The Auteur Edit by Tara Wall

The Edit: crafty keyboards, common sense media cuts, & keeping cool with all the feels

Welcome to another edition of the Auteur Edit: diary of a female film director — a short roundup of what’s keeping me sane, inspired and awestruck in the madness that is the media arts business — plus my take on the trends, tech and tips for achieving creative success. Let's get to the list. * My studio. Most editors who use DaVinci Resolve, are pretty familiar with Blackmagic’s line of speed editing keyboards — designed to make editing more efficient. Maybe not as widely known but worth considering is a better way to streamline the process for mixing and editing audio tracks. While its line of stand alone studio consoles are used by larger broadcast and film studios — the Blackmagic Fairlight desktop [https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1604867-REG/blackmagic_design_dv_resf_edtausmin_fairlight_desktop_console.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&store=420&smpm=ba_f2_lar&lsft=BI%3A6879&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13531530366&gbraid=0AAAAAD7yMh3GYhKABodxGDGe_ec8zBTzk&gclid=Cj0KCQjwss3DBhC3ARIsALdgYxPUiv1FcD0jrz_pOanHJ5ugBBqlAL2XsoOZOdVSWjfA-vBoq0b_a5AaAgqXEALw_wcB] keyboard — is equally efficient at sound design editing. Let’s call it the indie audio engineer’s tool of the craft. Also portable — sets up wherever you do — it comes at a price point smaller studios can swing. * My desk. Speaking of sound design, I’m currently reviewing principal photography footage — like the screenshot you see — that’s set to go to edit for a documentary I recently directed. Premised on addressing an overlooked niche with women in film, its all I can reveal at this point — except to say it was really a joy to film. * My watch list. The New York Times released its ‘100 Best Movies of the Century’ list [https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1604867-REG/blackmagic_design_dv_resf_edtausmin_fairlight_desktop_console.html/?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&store=420&smpm=ba_f2_lar&lsft=BI%3A6879&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=13531530366&gbraid=0AAAAAD7yMh3GYhKABodxGDGe_ec8zBTzk&gclid=Cj0KCQjwss3DBhC3ARIsALdgYxPUiv1FcD0jrz_pOanHJ5ugBBqlAL2XsoOZOdVSWjfA-vBoq0b_a5AaAgqXEALw_wcB] and its quite a list — I’ve seen many of them. But Parasite — which took the number one spot — I’m ashamed to say I haven’t seen yet. Although, I plan to do so before the summer is up. Until I do, I’m comfortable calling these my top five from the list: Kathryn Bigelow’s Hurt Locker, Jordan Peele’s Get Out, Greta Gerwig’s Ladybird, Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash and Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings. In that order. * My cart. My new favorite summer sandal — the jelly — seen everywhere is bringing back all kinds of nostalgia. These were a summer wardrobe staple back in the day for girls like me, and the present day iteration has taken on a life of its own with every kind of style imaginable. The jelly flats [https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/jeffrey-campbell-jellz-flats?category=jelly-shoes&color=038&type=STANDARD&quantity=1] from Anthropologie appealed to me since I need something more practical than a wedge that still looks decent when working. Can I tell you, these are so comfortable! I bought the matte brown and although those are sold out there are other colors like this green — which is now leaving me a little envious. Let me just say, these are not my school-girl jellies — they’re the glow up for grownups. * My reads. Six-percent not 100-percent. That’s the figure Senator Rand Paul (R-Kentucky) is more comfortable with when it comes to slashing the budgets of public broadcasters like PBS — as part of a $9 billion foreign aid claw back proposed by President Trump. He said as much during a recent interview [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/rand-paul-kentucky-republican-face-the-nation-transcript-07-13-2025/] — with the caveat that it would have to be a 6-percent cut across the board. Sounds potentially sensible for an indie filmmaking haven like PBS, except, Paul admits his proposal is probably a non-starter since Congress is expected to pass the president’s version — which would slash 100 percent of government funds allotted to publicly funded media — when it takes the measure up by the end of week. That’s another Auteur Edit. Content links are embedded in the article. I hope you found something useful. Thanks for your support. I’d love to hear what you think or might want to add to today’s list. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.tarawall.com/subscribe [https://www.tarawall.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

The Edit: student film finals, the wonders of a rickshaw & publicly funded media takes on a president

Welcome to another edition of the Auteur Edit: diary of a female film director — a short roundup of what’s keeping me sane, inspired and awestruck in the madness that is the media arts business — plus my take on the trends, tech and tips for achieving creative success. Let’s get into today’s lineup. * In my studio is a new addition and extremely versatile way to capture b-roll and insert shots. That is to say — Proaim’s version of a doorway dolly [https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1808604-REG/proaim_rcsw_cnbd_01_cinebird_camera_rickshaw_support.html] — the Cinebird camera rickshaw support. There are many iterations of the doorway dolly— most of which are frustratingly, consistently out of stock. And after waiting for over a year for one we originally ordered, we settled on this rickshaw instead and couldn’t be happier. In fact, my film students are obsessed with it. With a 440lb. payload, gliding jockey wheels and ergonomic seat — it makes maneuverability easy for those long and smooth-like-butter tracking shots. * In a snapshot. Speaking of my students. This is the time of year they cap-off their digital portfolios with a deadline-induced, prompt-based, team-centered short film. This photo captures some of the BTS footage I gathered as they worked feverishly to pull it all off. Once the films are complete each team is rated by their peers, they aggregate the responses to summarize in a presentation and then add highlights to their own personal sizzle reel. * On my screen is the official release [https://open.substack.com/pub/novalife/p/local-teens-get-raw-about-opioid?r=1l8bfp&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false] of a public service campaign I directed. You may recall, last year, I took you behind the scenes to discuss my directorial decisions during filming. Buoyed by a recent uptick in teen opioid overdoses, the No Fun In Fentanyl PSA, is a stark dramatization with young actors aiming to make inroads with their peers. Now you can view it [https://www.tarawall.com/p/no-fun-in-fentanyl] on this site in full — in case you missed it. * In my cart and now in my possession, is this gem of a mini, so when I’m not carrying or don’t need to lug round my big tote [https://www.tarawall.com/p/the-edit-a-reboot-sugar-show-and] that I love, use for everything, everyday and I’ve told you about before. Thing is, I still need something smaller — enough to fit inside the bigger one — so I can just grab it when I jump out of the car for a quick errand that only requires carrying the essentials without all the extra baggage. This one, like the biggie, is from Free People and it’s the Sochi mini tote [https://www.freepeople.com/shop/sochi-mini-tote/?color=001&countryCode=US&gad_campaignid=17721297256&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADmlMfm9ni4X8ih1xWeLXzFjZ_IHO&gclid=Cj0KCQjwxo_CBhDbARIsADWpDH6Cd_0g2J4sYkzgcXC-lADC2ltalVRr6Vq1Gg9DorlgCRVQdZz5B1IaAt7zEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds&inventoryCountry=US&utm_kxconfid=vx6ro62gj&type=REGULAR&size=One+Size&quantity=1]. It comes in a whimsical variety of colors but the popular ones sell out quickly and are usually on backorder. I was waitlisted for months, until last week, when my little black lovely finally arrived — and it was worth the wait. * In my reads I’m tracking how the funding debate with media behemoths PBS and NPR — have them making unprecedented moves by taking a sitting president, Donald Trump, to court. Using a free speech argument— that might prove hard to prove for the publicly backed outlets who access a whopping $1.1 billion in federal funds [https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/05/ending-taxpayer-subsidization-of-biased-media/] and arguably skew to the ideological left. This definitely has the hallmarks of a script for the big screen. And while the real-life impact is far reaching, PBS-sponsored programs like Sesame Street are doing what all filmmakers do when funding gets pulled or production doesn’t go as planned — troubleshoot and pivot. A move that’s now landed the kids television staple a deal [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/netflix-sesame-street-deal/] with Netflix. That’s another Auteur Edit. Content links are embedded in the text. I hope you found something useful. Thanks for your support. I’d love to hear what you think or might want to add to today’s list. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.tarawall.com/subscribe [https://www.tarawall.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

The Edit: some spycraft, tariff truths, focus pulling & froth keepers

Welcome to another edition of the Auteur Edit: diary of a female film director — a quick roundup of what’s keeping me sane, inspired and awestruck in the madness that is the media arts business — plus my take on the trends, tech and tips for achieving creative success. Let’s get into today’s lineup. * My studio. There comes a time in every shoot when the director needs the 1st AC to step in and pull focus. Some go the manual route but a better option — in my view — is using a wireless lens puller. Let me recommend Tilta’s [https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1507995-REG/tilta_wlc_t03_k4_nucleus_m_wireless_lens_control.html] Nucleus-M hand controller with a choice between one or two motors. It’s a real game changer, with three channels that allow you to control focus, iris and even zoom with its mini joystick. Even, more, it lasts up to ten hours on a single charge. Great for long shoot days. * My laptop. I’m working (have been for a while) on a script for a potential series pitch and this graphic gives you a little sneak peek into a visual concept I’m playing around with. Without giving away too much — or really anything — any guesses what I might be conjuring up or alluding to here? Sorry I can’t say more but as you try to figure it out, stay tuned and check back for my updates on this project. * My watchlist. Consider this my open call to all espionage buffs — count me among them — have I got the documentary for you. If you haven’t seen it already — run, don’t walk — to check out Spycraft on Netflix [https://www.netflix.com/us/title/81014547?s=a&trkid=13747225&trg=cp&vlang=en&clip=81662472]. It will not disappoint your insatiable desire to dig into what went down with some of the nation’s biggest headline-making spies — directly from the mouths of retired CIA officers. Most of all, the eight-part series fills in the gaps by picking up what fiction leaves out. * My cart. I might be one of those people who still takes my coffee piping hot even in the hottest months of the year, but Springtime still marks the start of cold brew and frosty treat season. I mean, both can be true. And this is a tumbler worth refilling just for that or whatever your beverage of choice. It’s part of Anthro’s “icon” glass collection [https://www.anthropologie.com/anthrohome/shop/icon-juice-glass-tumbler-with-lid]and comes in six distinct styles — I chose the cloud design. Take it with you on the go or just be fancy around the house. Mine recently arrived and I’ve already enjoyed a few of my favorite smoothie and cold brew concoctions on the porch. It's not backed by science but somehow the glass, bamboo and stainless steel style makes every sip taste better. * My reads. You’d think the film industry was set aflame after President Trump’s tariff announcement for internationally made films. Now that the smoke has cleared somewhat, turns out actor Jon Voight laid the groundwork, according to The Hollywood Reporter. And although there's still not a lot known about how the proposed tariffs will work with digital products — like a film — I think the big picture bottom line is that if conditions were more hospitable and not as cost prohibitive in the U.S, more American filmmakers would make their movies at home rather than abroad. But that’s been a state failure (California among the worst) long before the current administration. So, now might be a good time to have that conversation. Meanwhile, the Cannes Film Festival — officially underway — is also already making headlines but not in a good way. For one, journalists covering the festival are expressing frustration over the lack of “equitable” access to talent. THR also reports that over 100 signed an open letter to festival organizers and studios calling for “good film journalism.” This comes amidst backlash over overtly political speeches by liberal celebrity attendees — a no, no at Cannes. Other no-no’s include its notorious no nudity red carpet policy and this year’s ban on dress trains. That one was broken by Halle Berry on night two — telling an interviewer that she agrees with the former but not the latter. Same girl, same. That’s another Auteur Edit. Content links are embedded in the article. I hope you found something useful. Thanks for your support. I’d love to hear what you think or might want to add to today’s list. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.tarawall.com/subscribe [https://www.tarawall.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

The Edit: an awards show for grown-ups, AI scripts & camera tips

Hello from the Auteur Edit, a roundup of what’s keeping me sane, inspired and awestruck in the madness that is the media arts business — plus my take on the trends, tech and tips for achieving creative success. Heads up, starting today, we’re switching to a slightly different format. Don't worry, the Edit list stays — but with briefer bullets. It still includes links to the resources mentioned and is available to everyone. But this new, shorter format affords more time for my episodic commentary, shorts and sharing inside tricks of the trade [https://www.tarawall.com/t/the-auteur]. The first item on every Edit roundup will tell you what to expect from me with each new video and episodes will automatically hit your inbox just like the list. So, if you haven't subscribed, this is a great time to join or upgrade. Let's have a look at today's roundup. * On camera. In this Auteur [https://open.substack.com/pub/tarawall/p/the-auteur-these-are-the-camera-dos?r=16pjmw&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true]episode [https://open.substack.com/pub/tarawall/p/the-auteur-these-are-the-camera-dos?r=16pjmw&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true] I'm talking camera techniques — and the five essentials you need to master even before hitting record. With just a little thought and a dash of effort — you'll see why some of the tools that work for me on set will absolutely elevate your next film or video project. * On set. This lavalier [https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1281085-REG/tascam_dr_10l_mini_portable_recorder.html] mic needs to be in your audio mix if for no other reason than its built-in recorder right in the pack. USB-powered — there’s no need for cords or mixers — just a micro SD. Which makes it a compact, convenient, all-in-one time saver in the field, on set for short takes and especially podcasts. * On my laptop. With some detailed prompts, I recently tasked an Artificial Intelligence (AI) [https://chatgpt.com] tool to write a short, simple test script for a lesson I was preparing for my film students — to make a point. As expected, I found that while there’s a lot AI can do — authentic human experience and emotion it cannot. And that's not going to really change. No big surprises there. My advice if you want to tool around with AI — stick to storyboards, pitch decks or story-building outlines as a better use of this love-to-hate, hate-to-love fascination. And remember they're only as good as the prompts they're fed. * On my screen. I'm re-watching my 2022 documentary [https://www.amazon.com/Souled-Out-Documentary-Tara-Wall/dp/B08GKNDVSS] film Souled Out. Not because I like seeing myself on screen — I don’t — but because I thought it a good time to revisit my interview with president Donald Trump for what it foreshadows about his approach to governing in an environment of doubt. If you haven’t seen it, check it out. if you have, give it another look. * In my cart. For someone who’s always on the hunt for funky filmmaker kitsch, I’m adding this to the cool kids list. A fun and funky ‘We’ll Fix It In Post’ tee [https://a.co/d/hJ2qhsR] that’s 100% cotton and earth-friendly adjacent. With it’s v-neck and sleeker silhouette, it happens to look a bit more flattering for women — than most boxy tees. * On my desk. I was today year’s old when I learned there’s a ‘Movies for Grownups Awards’ show [https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/movies-for-grownups/info-2025/movies-for-grownups-awards-2025-winners.html]. It’s a quasi-prequel to the Oscars — and I’m here for it. Dubbed “the finest film and TV achievements for talents over 50,” airing on PBS and produced by AARP — these are the kind of contests our sometimes ageist society needs. This year’s winners include 62 year-old Demi Moore for Best Actress in The Substance, 55 year-old Colman Domingo in Best Ensemble for Sing, Sing, Shogun as Limited Series and 62 year-old Jodie Foster as Best TV Actress for True Detective: Night Country, among others. I’m already looking forward to next year’s nominees. I’d love to hear what you think about this roundup or might want to see from me for a future list — tell me in the comments below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.tarawall.com/subscribe [https://www.tarawall.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]

The Edit: industry growth trends, astrological vibes & essential gear in the new year

Hello from the Auteur Edit, a roundup of what’s keeping me sane, inspired and awestruck in the madness that is the media arts business. If you haven't heard it enough yet — or from me — Happy New Year. I’m not the resolution list kind of person, so this will not be that. But if it makes you feel better, I am striving to get back into the routine of being consistent with this newsletter — even considering a focus on more tech related media content. But today’s list is a hodge podge, so let’s get to it. * In the bag. In a previous Edit I shared details about the tote [https://www.tarawall.com/p/the-edit-a-reboot-sugar-show-and?r=16pjmw&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true] I carry that keeps it all together for me no matter where I happen to be any given day. I got to thinking maybe I should do a ‘what’s in my bag’ kinda thing. Then, I thought, nah maybe not, no one cares. But after some internal dialogue, I split the baby. In the spirit of a bag reveal, I am sharing one thing from my bag that makes me happy and is probably the most useful — at the moment. Hands down, it’s my Cavision director’s viewfinder. In addition to its obvious portability, it’s perfect for framing, at its price point. It’s quick and easy to setup shots I envision, using a variety of focal settings and simple, customizable adjustments. It’s got a neck loop, lens cap and durable hardshell carrying case that means I can throw it — literally — in my bag without worry. Price points range from low to very high for viewfinders in general, so I’m certain there’s one that’ll meet your needs wherever you are. And there are far more intricate and advanced versions than mine. But if you want something that’s medium-priced, intermediate level, this can get you what you need just the same. I’ve had mine for a few years now, use it all the time and it’s held up pretty well. * On my screen. I dipped in and out of watching the Golden Globes that aired this week — and missed a lot of it. But when I wasn’t looking, I was tracking and keeping an eye out for some of my favorite shows, films and performers. And I have to say, I wasn’t disappointed. I’d go far as to say impressed even. I’m not going to get into all of the who’s and why’s or why not’s but give you just a quick ticker of my top and well deserved recipients — and can I just say what a wonderful year for the over 40 woman! Performers on my list include Zoe Saldana (what can’t she do), Viola Davis (chef kiss), Demi Moore (just go girl), Jodie Foster (what happens when a woman leads a detective thriller), Colin Farrell (can’t stop talking about or wanting to see more of his Penguin persona), and Kieran Caulkin (talent that knows no bounds). As for episodic television, all hail Netflix’s Baby Reindeer — probably my favorite series of the year — right up there with Amazon’s Cross. And for the film category — Conclave. I got it in just before the Globes — and so glad I did — very much worth the watch and the award. And I don’t hand those out willy nilly. Check out the full list in the link below. * In my closet. Cooler air, colder temps and a lot of snow, have officially ushered in the new year. That means it’s that time when I can consistently wear my favorite kind of trousers — corduroys. They’re just the perfect pant. They’re comfy, colorful, keep you warm and come in so many styles that they appeal to all tastes. Among my Winter rotation are these super soft, well tailored and best of all, earth conscious pair from Pact. Their water-saving organic cotton, made in a Fair Trade factory bonafides are among the reasons that make it so. And if you’re fond of forgiving — look no further. The snap front and back side elastic waist, give them just the right amount of stretch. While I have a number of colored cords from various retailers, I’d really love a few more in this particular style. These are probably the most comfortable pair of slacks I own — including leggings if they counted as slacks. Pact has marked them down to an astounding 70% off — and I’m kinda miffed since I paid full price when I purchased them. But that amazing price point comes with a caveat — there are very limited size options. Like almost none. So, good luck. * On my reading list. Keeping up with industry trends is not just my job but who I am. Knowledge is power and nothing makes me feel more powerful than continuous learning about the business side of my business. So, what’s on tap for the coming year? Well, aside from AI — that’s another post for another time — the outlook looks promising, sort of. This might be the year the box office gets back on track, but if you’re an indie, or looking to watch something not-so-packaged and predictable, the odds are not in your favor. Over 80 percent of “new” content is regurgitated content (think franchise remakes, sequels, origin stories, etcetera, etcetera). I mean it’s a model that works — and makes money — so I can’t begrudge the big studios that. But it also means indie filmmakers have to get more strategic with distribution, focusing on more targeted content-specific audiences. And although “2025 is set to be a robust year for the global box office,” even for indies, Variety warns that projections still fall below pre-pandemic levels. The article in the link, highlights some of these projected analytics. * On my table. As long as I’m talking about keeping warm in this January freeze, let’s acknowledge that it’s still comfort food season, right? Well, the dessert of comfort that I bake on repeat beginning in November, happens to be the perfect Winter pie. That is to say — sweet potato pie. You heard me, not pumpkin. My maternal grandmother was from the South so we don’t — and never will — do pumpkin. Not judging the pumpkin-lovers though. Every year, around this time, it’s always sweet potato for me as it’s one of the quickest, easiest desserts — with feels of decadence — that you’ll bake. And if you like robust spices, it also happens to have far more flavor than its orange cousin — imo. The two pies pictured here are a pair of my most recent — which I’m quite proud of. Baked to golden perfection with the right amount of sweet, I like to use small, round cookie cutters and cut them into mini pies to serve or freeze for a small sweet treat. They’re great with or without whipped cream. I take mine as simple as you see it. As for the recipe, sorry — not sorry — I’m going to gatekeep here (you know, family secrets and all). But I will say, you’ll find most of the common ingredients we all know for this particular pie. And as a consolation prize, I will share my most important secret ingredient — a teaspoon of Grand Marnier [https://www.totalwine.com/spirits/liqueurscordialsschnapps/citrus-triple-sec/orange/grand-marnier-cordon-rouge-orange-liqueur/p/1735750?glia=true&cid=plia:Shopping+US+None+ENG+SPART:::google&s=402&&pid=cpc:Core+Catalog+-+Shopping%2BUS%2BMARY%2BENG%2BSPART::google::&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAg8S7BhATEiwAO2-R6s3LvyRLhiFgU5vLB14DGvT4_PyuwcFI7gcYL9RfLxhE_o7EluPDiBoCpbIQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds]. The notes of smoky orange make all the difference to bring out so much of the flavor. No — imitation orange will not do. Give a try and Bon appetit'! * All the feels. This simple piece of pottery has me walking into 2025 with some big Gemini energy. When I made the sustainable choice to downsize my home and many of my material goods that were collecting dust or taking up space, I donated all but a handful of my massive mug collection and have done a great job not adding to it in the years since. It’s been hard, I admit. I say that to say that I broke the non-buying streak — for just this one. I simply could not pass on this Eleanor Bowmer Zodiac mug from Anthropologie. Every now and then an artist comes along and captures the true spirit of a Gemini. And this one has. It really is more than a mug. It's a piece of art. Art that reflects my astrological sign with beautiful graphics, intricately weaving my favorite color in between complimentary jewel tones, imprinted on its smooth and sturdy canvas. In fact, all of the Zodiac signs are beautifully represented, but I really find what they’ve done with mine exquisitely fun and creative. And that's rare for stoneware. Of course, this is not something I actually need, but I guarantee that in addition to putting it to good use, I’ll keep it forever. So, that makes it a sustainable purchase, right? I’m adding the link to it for you with a caution. This literally sold out in all but one of the signs within a week of me purchasing mine — whew! So, unless you’re a Taurus — as of this writing — you’re out of luck. That is until — cross your fingers — the next restock. That’s another Auteur Edit. I hope you found something useful. Thanks again for your support. I’d love to hear what you think or might want to add to today’s list. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.tarawall.com/subscribe [https://www.tarawall.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_2]