Video

The Sound of A Star is Born.

I didn’t like “A Star is Born” as much as my wife and sister (best movie ever!!!!!). I certainly found some parts of the story interesting, but the nerd in me was very curious about the movie’s sound design.

After watching some scenes more carefully I realized that the sound followed the characters and specially the instruments, especially during the live performances scenes.

My findings where finally confirmed when I came across these two episodes on the Soundworks Collection podcast.

A very technical explanation on how the movie was mixed.

It is a well know fact that sound is a HUGE part of any video project. But the more projects I shoot and produce, the more I realize that sound design might be THE key element in making a video project successful or not.

Of course, if there’s no story, or the story sucks, sound might not be able to save the day. But an ok story with ok images and ok editing with engaging sound might be enough to grab the viewers attention.

My favorite part of the podcast. The movie “was shot from stage, as if you (the viewer) were part of the band.”

Here’s the complete interview. Enjoy!

Video

My favorite gear for travel assignments.

The Challenge

Pretty much every day, and especially since my TED Talk, I’ve been getting messages asking about production techniques or which lens, camera or gimbal to buy.

Some questions are relatively easy to answer, for example, “I’m using the Panasonic GH4 and plan to update to the GH5. Have you seen a significant increase in quality and features?” (Answer: Yes.)

Some are much harder to answer, especially when people don’t provide enough context like budget, or if they are shooting locally or overseas.  Obviously these considerations should have a significant impact on what and how much can you pack.

The Solution

It’s becoming impossible to reply to everybody in a timeline manner. To simplify things I’ve created a list with the filmmaking gear I’m using most often for travel assignments, especially when working alone or with a skeleton crew. The list isn’t organized in any particular order. I just kept adding stuff as I was thinking on how I unpack and prepare for a travel assignment. I am not including super obvious things like HDMI cables or battery chargers, but added a few things that are easy to forget, like international power adapters, or difficult to find. Among those thins are the exact kind of SD card one needs to shoot 4k 422 10 bit at at 400 mbs.

Disclosure

I participe in Amazon’s Associates Program and B&H’s Affiliate program, but I only recommend products that I use and trust. Some links are affiliate links which means I may get a few pennies if you decide to purchase something.

Video

Upgrading PluralEyes 2 to version 3. Worth it?

 
PluralEyes Upgrade

When shooting with a DSLR camera, and recording dual-system sound, Red Giant’s PluralEyes has been a godsend. Period. We couldn’t even consider working without this awesome plugin. Version 3 has been out for a while. Will upgrading to PluralEyes 3 make us more efficient? Or should we just stick with our trusted friend a bit longer? (more…)

Video

The Sounds of Aronofsky.

 
The sounds of Darren Aronofsky, including fantastic movies like  Black Swan (2010), Requiem for a Dream (2000), Pi (1998), and The Fountain (2006). Simply brilliant.

best movies by Darren Aronofsky.

Video

Rode delivers a customer service lesson.

 
About 30 seconds ago, DHL delivered my new Rode Lavalier Microphones. I have not opened the box, and I already know I will LOVE them. Do you want to know why? Simply because after I ordered them last week, I got an email saying that they were backordered for 2-3 weeks (they must be selling like hotcakes!).  I replied explaining that I needed them for a shoot next week. So what did Rode do? They simply shipped them, second day air, from AUSTRALIA, at no extra charge, so I could have them on time. Unbelievable.

Picture of a sealed box.

I could spend the rest of the day naming the companies that could use my experience as an outstanding customer service lesson, but I won’t. I’ll go ahead, open the box, and play with my brand new toys. Price is not everything, quality and support is. Keep that in mind.