Cinematography Salon

Joining us this week is Zach Kuperstein, a New York-based cinematographer known for his work on "Barbarian" and his collaboration with Anna Kendrick on her highly anticipated directorial debut, "Woman of the Hour". Zach sits down with host David Kruta to discuss why he’s running for office in Local 600, breaking down contract negotiations, leadership stagnation, and why democratic engagement among union members matters now more than ever. With elections looming, Kuperstein outlines a progressive campaign for union leadership - and why the status quo is no longer sustainable for working camera professionals.If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon.Zach Kuperstein’s Instagram | WebsiteCREW’s Instagram | WebsiteDavid Kruta’s Instagram | WebsiteThis episode is sponsored by Fujifilm, Sandisk and TCP Insurance.

Sam Levy’s body of work has helped define contemporary American independent cinema. In this episode, Levy pulls back the curtain on his methodical, deeply personal approach to cinematography, revealing how scripts, performances, and even sleep all shape his lens. Levy revisits career-defining moments with Greta Gerwig, Noah Baumbach, and Kelly Reichardt, and speaks on how technical mastery is often best used in service of disappearing. If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon.Sam Levy’s Instagram | WebsitePeter Pascucci’s Instagram | WebsiteAva Benjamin Shorr’s Instagram | WebsiteThis episode is sponsored by Fujifilm, Sandisk and TCP Insurance.

When the realities of censorship made filming in Cuba impossible, production of Los Frikis moved to the Dominican Republic, where cinematographer Santiago González and his team worked tirelessly to create a world that felt authentic down to the sodium vapor streetlights. In this special Camerimage episode, Ava Benjamin Shorr and Lauren Guiteras sit down with Santiago and break down how the film’s color palette, lens choices, and shooting methodology reinforce its themes of rebellion and freedom.Los Frikis will be available to stream beginning March 28th.If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon.Santiago Gonzalez’s Instagram | WebsiteAva Benjamin Shorr’s Instagram | WebsiteLauren Guiteras’s Instagram | WebsiteThis episode is sponsored by Fujifilm, Creamsource and Sandisk, with special thanks to Kondor Blue.

In an age of pristine, digitally clinical imagery, cinematographers are increasingly drawn to imperfection—the swirl of a bokeh, the dreamlike haze of vintage glass. The Soviet-era lenses that once defined an era of photography are experiencing a rebirth through IronGlass, a Ukrainian company turning vintage optics into modern cinema glass. Hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr sit down with Alan Besedin to discuss how IronGlass, despite the challenges of war and supply shortages, has built a dedicated following. From their early rehousings to supplying lenses for The Batman and Dune: Part Two, the conversation explores how artistry, resilience, and innovation converge in the pursuit of the perfect image.If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon.Alan Besedin’s/IronGlass Instagram | WebsitePeter Pascucci’s Instagram | WebsiteAva Benjamin Shorr’s Instagram | WebsiteThis episode is sponsored by Fujifilm, Sandisk and TCP Insurance.

Jomo Fray, a talented cinematographer known for "The Nickel Boys," and Oren Soffer, who delves into visual language through technology, join the lively discussion. They unpack the current state of cinematography amidst a surge of accessible tools and the impact of AI on creativity. The duo debates whether we are indeed in a golden age or facing an industry crisis. They also highlight the importance of diverse voices and sustainability in filmmaking, emphasizing the need for human artistry in a rapidly evolving cinematic landscape.

Lol Crawley, a renowned cinematographer known for his work with Brady Corbet, dives into the artistry behind 'The Brutalist.' He discusses the bold visual choices that highlight the interplay of maximalism and minimalism, alongside his daring use of underexposure. Crawley shares insights on framing iconic symbols like the Statue of Liberty, emphasizing the magic of perspective. He also contrasts the spontaneity of location shooting with the control of studio environments, showcasing how each choice impacts the emotional depth of visual storytelling.

Jomo Fray, a celebrated cinematographer renowned for his unique visual storytelling, shares his insights on the craft of filmmaking. He emphasizes the importance of emotional authenticity and personal experiences in shaping narratives. Fray discusses the collaborative nature of cinematography, highlighting how crew dynamics can elevate storytelling. He also reflects on the balance between structured planning and spontaneity, advocating for individuality in the cinematic process. Through captivating examples, he showcases how cinematography influences societal understanding.

In this episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Kira Kelly, ASC. Known for her work on the documentary 13th, the FX series Y: The Last Man, and the Hulu miniseries Echo, Kira has made a significant impact in the industry. With two Primetime Emmy nominations for Insecure and 13th, she shares insights into breaking barriers, pushing artistic boundaries, and the power of composition in visual storytelling. If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon. Kira Kelly’s Instagram | Website Peter Pascucci’s Instagram | Website Ava Benjamin Shorr’s Instagram | Website This episode is sponsored by Sandisk, Laowa and Fujifilm, with special thanks to AbelCine.

Ava Berkofsky, ASC, joins hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr on the Cinematography Salon podcast to provide a view into their methodical approach to cinematography. They explore how their work aims to forge emotional connections between the subject and the viewer, particularly in their approach to lighting and composition in projects like HBO's Insecure. Ava also speaks candidly about their experiences as a non-binary cinematographer and how that informs their desire to create inclusive work environments, all the while adhering to the demands of studio film and television projects. If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon. Ava Berkofsky’s Instagram | Website Peter Pascucci’s Instagram | Website Ava Benjamin Shorr’s Instagram | Website This episode is sponsored by Sandisk, Laowa and Fujifilm, with special thanks to AbelCine.

Renowned cinematographer Frederick Elmes discusses his collaborative processes with directors like David Lynch, Jim Jarmusch, and Ang Lee. He delves into embracing imperfection in cinematography, the significance of extreme close-ups, and creating a focused set environment. The podcast explores the transformative power of cinematography, evolving techniques from analog to digital, and the influence of mentorship in filmmaking.