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“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
We are so excited to host this exclusive seminar with Kyra and Brendan Sweeney, co-founders of Lost Objects, a social media agency dedicated to helping filmmakers and creative businesses grow their digital presence. Together, they have worked with top cinematographers, production companies, and brands to develop strategic, results-driven approaches to social media that attract real opportunities. Register here: bit.ly/3WkE5Xg
🎬 Social Media in Focus: A Filmmaker’s Guide
📅 Monday, January 20th @ 10:00 AM (PT)
📍 Filmmakers Academy Platform – bit.ly/3WkE5Xg
Key Takeaways:
✅ The essential platforms for filmmakers and how to use them strategically
✅ Effective content strategies to showcase your skills and attract opportunities
✅ Profile optimization techniques to enhance credibility and discoverability
✅ Proven engagement tactics to grow your network and audience
✅ Actionable steps to leverage social media as a professional tool in the industry
This seminar is designed to provide practical, real-world strategies to help filmmakers maximize their social media presence, grow their network, and elevate their careers.
📌 Premium Filmmakers Academy Members can attend for free.
🎟️ Limited spots available—register now bit.ly/3WkE5Xg
#FilmmakersAcademy #LostObjects #SocialMediaForFilmmakers #FilmmakingMarketing #CinematographyNetworking #FilmIndustryInsights #filmmaking #filmmakers #filmmaker #socialmedia #SocialMediaAgency #SocialMediaManagement #lostobjects #filmmakersacademy #cinematographers #cinematographer #cinematography #MarketingTips #DigitalMarketing #SocialMediaStrategy #SocialMediaAdvice #SocialMediaTips #socialmediaaudit
1 week ago | [YT] | 16
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Filmmakers Academy
🎥💔 The LA fires have devastated our film production community, leaving many without homes or belongings during an already challenging time. Please donate if you can: gofund.me/5086ef1d
In collaboration with Filmmakers Academy, BWNC, and MVPA, we’re raising funds through Production Connect to directly support impacted families in our industry.
This is new territory we’re navigating together, but as a united community, we can make a difference!!!
This is just the beginning of helping people get back on their feet, and we are in this together. Once raised, the funds will be thoughtfully distributed to families in need to help them rebuild.
Anything helps, big or small. And if you can’t donate at this time, we totally understand—please share this instead.
Our network is powerful, and that’s exactly why we started Production Connect.
Together, we can bring hope to those who need it most, please donate: gofund.me/5086ef1d
2 weeks ago | [YT] | 20
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Filmmakers Academy
Hurry—Sale Ends TONIGHT: Don’t Miss Your Chance to Save $120 and Get Our Biggest Masterclass FREE 👉 bit.ly/40ZbEBq . The clock is ticking! This New Year, make a resolution to take your filmmaking to the next level with our Night Cinematography Masterclass.
Shane Hurlbut, ASC, walks you through step-by-step techniques that separate amateurs from professionals. Whether you’re shaping cinematic moonlight, balancing light ratios, or lighting massive night exteriors, this is the training that transforms careers. bit.ly/40ZbEBq
💡 What’s included?
✅ Shane’s Night Cinematography Masterclass (FREE with membership)
✅ $120 off annual membership—access 1,000+ hours of training
✅ Insider techniques used on Hollywood’s biggest sets
⏳ This is your last chance to grab our biggest sale of the year. Act now before the sale disappears!
2 weeks ago | [YT] | 19
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Filmmakers Academy
We are so excited to welcome cinematographer @BradyBessette as our next Spotlight Group Coaching guest on Tuesday, January 14th at 10 AM PST. Brady’s work spans commercial campaigns, music videos, and feature films. Brady is known for his expertise in creating striking visuals and collaborating with talented directors and brands. Register free here: bit.ly/4adzImO
Spotlight Group Coaching Calls are a signature benefit of Filmmakers Academy, giving members exclusive access to one professional filmmaker each month. These sessions are designed to provide personalized guidance, industry insights, and career-changing opportunities. Past participants have even landed on-set jobs and transformed their careers through these invaluable connections. Register free here: bit.ly/4adzImO
Date & Time:
Tuesday, January 14th | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM PT
Interactive Format:
• 1-on-1 Sessions: Brady will select pre-submitted questions and offer tailored advice to help you level up your craft.
• Open Q&A: The final 30 minutes are dedicated to answering your questions in an engaging group discussion.
How to Join:
• Free for Everyone: This month’s Spotlight Group Coaching Call is open to both members and non-members as a special New Year’s offer. Register free here: bit.ly/4adzImO
• Premium Membership Perks: Unlock access to all monthly Spotlight Coaching Calls, our course library, and exclusive content when you join Filmmakers Academy.
This is your chance to connect with Brady, gain practical insights, and start 2025 with inspiration and actionable advice. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity—secure your spot now!
#filmmakersacademy #filmmaking #filmmakers #filmmaker #onset #dop #directorofphotography #cinematographer #cinematographers #learnfilmmaking #filmeducation
2 weeks ago (edited) | [YT] | 61
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Filmmakers Academy
FLASH SALE: 50% OFF ALL MASTERCLASSES⚡️ bit.ly/3BQM7jA
We’ve never done this before—and we might not again. For 4 days only, we’re offering 50% OFF all 7 of our premium masterclasses, including the Night Cinematography Masterclass. These masterclasses, led by industry legends, are your ticket to success, delivering immersive learning experiences that cover the essentials of cinematography, directing, lighting, and more.
Here’s what’s waiting for you:
•🌌 Night Cinematography Masterclass: Shane Hurlbut ASC breaks down nighttime cinematography, from moonlight theory to advanced lighting setups, showing how to create unforgettable visuals.
•🚗 Filmotechnic Camera Car Masterclass: Dive into the dynamic world of action sequences with a comprehensive guide to arm cars, lens choices, and perfecting high-speed shots.
•🎥 Camera Crew Playbook Masterclass: Learn how to excel in every role on set, from focus pulling to camera operation, and thrive in Hollywood’s fast-paced environment.
•💡 Cinematic Light Quality Masterclass: Discover Shane Hurlbut ASC’s personal lighting techniques, including DIY tools and pro-level setups, to build your signature style.
•🎬 Directing Spec Spots Masterclass: Jordan Brady reveals how to land agency and client work with powerful spec spots that stand out in the competitive commercial world.
•🎵 Abstract Lighting and In-Camera Effects: Justin Jones teaches innovative techniques for music videos, from projector lighting to creating surreal effects with shutter speed.
•🎥 Camera, Lenses, and Filters Masterclass: Shane Hurlbut ASC shares decades of expertise in cameras, lenses, and filters, offering insights that will transform your craft.
📚These masterclasses set the new standard for online film education, combining technical expertise, creative inspiration, and insider knowledge.
But don’t wait—this 50% off sale ends in just 4 days. Stop dreaming about your filmmaking goals and start achieving them today. This is your moment to invest in yourself and your career! bit.ly/3BQM7jA
4 weeks ago | [YT] | 17
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Filmmakers Academy
On December 30th at 10 AM PST, join Shane Hurlbut, ASC, and Jordan Brady for a live seminar designed to enhance your understanding of the director-cinematographer relationship and elevate your commercial production skills. Register here: bit.ly/3BvLVGy
This exclusive event will cover every step of the process, from pre-production to post-production, with a focus on creating impactful collaborations.
Shane and Jordan will also address a key question they’re asked frequently: What do directors look for in a cinematographer, and how does the director-DP relationship drive creative success? Gain insights into this vital partnership and learn strategies to build strong creative alignment.
✨ Key Topics Covered:
* Mastering the Pitch: Techniques to win bids and secure projects through compelling presentations.
* Collaboration in Action: How directors and cinematographers align visions to achieve exceptional results.
* Pre-Production Excellence: Script analysis, shot list creation, and effective location scouting.
* On-Set Problem-Solving: Strategies to manage teams and overcome real-time challenges.
📅 Event Details:
🗓 Date: Monday, December 30th
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (PST)
💻 Delivery: On-Platform Only
🎟 Non-Member Price: $29.99
⭐️ Member Price: INCLUDED with Premium Membership
Close out the year with practical knowledge that can transform your approach to commercial filmmaking. Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker or a seasoned professional, this seminar will provide actionable insights to enhance your craft.
🔗 Register today to reserve your spot, bit.ly/3BvLVGy
#filmmaking #filmmaker #filmmakers #onset #cinematographer #cinematography #cinematographers #commercialdirector #commercial #director #directordp #live #filmmakersacademy #filmeducation #learnfilmmaking
1 month ago | [YT] | 35
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Filmmakers Academy
What is Key on Key Lighting💡? This innovative technique layers light intensities—starting hard and transitioning to soft—on one side of your subject, creating cinematic depth, dynamic visuals, and a polished, professional look.
Here’s how Shane achieves it:
1️⃣ Start with Hard Light: Use a hard light source for crisp edges and dramatic definition. Slight diffusion, like half-soft frost, softens harshness while retaining sharpness.
2️⃣ Layer Diffusion for Softness: Gradually add quarter-grid, half-grid, and magic cloth to create a smooth wrap, transitioning from semi-soft to super-soft light.
3️⃣ Stick to 180 Degrees: Keep all light sources within a 180-degree arc to avoid cross-lighting and maintain clean, consistent shadows.
4️⃣ Motivate with Practicals: Ground your lighting with practical sources, like table lamps or windows, to enhance realism and storytelling.
See the full post here: www.instagram.com/p/DDxQ0ApSy6r/?img_index=1
#filmmaking #filmmaker #filmmakers #cinematography #cinematographer #cinematographers
1 month ago | [YT] | 172
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Filmmakers Academy
Our Night Cinematography Masterclass is finally here, and it’s the largest production we’ve ever undertaken. With over 70 crew members, including Shane Hurlbut, ASC’s entire grip, electric, and camera team from his latest film, this masterclass redefines what it means to educate filmmakers. Watch now bit.ly/40ZbEBq
This Black Friday, save $120 on your annual Filmmakers Academy membership and get this Night Cinematography Masterclass FREE! bit.ly/40ZbEBq
• Annual Membership: $449.99
• Masterclass Only: $229.99
• Retail Price: $679.99
• Black Friday Price: $329.99 (click link in bio)
📌U.S. customers: Pay with 6 monthly installments using PayPal Credit for purchases over $99.
This masterclass is the ultimate guide to mastering night exteriors, offering scalable techniques and workflows that are applicable to productions of any size. Shane Hurlbut, ASC, breaks down the tools and strategies behind stunning nighttime scenes, teaching you how to light with precision, craft cinematic moonlight tones, and execute large-scale setups for flawless exposure. From camera movement and lens choices to budget-friendly approaches, this masterclass provides practical, adaptable knowledge for filmmakers at every level.
Special Thanks
A huge thank-you to the Craterr team and sponsors Hollyland, Kondor Blue, Sony Cine, Irix Cine Lenses, Angelbird, Nanlux, and CineMoves for making this production possible.
Supported by:
Inovativ, Flanders Scientific, Tiffen, Herc Entertainment, Saniset Fleet, Keslow Camera, MBS Equipment, Premier Lighting, Northern Lighting, Legacy Grip, Division Rentals, Musicbed, and B&H.
#cinematography #cinematographer #lighting #nightlighting #lightingnight #nightexterior #lightinginspiration #lightingideas #filmmaking #filmmaker #filmmakers #LightingSetup #behindthescenes #lightingbreakdown #lightingtips #filmeducation #learnfilmmaking #nightcinematography #FilmCommunity #filmmakersacademy
1 month ago | [YT] | 19
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Filmmakers Academy
Introducing Limited Edition Patches 🎬 bit.ly/3YWQO2L
Our limited-edition collaboration with Film Clothing is here! We’re excited to introduce two exclusive patches, “Keep Film Alive” and “Born On Set,” designed with filmmakers in mind.
These velcro patches are easy to attach to hats, jackets, bags, and more, allowing you to carry a piece of film culture with you everywhere. Get them individually, or bundle them with the Film Clothing Production Patch Hat for a complete look. Quantities are limited, so if you’ve been looking to add a unique touch to your gear, now’s your chance.
Check them out while they’re available—these limited releases won’t last long! bit.ly/3YWQO2L
#KeepFilmAlive #BornOnSet #FilmClothing
Photo 1 and 3 by @oPatrick
2 months ago (edited) | [YT] | 32
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Filmmakers Academy
Walkie-Talkie Channel Guide for Film Sets Curious how big film sets stay in sync? We only can post up to 5 photos, but look below for the full breakdown of channels! Watch the course: bit.ly/3YCO4Yd
📻 Here’s a quick breakdown of essential walkie-talkie channels used on U.S. film sets—and a few key differences for NYC/NJ:
CHANNEL 1: 🎬 Production Hub
Central channel for communication across departments, led by the AD.
CHANNEL 2: 🤫 Open Channel
For private chats without interrupting Channel 1.
CHANNEL 3: 🚛 Transportation
Keeps crew, equipment, and talent moving on schedule.
CHANNEL 4: 🎩 Props
For props requests, from set pieces to tech gadgets.
CHANNEL 5: 🔄 Open Channel
Extra private channel if Channel 2 is busy.
CHANNEL 6: 🎥 Camera Department
Camera crew coordinates all shot-related tasks here.
CHANNEL 7: 💡 Electric Department
The gaffer’s team manages lighting needs on this channel.
CHANNEL 8: 🛠️ Grip Department
Handles non-electrical tools, rigging, and dolly tracks.
CHANNEL 9: 💥 Special Effects
From smoke to pyrotechnics, it’s all handled here.
CHANNELS 10-15: 🚗 Open Channels
Flexible for extra needs, like car-to-car and stunts.
NYC/NJ Differences:
• Channel 3: Additional Production Hub channel
• Channel 5: Grip Department
• Channel 7-8: Grips use for condor operations
• Channel 10: Camera Department
• Channel 16: Transportation
Keep this guide handy for your next production! 🎧 For more on film set walkie-talkie etiquette, check out our course, Film Set Communication: Walkie-Talkies with Shane Hurlbut, ASC.
#filmproduction #filmmaker #filmmaking #filmmakers #cinematography #cinematographer #cinematographers #onset #newyorkfilm #nyfilm #njfilm #newjerseyfilm #production #filmmakingtips #cinematographytip #FilmIndustry #protip #walkietalkie #walkietalkies #cameradepartment #gripdepartment #electricaldepartment #grip #gaffer #filmmakersacademy #learnfilmmaking #filmeducation
2 months ago | [YT] | 53
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