Cinematography Salon

Greig Fraser, ASC, ACS, is a renowned cinematographer known for his stunning work on films like "Dune" and "The Batman". In this insightful discussion, he shares the delicate balance between lighting precision and storytelling authenticity. Fraser emphasizes the importance of collaboration with directors and how technology aids this process. He reveals how music influences emotional depth in scenes and champions mentorship within the cinematography community, highlighting the need for knowledge sharing among aspiring filmmakers.

Jay Holben discusses the importance of continuous learning in cinematography, the complexities of resolution in digital imaging, the influence of technical innovation on storytelling, relearning cinematography concepts, embracing HDR technology, navigating the freelance film industry, and the role of education in the entertainment industry.

This week we welcome David Mullen, ASC, Emmy winner for his exceptional work on "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel". Sharing his insights into his creative journey, and his steadfast commitment to blending research with education, he takes us behind the scenes of renowned projects like "Westworld" and "The Love Witch," highlighting his collaborative ethos with both crew and cast, and his passion for the craft comprising the complexities of lighting, the evolution of camera technology, and the indispensable role of prep in shaping the moving image. If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon. David’s Instagram | Website Peter’s Instagram | Website Ava’s Instagram | Website This episode is sponsored by Sandisk, Laowa and Fujifilm, with special thanks to AbelCine.

Dan Kanes, CEO and co-founder of Atlas Lens Co., shares his journey from lighting technician to entrepreneur, emphasizing the influence of his skateboarding and punk rock background. He discusses the significance of anamorphic lenses in film history and their emotional impact on storytelling. The podcast also explores the intersection of cinematography and entrepreneurship, the fascination with optics, and the evolution of lens design and filmmaking.

Andrew Thomas Huang, Grammy-nominated director with a unique style blending fantasy with reality and deeply rooted in Chinese heritage and queer Asian mythology, talks about his journey, collaborations with artists like Björk and FKA Twigs, creating 'Earth Eater' inspired by 90s erotic thrillers, importance of collaboration, separating creativity from capitalism, transformative project 'Kiss of the Rabbit God,' and appreciation for stunning cinematography.

Former co-host of the podcast, Oren Soffer, and founder of Cinematography Salon, David Kruta, join hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr to discuss the future of filmmaking. They cover how current events and technological shifts have influenced their work, emerging technologies, shifting narrative styles, and the importance of diverse voices. They also explore the challenges and complexities of achieving simplicity in cinematography, the financial aspects of film production, resource management, and finding balance between process and results. The hosts express gratitude and reflect on memorable moments from the past year.

Christopher Blauvelt joins us this week on the Cinematography Salon podcast as he shares his unique upbringing in LA within a filmmaking family and his journey to establish his own identity in the industry - a meeting with renowned cinematographer Harris Savides was a pivotal moment in Christopher's career, shifting his trajectory towards independent films. Discussing the advancements in both film and digital technologies, Christopher emphasizes keeping an open-minded approach to using these tools creatively and not confining oneself to one medium, and that fresh perspectives can lead to groundbreaking work in the industry. If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon. Christopher’s IMDb Peter’s Instagram | Website Ava’s Instagram | Website This episode is sponsored by Sandisk, Laowa and Fujifilm, with special thanks to AbelCine.

Cinematographer Natalie Kingston discusses achieving a dense, immersive quality in images, lighting techniques, color grading, collaborating with costume and production designers. She reflects on lighting rooted in emotional truth and blending colors for depth and emotional resonance.

Joining us this week on the Cinematography Salon podcast, we welcome Production Designer and Director, Griffin Stoddard, who offers an unconventional perspective on set design and breaking the mold of traditional concepts. His approach, blending gothic influences and surrealism, showcases his ability to create unique work. Hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr explore the evolving landscape of set design through Griffin's experiences, charting the changes and trends he has witnessed over the years. This perspective offers a comprehensive view of the field's growth and transformation, and outlines a path that lead him from directing to production design, illustrating the often-unexpected turns in creative careers. If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon. Griffin’s Instagram | Website Peter’s Instagram | Website Ava’s Instagram | Website This episode is sponsored by Sandisk and Laowa, with special thanks to AbelCine.

Hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr are back this week with Ashley Connor, whose hands-on experience with indie filmmaking has shaped her into a master storyteller with a flair for genuine representation. Connor discusses her transition into union work, the emotional intimacy of her cinematography techniques, and her advocacy for ethical filmmaking. The conversation offers profound insights into her personal and professional growth, emphasizing the impact of mentorship and the importance of diversity and self-care in the fast-paced world that is the film industry. If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting our efforts on Patreon. Ashley’s Instagram | Website Peter’s Instagram | Website Ava’s Instagram | Website This episode is sponsored by Sandisk and Laowa, with special thanks to AbelCine.