What a fun time it was last week at Emerson College! Professor Bosmajian’s advanced cinematography class was fantastic!
I showed footage from the undercover Navy SEAL movie to have the students take each shot apart to analyze both the lighting and photography.
We talked about the new Canon 5D and 7D cameras and how they are changing the game; shifting the paradigm.
Then, we revisited the basics of lighting and practiced those skills on a three-wall set that the students put together.
We reviewed color temperature, how its use can give you more of a three-dimensional image, and discussed how to use a monitor to light from in the field or a studio to light.
I showed the students the use of fill light and they decided what level they liked while seeing it in real-time on the Hurlbut Visuals lighting monitor.

Shane explaining the benefits of the 5D and 7D for student projects

Students, Faculty and Alumni listening to Shane’s experience shooting with the 5D

Shane explaining the paradigm shift and when to choose an HDSLR camera for a project
What Do You Think Film Students Need To Know?
Here is how I incorporated your thoughts into my presentation at Emerson.
- Studying the history of film is important
- The story is KING
- Appreciate each co-collaborator and understand their unique talent
- Discussed composition and how to expose film
I also addressed the Emerson Faculty and Alumni to explain the paradigm shift with HDSLR technology and pointed out that Emerson could position itself as a leader in embracing this new technology.

Shane meeting with Faculty and Alumni at Emerson College
Thank you to everyone at Emerson for their enthusiasm, participation, and expertise in pulling off a wonderful event. Emerson’s facilities were in one word: IMPRESSIVE. They are giving the students everything possible to dream!
Schedule 1-on-1 Video Call with Shane Hurlbut, ASC
Looking for mentorship in the film industry? Schedule a 1-on-1 meeting with Shane Hurlbut, ASC today! This is where you can get expert advice from an industry professional on your career or a particular project.
About Filmmakers Academy Cinematographer Mentor Shane Hurlbut, ASC
Director of photography Shane Hurlbut, ASC works at the forefront of cinema. He’s a storyteller, innovator, and discerning collaborator, who brings more than three decades of experience to his art. He is a member of the American Society of Cinematographers, the International Cinematographers Guild/Local 600, and The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Hurlbut frequently joins forces with great directors: McG’s Netflix Rim of the World and The Babysitter, plus Warner Bros. We Are Marshall and Terminator: Salvation; Scott Waugh’s Need for Speed and Act of Valor; and Gabriele Muccino’s There Is No Place Like Home and Fathers and Daughters. His additional film credits include Semi-Pro; The Greatest Game Ever Played; Into the Blue; Mr 3000; Drumline; 11:14, which earned Hurlbut a DVDX nomination; and The Skulls. Notably, his television credits include the first season of AMC’s Into the Badlands.
Filmmakers Academy Premium Camera Courses
- Camera Blocking & Composition
- Film and Camera Theory
- Camera Exposure-False Color
Tags: Canon, Cinematography, creativity, HDSLR Cameras, Workflow
