DRIVE-BY SHOOTING: USING YOUR CAR TO MAKE BETTER VIDEOS
Need a dolly or tracking shot? Sometimes the simplicity of a slow moving vehicle is all you need.
CRAFT SERVICES
Unlike other areas of filmmaking and production there's really no well produced, all-encompassing video on Craft Services. Trust me, I watched dozens for anything worth posting.
The basic rules of thumb are:
1) Shop smart and stay within budget
2) Offer as much variety and healthy choices as possible
3) Include veggies & dip, cereal, fruit, snack bars, some light sweets, water, soda and juice
4) But above all, feed your cast and crew — or else!
I did find one video worth sharing, however, cause honestly this one takes the cake.
Literally.
BROADCAST STANDARDS
Here's a fun little short produced for the Independent Film Channel.
MAKE YOUR MOVIE
Here's something different (and definitely fascinating) I stumbled upon. It's a look at various aspects of filmmaking. It includes a section on acting and auditioning; a topic I've never seen discussed with regards to filmmaking.
The first part is an excellent perspective on dynamic shooting to allow you greater choices and flexibility in editing. Spot-on and worth paying attention to.
The next section, on acting, was something I really enjoyed watching. It's how I learned and the method I teach. What Margie Haber says is undeniably true. If you want to be a good actor you've got to stop acting.
I'll let you discover the last two segments on editing and making movies yourself. And even though the software and references are dated by now (the Canon XL1…I love it!) the principles are absolutely timeless.
PERSPECTIVES FROM WILLIAM MCGREGOR
You don't know him. Yet.
But listen from a different perspective.
More often than not we post perspectives from seasoned personalities. But how about those who are coming up in the industry? How do they see it? And why do they do it?
A CONVERSATION WITH MY 12 YEAR OLD SELF
While the expression "you can't make stuff like this up" is certainly true, the phrase "you could never plan something as cool as this" is equally valid.
Jeremiah actually recorded himself at age 10 — then again at 12, having a conversation with his two-year-younger self. But it wasn't until decades later that he brought the [12-year-old] footage out of storage and reworked it into the viral sensation it's become.
And while some decry this as pure fabrication, there's no denying the brilliance in its concept and execution. Jeremiah McDonald has indeed experienced success and recognition as a filmmaker.
Denounce that.
FREDDIE WONG: THE SECRETS OF YOUTUBE SUCCESS
An invaluable article, posted by one of YouTube's most successful filmmakers.
READ FULL ARTICLE HERE – http://bit.ly/Rt9ekG
LIGHTING: GOING WITH WHAT YOU’VE GOT
Hollywood Cinematographer Shane Hurlbut's blog (http://www.hurlbutvisuals.com/blog/) is one of the best out there, and at the top of my list of must-subscribes.
Here's his two-part series on lighting using a mix of available light and off-the-shelf home center equipment. It's a great resource for effectively lighting films in an easily-available, inexpensive way. Shane gives us a look at what's in his kit (right down to stingers) and with that you can begin to build your own as funds allow.
Part One
Part Two
SETIQUETTE: HOW TO ACT ON A FILM SET
Here's an excellent…repeat, EXCELLENT hour-long class presentation by Marc A. Hutchins, D.P. at Alexander Films. He's addressing the cast and crew of a micro budget faith-based film he's about to shoot on the proper way to conduct themselves on set.
This is essential viewing for everyone entering — or in the industry.
REVENGE OF THE GREAT CAMERA SHOOTOUT: PART ONE
The premise is a camera test. But in its presentation what results is an excellent documentary on cinematography. It's a solid half hour of wisdom from some of the best DP's in the business.
