BLACKMAGIC DESIGN PYXIS MONITOR: FULL CAMERA CONTROL & VERSATILITY: DO YOU LIKE IT?

Read Full Article Here: https://www.filmmakersacademy.com/blog-blackmagic-pyxis-monitor/

Blackmagic Design is a renowned leader in video and filmmaking technology, has once again raised the bar with the announcement of its latest product: the Blackmagic PYXIS Monitor.

This versatile 5-inch HDR touchscreen monitor goes beyond just being a viewing tool—it’s a comprehensive camera control solution designed to enhance your workflow when paired with the Blackmagic PYXIS camera. All of this comes at an accessible price point of US$295. Let’s explore why this monitor is set to revolutionize the way filmmakers work.

🌟 Key Features of the Blackmagic PYXIS Monitor:

• 5-inch HDR touchscreen with full camera control

• 1500 nit brightness for clear viewing in any lighting condition

• Multiple mounting points for ultimate flexibility

• Seamless integration via a single USB-C connection for video, power, and control

• Rugged machined metal design built for professional use

• 3 customizable buttons for quick access to essential functions like zebra, focus assist, and false color

The PYXIS Monitor works seamlessly with the Blackmagic Design PYXIS and URSA Cine cameras, allowing for full camera control and monitoring on the go. Mount it to your rig, crane, gimbal, or use it as a presenter monitor—it’s designed to fit perfectly into any filmmaker’s workflow.

🎥 Availability & Price

The Blackmagic PYXIS Monitor is expected to launch later this year for US$295 from Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates!

This monitor is more than just a screen—it’s a tool designed to give you complete control of your camera, no matter where you are on set. Whether you’re shooting a documentary, narrative film, or commercial, the Blackmagic Design PYXIS Monitor will help you capture your vision with precision and ease.

🔗 Get ready to take your filmmaking to the next level with the Blackmagic Design PYXIS Monitor!

ADVANCED COLOR GRADING TECHNIQUES | OUT NOW

Transform your footage and bring your storytelling to life with pro color grading techniques! 

Watch Course Here: https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/programs/advanced-color-grading

📚 Course Highlights:

• 6 In-Depth Lessons

• 1+ Hours of Expert Instruction

• Detailed Written Breakdowns

• English Subtitles

Join Master Colorist David Cole as he takes you on a journey through the art of advanced color grading. Whether you’re a seasoned colorist or just starting out, this course will help you streamline your workflow, perfect your visuals, and enhance your creative expression. 

💡 What You’ll Learn:

• Lightning-fast shortcuts for color suite efficiency

• Advanced tracking, object removal, and dead pixel fixes

• Cosmetic fixes, flicker removal, and image restoration

• Mastering hue and tone manipulations to create otherworldly visuals

Course Modules:

1️⃣ Mastering Efficiency in the Color Suite

2️⃣ Cosmetic Fixes & Object Removal

3️⃣ Sharpening Footage & Seasonal Transformations

Ready to elevate your color grading skills? Start streaming NOW on the Filmmakers Academy Platform! 

But that’s not all! Mark your calendars for the LIVE Spotlight Group Coaching Call with Dave Cole on Sunday, September 29th @ 10:00 AM (PT)! It’s your chance to get personalized tips, ask questions, and dive even deeper into advanced color techniques. Don’t miss it! 

Register Here: https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/programs/spotlight-group-coaching-with-dave-cole?category_id=209712

Start the course now, and sign up for the live coaching call! Let’s take your visuals to the next level! 

🚨 “FINDING THE FRAME” IS COMING BACK! 🚨

After a short break, Finding the Frame is officially returning with brand-new episodes! This conversation-based show is dedicated to shining a spotlight on some of the most inspiring professionals in the film industry today. We delve deep into their latest projects, their creative process, and the most topical industry news.

Whether you’re an established filmmaker or just starting your creative journey, Finding the Frame brings valuable insights from across the spectrum of filmmaking—from cinematography and costume design to producing, directing, and everything in between.

In Season 1, we featured incredible guests such as:

🎥 Mandy Walker, ASC (Cinematographer)

🎬 Deborah L. Scott (Costume Designer)

🎤 Jamee Ranta (Producer)

💇🏽‍♀️ Camille Friend (Hair Designer)

…and many more!

If you missed out on Season 1, now’s the perfect time to catch up! Watch it here: https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/categories/category-finding-the-frame-podcast

With the relaunch of Finding the Frame, we’re making a few exciting changes to bring fresh perspectives and to make the show an even better educational resource for filmmakers like you. Stay tuned for updates on what’s coming next!

Now, we want to hear from YOU:

Who should we interview in the upcoming season? Drop your favorite filmmakers, creatives, or industry professionals below! Let’s keep the conversation going.

🎬 See you soon!

NEW COLOR GRADING COURSE |  DROPS THIS WEEK 🎬🎨

Hey FA Members,

We’re beyond excited to announce the launch of our Color Grading Course with legendary Master Colorist Dave Cole, premiering this Thursday, September 12th, at 8:00 AM (PT) / 11:00 AM (ET)! 🎉

Dave Cole, the color genius behind The Batman, Kong: Skull Island, Dune Part 1 & 2, and so many more hits, is here to teach you the same pro techniques he uses on blockbuster films. This is your chance to transform your footage with expert color grading and elevate your storytelling abilities!

What to Expect:

• 6 Lessons

• 1+ hours of immersive, instructional videos

• Detailed Written Breakdowns

• English Subtitles

In this course, you’ll learn to:

• Master efficiency in the color suite with Dave’s consistent node tree process.

• Remove unwanted objects, correct blemishes, and fix tech issues like flicker and dead pixels using DaVinci Resolve.

• Sharpen out-of-focus shots and transform the look of a season—from summer to winter—with just color.

• Dive deep into advanced tracking and automated solutions to save time and enhance your results.

Course Breakdown:

Module 1 – Efficiency & Workflow

01 - Mastering Efficiency in the Color Suite

Module 2 – Image Restoration & Correction

02 - Cosmetic Fixes in Color Grading

03 - Object Removal & Advanced Tracking

04 - Tackling Dead Pixels & Flicker Removal

Module 3 – Creative Manipulation & Effects

05 - Sharpening Out-of-Focus Footage

06 - Seasonal Color Transformations

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this course will provide you with the tools and knowledge to streamline your workflow and achieve stunning visual effects.

Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the best in the business! Mark your calendars, and get ready to level up your color grading game. 🎨🔥

If you have any questions or want to share what you’re excited about, drop them in the comments below. See you Thursday!

All the best,

Filmmakers Academy Team

🎬 Join Us for a Live Spotlight Group Coaching Call with Gabrielle Blackwood! 🎬

Pre-Register Now: https://watch.filmmakersacademy.com/programs/spotlight-group-coaching-call-w-directorcinematographer-gabriella-blackwood-103024?category_id=209712

Get ready for an inspiring learning experience as we dive into the creative process of acclaimed Jamaican Director and Cinematographer, Gabrielle Blackwood! 

Gabrielle has directed and shot for major brands like BBC World, Nike, Apple Music, and Mercedes Benz. With a portfolio spanning short films, documentaries, music videos, and commercials, her work has impacted markets across the US, UK, and New Zealand. Gabrielle’s innovative storytelling and versatile approach make her a leader in the industry. She holds a Master’s in Screen Production from the University of Auckland and has been honored with the Geoff Evans Award for Excellence. Her feature screenplay Kendal has also gained notable recognition.

🗓 Date: Wednesday, October 30th

🕙 Time: 10:00 AM (PT)

Don’t miss this unique chance to learn from a dynamic professional who has made her mark in the global film industry! Whether you’re a filmmaker, cinematographer, or simply passionate about visual storytelling, this session is one you won’t want to miss.

🔗 Pre-register now and submit your questions to Gabrielle through the Google Form (email will be coming as we get closer to the event date). If you haven’t received the form by then, please email anne@filmmakersacademy.com.

💡 Submit questions by: Monday, October 28th at 12 PM PT

Available to Filmmakers Academy members or for individual purchase at $14.99.

See you there! 🎥

Casting Opportunity: Actors/Stand-ins Needed for Global Film Education Project

We are excited to announce a casting opportunity for actors or stand-ins to participate in an upcoming film education project. This project will be distributed globally, offering an incredible chance for visibility within the international film industry.

Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Age Range: Late-20s to early-30s (in appearance)

• Gender: All gender identities are welcome

• Skin Tones: We are committed to representing a diverse range of skin tones and appearances.

• Project: Oren Soffer Masterclass

• Compensation: This is a paid opportunity, details will be shared upon submission.

If you or someone you know fits this description and would like to get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to hearing from you!

Please submit your headshot and information to: bsweeney@filmmakersacademy.com

🎉 ShotDeck Recreation Contest Winners Announced! 🎉

We’re excited to share the winners of this year’s ShotDeck Recreation Contest and give a special shout-out to the talented filmmakers who participated! We are incredibly proud to have supported the winners with some amazing prizes. Check out the winners below, including our Filmmaker’s Academy Highest Degree of Difficulty Challenge judged by none other than Shane Hurlbut, ASC!

Grand Prize Winner:

🏆 Yaroslav Naumenko - The Night of the Hunter @yarosurafun

Runner-Up:

🥈 Ariane Vallin - West Side Story

Honorable Mention:

👏 Andrea Nordi - Saltburn @andreanordi_

Huge congratulations to all the winners! Be sure to check out their stunning recreations via the link to ShotDeck’s Instagram post below.

Instagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/C_lmN7DPR1F/?img_index=1

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!

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/