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The Home Depot Filmmaker
As I continue my journey in filmmaking I've come to learn that the most satisfying solution to problems on set are those that are cheap, creative, and simple. In this post I'm going to go over some of the most effective film tools that are cheap and simple. Often you find yourself needing to soften …
Developing a Cinematic Style
Studying film and the great individuals who create in this medium will without a doubt bring to light that there is no rules in filmmaking. Studying others and studying myself has put me in an interesting position in regards to film and film language. I find myself being very contrary to some of my favorite …
Color Grading Mindsets
I started color grading mainly due to necessity. As a indie filmmaker you find yourself wearing multiple hats and in order to give my images something a bit more special I had to grade them. After spending some time doing this I've noticed several mindsets I put myself into and I would like to share …
The Camera Debacle
I want to first address why this post is being made. It is partly due to frustration, but more so due to concern. Frustration because once I show something I've done or watched something with people, another filmmaker will immediately ask "what camera did you use"? Nothing about the story decisions, only about the camera. …
Lighting Guides Part 2
Several months ago I created a blog post about some useful lighting guidelines. Since then I've put together some other guidelines that may prove useful. This comes from information other cinematographers have shared and some comes from personal experience. I've gathered some steps that helps get your desired look. Lighting steps : 1 What is …
End of Phase 1: 234 Film Tips
A journey is defined as an act of traveling from one place to another. My outlook on filmmaking is that it is an art of expression, and therefore a study of oneself. Throughout my years of watching films, studying films, making films, and discussing films I’ve learned so much about the art form. I relish …
The Shawn Lights Filmmaking Handbook
On this journey to becoming the best filmmaker I can possibly be I've come across several tips, tricks, and guides. I've been keeping a journal of sorts, outlining the things I find most useful. The handbook is forever growing but I figured I should share what I've written down so far. Hopefully you find this …
How the past can shape your future. Examining Paintings.
As cinematographers we strive to seek inspiration in any and everything we can. Walking into a room or staring outside can inspire you by simply observing how the light falls. However, if there is one form of inspiration that can benefit almost any aspiring cinematographer it's paintings. Paintings is the father of cinematography and photography. …
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How Music can become an Unseen Character in your Film!
Filmmaking is a magical process. It's a rare profession that incorporates all different types of creative areas. From photography to sound design, filmmaking is a mixing bowl. Music is one area that finds its way into film and it does so in various ways. For this article I will be differentiating music from musical scores …
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