HDFilmtools.com has posted a multi-part interview with Matthew Wood, Supervising Sound Editor of WALL-E and The Clone Wars. These filmmaker profiles that Larry Jordan is posting have been a favorite of mine for a while now. Check it out.

Here is the eighth installment of our continuing series on the role of a Director and Assistant Director both on and off a production set. This part 8 segment deals specifically with an AD’s job on set, general set etiquette, and how an AD can take the load off a Director during production. There’s also a basic introduction to the order of commands and “calls” an AD makes during a take.

Watch all eight segments in the playlist below or at FreshTV, and please stay tuned for the next installment of this extensive series. Detailed descriptions follow the video playlist…

If you enjoyed this tutorial series, please tell a friend or post the link in your favorite forum. Thanks for watching.

Part 1 was a 15-minute introductory video that discusses the basic qualifications, job description and overall tasks a director is responsible for in a production.

The Part 7 segment delves into working with your cast and crew on a production set. Joe speaks to why a director should ensure equality and respect across all castmembers, and how to approach correcting an actor without making a scene. Finally, Joe offers practical suggestions on handling the inevitable unseen challenges and hurdles that will arise.

Recently FreshDV launched the first part in an exclusive multi-segment training series on directing. These intensive FreshDV Film School Director’s Course video tutorials delve deep into what is required of a director and assistant director, both on and off set, and what areas those on that career path can concentrate on to achieve their goals. The discussion is hosted by FreshDV’s Kendal Miller, and Chicago filmmaker Joe Martin brings his unique perspective in teaching the role of a director.

Part 1 was a 15-minute introductory video that discusses the basic qualifications, job description and overall tasks a director is responsible for in a production.

Part 2 deals with the script revision process, both in pre-production and on set. Whether a script change is sparked by a creative choice, a budgetary concern, or to fix a shooting problem, the Part 2 video segment covers the basic protocol and tangible essentials of how you can handle this in your next production.

Part 3 digs deep into the pre-production responsibilities of a Director and Assistant Director. Joe and Kendal discuss the process of breaking down a script by scenes and shots, assigning scene numbers, and building the day to day schedule. They show a sample script breakdown sheet and other necessary forms. Independent filmmakers by and large seem to have the attitude that planning doesn’t matter…but as Joe says in the video, pre-production should be 80% of a project. These tips and techniques will help you get a handle on the planning and pre-prod process, and help you come in under budget and make your shooting schedule.

Part 4 deals with daily production schedules, timesheets and the venerable callsheet…Joe’s “most beneficial information you can generate.” Joe and Kendal discuss planning, accountability, and working with the other members of a filmmaking crew to effectively reach the common goal…completing the project on time and budget.

In Part 5, the discussion transitions to the role of a Director and A/D in the casting and auditioning process. Joe talks about how he likes to run an audition and help faciliate the process, as well as what to look for in an actor’s audition. They also talk about making the offer to your actors, further table reads, and what to look for in the performances. These tips and concepts will help you better cast the roles in your next production.

In Part 6, Kendal and Joe talk about the specific roles and responsibilities of a Director and his DoP. The discussion centers around both the positive and the negative ways that a Director can interact with the camera dept, and how to avoid some of the common pitfalls on set and keep your production running smoothly and efficiently. They also talk about when to bring the DP into the pre-production process, to get the Director and DP on the same page creatively and practically. The discussion delves into using Overhead diagrams to visualize and help plan each scene, as well as the oft-overlooked yet critical location scouting process that can save time and money when it comes time to shoot. Finally, Joe and Kendal speak to the need to develop visual rules, style, and guidelines to help creatively guide a production.

This Part 7 segment delves into working with your cast and crew on a production set. Joe speaks to why a director should ensure equality and respect across all castmembers, and how to approach correcting an actor without making a scene. Finally, Joe offers practical suggestions on handling the inevitable unseen challenges and hurdles that will arise.

Watch all seven segments in the playlist below or at FreshTV, and please stay tuned for the next installment of this extensive series.

If you enjoyed this tutorial series, please tell a friend or post the link in your favorite forum. Thanks for watching.

Titles. At times they seem like an afterthought. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Give a creative editor enough time and they can develop an amazing opening title sequence that properly sets the tone for the film to follow. Get inspired.

Don LaFontaine passed away on September 1, 2008. If you aren’t familiar with his name, you will almost certainly recognize his voice. Don lent his voice to nearly 5,000 movie trailers and 350,000 commericals. He will be missed.

 Garrett Brown Custom Olympic Camera Rigs Interview [29:26m]: Download

While watching this year’s Summer Olympic games in Beijing, I was struck by the unique and varied ways used to get the camera up close and involved in the action of each sport. From the submarine-style camera that followed swimmers from below, to the eye-in-the-sky shot overlooking the rowing venue, to the dynamic camera that followed platform divers down into the water, each a creative and technical feat. To find out just how these amazing shots were accomplished I spoke with the man who designed the rigs, the legendary Garrett Brown. Garrett really needs no introduction, anyone who has worked in the film and video industry should recognize the man who invented the Steadicam and countless other unique dynamic motion rigs over the years. In this fascinating podcast interview, we engage in a frank and open conversation about how he developed the rigs used in the Olympics, and the specific challenges that had to be overcome to make it all possible.

We discuss the underwater MobyCam used in swimming heats, and how it has evolved over the years from the first iteration which Garrett himself hand-cranked all through the 1992 Barcelona games. We talk about the DiveCam, a unique rig that allowed the camera to follow divers into the water during platform diving. Garrett discusses the relatively new FlyCam, a lightweight HD camera rig that rides a 1/4-inch line stretched taut 3000 feet over the rowing and canoeing venue. And of course we talk about the omnipresent Steadicam used to some extent in nearly every venue and event during the games. In the course of the interview I asked, in addition to live production, how these new tools and techniques are being used in traditional filmmaking. And late in our discussion, Garrett dishes on his dream that one day the horse racing industry will call upon him to create a rig that rides below the infield rail of a horse racing track and provides a stunning low-angle views similar to those you can see in films like Seabiscuit. To hear Garrett describe his vision of the shot is extremely compelling. Finally, don’t miss the word on the Mysterious MoleCam, still unavailable for rental. You can see the rigs we discussed, and more, at www.garrettcam.com.

We hope you find this interview interesting and informative, thanks for listening. To listen, subscribe to the FreshDV podcast feed.

Recently FreshDV launched the first part in an exclusive multi-segment training series on directing. These intensive FreshDV Film School Director’s Course video tutorials delve deep into what is required of a director and assistant director, both on and off set, and what areas those on that career path can concentrate on to achieve their goals. The discussion is hosted by FreshDV’s Kendal Miller, and Chicago filmmaker Joe Martin brings his unique perspective in teaching the role of a director.

Part 1 was a 15-minute introductory video that discusses the basic qualifications, job description and overall tasks a director is responsible for in a production.

Part 2 deals with the script revision process, both in pre-production and on set. Whether a script change is sparked by a creative choice, a budgetary concern, or to fix a shooting problem, the Part 2 video segment covers the basic protocol and tangible essentials of how you can handle this in your next production.

Part 3 digs deep into the pre-production responsibilities of a Director and Assistant Director. Joe and Kendal discuss the process of breaking down a script by scenes and shots, assigning scene numbers, and building the day to day schedule. They show a sample script breakdown sheet and other necessary forms. Independent filmmakers by and large seem to have the attitude that planning doesn’t matter…but as Joe says in the video, pre-production should be 80% of a project. These tips and techniques will help you get a handle on the planning and pre-prod process, and help you come in under budget and make your shooting schedule.

Part 4 deals with daily production schedules, timesheets and the venerable callsheet…Joe’s “most beneficial information you can generate.” Joe and Kendal discuss planning, accountability, and working with the other members of a filmmaking crew to effectively reach the common goal…completing the project on time and budget.

In Part 5, the discussion transitions to the role of a Director and A/D in the casting and auditioning process. Joe talks about how he likes to run an audition and help faciliate the process, as well as what to look for in an actor’s audition. They also talk about making the offer to your actors, further table reads, and what to look for in the performances. These tips and concepts will help you better cast the roles in your next production.

In this Part 6 segment, Kendal and Joe talk about the specific roles and responsibilities of a Director and his DoP. The discussion centers around both the positive and the negative ways that a Director can interact with the camera dept, and how to avoid some of the common pitfalls on set and keep your production running smoothly and efficiently. They also talk about when to bring the DP into the pre-production process, to get the Director and DP on the same page creatively and practically. The discussion delves into using Overhead diagrams to visualize and help plan each scene, as well as the oft-overlooked yet critical location scouting process that can save time and money when it comes time to shoot. Finally, Joe and Kendal speak to the need to develop visual rules, style, and guidelines to help creatively guide a production.

Watch all six segments in the playlist below or at FreshTV, and please stay tuned for the next installment of this extensive series.

If you enjoyed this tutorial series, please tell a friend or post the link in your favorite forum. Thanks for watching.

Recently FreshDV launched the first part in an exclusive multi-segment training series on directing. These intensive FreshDV Film School Director’s Course video tutorials delve deep into what is required of a director and assistant director, both on and off set, and what areas those on that career path can concentrate on to achieve their goals. The discussion is hosted by FreshDV’s Kendal Miller, and Chicago filmmaker Joe Martin brings his unique perspective in teaching the role of a director.

Part 1 was a 15-minute introductory video that discusses the basic qualifications, job description and overall tasks a director is responsible for in a production.

Part 2 deals with the script revision process, both in pre-production and on set. Whether a script change is sparked by a creative choice, a budgetary concern, or to fix a shooting problem, the Part 2 video segment covers the basic protocol and tangible essentials of how you can handle this in your next production.

Part 3 digs deep into the pre-production responsibilities of a Director and Assistant Director. Joe and Kendal discuss the process of breaking down a script by scenes and shots, assigning scene numbers, and building the day to day schedule. They show a sample script breakdown sheet and other necessary forms. Independent filmmakers by and large seem to have the attitude that planning doesn’t matter…but as Joe says in the video, pre-production should be 80% of a project. These tips and techniques will help you get a handle on the planning and pre-prod process, and help you come in under budget and make your shooting schedule.

Part 4 deals with daily production schedules, timesheets and the venerable callsheet…Joe’s “most beneficial information you can generate.” Joe and Kendal discuss planning, accountability, and working with the other members of a filmmaking crew to effectively reach the common goal…completing the project on time and budget.

In Part 5, the discussion transitions to the role of a Director and A/D in the casting and auditioning process. Joe talks about how he likes to run an audition and help faciliate the process, as well as what to look for in an actor’s audition. They also talk about making the offer to your actors, further table reads, and what to look for in the performances. These tips and concepts will help you better cast the roles in your next production.

Watch all five segments in the playlist below or at FreshTV, and please stay tuned for the next installment of this extensive series.

If you enjoyed this tutorial series, please tell a friend or post the link in your favorite forum. Thanks for watching.

Recently FreshDV launched the first part in an exclusive multi-segment training series on directing. These intensive FreshDV Film School Director’s Course video tutorials delve deep into what is required of a director and assistant director, both on and off set, and what areas those on that career path can concentrate on to achieve their goals. The discussion is hosted by FreshDV’s Kendal Miller, and Chicago filmmaker Joe Martin brings his unique perspective in teaching the role of a director.

Part 1 was a 15-minute introductory video that discusses the basic qualifications, job description and overall tasks a director is responsible for in a production.

Part 2 deals with the script revision process, both in pre-production and on set. Whether a script change is sparked by a creative choice, a budgetary concern, or to fix a shooting problem, the Part 2 video segment covers the basic protocol and tangible essentials of how you can handle this in your next production.

Part 3 digs deep into the pre-production responsibilities of a Director and Assistant Director. Joe and Kendal discuss the process of breaking down a script by scenes and shots, assigning scene numbers, and building the day to day schedule. They show a sample script breakdown sheet and other necessary forms. Independent filmmakers by and large seem to have the attitude that planning doesn’t matter…but as Joe says in the video, pre-production should be 80% of a project. These tips and techniques will help you get a handle on the planning and pre-prod process, and help you come in under budget and make your shooting schedule.

Part 4 deals with daily production schedules, timesheets and the venerable callsheet…Joe’s “most beneficial information you can generate.” Joe and Kendal discuss planning, accountability, and working with the other members of a filmmaking crew to effectively reach the common goal…completing the project on time and budget.

Watch all four segments in the playlist below or at FreshTV, and please stay tuned for the next installment of this extensive series.

If you enjoyed this tutorial series, please tell a friend or post the link in your favorite forum. Thanks for watching.

Recently FreshDV launched the first part in an exclusive multi-segment training series on directing. These intensive FreshDV Film School Director’s Course video tutorials delve deep into what is required of a director and assistant director, both on and off set, and what areas those on that career path can concentrate on to achieve their goals. The discussion is hosted by FreshDV’s Kendal Miller, and Chicago filmmaker Joe Martin brings his unique perspective in teaching the role of a director.

Part 1 was a 15-minute introductory video that discusses the basic qualifications, job description and overall tasks a director is responsible for in a production.

Part 2 deals with the script revision process, both in pre-production and on set. Whether a script change is sparked by a creative choice, a budgetary concern, or to fix a shooting problem, the Part 2 video segment covers the basic protocol and tangible essentials of how you can handle this in your next production.

This Part 3 segment digs deep into the pre-production responsibilities of a Director and Assistant Director. Joe and Kendal discuss the process of breaking down a script by scenes and shots, assigning scene numbers, and building the day to day schedule. They show a sample script breakdown sheet and other necessary forms. Independent filmmakers by and large seem to have the attitude that planning doesn’t matter…but as Joe says in the video, pre-production should be 80% of a project. These tips and techniques will help you get a handle on the planning and pre-prod process, and help you come in under budget and make your shooting schedule.

Watch all three segments in the playlist below or at FreshTV, and please stay tuned for the next installment of this extensive series.

If you enjoyed this tutorial series, please tell a friend or post the link in your favorite forum. Thanks for watching.

Are you using overlapping audio cuts or crossfades in your edits? If not, you could be missing out on a powerful technique that pro editors have been using for years. Also referred to as L-cuts or J-cuts, overlapping audio either before or after a video cut can go a long way towards making a transition less jarring. It is not only a quick fix for small audio imbalances, but a powerful creative tool in your editing arsenal. HDFilmtools has the scoop, including specific instructions for FCP editors (though the overlap edit can be accomplished with any decent NLE software).

“In today’s world of whiz bang, high-tech, digital editing, the power of the lowly overlap cut has been all but lost in the tumult. I’m sure many of you have heard the term overlap, pre-lap or post-lap before, but you may not know exactly why one would use this technique when creating a sequence. Understanding this subtle, simple and effective tool, which editors pull from their bag of tricks every day, will make you a more seasoned and better editor.”

Via Flowseeker comes this fantastic trove of creative ideas for how to lens and frame the concept of Authority.

Photographer Richard Ross has an online photo exhibition entitled “Architecture of Authority” that manages to convey a sense of power and control very well in single images, and even more so when viewed as a collection. If you are looking for innovative ways to show authority in your next film or video project, I highly recommend browsing this collection.

This is a bit off-topic, but we’ve all been there so I thought I’d share it anyway. This humorous short video shows what Stop signs might look like if designed by committee.