently completed work on one of the fifteen SAG-AFTRA approved projects. He talks with Tanya about working on set in Texas during COVID and how the procedures in place have changed the way he works on set.
Listen to Matt share his stories of working on set during COVID.
Show Notes:
COVID protocols
Cinematographers Guild Issues Safe Return To Work Protocols
Normal Wasn’t Working
S*!%&yRigs
Line Producer- Jason Roberts
Key points:
1:22 How he got started
4:08 Working on Features in New York
4:40 Difference between narrative & commercial lighting
10:23 Working with directors
12:26 Odd ways of lighting on set
13:53 Lighting style
15:26 How he got on Red Stone’s crew
16:18 Working on set during COVID
23:50 COVID protocols that didn’t work
26:18 Surprising effects of regulations
29:20 Changes on the horizon
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
How do you get your project onto Netflix?
With a background in VFX and a Harvard Master’s in Finance & Strategy, Netflix producer Jorge Garcia Castro shares ways filmmakers can get their projects sold.
Listen to the latest episode of There to Here: Film & Media with Tanya Musgrave.
Key Points:
1:14 From Harvard To Hollywood
4:30 Companies he’s founded
6:52 Starting at Netflix
8:18 Working as a minority in Hollywood
15:42 International Markets
21:05 Buyout options
23:16 Selling an indy film
24:43 How much do you give up
25:08 What to look out for in a sale
26:40 New Media
28:12 How to get content onto Netflix
36:42 Getting picked up by VOD
28:30 Marking your film
39:38 Virtual Production
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Aiming to be a consistent and dependable writer will serve you just as well if not better than aiming to write for big studios.
Ryan Dixon, writer, producer and the founder of Tartan Valley Ventures, a Los Angeles-based creative development consulting firm, compares and contrasts writing for studio projects/big names and the independent feature.
He has written projects for Disney, Amazon, Universal, and for stars including Dwayne Johnson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Josh Gad.
He also gives some fantastic tangible first-steps for aspiring writers just starting out.
Key Points:
1:54 - How he got started
5:38 - Writing for studios
7:30 - Writing creatively vs. writing what the market will sell
7:52 - The writers that get the jobs
9:06 - What to expect when writing for a studio
11:47 - The sweet spot between writing for studio films and exercising creativity (development consulting)
14:07 - How the Writers Guild works with independent writers
14:54 - Getting a writing job (TV vs Features, Agents, etc)
17:06 - Craft writing vs. Inspiration writing
22:00 - Creativity vs. business
26:07 - Covid/Streaming changes on the horizon and what to write for it
30:21 - The role of social media in being a writer and getting hired
31:41 - Listener Questions
40:05 - Best compliment: "It's a movie" - and the elements that need to be in there
43:19 - What are different companies looking for in a script?
45:15 - The questions I wish I would've known to ask
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Working as a background actor is a great learning experience as it can help you meet the crew members, observe other roles, and get on set experience, while earning a little extra money.
Jennifer Bender, Executive Vice President of Central Casting, talks with Tanya about her role at Central Casting and how it can help springboard your career into the industry.
Listen to Jennifer share tips on how you can become a background extra and use it to launch your career in film.
Key points:
2:03 - How Jen got started
4: 57 - Being a woman in Hollywood
10:01 - Central Casting returning to work
14:16 - Changes in the industry
16:46 - Set etiquette for background actors
17:38 - How does working as a background actor impact your ability to work in other departments
19:34 - Career longevity of a background extra
20:05 - What SAG covers
21:39 - Working with different studios
22:23 - Always looking for people
22:49 - How often do background extras get a speaking role
23:40 - Is being an extra worth the money
24:25 - What should you bring to the casting
25:10 - What color & car type should you have
26:05 - Advice for breaking in the industry
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
What if your passion isn’t producing or directing? After film school, Cory worked in different departments on set, looking past the “typical” industry jobs that a lot of recent post-grads go for.
Cory Maracle shares how he found his passion in the art department. He is now the prop master for Hallmark's talk show Home & Family.
Listen to Cory’s there to here story with Tanya Musgrave.
Key points:
:58- Shares how he got started
4:15- What's his role on Home & Family
11:43- How COVID impacted the show
14:00- New guidelines for getting back to production
16:23- Favorite place to find props
20:13- The process for making props
24:40- Changing set decor
27:00- Best way to position yourself
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
If you work in production, should you have an agent or manager?
Matt Birch, Senior VP/Co-Head of Physical Production, APA Agency, shares the difference between agents and managers.
Listen to Matt and Tanya talk about the value agencies bring, as well as answer listener questions concerning the future of film production
Watch the episode
Show links:
The other 50% podcast
Entertainment Careers
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Imagine having never gone to film school and getting a job proofreading scripts in a second language.
Raul Martin Romero takes us into the nuts and bolts of his job, writing for television, and how he worked his way into a writer’s room.
Listen to Raul Martin Romero share with Tanya how he got from There to Here.
Watch the full interview
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
$100M films or $50K films, Ralph does them both.
Over the last 30+ years, Ralph Winter has produced Star Trek, the X-Men franchise, and Fantastic Four while also delving into micro-budget faith-based films such as Captive and Thr3e.
He chats with Tanya Musgrave about his experience on big-budget films about the elements that have to be present for the success of small-budget films, and why big doesn’t always mean success.
Watch the full episode
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Most below-the-line crew spends more time looking for their gigs instead of working on set; that's where an agent helps you find consistent work. When you have an agent, you can focus on your craft, not landing your next gig.
Mike Wagner chats with Tanya Musgrave and shares how he connects below the line crew to film & TV productions.
Listen to learn why you should consider having an agent, and what to look for.
Watch the full episode
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
How many times have you had a plan for your film, and you had to adapt?
Jason Roberts has spent his career adapting scenes to make budget, align crew schedules, and keep projects on time. He has worked on Jurassic World, Saving Private Ryan and Empire.
Listen to Jason and Tanya talk about adapting your next project to finish on time and under budget, and the power of adaptation in the changing landscape of Hollywood after Covid.
Links from the show:Korey Pollard Interview
Small Business episode
Ready When You Are
IMBD page
Watch the full episode
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
CoLab INC’s Executive Director, Ryan Dye, talks with Kevin Olusola, singer, producer and beatboxer for the Grammy-award winning a cappella group Pentatonix.
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Tanya Musgrave chats with a panel of small business owners on how they are surviving the current crisis and looking to the future of how production will look as we return to "normal."
Today's guest includes: Maranatha Hay of (Tower Films)
Leif Ramsey (Pathfinder films)
Bryan Fellows (Freelance Producer)
Watch full interview
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Mellinda Hensley takes us inside a writer’s room for daytime television, #PayUpHollywood, and what part of the industry she’s paying attention to in the midst of Covid.
Watch full interview
Read the Transcript
More about assistant abuse in Hollywood:
LA Times
Variety
The Wrap
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
Korey Pollard is a 1st Assistant Director in the Director’s Guild of America and shares stories of working on Jack Ryan, The Orville, and 9-1-1.
He discusses his recovery from addiction and trauma, and his passion for education.
Listen to Korey and Tanya talk shop and finding healthy boundaries in the entertainment industry.
Watch full interview
Connect with Korey Pollard:
Instagram
IMDB
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
CoLab INC.’s Executive Director, Ryan Dye, talks with VR Pioneer Daryl Gungadoo on how he provided 360-degree video documentation on the plight of Syrian refugees and how the ability to read brain synapses will shape the future of movie-making.
Watch the full interview
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
What happens when you're going freelance in the midst of an economic crisis?
Tanya Musgrave chats with David George, a university professor going freelance in cinematography.
Watch the full interview
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube
What's covid-life like for an NBC executive producer?
Tanya Musgrave chats with Tom Wentworth, an executive producer at NBC partnership group.
Tom shares the shift that is happening with content production and how advertisers are responding.
Watch the full interview
Get the latest the There To Here: Film & Media Podcast sent to you
Find more podcasts from CoLab INC Film & Media
Follow us on:
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
YouTube