Filmmakers Academy Podcast

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast!  Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today.  Join today and get $50 off [https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/checkout/new?o=83067&d=FAPOD50] your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50 [https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/checkout/new?o=83067&d=FAPOD50]. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers! In this compelling episode of Finding the Frame, host Chris Haigh [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13352079/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_chris%2520haigh] sits down with Colleen Bell [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2649171/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_1_nm_7_in_0_q_colleen%2520bell], the Executive Director of the California Film Commission, for a deep dive into her remarkable journey and her current battle to bring film and TV production back to the Golden State. Bell's path is anything but ordinary, tracing from her beginnings as a script supervisor on "The Bold and the Beautiful [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0092325/?ref_=nm_knf_t_1]" to serving as the US Ambassador to Hungary under President Obama. This diverse background has equipped her with a unique perspective on both the intricacies of Hollywood and the complex world of international policy. The conversation wastes no time in addressing the pressing challenges facing California's film industry, including a significant year-on-year drop in production and a looming state deficit. Bell, a vocal advocate for the industry, outlines her ambitious proposal to nearly double the state's film and TV tax credit program from $330 million to $750 million. She passionately explains why this substantial increase is a vital investment, citing a compelling statistic: every tax credit dollar generates an impressive $24.40 in economic activity for California. Bell draws on her experience as Ambassador to Hungary, a nation that has successfully built a thriving film industry through robust tax incentives. She candidly discusses the competitive landscape, highlighting how other jurisdictions offer more lucrative tax credits, often including "above-the-line" talent that California's current program excludes. Beyond financial incentives, Bell emphasizes the critical need for streamlined permitting processes, reduced parking fees, and improved infrastructure to make California more film-friendly. The episode also touches on efforts to support independent filmmakers and the potential impact of federal tax incentives in bolstering California's position as the entertainment capital of the world. Bell's dedication to cultivating a collaborative environment and her relentless advocacy offer a hopeful outlook for the future of filmmaking in California. This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast!  Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today.  Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50 [https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/checkout/new?o=83067&d=FAPOD50]. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers! This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland. In this inspiring episode of Finding the Frame, hosts Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC, sit down with talented director Emily Ting [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1733017/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_2_nm_6_in_0_q_emily%2520ting]. Emily shares her incredible journey from Taipei to NYU film school, where she defied cultural pressures to join her family's toy business. She details the emotional conflict and eventual support from her father, and how after a decade working in Hong Kong, she made the pivotal decision to return to her true passion. Emily recounts the challenges and triumphs of her independent film career, from self-financing her first feature, Already Tomorrow in Hong Kong [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3700804/?ref_=nm_knf_t_4], to gaining critical momentum at the South by Southwest film festival with her second feature, Go Back to China [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7957314/?ref_=nm_knf_t_3]. This early indie work laid the foundation for her entire career. Emily’s indie success opened the door to her first studio project, directing the Netflix feature Tall Girl 2 [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt16085592/?ref_=nm_knf_t_2]. She offers a candid look at this experience, discussing how she navigated imposter syndrome and learned to embrace producer notes as opportunities to improve the story. A core part of her philosophy is leading with kindness and cultivating a positive, nurturing set environment, which she credits for the film's success. The conversation also provides invaluable advice on the art of the pitch, where Emily emphasizes that confidence and a clear, detailed visual presentation are often just as important as the content of the idea itself. Finally, Emily provides incredible advice on resilience, sharing her powerful strategy for navigating the film industry's notorious downtime. She reveals how she maintains a disciplined writing routine, treating it like a job and aiming for ten pages a day, which led to a consistent and stable stream of work writing movies for Hallmark. She discusses finding creative freedom and personal meaning even within commercial projects, framing every opportunity as a gift. Emily’s story highlights how proactive hard work, a positive mindset, and strategic discipline are essential for forging a sustainable and fulfilling career in filmmaking. More from Shane Hurlbut, ASC for cinematographers and do-it-all filmmakers: -Cinematography: Virtual Location Scouting with the Insta360 [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-cinematography-virtual-location-scouting-with-the-insta360/] -Cinematography: The EL Zone System Exposure Guide [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-cinematography-el-zone-guide/] -Shane’s Gear Bag [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/shanes-gear-bag/] -Shane Hurlbut’s Go-To Lighting Package [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/go-to-lighting-package/] -The Modern Cinematographer – On-Set Essentials [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/the-modern-cinematographer-shanes-on-set-essentials/] -Shane Hurlbut’s Kit [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/shanes-kit/] -Cinematography Mentorship – Shane Hurlbut, ASC [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-cinematography-mentorship-shane-hurlbut-asc/]  -Design Your INOVATIV Cart for Film Production [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-inovativ-cart-film-production/]  More from Lydia Hurlbut and her Leadership & Wellness Initiative:  -4 Self-Care Tips for Filmmaking Entrepreneurs [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-4-self-care-tips-for-filmmaking-entrepreneurs/] -Plan Your Filmmaking Lifestyle for Success with Lydia Hurlbut [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-plan-your-filmmaking-lifestyle-for-success-with-lydia-hurlbut/] -Healthy Habits for the Post-Production Edit Bay [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-healthy-habits-for-the-post-production-edit-bay/] -Mental Health in the Film Industry [https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-mental-health-in-the-film-industry/]

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast!  Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today.  Join today and get $50 off [https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/checkout/new?o=83067&d=FAPOD50] your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50 [https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/checkout/new?o=83067&d=FAPOD50]. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers! Get your discount here: https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/checkout/new?o=83067&d=FAPOD50 [https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/checkout/new?o=83067&d=FAPOD50] In this episode of Finding the Frame, Chris Haigh [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13352079/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_chris%2520haigh] interviews the exceptionally talented cinematographer and director Jessica Lee Gagné [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3911064/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_1_nm_7_in_0_q_jessica%2520lee%2520gange], known for her work on Severance [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11280740/?ref_=nm_flmg_job_1_cdt_t_1], Escape from Dannemora [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6866266/?ref_=nm_flmg_job_1_cdt_t_7], and Sweet Virginia [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2582498/?ref_=nm_flmg_job_1_cdt_t_10]. Gagne shares her journey from working in her father's video stores in Quebec City to becoming a sought-after visual storyteller in Hollywood. She discusses the formative influences that shaped her aesthetic, including the gritty realism of 1970s New York cinema and the atmospheric work of cinematographers like Gordon Willis [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0932336/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_2_nm_6_in_0_q_gordon%2520willis] and Owen Roizman [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005845/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_1_nm_5_in_0_q_owen%2520roizman]. The conversation delves into Gagne's meticulous approach to cinematography, highlighting her collaborative relationships with directors like Ben Stiller [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001774/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_6_nm_2_in_0_q_ben%2520stiller] and her detailed pre-production process. She provides fascinating insights into the unique challenges and creative solutions employed on "Severance," particularly in crafting a visually compelling narrative within the show's sterile, windowless environment. Gagne also reflects on her recent transition to directing with "Severance" Season 2, Episode 7, sharing her personal connection to the story and her approach to visual language and collaboration from this new perspective. Ultimately, this episode offers a compelling look into the mind of a dedicated artist, revealing Gagne's passion for visual storytelling, her commitment to collaboration, and her evolving journey as both a celebrated cinematographer and a promising director in the industry.

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast!  Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today.  Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers! In this captivating episode of Finding the Frame, Chris Haigh [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13352079/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_chris%2520haigh] welcomes the visionary cinematographer Adam Newport-Berra [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2794420/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_2_in_0_q_adam%2520newport%2520berra], whose diverse portfolio spans acclaimed feature films like The Last Black Man in San Francisco [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4353250/?ref_=nm_knf_t_1] and the innovative AppleTV+ series The Studio [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt23649128/?ref_=nm_flmg_job_1_cdt_t_1], alongside music videos for iconic artists. Adam shares his unconventional entry into filmmaking, tracing his early passion for capturing dynamic skateboarding footage in Oregon to his formal film studies at NYU. He reflects on the profound influence of Dutch cinematographer Robby Müller [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005810/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_robbie%2520muller], whose ability to blend striking visuals with authentic storytelling continues to inspire his work. The conversation explores Adam's approach to technology, emphasizing a preference for simplicity and letting the story dictate the tools. He recounts the challenges and triumphs of creating memorable sequences, such as the intricate long dolly shot in "The Last Black Man in San Francisco," and his meticulous preparation process, which involves detailed visual references. Adam offers insights into his experience on "The Studio," revealing the creative and technical wizardry behind its signature one-shot style, drawing comparisons to cinematic masters like Altman and Kalatozov. He also discusses the collaborative spirit on set and his philosophy of empowering the entire crew. Throughout the episode, Adam shares his perspective on the art and craft of cinematography, highlighting the importance of serving the story and connecting with the emotional core of the narrative. He touches on his experiences working within established visual languages on shows like Euphoria [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8772296/?ref_=nm_knf_t_2] and establishing unique looks for projects like The Bear [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14452776/?ref_=nm_flmg_job_1_cdt_t_9]. Adam concludes by offering valuable advice to young cinematographers, encouraging them to stay curious while trusting their own artistic instincts.

Thanks for joining us for another episode of the Filmmakers Academy Podcast!  Take advantage of monthly virtual group coaching, networking events, as well as new content released weekly by becoming a member today.  Join today and get $50 off your first year by using the promo code FAPOD50 [https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/checkout/new?o=83067&d=FAPOD50]. And join the #1 resource for cinematographers, film crews, and Do-It-All filmmakers! In this engaging episode of Finding the Frame, host Chris Haigh [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13352079/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_chris%2520haigh] welcomes the talented young cinematographer Tucker K Anderson [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10838830/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_2_nm_6_in_0_q_tucker%2520anderson] for an insightful conversation about his journey in the film industry.  Tucker shares his beginnings in action sports filmmaking in Canada, detailing his progression through various camera systems and the fast-paced environment that honed his camera operating skills. "It's an infectious energy in LA." He recounts his move to Los Angeles and his transition into the world of commercials, working with major brands and celebrities, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and creating a comfortable atmosphere on set. The discussion then moves into Tucker's experience with feature films, contrasting the often rapid pace of commercial work with the more in-depth preparation and collaborative process involved in longer narrative projects. Tucker provides a glimpse into his pre-production process, highlighting the importance of multiple script readings and extensive conversations with directors to understand their vision. He shares his perspective on how character emotions can influence cinematographic choices and his hands-on approach to operating the camera.  The conversation also explores the realities of building a career in the film industry, including the significance of networking and the constant effort to gain recognition. Tucker also delves into his entrepreneurial venture, Element Filters [https://elementfilters.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAA_KpDrEkjQZZ2IxAMCIXVi6LeCkFK&gclid=CjwKCAjwn6LABhBSEiwAsNJrjpYmeeeiQbNOtsUAdAfpjWG93LKEhYx2GUAK5WaW2b1pNxKYK0LlehoCezAQAvD_BwE], discussing the motivation behind creating accessible, high-quality ND filters for filmmakers. The episode concludes with a broader look at the evolving landscape of filmmaking in LA, the balance between passion projects and professional work, and the enduring appeal of human-made art in a technologically advancing industry. * Website [https://www.tuckerkanderson.com/] * IMDb [https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10838830/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_2_nm_6_in_0_q_tucker%2520anderson]  * Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/tuckerkanderson] * Element Filters [https://elementfilters.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAA_KpDrEkjQZZ2IxAMCIXVi6LeCkFK&gclid=CjwKCAjwn6LABhBSEiwAsNJrjpYmeeeiQbNOtsUAdAfpjWG93LKEhYx2GUAK5WaW2b1pNxKYK0LlehoCezAQAvD_BwE]