For over a decade, one light has been the gold standard on my sets for punching through windows or bouncing into massive frames: the ARRI M90. This HMI has been a powerful workhorse, a tool that expanded my creativity and could beautifully replicate the sun. It was an oldie, but a goodie. But as filmmakers, […]
Tag Archive for: video production
Remember the old days of filmmaking? The director, cinematographer, and focus puller all huddled around the camera, tethered by short HDMI or SDI cables, creating a cramped and inefficient “video village” of one. Every time the camera moved, the entire group had to shuffle along with it. This workflow wasn’t just cumbersome; it limited creativity, […]
“I want to be a filmmaker. Where do I start? What camera should I use?” This is one of the most common questions cinematographers like Shane Hurlbut, ASC, get from aspiring storytellers. His answer is often surprising: start with the powerful cinema camera already in your pocket. Modern smartphones, especially the iPhone, have incredible imaging […]
Blackmagic Design has a history of shaking things up. From democratizing color grading with DaVinci Resolve to putting RAW recording in compact cameras, they’ve consistently challenged the status quo. Now, with the URSA Cine 12K LF, they’re stepping firmly into the high-end cinema arena, aiming not just to compete, but potentially to redefine expectations. This […]
Blackmagic Design. The name might not have the decades-long legacy of an ARRI or a Panavision, but in the world of digital filmmaking, it’s become a force to be reckoned with. Initially known for their high-quality, affordable video editing software (DaVinci Resolve) and capture cards, Blackmagic made a bold move into camera manufacturing — and […]
Rigging a Condor Boom Lift: Weight, Safety & Strategy Imagine lighting a scene that stretches for hundreds of yards, under the cloak of night. How do you achieve even, controlled illumination at that scale? The answer, often, is a Condor boom lift. I’m Shane Hurlbut, ASC, and in this exclusive excerpt from our Film Production […]
Cinematic Light Quality: Silver Bounce Tired of flat, lifeless lighting? In this excerpt from the Cinematic Light Quality Masterclass, I, Shane Hurlbut, ASC, will show you how to use silver bounce to add dimension, sparkle, and a touch of magic to your images. We’re moving beyond basic white bounce and into a whole new realm […]
Let’s be honest. Wireless video transmission can be a nightmare. We’ve all been there. You’re on a multi-camera shoot, juggling cables, fighting interference, and praying that your feeds don’t drop at the worst possible moment. It’s stressful, time-consuming, and can seriously impact your production quality. Especially if you’re working on a live event or EFP […]
Welcome to this in-depth exploration of batten lights, a surprisingly versatile and often underutilized tool in the cinematographer’s arsenal. I’m Shane Hurlbut, ASC, and throughout my career, I’ve learned that mastering cinematic lighting isn’t just about knowing what lights to use, but how to use them to shape mood, enhance the story, and create a […]
In the realm of filmmaking and video content creation, stunning visuals often take center stage. However, seasoned professionals know that audio is equally, if not more, critical to creating a truly immersive and engaging experience. High-quality, clear audio captures the nuances of dialogue, the richness of ambient sounds, and the emotional impact of music, drawing […]
In the fast-paced world of filmmaking, managing your media efficiently and securely, like CF Express and SD cards, is as crucial as capturing the perfect shot. Lost or corrupted footage can be a filmmaker’s worst nightmare, especially for independent creators operating with limited resources. In this article, we’ll plunge into essential media management techniques, drawing […]
In the world of cinematography, lighting is more than just illumination. It’s an art form that shapes perception, evokes emotion, and guides the viewer’s eye. Mastering different lighting techniques is essential for any filmmaker looking to elevate their storytelling. In this Filmmakers Academy lesson, cinematographer Shane Hurlbut, ASC, explores the nuances of “key on key” […]
Film Production: Large Night Scenes Forget everything you thought you knew about lighting night exteriors. In this excerpt from the Night Cinematography Masterclass, cinematographer Shane Hurlbut, ASC, throws down a challenge. Illuminate a sprawling 150-yard stretch of road with cinematic precision. Armed with Nanlux’s cutting-edge LED lighting system, Shane reveals the secrets to creating depth, […]
In recent years, smartphones have become more than just communication devices; they’ve evolved into powerful tools for creative expression. From capturing stunning landscapes to documenting everyday life, our phones are constantly evolving to meet our artistic needs. And with the rise of platforms like TikTok and Instagram, mobile content creators have never had a greater […]
Lighting modifiers are essential tools for filmmakers and photographers looking to control and shape the quality of light. They allow you to create a wide range of effects, from soft and diffused to hard and focused. Nanlux, a leading innovator in LED lighting, offers a comprehensive range of modifiers designed to complement their powerful Evoke, […]
In the rapidly evolving world of live streaming, content creators are constantly seeking ways to enhance their productions and captivate their audience. Hollyland, a renowned name in real-time wireless transmission and live-streaming technologies, has recently unveiled the VenusLiv V2, a groundbreaking live-streaming camera that promises to revolutionize the way we approach live broadcasts. SIMPLICITY MEETS […]
SmallHD Monitor Settings for Razor-Sharp Focus Pulling Tired of missed focus pulls and blurry shots? Frustrated by eye fatigue after long hours behind the monitor? Fear not! Renowned 1st AC Derek Edwards is here to share his insider tips for optimizing your SmallHD 1303 monitor and taking your focus pulling game to the next level. […]