Maybe you’re fed up with 12 hour days and frustrated with big shot producers who abuse their crew. In short, you need a way out. Don’t worry, I understand, and I’m here to help with 10 ways to guarantee you never work on a film set again.
Filmmaking Tips and Advice
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Get Tips and Updates from The Black and Blue Newsletter
I am pleased to announce the launch of The Black and Blue newsletter! I am promising with this newsletter free exclusive content and a way to get the latest updates. Essentially, you will receive the best of The Black and Blue in your inbox.
The Black and Blue Redesign Is Live!
It started with a tiny little thought in the back of my head that, “it could be better.” For the most part, I ignored it. I wasn’t initially open to redesigning The Black and Blue, especially after I had already substantially changed the look twice in its relatively short lifetime.
5 Useful Cinematography Android Apps
So you own a smartphone and it happens not to be an iPhone? You’re not alone, it appears. I’ve written plenty about iPhone apps, but now I am leaving that bias behind to explore the Android Market. Listed below are five solid cinematography apps that stand to turn that gadget in your pocket into the ultimate on set tool.
Natalie Portman Thanks Camera Operators in Best Actress Oscar Speech
Last night at the 83rd Academy Awards, Natalie Portman gave one of the more sincere speeches after winning Best Actress. In that speech she took the time to thank the camera operators of Black Swan among the usual “Thank You’s.” That kind of recognition is rare for below the line crew members and was a classy move on her part.
Comment Corner: Week of Feb. 21st
I was more than pleased with the reception to “Comment Corner” last week, the new feature here at The Black and Blue where you, the readers, are highlighted. This week brought some more great comments from you and I’m happy to share with the rest of the readers the discussions that go on. I also have some big website news to announce at the end of the post.
Oscar Odds for Best Cinematography
The 83rd Academy Awards will be taking place this Sunday and it’s going to be a tight race for Best Cinematography. True Grit might be the favorite, but the Oscars are never a “sure thing.” Luckily, the money-grubbers in Vegas have removed some of the guess work with odds they’ve set. So, who does Vegas have listed as the favorite to win and by how much?
Ready to Wrap for Lunch? Do This First
If you’re like me, you appreciate the small amount of time on set during lunchtime to eat, relax and maybe even sneak a quick nap. Of course, as a camera assistant, your first priority is the camera. This is how I keep the camera safe during the extended break and you should be doing something similar if you aren’t already.
On Set: In the Octagon with Wanderlei Silva
Part of the draw of the film industry is the spectacle of it. How many people can say they’ve stepped into the octagon with a UFC fighter responsible for 22 knockouts in 33 wins and ranked #3 in the world for his weight class?
Cameras Don’t Make Movies, People Do
Why do we spend so much time these days discussing RED vs. Alexa or DSLR vs. 4/3, when the real discussion piece should be about evoking emotion, capturing the soul of audiences, and ultimately, injecting a film with heart. It’s not about the camera or the lens, it’s about the idea, the story, and the passion that drives the filmmaking process.