You often hear “take it three stops down” or “four stops over,” but what does that actually mean? In this episode of The Inner Circle podcast, Shane Hurlbut, ASC takes a deep dive with Ed Lachman, ASC into the El Zone System and standardizing exposure in the digital age. Throughout this interview, the two ASC cinematographers discuss the lack of specificity in IRE values, waveform monitors, and false colors. In fact, they’re not consistent from one monitor platform to the next. Lachman explains ...
May 30, 2023•37 min•Ep. 2
Award-winning filmmaker and activist Edgar Esteves drops into the Filmmakers Academy studio to chat with Brendan Sweeney about what it takes to create a successful business in the film industry. Listed in Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2020, Edgar discusses some serious truths about the industry, like whether you need an agent or representation, or if you can navigate a prosperous career on your own. Not only that, on top of crucial insights into how Edgar manages his own business relationships, he share...
May 22, 2023•1 hr 46 min•Ep. 15
Finding the Frame’s first guest ever, director of photography Brendan Uegama, CSC , returns to talk about his work on Hulu’s unauthorized Mike Tyson biopic miniseries, Mike. Mr. Uegama describes the prep with Director X, explaining how the wealth of archival footage they found on YouTube informed their decisions, and how they recreated the world where one of the world’s most dangerous and notorious boxers became a legend. Mike is available to stream exclusively on Hulu. Watch the full episode as...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 38 min•Ep. 14
In our 13th episode of Finding the Frame , cinematographer Rafael Leyva visited the studio at Filmmakers Academy to sit down with host Brendan Sweeney and discuss everything from his preference for shooting on film to that one time he courted Steven Spielberg for 2nd unit on West Side Story. Rafael Leyva specializes in feature films and focuses on capturing compelling stories on 35mm. In 2019 the International Cinematographers Guild of America named him as one of their Generation Next DPs. He ha...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 13
In our 12th episode of Finding the Frame , Award-winning Director/Producer Jason Baum drops into the FA studio to talk about his career, most notably the epic Grammy win for his work on Kendrick Lamar’s HUMBLE and his collaboration with Spike Jonze on the 5x Emmy-nominated documentary feature film Beastie Boys Story. Jason has worked with other visionary directors in addition to Spike Jonze, including Ava DuVernay, Joey Soloway, and Hiro Murai. Become a member to watch the full interview: https:...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 11 min•Ep. 12
In episode 11 of Finding the Frame , Oscar nominee Camille Friend stops by Filmmakers Academy to talk about her illustrious career, work on Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and her recent nomination for Best Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling. Become a member to watch the full interview: https://bit.ly/302orWv Keep up with Camille Friend here: https://www.instagram.com/camille_fri... https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0295518/?... Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here: https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/ ht...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 11
Filmmakers Academy host Brendan Sweeney sits down with cinematographer and Oscar nominee Mandy Walker ASC, ACS to discuss her work on Elvis, career journey, advice for filmmakers, future of filmmaking and more! Keep with Mandy Walker, ASC, ACS here: https://www.instagram.com/mandywalkerdp/ https://www.mandywalkerdp.com/ Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here: https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/ https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/ Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their game. Try Filmmakers ...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 27 min•Ep. 10
In episode 9 of Finding the Frame , Oscar-winning costume designer Deborah L. Scott discusses her work on Avatar: The Way of Water, along with her career, working with James Cameron, and more! Join as an all access member to watch the full interview: https://bit.ly/302orWv Keep up with Deborah Scott here: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0779045/ Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here: https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/ https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/ Learn filmmaking from artists at the top of their...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 9
In episode 8 of Finding the Frame cinematographer Oren Soffer discussed his career, how he got started as an international filmmaker, his features "Allswell" & "Fixation", and much more! Become an all access member and watch the full episode: https://bit.ly/3x7bnge Keep up with Oren Soffer here: https://www.orensoffer.com/ https://www.instagram.com/orensofferdp/ Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here: https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/ https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/ Follow us on Instagram: ...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 8
In episode 7 of Finding the Frame , we welcomed re-recording mixer Karol Urban , and sound mixer Stephen Tibbo from the Cinema Audio Society to discuss production/post-production sound, the theory of sound capture, how they starter their careers and Cinema Audio Society. Learn more about the Cinema Audio Society here: http://bit.ly/3AVIzZW Become an all access member and watch the full episode: https://bit.ly/3x7bnge Keep up with Karol Urban here: https://www.instagram.com/mistressmix... https:/...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 29 min•Ep. 7
In our sixth episode of "Finding the Frame" , we chatted with cinematographer Charlie Sarroff and colorist Dave Cole about their collaboration on the hit film "Smile." They discussed the DP and colorist relationship/workflow and how they brought the film's visual language to life. Become an all access member and watch the full episode: https://bit.ly/3x7bnge Keep up with Charlie Sarroff here: https://charliesarroff.com/ https://www.instagram.com/charlie_sar... Keep up with Dave Cole here: https:...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 34 min•Ep. 6
In our fifth episode of "Finding the Frame" , we welcomed Natalie Kingston to discuss her latest work "Blackbird", career, and journey from Louisiana to Hollywood. Become an all access member and watch the full episode: https://bit.ly/3x7bnge Keep up with Natalie Kingston here: https://www.nataliekingston.com/ https://www.instagram.com/natalieking... Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here: https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/ https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.inst...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 11 min•Ep. 5
In episode 4 of "Finding the Frame" we welcomed Michael Dallatorre to discuss his career, working at Panavision, the New Filmmaker Program, and his latest works "Studio 666" and "Emergency." Keep up with Michael Dallatorre here: https://www.michaeldallatorre.com/ Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here: https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/ https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmakers_academy/ Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@filmmakers_a...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 26 min•Ep. 4
In episode 3 of "Finding the Frame" , we welcomed Matthew Chuang, AC S to discuss his career, latest works "Blue Bayou" and "You Won't Be Alone", and the approach he has towards cinematography. Keep up with Matthew Chuang, ACS here: https://www.instagram.com/mattscope/ www.matthewchuang.com Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here: https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/ https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmmakers_academy/ Follow us on YouTube: https://w...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 3
In episode 2 of our "Finding the Frame" series, we welcome Alice Brooks, ASC into our studio to discuss her latest film "tick, tick...BOOM!", her journey to becoming a cinematographer, and the process of shooting musicals. Read the full blog post here: https://bit.ly/3NaiKsD Keep with Alice Brooks, ASC here: https://www.instagram.com/_alicebrooks_/ https://www.alicebrooks.com/ Keep up with Brendan Sweeney here: https://www.instagram.com/brenpancake/ https://www.brendanjsweeney.com/ Follow us on ...
May 02, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 2
FINDING THE FRAME Episode 01 - Cinematographer Brendan Uegama, CSC April 8th, 2023 Hosted by Brendan Sweeney Introducing our new series “Finding the Frame” where we interview industry professionals about their career and latest projects. This episode we sat down with cinematographer Brendan Uegama, CSC about his latest HBO Max project “Moonshot” starring Cole Sprouse and Lana Condor. Watch the trailer here: • Moonshot | Offici... Keep up with Brendan Uegama here: https://www.instagram.com/brenda...
Apr 26, 2023•34 min•Ep. 1
INNER CIRCLE PODCAST Episode 01 - Beauty in the Chaos April 25th, 2023 Hosted by Shane Hurlbut, ASC & Lydia Hurlbut In their debut episode since their hiatus, Shane and Lydia address one of the biggest challenges filmmakers face – a healthy work/life balance. The duo dives into such demands as time and travel that keep filmmakers away from their families, sharing personal anecdotes and ways to overcome such issues and how to plot a course for success both in your career and personal life! Ma...
Apr 25, 2023•50 min•Ep. 1
What I’ve learned over the last 25+ years is to be “flexible” because each shoot is going to be different. I’ve had shoots that are easy and shoots that could not have been more complex. It’s taught me the importance of always being ready and to at least be prepared with the essentials on each shoot. Today, Lydia and I are going to talk about some of the things you’ll need to consider as you get further into your career. We hope you enjoy! Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filmma...
Dec 28, 2019•30 min•Ep. 45
Throughout my career, I’ve been blessed with some of the best crews, mentors, and leaders in my day-to-day. Working in the film industry is no easy task, but when you surround yourself by people that want to elevate you, that’s when creation enters the unique stage of growth and evolution . Today, Lydia and I are here to talk about some of the rigors that we’ve faced over the last 30 years. Whether it’s from financial decisions like buying equipment or the next step in my career…. We want to pav...
Nov 30, 2019•38 min•Ep. 43
Being a filmmaker can be demanding creatively, logistically, and personally. Throughout the years, Lydia and I have always tried to stay true to ourselves and our needs. It’s never easy staying on top of projects, our home life, staying in touch with friends and family, keeping up with movies, etc… What keeps us grounded, creative, and passionate is prioritizing the essentials (i.e. family, friends, and our relationship) and acknowledging everything else is supplementary. By doing this, we’ve ta...
Nov 16, 2019•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 42
The end of each year is always a time to reflect on what you have accomplished, what has changed, and where you are hopefully going. For Lydia and myself, it’s been a crazy year with another feature in the books, an ever-changing schedule, and the unknown of what lies ahead. While it is never easy, it’s fun and worth the ride to be doing what I love. In this podcast, Lydia and I want to wrap up the year and spread as much knowledge to help give you a jumpstart in the new year. We wish you a Happ...
Nov 02, 2019•53 min•Ep. 41
What’s beautiful about this industry is that everyone has their own unique approach to handling creative situations and business choices. Over the course of my career, I’ve enjoyed the opportunity of learning from the greats that have paved the path for us today. Whether it be a cinematographer, director, producer, grip, etc… Everyone carries something you can learn and it’s important to soak in that knowledge. With this podcast, Lydia and I want to share some pearls of wisdom for on and off set...
Oct 19, 2019•56 min•Ep. 40
Women in the film industry make up a big part of our most creative voices and storytellers. We have filmmakers like Jane Campion, Reed Morano, Patty Jenkins, Lynne Ramsay, Kathryn Bigelow, Sofia Coppola, Kelly Reichart, Agnes Varda, Andres Arnold, and so many more. Right now, we are seeing the male-run industry flip on its head and more female filmmakers are getting the chance to create and express themselves. Lydia and I are here to talk about what this means to us and how we are seeing a new s...
Oct 05, 2019•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 39
Women in the film industry make up a big part of our most creative voices and storytellers. We have filmmakers like Jane Campion, Reed Morano, Patty Jenkins, Lynne Ramsay, Kathryn Bigelow, Sofia Coppola, Kelly Reichart, Agnes Varda, Andres Arnold, and so many more. Right now, we are seeing the male-run industry flip on it’s head and more female filmmakers are getting the chance to create and express themselves. Lydia and I are here to talk about what this means to us and how we are seeing a new ...
Sep 21, 2019•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 38
Your reel in the film industry is the one constant you are always going to have to face. This is your identity, your style, your passion, and those that don’t know you need to be able to tell that by the end of it. Throughout you career your are going to make a lot of decisions that, for better or for worse, will sculpt the outcome on how your shoots go, and your career, and how your life goes. What I want to help with is guiding you not only on your career, but how to stay healthy when it feels...
Sep 07, 2019•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 37
When you begin your career as a filmmaker, you tend to only consider shots, the art behind the craft, and all of the creatives choices you are ready to make. Time and time again, it can be a rude awakening for those that enter into the industry and that don’t consider the business aspect of the process. YES – being creative is a big part of our game but that is maybe 40% of the job at the most. Everyday as filmmakers we deal with budgets, lists, meetings, treatments, pitches, producers, and coun...
Aug 24, 2019•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 36
As a cinematographer, I have always been influenced and inspired by light. To me, light makes my job fresh, new, and exciting. Not everything about lighting has to deal with the quality it emits and which fixture you are going to pick. To really be a wizard at lighting, you need to understand the light itself, how it runs, and ultimately its limitations when out in the field. Time and time again, I see filmmakers boning themself when they ask for big sources and have no clue what is necessary to...
Aug 10, 2019•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 35
As a cinematographer, I’ve always been fascinated by light! It’s extremely easy these days to get caught up by the ever-evolving tech out there and what’s hot. But at the end of the day, your bread and butter is always going to be the lights you choose to tell that story. Whether you go for strictly practicals or the big guns like 18K’s, you are making a choice for why you go down that route. Just like choosing a lens or a type of film stock, you need to choose why this light works for you. Toda...
Jul 27, 2019•1 hr•Ep. 34
When prepping for your next production there are a lot of things to consider. What gear you want to use to tell your story, how you want to collaborate with your director and/or cinematographer, and what shots your want to get the best coverage for the script. With technology and shooting styles changing constantly, it can be hard to keep up with what’s new, what’s in, and how to apply it to your craft. For this month’s podcast, Lydia and I take you through the process of breaking down your scri...
Jul 12, 2019•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 33
A lot of young cinematographers start out fixated on equipment and the creativity of the filmmaking process. While that is a big portion of what we do, it isn’t the only thing we do. To make your sets run effectively and efficiently, you want to have pre-production in the bag. While pre-production might not be your favorite part of the process, it is undoubtedly the most important part to unleashing your ideas. This month Lydia and I discuss how we cope with the rigors of leading into a shoot an...
Jun 29, 2019•1 hr•Ep. 32
