For aspiring directors, the path forward can seem shrouded in mystery. We’re often told to just “write a great script” and hope it gets discovered. But what if that script sits on a hard drive for years? How do you build momentum, gain experience, and create a sustainable artistic life in an industry that feels […]
Tag Archive for: Inner Circle Podcast
As a cinematographer, your job extends far beyond simply capturing a well-exposed image. You are a visual psychologist, tasked with translating the complex inner worlds of characters into a language of light, shadow, and movement. Every choice you make—from lens selection and camera placement to the subtle nuances of camera motion—should serve the emotional core […]
How do you build a sustainable career as a director? It’s the question every filmmaker asks, a journey filled with passion, detours, and immense challenges. How do you navigate from a personal passion project to a studio feature? How do you overcome imposter syndrome when you finally get your big break? And crucially, how do […]
Welcome back to the Inner Circle Podcast, where cinematography fuses with wellness and leadership! In this special episode, hosts Shane Hurlbut, ASC, and Lydia Hurlbut return to a favorite format: answering questions directly from Filmmakers Academy members. It’s a deep dive into practical challenges, creative choices, and even some essential self-care tips for life on […]
Filmmaking & Family: How to Find the Balance The film industry is known for its demanding schedules, long hours, and the constant pressure to deliver. For filmmakers who are also parents and partners, navigating this world while maintaining a healthy family life can feel like a high-wire act. In this episode of the Inner Circle […]
Unlocking Financial Success in the Film Industry “You borrow money when you don’t need it, because when you need it, they won’t give it to you.” –Russell Hand In this must-listen episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, Shane and Lydia Hurlbut dive deep into the financial realities of the film industry with accountant and business […]
Hey there, filmmakers! I’m your friendly social media expert, Kyra Hurlbut, and I’m ready to help you navigate the exciting world of online platforms. More specifically, let’s talk about something that’s as essential to your career as a well-crafted script: social media. I know, I know. For some of you, the thought of juggling another […]
Q&A Lydia & Shane Hurlbut: Gear, Techniques & Career Advice In the ever-changing landscape of filmmaking, aspiring creators and filmmakers are constantly seeking guidance and inspiration. In the latest episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, Lydia Hurlbut, together with her DP husband, Shane Hurlbut, ASC, field questions from eager Filmmakers Academy members. The episode covers […]
Mastering Social Media as a Filmmaker Gone are the days when a filmmaker’s success hinged solely on a polished resume and a foot in the door. In today’s digital age, social media has become an indispensable tool, transforming your online presence into a dynamic portfolio, a bustling networking hub, and a platform to establish yourself […]
In this episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, Shane Hurlbut, ASC and Lydia Hurlbut welcome a man of many talents, George Billinger, for an inspiring conversation. The legendary Steadicam operator and camera operator opens up about his unconventional journey from firefighting to becoming a sought-after filmmaker. Shane and George Billinger have worked together on multiple […]
Landing Your Dream Film Job Breaking into the film industry is a dream for many, but landing that coveted job often hinges on a single crucial moment: the interview. Navigating this high-pressure situation can feel daunting, but fear not! In this insightful conversation, Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC offer a roadmap to success in your […]
The multi-talented Rudy Mancuso visits the Filmmakers Academy studio to discuss his directorial debut, Música. Premiering at the esteemed South by Southwest Film Festival and now available for audiences to experience on Amazon Prime Video, Música marks a significant landmark in Rudy’s creative journey. This episode is co-chaired by Lydia Hurlbut, Brendan Sweeney, and, of […]
Go beyond the story of Griselda, the woman otherwise known as the “Black Widow,” with the editor of the Netflix limited series, Joaquin Elizondo. Joaquin shares his journey of becoming a Netflix editor and emphasizes the importance of putting yourself out there, communicating your goals, and having a strong support system to achieve success in […]
How DP Sherri Kauk Prepped the Drugstore June Movie Drugstore June is an indie gem that shines brightly, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative and breathtaking visuals. Filmmakers Academy mentor Sherri Kauk’s masterful cinematography enhances every scene with its exquisite composition and evocative imagery. At the heart of Drugstore June is a story that resonates […]
An Olympian’s Approach to Health (feat. Dr. Terry Schroeder) Your success as a professional filmmaker directly results from your mental and physical fortitude. In this episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, former Olympic athlete and coach, Dr. Terry Schroeder, joins Lydia Hurlbut in the Filmmakers Academy studio. Together they discuss Dr. Terry’s history as an […]
How Can Filmmakers Thrive In the Future Film Industry? In this episode, FA CEO Lydia Hurlbut and her cinematographer husband, Shane Hurlbut, ASC, explore the ever-changing film industry. Ever since its inception in 1895, the landscape of the industry has evolved with technology, updated methodologies, and even ways audiences watch what is now dubbed “content.” […]
Optimize Yourself and Your Filmmaking Career (feat. Zack Arnold, ACE) Award-winning Editor Zack Arnold, ACE (Cobra Kai) stopped by Filmmakers Academy to join Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC on the Inner Circle Podcast. A champion of wellness for his fellow post-production peeps, Zack shares healthy changes that filmmakers can start today that will make an […]
4 Self-Care Tips for Filmmaking Entrepreneurs Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC welcome Nigerian filmmaking entrepreneurs Carolyn Seaman and Thomas Jeffery Seaman onto the Inner Circle Podcast. With 20 years of experience advancing the rights of women and listed on the 2021 FemiList 100, Carolyn Seaman produces films and documentaries focused on social change. Carolyn also […]
How To Become a Cinematographer with Todd Dos Reis, ASC There are countless ways to enter the industry and pursue a job as a cinematographer. Typically, you work your way up the ladder from a production assistant or in the camera department and must take chances to prove your mastery. Todd Dos Reis, ASC joins […]
Darrell Wonge’s Pivot from Pro-Baller to Pro Cinematographer Shane and Lydia welcome pro-baller-turned-cinematographer Darrell Wonge to the Filmmakers Academy studio to discuss his career pivot and learn everything from his networking strategy to how he handles the stress of set life while managing his crew. After suffering a career-ending injury, Darrell turned his efforts to […]