Filmmakers Academy

The #1 Resource Platform for Cinematographers, Film Crews, and Do-It-All Filmmakers, expand your technical knowledge, find inspiration, and collaborate with fellow creatives. Become a member today!

“No filmmaker today needs to go through the struggles I did. We bridge the gap between education and on-the-job training as mentors like me share decades of experience so you can supercharge your career for success.”
-Shane Hurlbut ASC

Learn practical on-the-job knowledge from industry-leading filmmakers in their natural environments.
40+ on-demand courses
800+ hours of training videos
Podcasts and playlists
New content added weekly


Filmmakers Academy

The Look of The Perfect Couple 🎬🌊🔪 bit.ly/3XzkH9Y
Go behind the scenes of The Perfect Couple, where meticulous cinematography and lighting shaped its distinctive look. From camera choices to lighting setups, here’s how the team brought the story to life:

1️⃣ The Cinematic Approach: Co-DPs Shane Hurlbut, ASC, and Roberto De Angelis, AIC, worked together to develop a cohesive visual language that enhanced the suspenseful narrative.
2️⃣ Choosing the Right Camera: After extensive testing, the Sony Venice 2 was chosen for its accurate skin tones, highlight roll-off, and ability to handle mixed lighting conditions.
3️⃣ Selecting the Glass: Caldwell Chameleon lenses, paired with Panavision anamorphic zooms, provided the softness and dynamic framing for the filmic look.
4️⃣ Lighting Setup & Philosophy: Hurlbut’s precise lighting, with tools like remote-controlled Vulcans and inflatable pipe lights, ensured high-quality, consistent results.
5️⃣ Minimalist Lighting for Maximum Tension: In the interrogation room, stark fluorescent lighting heightened tension and revealed the characters’ raw emotions.
6️⃣ Lighting Tools & Techniques: MBS Vulcan movers and Nanlux Evoke 2400Bs allowed for flexible lighting setups, adapting to the demands of production.
7️⃣ Balancing Wealth & Darkness: Lighting at the Winbury estate highlighted its opulence, while shadows and reflections added depth to the darker elements of the story.
8️⃣ Embracing Nantucket’s Natural Light: The team captured Nantucket’s natural beauty, using it to enhance the contrast between the serene setting and the complex narrative.
9️⃣ Challenges in Recreating Nantucket: After relocating to LA, the crew successfully recreated Nantucket’s coastal charm, ensuring continuity in lighting and design.
🔟 The Crew: The series’ success relied on a talented crew who solved technical challenges and executed complex setups, ensuring the director’s vision was achieved.

Visit our blog to learn how Shane Hurlbut, ASC, and Roberto De Angelis, AIC designed the look of The Perfect Couple.

#cinematography #cinematographer #cinematographers #lighting #lightingsetup #lightingdesign #perfectcouple #theperfectcouple #netflixseries #netflix #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmmakers #dop #directorofphotography #nanlux #sonycine #sonyvenice2 #mbsequipment #nantucket #arri #caldwellchameleon

1 week ago | [YT] | 30

Filmmakers Academy

Top 20 AC Tools in Derek’s Kit 🧰 bit.ly/3WDJAzC
Get a sneak peek into the essential tools Derek swears by! From precise lasers to reliable tape measures, dual lock, and butyl, these are the must-haves that ensure you're always set up for success.

Here’s a quick rundown:
1. Hilti PD-E Laser
2. McGuire-Nicholas Compact Tool Bag
3. Stanley FatMax
4. Dual Lock
5. Clear Butyl Tape
6. KimTech Wipes
7. Viewfinder Eye Cushion

💡 Want to see the full lineup? Head over to our YouTube channel for the complete video and discover all the tools Derek keeps in his kit. Plus, we’ve dropped links in the description so you can easily grab these tools yourself!

🎬 Bonus: Elevate your skills with our new Camera Crew Playbook Masterclass. Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what member Dustin Leighton had to say:
"This masterclass will save you years of in-the-field experience. I thought I knew it all—turns out, I didn’t even scratch the surface! Watched it start to finish and immediately made a to-do list. This will be on repeat on my phone all month. Thanks, Shane and Derek, for empowering filmmakers!"

Unlock the full masterclass and gain insider knowledge to dominate in the camera department, land bigger gigs, and make your mark in the industry. 🚀

Available exclusively through our annual membership or as an individual purchase. US customers can now finance interest-free over 6 months with PayPal Credit. 💳

#filmmaking #filmmaker #filmmakers #cinematography #filmmakersacademy #cameraassistant #1stAC #focuspuller #focuspulleratwork #learnfilmmaking #cinematographer #filmeducation #cameradept #cameradepartment #protip #filmmakingtips #diyfilmmaking #diyfilmmaker

3 weeks ago | [YT] | 51

Filmmakers Academy

Social Media Tips for Filmmakers 🎬🧠📱 www.wearelostobjects.com/
Social media has evolved into a vital tool for filmmakers, often being the first point of contact before a website. Whether you're pitching projects, seeking collaborations, or expanding your network, a robust social media presence is essential. It serves as a free marketing platform that allows you to showcase your work, build relationships, and discover new opportunities. Utilize these practical tips to effectively leverage its power.

1️⃣ Professional Handles: Ensure your social media handles reflect your professional identity. If your preferred name is taken, use variations that still include your name for easy recognition.

2️⃣ Optimize Your Bio: Clearly state your location, role, and a brief overview of your work in your bio. Include a Linktree to consolidate all your professional links in one place.

3️⃣ Upgrade Your Account: Switching to a Business or Creator account is crucial for accessing detailed insights and additional features that support professional growth.

4️⃣ Content Matters: Focus on authentic content that represents your work and expertise, such as behind-the-scenes shots, technical breakdowns, or project highlights.

5️⃣ Strategic Engagement: Utilize targeted hashtags and detailed captions to increase your content’s reach and engage with your audience effectively. Remember to pre-arrange collaborations to expand your network.

6️⃣ Support Available: If managing social media is overwhelming, consider our services at Lost Objects. From basic audits to in-depth strategy sessions, we tailor our support to meet your needs.

🎧 Further Learning: For more detailed strategies on using social media in the film industry, listen to the Inner Circle Podcast Episode 15 featuring insights from industry expert Kyra Hurlbut.

🔍 Lost Objects Services: Overwhelmed by social media? Explore our à la carte services for specific needs or opt for full social media management. We provide everything from basic profile audits to comprehensive strategy sessions, designed to elevate your presence and effectiveness. Visit www.wearelostobjects.com/ for more info 📱❤️

#filmmaking #filmmakers #filmmaker #socialmedia #SocialMediaAgency #SocialMediaManagement #lostobjects #filmmakersacademy #cinematographers #cinematographer #cinematography #MarketingTips #DigitalMarketing #SocialMediaStrategy #SocialMediaAdvice #SocialMediaTips #socialmediaaudit

4 weeks ago | [YT] | 69

Filmmakers Academy

Spotlight Coaching Sessions are monthly virtual calls where you can ask industry professionals your questions and get personalized advice 👉 bit.ly/3WIemHQ . These sessions have changed members lives and led to paying jobs & on set opportunities.

Don't miss our upcoming Spotlight Group Coaching Session with 1st AC and Camera Operator Derek Edwards on Sunday, August 18th at 10AM PST. We recently dropped his Camera Crew Playbook Masterclass on the FA platform. Now is your time to ask any questions you have after watching that masterclass or general camera department questions. This is a coaching call you don't want to miss, Derek always dives deep into questions and ensures a fun experience.

**These calls are available to paying FA members or for an individual purchase price of $14.99.

#filmmaking #filmmaker #filmmakers #cinematography #filmmakersacademy #cameraassistant #1stac #focuspuller #focuspulleratwork #learnfilmmaking#cinematographer #filmeducation #cameradept #cameradepartment #smallhd

1 month ago | [YT] | 19

Filmmakers Academy

Learn the ins and outs of a professional camera department in our Camera Crew Playbook Masterclass. bit.ly/3WDJAzC 👉 This is your playbook to fast-track your path to top-tier film jobs. 🎬 Whether you’re just starting or looking to sharpen your skills, our masterclass offers actionable insights tailored for all filmmakers.

As an annual member, you get exclusive access not only to this masterclass but also to our entire library of industry-leading content.

Learn how to:
📽️ Master crew roles and become indispensable on any set📽️ Hone 1st AC skills that fast-track your career📽️ Perfect camera prep to impress and land more gigs📽️ Sharpen focus-pulling techniques that elevate your reputation📽️ Troubleshoot wireless systems like a pro📽️ Apply expert insights to stand out and secure bigger opportunities

👉FA Premium 12-Month Membership - $449.99(Includes entire masterclass library)
👉Camera Crew Playbook Masterclass - $99.99

Retail Value: $549.98 🫨
SALE PRICE: $396.99 😍

bit.ly/3WDJAzC

💳 Now offering PayPal Credit financing for customers in the US to finance interest-free over 6 months.

Trust us, you definitely want to watch this masterclass. Click the link in bio to become a member and have full access to our entire premium masterclass library and more!

#filmmaking #filmmaker #filmmakers #cinematography  #filmmakersacademy #cameraassistant #1stac #focuspuller #focuspulleratwork #learnfilmmaking#cinematographer #filmeducation #cameradept #cameradepartment

1 month ago | [YT] | 41

Filmmakers Academy

Mastering Urban Close-Ups: The Depron Dome Technique 🌃 bit.ly/4frIXSv
As cinematographers, it's often challenging to capture the perfect night ambience for your close-ups and to match sources that look realistic. Shane Hurlbut, ASC has developed a DIY hack that allows you to accurately recreate urban sources that translate beautifully onto the screen.

1️⃣ Utilize Diffusion Techniques:
Diffusion is your best friend! Use magic cloth, half soft Frost 216, or 129 to soften harsh urban lights and create that dreamy, cinematic quality.

2️⃣ Meet the Depron Dome:
Say hello to your new secret weapon! The Depron Dome is a custom-made light modifier crafted from foam, providing unique textural lighting rather than just plain diffusion. Perfect for breaking light in innovative ways!

3️⃣ Setting Up Your Depron Dome:
Create your Depron Dome using two foam layers and position them on lights like the Nan Lux Dyno 1200s. Ideal for tight spots like food trucks, allowing you to get those domes close to your subject for maximum effect.

4️⃣ Matching Urban Light Sources:
Ever struggled to match those tricky urban lights? Use the XY mode on your color temperature meter to perfectly replicate the hues of sodium vapor, metal halide, and cool white fluorescent lights with LED technology.

5️⃣ Practical Application in Close-Ups:
Match urban light colors using the Depron Dome for close-ups. For instance, in a food truck scene, set your sodium vapor color to 3700K for a golden hue, eliminating those pesky green-yellow tints.

6️⃣ Enhance Eye Light Quality:
Reflect urban lights in your subject’s eyes with the Depron Dome. Position it to capture the urban environment’s light sources like metal halide and sodium vapor, creating a cohesive, immersive atmosphere.

👉 Want to dive deeper & learn more about balancing day interiors, soft light, and the power of LED technology? Visit our blog! Link in bio. 🌐📲

Fast-track your filmmaking career, become an annual member and watch the Depron Dome in action in our Cinematic Light Quality Masterclass.💡

#Cinematography #UrbanLighting #DepronDome #FilmTips #LEDTechnology #Diffusion #LightingTechniques #FilmMaking #CinematicLighting #FilmCommunity #LearnWithUs #FilmmakersAcademy

1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 81

Filmmakers Academy

🎬 Unlock the Camera Crew Playbook Masterclass! 🎥 Coming Soon!
Join industry experts Shane Hurlbut, ASC, and Derek Edwards for an immersive deep dive into the camera department. This masterclass is your ticket to mastering the essential skills and roles of a top-notch camera crew.

🌟 What You'll Learn:
* Roles of each crew member
* Key skills for a 1st AC
* Camera prep techniques
* Focus pulling
* Wireless video troubleshooting
* And much more!

Don't miss this opportunity to become an invaluable asset on any film set. ⏰Access the masterclass starting August 7th with an All-Access Membership or for individual purchase.

#filmmaking #filmmaker #filmmakers #cinematography #cinematographer #cinematographers #cameradepartment #cameraassistant #1stac #learnfilmmaking #FilmSchool #FilmSchool #masterclass #filmmakersacademy #filmmakingcourse #filmmakinglife #filmcourse #focuspulling #focuspuller #FilmCommunity #FilmIndustry

1 month ago | [YT] | 38

Filmmakers Academy

Top Courses in Our 3-Month Membership 🎬🔥 bit.ly/468TwWr

Unlock the full potential of your filmmaking career with our three-month membership! Gain access to all courses and lessons, community features, spotlight group coaching calls with industry pros, monthly networking events, and more.

Our Top Courses:

1. Beginner Cinematography Career Path: 22 modules and 194 lessons covering all you need to become a successful director of photography.

2. Advanced Cinematography Career Path: Builds on your existing skills with a curated curriculum designed to help you master your craft.

3. Color Grading From Concept To Creation: Master the process from concept to execution, balancing color, using advanced tools, and enhancing contrast for storytelling.

4. The Art of Producing: Learn trade secrets, budgeting, contracts, communication, and managing expectations from top producers.

5. Choosing the Right Lights: Shane Hurlbut, ASC, and Gaffer Eric Forand guide you through lighting specs and usage, maximizing each unit's potential.

6. Beginner Grip & Electric Career Path: Sets you on the path to join the union as a Set Electrician or Grip, mastering terminology, power distribution, lighting, color balancing, and set etiquette.

7. Shadowing a Commercial Director Part 1: Virtual access to director Jordan Brady on set for three commercials, guiding you through pre-call prep, set etiquette, crew management, and process review.

8. Camera Assistant Prep: 1st Assistant Camera Derek Edwards covers camera prep, AC etiquette, pro tips, handling on-set issues, and ensuring all gear functions properly.

Ready to fast-track your career? Become a member today and save 20% on a 3-month membership! Gain instant access to all this valuable content and more. Don’t miss out on elevating your skills and achieving your filmmaking dreams. Join now and start your journey.

#filmmaking #filmmaker #filmmakers #filmmakingcontent #filmmakersacademy #onset #behindthescenes #cinematographers #cinematography #cinematographer #filmmakinglife #dop #doplife #directorofphotography #filmeducation #FilmSchool #filmmakingcourse #filmmakingtips #director #commercialdirector #cameraassistant #1stac #colorist #colorcorrecting

1 month ago | [YT] | 16

Filmmakers Academy

Get your questions answered directly by our commercial directing mentor Jordan Brady this Wednesday, July 24th at 10AM PST. Register here: bit.ly/3zVAUwX
FA Members get in free and non-members can join and ask questions for $14.99!
Spotlight Group Coaching calls are monthly virtual sessions where our members have the opportunity to ask industry professionals questions and gain guidance and perspective on their filmmaking journey. These sessions have changed our members lives, helped shift their perspective and walk away with connections and actionable steps to advance their career journey.

#filmmaking #filmmaker #onset #commercialdirector #commercials #commercial #director #directing #filmmakersacademy

1 month ago | [YT] | 8

Filmmakers Academy

Unlock your filmmaking journey with 20% off a 3-month membership! Use code 3MONTH20 when you sign up: bit.ly/468TwWr

#filmmaker #filmmaking #filmmakers #cinematography #cinematographer #cinematographers #onset

2 months ago (edited) | [YT] | 29