On the DM160, is there a way to load a screen grab? I saw there's a way to freeze frame, but wanted to be able to pull up an old shot to match cut to.

INSIDE THE AC’S TOOL BAG: WHAT EVERY ASSISTANT CAMERA NEEDS

In the fast-paced world of filmmaking, being an Assistant Camera (AC) requires not only skill and precision but also the right tools for the job. 1st AC Derek Edwards and renowned cinematographer Shane Hurlbut, ASC give us an inside look into his essential AC kit.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your journey in the camera department, this breakdown of Derek’s toolkit will offer valuable insights and inspiration for building your own.

KEY AC TOOLS AND GEAR

Derek emphasizes the importance of having a well-organized and personalized kit that caters to your specific needs. Here’s a breakdown of his essential gear:

• Tool Bag: A compact and easily accessible bag to store your most frequently used tools.

• Screwdrivers: A variety of sizes and types, including flathead, Phillips, and Torx.

• Robo Grips: Versatile pliers for tightening and loosening bolts and other camera components.

• Wrenches: Including Allen wrenches (both metric and standard) and a torque wrench.

• Focus Tools: A laser measure (Hilti PD-E recommended), a tape measure (FatMax recommended), and a marking tool.

• Expendables: Velcro, Dual Lock (a heavy-duty alternative to Velcro), butyl tape (for securing filters), canned air, chem wipes, microfiber cloth, eye cushions, and Sharpies.

• Camera Coffin: A custom-fitted case to protect your camera during transport and storage.

ASSISTANT CAMERA TOOL HIGHLIGHTS

Derek offers specific recommendations for several tools, emphasizing their unique benefits:

• Hilti PD-E Laser Measure: Its built-in scope enables accurate focus marks even at long distances.

• FatMax Tape Measure: Its wider design provides greater stability for solo measurements.

• Dual Lock: A strong and reliable alternative to Velcro, ideal for securing batteries and other accessories.

• Butyl Tape: A clean and residue-free adhesive for attaching filters to lenses.

• Canned Air: Essential for removing dust and debris from delicate camera equipment.

BUILDING YOUR AC KIT

Derek’s advice for building your AC kit includes:

• Prioritize Functionality: Choose tools that will make your job easier and more efficient.

• Personalize Your Kit: Select tools that cater to your specific preferences and workflow.

• Maintain Your Gear: Keep your tools clean and organized to ensure their longevity.

• Have Fun: Embrace the creative and collaborative nature of filmmaking and enjoy the process.

FILMMAKING TOOLS: THE BOTTOM LINE

Derek’s AC kit showcases a combination of essential tools, smart investments, and personalized touches. By understanding the core components of a well-equipped AC kit and adapting it to your unique workflow, you can ensure that you’re always prepared to tackle any challenge on set.

Remember, the key is to build a kit that not only meets the technical demands of the job but also reflects your personality and passion for filmmaking.

Read the full blog article here: https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-assistant-camera-tool-kit/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX2ChU4010w Check out this Stedicam Oner. Music Video by British band Jungle. There videos feature their dancers never the band. Their videos have amazing choreography and fashion styling.

DON'T MISS THIS NEW PODCAST EPISODE 🎙️

Filmmakers, it’s time to take control of your financial future! Today, we’re diving deep into one of the most crucial (and least talked about) aspects of being a filmmaker: managing the business side of your creative career.

In this brand-new episode, Shane and Lydia Hurlbut sit down with accountant and business manager Russell Hand to explore the financial realities of freelancing in the film industry. Russell shares actionable insights to help you navigate everything from tax strategies to smart budgeting – advice that will benefit filmmakers at every level.

💡 Here’s why this episode is a must-listen:

• Why incorporating as an S Corp could save you thousands if you’re earning over $150,000.

• Common tax pitfalls for filmmakers – and how to avoid them.

• A clear breakdown of deductible expenses and how to document them.

• The difference between LLCs, S Corps, and C Corps, and which is right for you.

• How to plan for financial stability, even if you’re currently living paycheck to paycheck.

• Essential insurance types for filmmakers and how to choose the right coverage.

Russell Hand brings his years of expertise to the table, offering insights that could transform the way you think about money and business as a creative professional.

🚀 Don’t miss out on these key takeaways to build a secure financial foundation for your filmmaking career. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this episode has valuable lessons for everyone.

🎧 Tune in now and take the next step toward mastering the business side of your creative journey: [Link to Podcast]

💬 Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know what strategies you’re excited to implement in your own career! Also, feel free to share this with any fellow creatives who need to hear this.

CELLPHONE CINEMA EMPOWERS THE NEXT GENERATION OF FILMMAKERS

We are thrilled to announce our groundbreaking partnership with S.I.C. Film School, bringing the power of Cellphone Cinema to high school classrooms across the NYC Greater Area! This innovative curriculum is designed to empower young filmmakers by giving them the skills to create impactful films using just their smartphones.

At Filmmakers Academy, we believe that everyone has a story to tell, and with Cellphone Cinema, the barriers to entry are lower than ever. This collaboration reflects our commitment to making film education accessible, regardless of background or resources.

As our CEO, Brendan Sweeney, says, “Our goal has always been to disrupt the educational space and make filmmaking a tangible career path for everyone.”

This partnership is an exciting step toward fostering creativity and empowering the next generation of storytellers.

If you’re a high school student or educator in the NYC area and want to be part of this transformative program, reach out to us at customerservice@filmmakersacademy.com.

Let’s continue building a community that supports filmmakers everywhere, starting with the storytellers of tomorrow!

Hello Everyone,

I have a RED helium package and has about 106 Hrs. Purchased from B&H in Dec 2021.
Very well take care and asking price :8,500
Location : California, Livermore

RED helium DSMC 2 body : $25,000

RED MINI-MAG 480GB (2) - $2900

DSMC2 S35 STANDARD OLPF - $350

DSMC2 S35 Skin Tone-Highlight OLPF - $295

Atech Flash Technology Blackjet VX-1R - $175

module - $2314

Unified Bridgeplate (15mm Studio) $499

Easy Riser (RED® DSMC2™) - $160

Safety Dovetail (12") - $120 15mm Rod (3"-24") - $20

Pass Through Top Plate (RED® DSMC2™) $350

Trigger Handle (RED® DSMC2™) - $350

DSMC2 EF mount : $900 DSMC2 sidekick : $1100

🎨 Upcoming Spotlight Group Coaching Call w/ Dave Cole - Master Colorist 

We’re excited to announce an exclusive opportunity to dive deep into the world of color grading with our Master Colorist, Dave Cole! Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 29th at 10AM PST for a Spotlight Group Coaching Session that you won’t want to miss.

In this live Q&A, Dave will share invaluable insights and tips on mastering the art of color grading, just after the release of his highly anticipated new course, “Advanced Color Grading Techniques,” on the FA platform. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or learn new techniques, this session is your chance to get direct guidance from one of the industry’s best.

Submit your questions by Friday, September 27th at 12PM PT for a chance to have them answered during the session. This is an incredible opportunity to level up your color grading skills and gain expert knowledge.

Stay tuned for more details coming soon, and be sure to pre-register for the event!

🔗 [Pre-Register Here]

📅 Date: Sunday, September 29th

⏰ Time: 10:00 AM PST / 1:00 PM EST

✉️ Keep an eye on your inbox for an email with more information coming this week!

Let’s get ready to elevate your color grading game with Dave Cole!

Hi Filmmakers

My story with photography began when I was twelve years old. At that time, the German channel DW visited my neighborhood in Morocco. I didn’t understand much English, only a few words I had picked up from movies, and I didn't speak French or German at all. Yet, I found myself deeply drawn to what the film crew was doing, so I stayed close to the cameraman, watching him as he took shots and adjusted the camera angles. This was where my love for photography, filmmaking, and television production began.

Three years ago, I started photographing weddings with a local studio during the summer holidays. The following year, I decided to step up my game and found a more professional studio. There, I learned to shoot streams and "Best of" clips, gaining a deeper understanding of wedding photography, as well as covering small conferences. I began to build a reputation in this field, working as a freelancer and traveling between different cities.

Currently, I work as a multimedia specialist at a digital agency, where I engage in photography, production, and graphic design. Although I’m only 19 years old, I aspire to become a cinematographer, television cameraman, or even a photographer for major events. However, the only formal qualification I have is a high school diploma.

Additionally, I’ve discovered this amazing platform and I’m eager to learn a lot from it once I’ve saved up enough money. How should I go about this?

I’m reaching out to you, the experienced members of this community, for advice. How can I enhance my skills and reach a professional level? What path should I take to find work or training opportunities that will help me become an exceptional photographer?

I would greatly appreciate your guidance and advice, as you are the experts with long and distinguished experience in this field.