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Joel Dunn

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I had the pleasure of attending @tribeca Film Festival’s screening of The Sugarland Express a few weeks ago, featuring a Q&A with the legendary director himself, Steven Spielberg.

2024 marks the 50th anniversary since Sugarland was released in theaters, and it was Spielberg’s first theatrical feature film. Admittedly, I had seen large swaths of the film (on YouTube) but never saw the whole thing in one sitting, and – of course – not in a theater.

The film stars Goldie Hawn, who gave a wonderful performance. Tribeca got her to record a video message about how much the film and Spielberg meant to her, which played right before the Q&A.

It was my first time seeing Spielberg in person. I feel like I have a bunch of friends who have gotten to meet him or interact with him in person. So when I heard about this screening, and how it was only 4 blocks from my apartment, I felt I had no excuse not to go.

He was a true delight with insightful stories, funny asides, and wonderful descriptions of his experience making the film. He got some big laughs when he tossed his Apple watch across the stage after it started giving him false alarms about having taken a fall. And then a minute later he retrieved the watch and said he actually really needs it.

Overall, it was a fantastic experience. I truly recommend attending major festival events that take place in the city, whether it be Tribeca or NYFF, or others. There is so much incredible culture and arts, and opportunities to learn, grow, and be inspired as an artist here.

Take advantage of all that you can.
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#spielberg #filmmakinglife #filmmakinglifestyle #filmmakingtips #filmmakinggear #Learnfilmmaking #guerillafilmmaking #diyfilmmaking #nycfilmmaker #Indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #filmmakersofinstagram #lifeonset #onsetlife #directorlife #directorslife #creativedirectors #cinematographylife #videoshooting #makingmovies #onsetlife #moviemakers #setlife🎥 #onset 🎥 🎬

I had the pleasure of attending @tribeca Film Festival’s screening of The Sugarland Express a few weeks ago, featuring a Q&A with the legendary director himself, Steven Spielberg.

2024 marks the 50th anniversary since Sugarland was released in theaters, and it was Spielberg’s first theatrical feature film. Admittedly, I had seen large swaths of the film (on YouTube) but never saw the whole thing in one sitting, and – of course – not in a theater.

The film stars Goldie Hawn, who gave a wonderful performance. Tribeca got her to record a video message about how much the film and Spielberg meant to her, which played right before the Q&A.

It was my first time seeing Spielberg in person. I feel like I have a bunch of friends who have gotten to meet him or interact with him in person. So when I heard about this screening, and how it was only 4 blocks from my apartment, I felt I had no excuse not to go.

He was a true delight with insightful stories, funny asides, and wonderful descriptions of his experience making the film. He got some big laughs when he tossed his Apple watch across the stage after it started giving him false alarms about having taken a fall. And then a minute later he retrieved the watch and said he actually really needs it.

Overall, it was a fantastic experience. I truly recommend attending major festival events that take place in the city, whether it be Tribeca or NYFF, or others. There is so much incredible culture and arts, and opportunities to learn, grow, and be inspired as an artist here.

Take advantage of all that you can.
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#spielberg #filmmakinglife #filmmakinglifestyle #filmmakingtips #filmmakinggear #Learnfilmmaking #guerillafilmmaking #diyfilmmaking #nycfilmmaker #Indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #filmmakersofinstagram #lifeonset #onsetlife #directorlife #directorslife #creativedirectors #cinematographylife #videoshooting #makingmovies #onsetlife #moviemakers #setlife🎥 #onset 🎥 🎬

How to be creative when the world is burning.

The emotional weight of witnessing suffering and war can do terrible things to one’s psyche. Emotional distress, anxiety, and trauma can hinder our ability to focus, concentrate, and engage in creative pursuits.

Yet creativity can be a powerful tool for navigating difficult emotions and finding a sense of purpose and joy, even in times of darkness. We must allow ourselves the space and time needed to nurture our creativity amidst the chaos of the world, and turn it into a force for good.

Channeling our feelings and emotions into creative endeavors, whether through art, writing, music, film, photography or any other medium can be therapeutic and help us process what we’re experiencing.

While it's important to stay informed, constant exposure to distressing news can weigh heavily on our mental and psychological well-being, paralyzing us from being productive and creating art. We should consider setting boundaries on how much news or social media we consume to create mental space for our creative thoughts.

Understand that it's okay to have periods of low creativity. Be kind to yourself during these times and know that creativity ebbs and flows.

Amidst these challenges, creativity can be a coping mechanism and a source of resilience. Creative expression can serve as a means of processing emotions, communicating experiences, and finding solace amid chaos.

We can channel our experiences into impactful works that raise awareness, promote empathy, or advocate for change. Art, literature, music, film, photography, and other forms of expression can document and reflect the human experience during times of crisis, providing a sense of hope, connection,

and light.
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#filmmakinglife #filmmakinglifestyle #filmmakingtips #filmmakinggear #Learnfilmmaking #guerillafilmmaking #diyfilmmaking #nycfilmmaker #Indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #filmmakersofinstagram #lifeonset #onsetlife #directorlife #directorslife #creativedirectors #cinematographylife #videoshooting #makingmovies #onsetlife #moviemakers #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

How to be creative when the world is burning.

The emotional weight of witnessing suffering and war can do terrible things to one’s psyche. Emotional distress, anxiety, and trauma can hinder our ability to focus, concentrate, and engage in creative pursuits.

Yet creativity can be a powerful tool for navigating difficult emotions and finding a sense of purpose and joy, even in times of darkness. We must allow ourselves the space and time needed to nurture our creativity amidst the chaos of the world, and turn it into a force for good.

Channeling our feelings and emotions into creative endeavors, whether through art, writing, music, film, photography or any other medium can be therapeutic and help us process what we’re experiencing.

While it's important to stay informed, constant exposure to distressing news can weigh heavily on our mental and psychological well-being, paralyzing us from being productive and creating art. We should consider setting boundaries on how much news or social media we consume to create mental space for our creative thoughts.

Understand that it's okay to have periods of low creativity. Be kind to yourself during these times and know that creativity ebbs and flows.

Amidst these challenges, creativity can be a coping mechanism and a source of resilience. Creative expression can serve as a means of processing emotions, communicating experiences, and finding solace amid chaos.

We can channel our experiences into impactful works that raise awareness, promote empathy, or advocate for change. Art, literature, music, film, photography, and other forms of expression can document and reflect the human experience during times of crisis, providing a sense of hope, connection,

and light.
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#filmmakinglife #filmmakinglifestyle #filmmakingtips #filmmakinggear #Learnfilmmaking #guerillafilmmaking #diyfilmmaking #nycfilmmaker #Indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #filmmakersofinstagram #lifeonset #onsetlife #directorlife #directorslife #creativedirectors #cinematographylife #videoshooting #makingmovies #onsetlife #moviemakers #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

To be a creative is to dedicate yourself to lifelong learning.

By opening ourselves up to new experiences – learning new cultures and customs, traditions and languages, destinations, literature, art, and cuisines – we become observers, learners, and absorbers of the rich humanity found in a much bigger world around us. This journey of discovery helps us mature and grow as artists as we expand our frame of reference, our empathy, curiosity, and our passions.

They are the colors we use to paint deeper, more vibrant, more fulfilling work.

It is through this immersive exploration that we can push beyond our comfort zones and learn to stretch the boundaries of our creativity. The diverse experiences and people we encounter intertwine with our own existence, becoming profound lessons etched into our souls, enriching our perspectives and nurturing the roots of our creative expression.

This beautiful metamorphosis leads us to create deeper, more fulfilling artistic expressions that resonate with the core of our collective humanity. As we weave the threads of our experiences into our art, it becomes a reflection of our journey - one that speaks volumes and touches hearts.
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#filmmakinglife #filmmakinglifestyle #filmmakingtips #filmmakinggear #Learnfilmmaking #guerillafilmmaking #diyfilmmaking #nycfilmmaker #Indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #filmmakersofinstagram #lifeonset #onsetlife #directorlife #directorslife #creativedirectors #cinematographylife #videoshooting #makingmovies #onsetlife #moviemakers #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

To be a creative is to dedicate yourself to lifelong learning.

By opening ourselves up to new experiences – learning new cultures and customs, traditions and languages, destinations, literature, art, and cuisines – we become observers, learners, and absorbers of the rich humanity found in a much bigger world around us. This journey of discovery helps us mature and grow as artists as we expand our frame of reference, our empathy, curiosity, and our passions.

They are the colors we use to paint deeper, more vibrant, more fulfilling work.

It is through this immersive exploration that we can push beyond our comfort zones and learn to stretch the boundaries of our creativity. The diverse experiences and people we encounter intertwine with our own existence, becoming profound lessons etched into our souls, enriching our perspectives and nurturing the roots of our creative expression.

This beautiful metamorphosis leads us to create deeper, more fulfilling artistic expressions that resonate with the core of our collective humanity. As we weave the threads of our experiences into our art, it becomes a reflection of our journey - one that speaks volumes and touches hearts.
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#filmmakinglife #filmmakinglifestyle #filmmakingtips #filmmakinggear #Learnfilmmaking #guerillafilmmaking #diyfilmmaking #nycfilmmaker #Indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #filmmakersofinstagram #lifeonset #onsetlife #directorlife #directorslife #creativedirectors #cinematographylife #videoshooting #makingmovies #onsetlife #moviemakers #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Artists need more than dreams.

Dreams without goals forever remain fantasies. As creatives, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and lose sight of the bigger picture. But setting specific, measurable goals and actionable tasks for ourselves gives us direction and purpose. It helps us stay focused and motivated, and gives us a real way to turn our dreams into reality.

If you dream it, write it! Writing goals down helps to clarify your vision, gives you a clear plan of action, and holds you accountable for taking the necessary steps to achieve them. Here are a few practical techniques you can use to help set your goals in motion:

Time blocking: Schedule specific blocks of time for different tasks and activities, and focus on one task at a time. This can help to minimize distractions and increase productivity.

Eliminating distractions: Identify what nonproductive elements in your life siphon away your time and eliminate them – turn off social media notifications, or close unnecessary tabs or apps on your computer.

Use focus enhancing tools: Apps and tools, such as the Pomodoro Technique, that can help you stay focused. The Pomodoro Technique encourages you to work in 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between.

Prioritize: Prioritize your task list and focus on the most important tasks first. This allows you to use your time and energy the most efficiently.

Take breaks: It's important to take breaks and give your mind a rest. A short walk, meditation, or any other relaxing activity can help you to come back to work refreshed and re-focused.

Ultimately, the key is to find the techniques that work best for you and make them a consistent habit.

2023 is our year. Let’s go achieve great things.
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #onsetlife #directorlife #directorslife #cinematographylife #cinematographers #sonyvenice #sonycameras #productioncompany #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #moviemakers #filmmakingtips #filmmakinggear
#setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Artists need more than dreams.

Dreams without goals forever remain fantasies. As creatives, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and lose sight of the bigger picture. But setting specific, measurable goals and actionable tasks for ourselves gives us direction and purpose. It helps us stay focused and motivated, and gives us a real way to turn our dreams into reality.

If you dream it, write it! Writing goals down helps to clarify your vision, gives you a clear plan of action, and holds you accountable for taking the necessary steps to achieve them. Here are a few practical techniques you can use to help set your goals in motion:

Time blocking: Schedule specific blocks of time for different tasks and activities, and focus on one task at a time. This can help to minimize distractions and increase productivity.

Eliminating distractions: Identify what nonproductive elements in your life siphon away your time and eliminate them – turn off social media notifications, or close unnecessary tabs or apps on your computer.

Use focus enhancing tools: Apps and tools, such as the Pomodoro Technique, that can help you stay focused. The Pomodoro Technique encourages you to work in 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between.

Prioritize: Prioritize your task list and focus on the most important tasks first. This allows you to use your time and energy the most efficiently.

Take breaks: It's important to take breaks and give your mind a rest. A short walk, meditation, or any other relaxing activity can help you to come back to work refreshed and re-focused.

Ultimately, the key is to find the techniques that work best for you and make them a consistent habit.

2023 is our year. Let’s go achieve great things.
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #onsetlife #directorlife #directorslife #cinematographylife #cinematographers #sonyvenice #sonycameras #productioncompany #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #moviemakers #filmmakingtips #filmmakinggear
#setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Last Tuesday I was at the #tribecafilmfestival to support my good friend from NYU Film school, @Nardeepthoughts for the premiere of his debut feature film, @landofgoldfilm

Nardeep won $1 Million from Tribeca/AT&T’s 2021 Untold Stories program to make the film with his incredible team and wonderful cast.

About the film: “When truck driver Kiran hears pounding on a shipping container and finds a young Mexican-American girl inside, his already tumultuous life takes a drastic turn as he seeks to reunite her with her family.”

The film was met with a roaring standing ovation. It was thrilling to be in the audience. Congratulations my friend. You made a truly special film filled with heart, love, and light. So proud of you and your accomplishments, and cannot wait to see you ascend to greater and greater heights.
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#landofgold #tribeca2022 #ATTUntoldStories #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Last Tuesday I was at the #tribecafilmfestival to support my good friend from NYU Film school, @Nardeepthoughts for the premiere of his debut feature film, @landofgoldfilm

Nardeep won $1 Million from Tribeca/AT&T’s 2021 Untold Stories program to make the film with his incredible team and wonderful cast.

About the film: “When truck driver Kiran hears pounding on a shipping container and finds a young Mexican-American girl inside, his already tumultuous life takes a drastic turn as he seeks to reunite her with her family.”

The film was met with a roaring standing ovation. It was thrilling to be in the audience. Congratulations my friend. You made a truly special film filled with heart, love, and light. So proud of you and your accomplishments, and cannot wait to see you ascend to greater and greater heights.
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#landofgold #tribeca2022 #ATTUntoldStories #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Another trip around the sun.

This birthday was extra special, because for the first time in five years I was able to celebrate it with my parents.

A reflection -

I lost my grandmother in October of last year, and because of Covid I was not able to attend her funeral. She was the only grandparent I ever knew. She lived to see 90 years, survived 3 bouts of cancer, was a patron of the arts and music scene in Chicago, and was my biggest supporter. Her warmth always set me at ease, and her smile lit up the room for me. She believed in me and cheered for me, which gave me the confidence and tenacity to go forth and pursue my dreams.

As a filmmaker or artist, you need support from wherever you can get it. Especially these days as hate and negativity thrive. There is so much positivity we are trying to spread. So many projects in the pipe – from being written to being launched. Long days and long nights are ahead. So are challenges and setbacks, frustrations and shortcomings.

But the mission remains the same. The goals - powerful in representation, meaning, and purpose. So this season I pause to reflect, to remember, and then continue pushing even harder in the pursuit of all I seek to accomplish.

For that is what she would want me to do.

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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Another trip around the sun.

This birthday was extra special, because for the first time in five years I was able to celebrate it with my parents.

A reflection -

I lost my grandmother in October of last year, and because of Covid I was not able to attend her funeral. She was the only grandparent I ever knew. She lived to see 90 years, survived 3 bouts of cancer, was a patron of the arts and music scene in Chicago, and was my biggest supporter. Her warmth always set me at ease, and her smile lit up the room for me. She believed in me and cheered for me, which gave me the confidence and tenacity to go forth and pursue my dreams.

As a filmmaker or artist, you need support from wherever you can get it. Especially these days as hate and negativity thrive. There is so much positivity we are trying to spread. So many projects in the pipe – from being written to being launched. Long days and long nights are ahead. So are challenges and setbacks, frustrations and shortcomings.

But the mission remains the same. The goals - powerful in representation, meaning, and purpose. So this season I pause to reflect, to remember, and then continue pushing even harder in the pursuit of all I seek to accomplish.

For that is what she would want me to do.

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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

This is the color correction setup for my PSA project. Fun fact, this project was originally slated to be finished in May of last year. But just like everything else, the pandemic threw our entire schedule out the window.

The PSA features a group of people – mostly children – huddled together in close proximity. If the PSA was released in May of last year, it would not have been seen as realistic for the times since social distancing was the law of the land and no one was gathering in groups. Its impact would have been diminished.

This meant we had to wait, and wait, and wait. However, I knew this was the right decision and just had to be patient. We spent the extra time continuing to fine tune the piece, polish the edit, and prep the distribution plan.

Getting the color correction up and running on this project was a challenge. I originally wanted to go to a post-production facility I had a relationship with to do the color. But they were too expensive for the amount of time we needed to get the job done, even during the pandemic. This was the case with other post-houses as well. And none of the houses in NYC that rented gear had any inventory. Every place was completely empty.

Our DP was going to color the project, however at that time (around March) neither of us were vaccinated yet, and were low on the eligibility list. And because we both needed to be in the room for the color sessions, this meant another delay, this time 2 months.

Finally, things got rolling in May. We cobbled together a system from @adoramarentals and Rentex, and did the coloring over two days.

Now we are in the middle of working on the music, which will be explored in another post. I love this piece. It definitely holds a special place in my heart.
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #onset🎥🎬 #setlife🎥

This is the color correction setup for my PSA project. Fun fact, this project was originally slated to be finished in May of last year. But just like everything else, the pandemic threw our entire schedule out the window.

The PSA features a group of people – mostly children – huddled together in close proximity. If the PSA was released in May of last year, it would not have been seen as realistic for the times since social distancing was the law of the land and no one was gathering in groups. Its impact would have been diminished.

This meant we had to wait, and wait, and wait. However, I knew this was the right decision and just had to be patient. We spent the extra time continuing to fine tune the piece, polish the edit, and prep the distribution plan.

Getting the color correction up and running on this project was a challenge. I originally wanted to go to a post-production facility I had a relationship with to do the color. But they were too expensive for the amount of time we needed to get the job done, even during the pandemic. This was the case with other post-houses as well. And none of the houses in NYC that rented gear had any inventory. Every place was completely empty.

Our DP was going to color the project, however at that time (around March) neither of us were vaccinated yet, and were low on the eligibility list. And because we both needed to be in the room for the color sessions, this meant another delay, this time 2 months.

Finally, things got rolling in May. We cobbled together a system from @adoramarentals and Rentex, and did the coloring over two days.

Now we are in the middle of working on the music, which will be explored in another post. I love this piece. It definitely holds a special place in my heart.
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #onset🎥🎬 #setlife🎥

Throwback photo from a small commercial shoot back in 2018. It’s that time we took over a massive grocery store in Hoboken, NJ. Hopefully we’ll be back to full-blown, in-person productions sooner than later.
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📷 Anna Tabatchnick
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Throwback photo from a small commercial shoot back in 2018. It’s that time we took over a massive grocery store in Hoboken, NJ. Hopefully we’ll be back to full-blown, in-person productions sooner than later.
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📷 Anna Tabatchnick
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

A new year, new hopes, new goals, same dreams, same passions, same ambition. It is a season of renewal, a season of change. Over the past four years, and the last five weeks in particular, hateful discord sowed division in our country, with its impacts felt around the globe.

It’s so easy to be overwhelmed by the stories of hate and violence that engulf society. It’s too easy to get depressed by it all.

These moments offer opportunities to reflect and learn for the future. How can we be creative when our entire world is on fire? How can we create when there is so much pain and evil in the world? How do we find inspiration when times are tough, and our spirits are disheartened?

Big ideas, big dreams, and big goals don’t typically scream and shout at you to get your attention. Usually, they are fleeting moments that occur in everyday life. They might seem inconsequential at first. Yet, we must be open and willing to receive them. Our eyes should forever be seeking, ever searching for the next idea, the next story, the next spark, the next moment to fuel our imaginations.

These moments can come from friends and family, or maybe even a random couple standing on a street corner. Or maybe from the crescendo of a song, the pages of a book, or a view of an ocean. Perhaps it’s the wonderment of a child playing with their toys. It could even be from a fight between friends, but maybe it’s a simple glance between two people in love- and as they are lost in each other’s eyes.

Like atoms that make up the world around us, so does inspiration surround us. It’s everywhere- from lurking in the shadows of dark places, to dancing in the brilliance of the midday sun. It’s up to us to be receptive to them, to hear them whisper as they call out to us, yearning to be found.
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

A new year, new hopes, new goals, same dreams, same passions, same ambition. It is a season of renewal, a season of change. Over the past four years, and the last five weeks in particular, hateful discord sowed division in our country, with its impacts felt around the globe.

It’s so easy to be overwhelmed by the stories of hate and violence that engulf society. It’s too easy to get depressed by it all.

These moments offer opportunities to reflect and learn for the future. How can we be creative when our entire world is on fire? How can we create when there is so much pain and evil in the world? How do we find inspiration when times are tough, and our spirits are disheartened?

Big ideas, big dreams, and big goals don’t typically scream and shout at you to get your attention. Usually, they are fleeting moments that occur in everyday life. They might seem inconsequential at first. Yet, we must be open and willing to receive them. Our eyes should forever be seeking, ever searching for the next idea, the next story, the next spark, the next moment to fuel our imaginations.

These moments can come from friends and family, or maybe even a random couple standing on a street corner. Or maybe from the crescendo of a song, the pages of a book, or a view of an ocean. Perhaps it’s the wonderment of a child playing with their toys. It could even be from a fight between friends, but maybe it’s a simple glance between two people in love- and as they are lost in each other’s eyes.

Like atoms that make up the world around us, so does inspiration surround us. It’s everywhere- from lurking in the shadows of dark places, to dancing in the brilliance of the midday sun. It’s up to us to be receptive to them, to hear them whisper as they call out to us, yearning to be found.
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Obviously Covid forced so many of us to change our filming plans this year. What projects are you currently working on, or have planned for 2021?
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬
Pic from 2019 NAB East

Obviously Covid forced so many of us to change our filming plans this year. What projects are you currently working on, or have planned for 2021?
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬
Pic from 2019 NAB East

Empathy.

If the events of the last several months (and years) have reminded us of anything , it’s the importance of empathy.

It’s especially important to remind ourselves of this regardless of any perceived cliche, because in this age of tribalism, this age of fear mongering and biases, stereotypes and mistruths, and surrounded by so much sickness and death, we sometimes forget this.

It’s something that should be a prerequisite for all artists who want their work to connect with people.

Through empathy we must seek to understand the plight of our fellow human beings in order to understand the greater human condition. And we must seek to understand the human condition if we want to capture the emotional authenticity of our subjects. For it is our job to have our subjects honestly communicate their struggles, their despair, their suffering and pain, their hopes, their aspirations, their celebrations, and their stories to audiences.

Otherwise, these stories become meaningless, contrived narratives. They will come across as falsely parading as enlightened, woke storytelling which insults the very people in real life who are affected with the very real challenges presented in these failed recreations. We owe it to them to do this.

And through empathy we can better ourselves. We can live a life of gratitude for the gifts we have, regardless of how big or small they appear to be. We can then go forth into the world and do better, understand better, give back better, help others better, uplift and amplify underrepresented voices better, and tell stories better.
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Empathy.

If the events of the last several months (and years) have reminded us of anything , it’s the importance of empathy.

It’s especially important to remind ourselves of this regardless of any perceived cliche, because in this age of tribalism, this age of fear mongering and biases, stereotypes and mistruths, and surrounded by so much sickness and death, we sometimes forget this.

It’s something that should be a prerequisite for all artists who want their work to connect with people.

Through empathy we must seek to understand the plight of our fellow human beings in order to understand the greater human condition. And we must seek to understand the human condition if we want to capture the emotional authenticity of our subjects. For it is our job to have our subjects honestly communicate their struggles, their despair, their suffering and pain, their hopes, their aspirations, their celebrations, and their stories to audiences.

Otherwise, these stories become meaningless, contrived narratives. They will come across as falsely parading as enlightened, woke storytelling which insults the very people in real life who are affected with the very real challenges presented in these failed recreations. We owe it to them to do this.

And through empathy we can better ourselves. We can live a life of gratitude for the gifts we have, regardless of how big or small they appear to be. We can then go forth into the world and do better, understand better, give back better, help others better, uplift and amplify underrepresented voices better, and tell stories better.
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#filmmakinglife #moviemaking #Indiefilmmaking #filmmakerslife #filmmakerlife #filmmakersworld #lifeonset #directorlife #directors #cinematographylife #cinematographers #redcamera #redcinema #reddigitalcinema #productioncompany #indiefilmmaking #indiefilmmaker #Indiefilms #cameraporn #videoshooting #moviemagic #makingmovies #Arrialexa #Arrialexamini #setlife🎥 #onset🎥🎬

Sometimes our words fail us
Sometimes we draw a blank
Sometimes our thoughts are not as original as they seem
Sometimes big ideas fall flat
Sometimes our stories are uninspired
Sometimes we struggle to find balance
Sometimes we’re just tired all the time
Sometimes we just need a break
Sometimes our hearts are heavy
Sometimes our sense of hope is deflated
Sometimes we just want to look at shiny things all day

And that’s ok.
You’re doing ok.
Keep going.

Photo of DP extraordinaire Matt Novak
@mnovak5218

Photo from Feb2020
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

Sometimes our words fail us
Sometimes we draw a blank
Sometimes our thoughts are not as original as they seem
Sometimes big ideas fall flat
Sometimes our stories are uninspired
Sometimes we struggle to find balance
Sometimes we’re just tired all the time
Sometimes we just need a break
Sometimes our hearts are heavy
Sometimes our sense of hope is deflated
Sometimes we just want to look at shiny things all day

And that’s ok.
You’re doing ok.
Keep going.

Photo of DP extraordinaire Matt Novak
@mnovak5218

Photo from Feb2020
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

My friends: First, I pray you all are safe and healthy. It is good to be posting again.

The fight for civil rights, for human rights, continues. The fight against bigotry, racism, xenophobia, and antisemitism continues. We are witnessing history being made on a daily basis. We are living in one of the most important movements in history.

Since we last spoke, I have been listening, learning, and engaging in dialogue. It would have been wrong to keep posting standard fare without reflecting on the historical and most recent injustices being perpetrated against BIPOC communities.

As artists, photographers, filmmakers, and musicians, it is important to help shine a light on injustice and hate. We must use our platforms to uplift and amplify underrepresented and disenfranchised voices and help tell their stories.

We must recognize our blind spots while engaging with difficult conversations. Whose stories are we telling? Are we ensuring diverse representation on screen and off screen? We must commit to taking real action to level the playing field. You don’t need to be marching in the street to make a difference. Progress starts with each of us.

In film, that means ensuring fair representation of BIPOC actors on screen. In my prior open casting calls the ratio of applicants was, for countless reasons, skewed against BIPOC actors by a factor of 10. So, for my latest PSA project I actively reached out and found amazing BIPOC talent instead of simply relying on the standard pool of applicants. The results? A rich tapestry of diverse talent that made the production exponentially better.

My friends, responsibility rests with all of us to help better humanity. Small actions add up to big changes. The long march towards progress starts with one foot in front of the other.
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#blm #blacklivesmatter #justiceride
#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

My friends: First, I pray you all are safe and healthy. It is good to be posting again.

The fight for civil rights, for human rights, continues. The fight against bigotry, racism, xenophobia, and antisemitism continues. We are witnessing history being made on a daily basis. We are living in one of the most important movements in history.

Since we last spoke, I have been listening, learning, and engaging in dialogue. It would have been wrong to keep posting standard fare without reflecting on the historical and most recent injustices being perpetrated against BIPOC communities.

As artists, photographers, filmmakers, and musicians, it is important to help shine a light on injustice and hate. We must use our platforms to uplift and amplify underrepresented and disenfranchised voices and help tell their stories.

We must recognize our blind spots while engaging with difficult conversations. Whose stories are we telling? Are we ensuring diverse representation on screen and off screen? We must commit to taking real action to level the playing field. You don’t need to be marching in the street to make a difference. Progress starts with each of us.

In film, that means ensuring fair representation of BIPOC actors on screen. In my prior open casting calls the ratio of applicants was, for countless reasons, skewed against BIPOC actors by a factor of 10. So, for my latest PSA project I actively reached out and found amazing BIPOC talent instead of simply relying on the standard pool of applicants. The results? A rich tapestry of diverse talent that made the production exponentially better.

My friends, responsibility rests with all of us to help better humanity. Small actions add up to big changes. The long march towards progress starts with one foot in front of the other.
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#blm #blacklivesmatter #justiceride
#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

Dreaming of set days.
What creative projects are you working on while being sheltered in place?
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

Dreaming of set days.
What creative projects are you working on while being sheltered in place?
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

Feeling Grateful.
First: I hope everyone is staying safe and healthy out there. It’s a tough time for so many people, especially freelance artists, creatives, photographers, filmmakers, and small business owners. I wish you all health, strength, and fortitude to weather the storm.
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Second: I have been feeling extra grateful these days. The PSA I have been working on (as seen in these past couple of photos) was shot on Feb 29-March 1. It was a personal project years in the making, and involved about 35 people on location and another 60 indirectly to make a reality. Leading up to the shoot there were 3 false starts, countless frustrating months trying to crack the story, scheduling issues, creative issues, and so on.
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Every day since the shoot 3 weeks ago, I realize how fortunate we were to have pulled off the production when we did, because the entire world started shutting down immediately afterwards.
I’m humbled and grateful for all of the people who worked so hard to help bring this poignant story to life – the crew, cast, cast’s parents, service vendors, gear suppliers, location owners and facilitators, friends, family, and you. Yes, all of you out there in Instagramland for following me along on this journey. Thank you.
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Pic by @rowandqd
Balloons by @balloonsaloon
Camera @duallcamera
Lighting + G&E @adoramarentals
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #filmmakersworld #reddigitalcinema

Feeling Grateful.
First: I hope everyone is staying safe and healthy out there. It’s a tough time for so many people, especially freelance artists, creatives, photographers, filmmakers, and small business owners. I wish you all health, strength, and fortitude to weather the storm.
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Second: I have been feeling extra grateful these days. The PSA I have been working on (as seen in these past couple of photos) was shot on Feb 29-March 1. It was a personal project years in the making, and involved about 35 people on location and another 60 indirectly to make a reality. Leading up to the shoot there were 3 false starts, countless frustrating months trying to crack the story, scheduling issues, creative issues, and so on.
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Every day since the shoot 3 weeks ago, I realize how fortunate we were to have pulled off the production when we did, because the entire world started shutting down immediately afterwards.
I’m humbled and grateful for all of the people who worked so hard to help bring this poignant story to life – the crew, cast, cast’s parents, service vendors, gear suppliers, location owners and facilitators, friends, family, and you. Yes, all of you out there in Instagramland for following me along on this journey. Thank you.
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Pic by @rowandqd
Balloons by @balloonsaloon
Camera @duallcamera
Lighting + G&E @adoramarentals
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #filmmakersworld #reddigitalcinema

On set of our latest PSA shoot. Thanks to @adoramarentals for engineering this @mytworks overhead rig for us, and @duallcamera for the Red Gemini. True overhead camera setups are a lot more challenging than one would think, especially when you need to mount a cinema camera and zoom lens 90 degrees downward with a tight budget and no room for a jib. You can see me, DP @mnovak5218 and AC Stuart Solomon looking pretty impressed with the whole setup.
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It took a bunch of trial and error with changing out the camera heads, special adapters to fit the myt slider, and proper stands to support everything. It was important to get it right for the story and I’m glad we took the extra time to figure it out. .
Photo by @icecreamlakestream
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

On set of our latest PSA shoot. Thanks to @adoramarentals for engineering this @mytworks overhead rig for us, and @duallcamera for the Red Gemini. True overhead camera setups are a lot more challenging than one would think, especially when you need to mount a cinema camera and zoom lens 90 degrees downward with a tight budget and no room for a jib. You can see me, DP @mnovak5218 and AC Stuart Solomon looking pretty impressed with the whole setup.
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It took a bunch of trial and error with changing out the camera heads, special adapters to fit the myt slider, and proper stands to support everything. It was important to get it right for the story and I’m glad we took the extra time to figure it out. .
Photo by @icecreamlakestream
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

Change.
My friends, it is time for a change. I had an interesting opportunity – through Instagram - to explore not just cool looking photos, but also long-form written content about various filmmaking topics. I truly valued the writing as much as the photos, and probably more so. It would sometimes take weeks to settle on a topic I wanted to explore and days to write and polish a post that I thought was worthy enough of the audience we have developed together on this account.
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I would strive to write each post as perfectly and thoughtfully as I could. But then I started using this need for perfectionism as an excuse to delay making posts. And thus, here we are – two full months into the year and not one single post. Something has to change. And on top of that, photos of just shiny cameras are not interesting anymore. People want a more authentic view into the creation of projects and my own filmmaking journey. People want and deserve authenticity. You deserve authenticity.
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So now must be a time for change. I cannot view the execution of these long-form posts in such a precious way as I did in the past, because it is crippling my ability to share and communicate with you. There needs to be a paradigm shift. And I think I finally figured it out. I am excited to post on a much more regular basis in order to give you a better experience here.
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This pic is from a PSA I just produced and directed about anti-fracking and water safety. We’re now in post on it, and will hopefully have it online in the next couple of months. Thanks to @icecreamlakestream and @rowandqd for the upcoming pics.
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And a big thanks to you for following along.
Joel
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

Change.
My friends, it is time for a change. I had an interesting opportunity – through Instagram - to explore not just cool looking photos, but also long-form written content about various filmmaking topics. I truly valued the writing as much as the photos, and probably more so. It would sometimes take weeks to settle on a topic I wanted to explore and days to write and polish a post that I thought was worthy enough of the audience we have developed together on this account.
.
I would strive to write each post as perfectly and thoughtfully as I could. But then I started using this need for perfectionism as an excuse to delay making posts. And thus, here we are – two full months into the year and not one single post. Something has to change. And on top of that, photos of just shiny cameras are not interesting anymore. People want a more authentic view into the creation of projects and my own filmmaking journey. People want and deserve authenticity. You deserve authenticity.
.
So now must be a time for change. I cannot view the execution of these long-form posts in such a precious way as I did in the past, because it is crippling my ability to share and communicate with you. There needs to be a paradigm shift. And I think I finally figured it out. I am excited to post on a much more regular basis in order to give you a better experience here.
.
This pic is from a PSA I just produced and directed about anti-fracking and water safety. We’re now in post on it, and will hopefully have it online in the next couple of months. Thanks to @icecreamlakestream and @rowandqd for the upcoming pics.
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And a big thanks to you for following along.
Joel
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

Tis the season…
For discounts and deals, bargains and sales! A time to be inundated with shiny toys and mind-blowing services!
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But I must issue a warning, my friends: be suspect of those who prey on the hopes and dreams, desires and yearnings of filmmakers, photographers, and creatives alike.
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They make it so easy to spend money these days. Click, click, $500 for software out the door. Click, click, $5,000 for a camera out the door. All magically flying out of your bank account and into the hands of somebody else.  And this is why it’s so dangerous.
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Please remember that no piece of software, camera, lens, slider, backpack, microphone, ebook, etc contains a magic potion, a private master-mind success formula, or the missing element for you to achieve greatness.  Don’t be fooled by flashy photos, cinematic videos, and beautifully written copywriting all trying to convince you to buy something with claims of having the secret ingredient you need to achieve all of the success.
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That’s not to say there isn’t gear and software out there worth investing in. All I’m advocating for is making calculated moves, and not buying just for the sake of buying, and not buying for the promise of being able to take shortcuts. .
There will never be a substitute for good ole-fashioned hustle and grind. There is no cheat code for actually being in the trenches and going out into the world with your gear, physically creating art, putting in the work, meeting and connecting with new people, and building relationships.
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Have a healthy dose of skepticism. Constantly re-ask yourself whether buying these things will truly help you on your journey. This takes self-awareness and discipline, but you have the capacity to do so. Otherwise you are just falling for good marketing. Take a deep breath, sleep on it, and then get back to making art.
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies  #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

Tis the season…
For discounts and deals, bargains and sales! A time to be inundated with shiny toys and mind-blowing services!
.
But I must issue a warning, my friends: be suspect of those who prey on the hopes and dreams, desires and yearnings of filmmakers, photographers, and creatives alike.
.
They make it so easy to spend money these days. Click, click, $500 for software out the door. Click, click, $5,000 for a camera out the door. All magically flying out of your bank account and into the hands of somebody else.  And this is why it’s so dangerous.
.
Please remember that no piece of software, camera, lens, slider, backpack, microphone, ebook, etc contains a magic potion, a private master-mind success formula, or the missing element for you to achieve greatness.  Don’t be fooled by flashy photos, cinematic videos, and beautifully written copywriting all trying to convince you to buy something with claims of having the secret ingredient you need to achieve all of the success.
.
That’s not to say there isn’t gear and software out there worth investing in. All I’m advocating for is making calculated moves, and not buying just for the sake of buying, and not buying for the promise of being able to take shortcuts. .
There will never be a substitute for good ole-fashioned hustle and grind. There is no cheat code for actually being in the trenches and going out into the world with your gear, physically creating art, putting in the work, meeting and connecting with new people, and building relationships.
.
Have a healthy dose of skepticism. Constantly re-ask yourself whether buying these things will truly help you on your journey. This takes self-awareness and discipline, but you have the capacity to do so. Otherwise you are just falling for good marketing. Take a deep breath, sleep on it, and then get back to making art.
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies  #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

One of the toughest challenges of independent filmmaking, photography, or any career in the arts is developing the ability to self-police for time management. This is especially hard to do if project deadlines are self-imposed. There’s usually no one looking over your shoulder, or constantly reminding you to sit down and make stuff happen.
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And if fatigue or procrastination rear their heads, making any progress at all is tough. Compound this with distractions gnawing at you from social media, the news, and every-day life, and keeping your output levels high is difficult.
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So, what to do? In essence this is about implementing systems for staying productive, developing good habits, and maintaining accountability for your actions.
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But we must remember that everyone works differently and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It takes self-awareness to know how you, your mind, and your body operate best.
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There are so many resources out there on time and productivity hacks. I’m not an expert by any means, but I will share a few things that have personally allowed me to become more productive:
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Before bed make a to-do list for the next day.
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Schedule your day into 20-30min pieces.
No unscheduled phone calls – unless the person calling signs the checks, or is an emergency.
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Learn to say no – You can’t help everyone, because if you do then you’ll never get anything done.
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Remember the “80/20 rule – 20% of what you do each day produces 80% of the results – cut things that don’t matter.”
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What are your favorite productivity hacks? How do you self-police for time management?
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

One of the toughest challenges of independent filmmaking, photography, or any career in the arts is developing the ability to self-police for time management. This is especially hard to do if project deadlines are self-imposed. There’s usually no one looking over your shoulder, or constantly reminding you to sit down and make stuff happen.
.
And if fatigue or procrastination rear their heads, making any progress at all is tough. Compound this with distractions gnawing at you from social media, the news, and every-day life, and keeping your output levels high is difficult.
.
So, what to do? In essence this is about implementing systems for staying productive, developing good habits, and maintaining accountability for your actions.
.
But we must remember that everyone works differently and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It takes self-awareness to know how you, your mind, and your body operate best.
.
There are so many resources out there on time and productivity hacks. I’m not an expert by any means, but I will share a few things that have personally allowed me to become more productive:
.
Before bed make a to-do list for the next day.
.
Schedule your day into 20-30min pieces.
No unscheduled phone calls – unless the person calling signs the checks, or is an emergency.
.
Learn to say no – You can’t help everyone, because if you do then you’ll never get anything done.
.
Remember the “80/20 rule – 20% of what you do each day produces 80% of the results – cut things that don’t matter.”
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What are your favorite productivity hacks? How do you self-police for time management?
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

I have always been fascinated by the process of how people come up with ideas for their films.
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Filmmaking is hard, especially a feature film that can take two, and usually many more years to develop and get made. It takes an untold amount of dedication, passion, blood, sweat, and tears to turn a bunch of paper from a script into reality.
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How do people sustain the passion for an idea for such a prolonged period of time? How can you develop an idea that lights a fire within you – and make it worth pursuing for years?
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I don’t have the answers for you. These are intensely personal questions that take much introspection and soul searching. All I can offer is how I do it.
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New projects for me, whether they are short films or feature film scripts, always start with the theme. .
I start by asking three questions, “What issues are important to me?”, “What do I want to say?”, and “what types of worlds do I want to explore?”
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My personal philosophy is that films should be about something. You as the creator guide the audience through your perspective of whatever topics you are presenting to them. As the creator of the film it’s your vision, your approach, and your message. It all reflects back to you.
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This is true even for superhero movies. While they might be based on pre-existing material, even superheroes have ideals, they have morals, and they stand for something.
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Just like you.
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What are your values? What are your passions? What makes you tick? What moves you? What gets your heart beating faster? Is it from family, faith, current events, the plight of others? Do you find inspiration from real life stories, or imaginary tale from distant worlds – maybe even from galaxies far, far, away?
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The source of your inspiration and the moment when your ideas spark to life is nothing short of what can only be described as pure magic.
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Where do your stories come from?
.
.
.
.
.
.
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic
#makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

I have always been fascinated by the process of how people come up with ideas for their films.
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Filmmaking is hard, especially a feature film that can take two, and usually many more years to develop and get made. It takes an untold amount of dedication, passion, blood, sweat, and tears to turn a bunch of paper from a script into reality.
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How do people sustain the passion for an idea for such a prolonged period of time? How can you develop an idea that lights a fire within you – and make it worth pursuing for years?
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I don’t have the answers for you. These are intensely personal questions that take much introspection and soul searching. All I can offer is how I do it.
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New projects for me, whether they are short films or feature film scripts, always start with the theme. .
I start by asking three questions, “What issues are important to me?”, “What do I want to say?”, and “what types of worlds do I want to explore?”
.
My personal philosophy is that films should be about something. You as the creator guide the audience through your perspective of whatever topics you are presenting to them. As the creator of the film it’s your vision, your approach, and your message. It all reflects back to you.
.
This is true even for superhero movies. While they might be based on pre-existing material, even superheroes have ideals, they have morals, and they stand for something.
.
Just like you.
.
What are your values? What are your passions? What makes you tick? What moves you? What gets your heart beating faster? Is it from family, faith, current events, the plight of others? Do you find inspiration from real life stories, or imaginary tale from distant worlds – maybe even from galaxies far, far, away?
.
The source of your inspiration and the moment when your ideas spark to life is nothing short of what can only be described as pure magic.
.
Where do your stories come from?
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic
#makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

When I was 10 years old, I came home from school and broke the rules... by secretly watching Schindler’s List all by myself.
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At the time I knew the film centered around a serious subject matter. I actually never thought it was an option for me to watch it, given all of the excuses I received from adults as to how I was not old enough. In my 10-year-old mind this was a movie for adults, and off limits to me.
.
But armed with an overwhelming desire to learn, and accepting that I might get in trouble later on, I secretly watched the film over the course of two days after school.
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I ate up every frame. I watched it with a sense of urgency and profound reverence for the subject matter. I studied every action, considered every sound, and absorbed every word of dialogue.
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The film stayed with me for an entire week. I would continuously play back the scenes in my head. I felt like I was living with a secret. I needed to tell someone. After that week I mustered up the courage to tell my mom. She was half paying attention to me, but mostly trying to get things done in the kitchen. When I admitted what I had done, without skipping a beat she said “Good. Watch it again.”
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Since that day, the film became my favorite film- not for entertainment sake, but for education sake, and as a showcase of the true power of cinema.
.
I mention all of this as an entry point for listing my top five favorite films. Here are the other four: West Side Story, The Sound of Music, ET, and tied for fifth are: The Bicycle Thief/Wizard of Oz/Star Wars
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What are your top five favorite films?
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.
.
.
.
.
.
.
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#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

When I was 10 years old, I came home from school and broke the rules... by secretly watching Schindler’s List all by myself.
.
At the time I knew the film centered around a serious subject matter. I actually never thought it was an option for me to watch it, given all of the excuses I received from adults as to how I was not old enough. In my 10-year-old mind this was a movie for adults, and off limits to me.
.
But armed with an overwhelming desire to learn, and accepting that I might get in trouble later on, I secretly watched the film over the course of two days after school.
.
I ate up every frame. I watched it with a sense of urgency and profound reverence for the subject matter. I studied every action, considered every sound, and absorbed every word of dialogue.
.
The film stayed with me for an entire week. I would continuously play back the scenes in my head. I felt like I was living with a secret. I needed to tell someone. After that week I mustered up the courage to tell my mom. She was half paying attention to me, but mostly trying to get things done in the kitchen. When I admitted what I had done, without skipping a beat she said “Good. Watch it again.”
.
Since that day, the film became my favorite film- not for entertainment sake, but for education sake, and as a showcase of the true power of cinema.
.
I mention all of this as an entry point for listing my top five favorite films. Here are the other four: West Side Story, The Sound of Music, ET, and tied for fifth are: The Bicycle Thief/Wizard of Oz/Star Wars
.
What are your top five favorite films?
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
#filmmaking #filmmakinglife #moviemaking #filmmaker #Filming #setlife #filmset #Onset #director #cinematography #cinematographer #editor #redepic #production #productionlife #indiefilm #onlocation #cameraporn #videoshoot #moviemagic #makingmovies #redcamera #redcinema #arri #reddigitalcinema

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