Telling the Truth with Testimonials
Shooting testimonial interviews is a great way to get ideas across—but only if the testimonials are real. Here's how to shoot the truth.
For Pros
Pro Tips and Articles to level up your video from the author of "How to Shoot Video that Doesn't Suck"
Making Great Choices in Video
Great videos start with great choices. Trust your instincts, own your decisions, and create engaging content that excites you.
Creating a Music Video with Kids
I teach "How to Shoot Video..." at Summer Stars Camp for the Performing Arts. This year's project taught me a lot.
Breaking into Screenwriting with an Abstract Film?
Q&A: Can you use a short abstract film as a screenwriting sample? How about as a way to get your film made? Well, it all depends.
The "180 Degree Rule" and Why You Shouldn't Care
Some rules are made to be broken. The 180 degree rule is one of them.
Better Call Saul: The Devil is in the Details
There's no better show on TV than AMC's BETTER CALL SAUL. Astoundingly well written and acted, of course. But for me this show, more than any I've seen, the intrigue comes from small specific moments. The devil is in the details.
Stop Shooting "B-Roll"
"B-roll" is an ancient term from a film and video editing era long past. It's time to retire it. Here's why you should stop shooting "b-roll."
Why You Were Disappointed in "Wonder Woman 1984"
There are many reasons to be disappointed in Wonder Woman 1984. But the biggest reason is a story structure mistake you should avoid.
Shooting Ratio: How Much is Enough Footage?
How do you know if you've shot enough for your next video project? Learn about the shooting ratio, and why directors always aim to waste footage.
There are No Fish in "The Abyss"
MIsdirection is at the heart of great filmmaking, as exemplifies by James Cameron's 1989 film The Abyss, an underwater movie with no fish.
Why Making Video "Ask for the Order" Doesn't Work
How to really motivate change? Try "intrigue" instead.
The Curse of the Inactive Hero: Lessons from "Ant-Man and the Wasp"
The hero is the subject and driver of any video. What happens to a film when you don't let the hero make choices? Lessons learned from Marvel's new movie, "Ant-Man and The Wasp."