What is VR Film — The Future of VR Movies Explained

The goal of cinematic storytelling has always been empathy; to move the viewer as close as possible to the story. First, we used moving pictures, then color and sound, 3D, IMAX, CGI, and animation. Now filmmakers are looking towards virtual reality as a way to further immerse an audience. With this technology, the viewer moves beyond the screen to become a participant in the story itself. How do filmmakers use virtual reality in narrative structure? What are the potentials of this next frontier, and how can you apply it today in your own projects? How can you make VR movies?…

What is Tungsten Light — 5 Ways Cinematographers Can Use It

If you have ever been on a film set or in a studio, then you have likely seen tungsten lamps. The tungsten-halogen bulb is the most commonly used light source in professional light fixtures, and for good reason. Tungsten bulbs are small, bright, and relatively inexpensive. Because of its inherent characteristics, tungsten light contends for the title of ‘most versatile’ light sources. So, what is tungsten light and how can you use it to make your next film’s lighting come to life.Continue reading What is Tungsten Light — 5 Ways Cinematographers Can Use It

Different Types of Camera Shots and Angles in Film

Camera ShotsGet Inspired. Explore More Shots.Master every shot size, and learn how to combine them with angles and movements to take your filmmaking to the next level.Close Up ShotsExtreme Close Up (ECU)Close Up (CU)Medium Close Up (MCU)Medium ShotsMedium Shot (MS)Cowboy Shot (CS)Medium Full Shot (MFS)Wide ShotsFull Shot (FS)Wide Shot (WS)Extreme Wide Shot (EWS) Explore 50+ Camera Shots & Angles CAMERA ANGLESGet Inspired. Explore More Angles.Explore the different types of camera angles, and learn how to combine them with other shot specs for visual storytelling.Different Types of Camera Angles Low Angle ShotEmpowerEye Level ShotConnectHigh Angle ShotDepowerDutch Angle ShotDisorientOverhead ShotOmniscienceAerial ShotAwe & Scale Explore 50+ Camera Shots & Angles Camera FramingExplore Camera…

What is an Actor — Definition, Types & History Explained

An actor is the embodiment of transformation - an enigmatic figure who brings forth a myriad of characters, giving faces to narratives and emotions. They are the artists who dive into the very depth of humanity, crafting performances that resonate with our souls and often, casting a new light on our own existence.Just as a prism refracts white light into a spectrum of colors, so too does an actor reveal the human experience through their craft, bringing words and narrative to life. Continue reading What is an Actor — Definition, Types & History Explained

What Are Residuals in Hollywood & How Do They Work?

If you’re wondering what residuals are, and why they tend to be so hotly contested, you’re not alone. Residuals payments are unique to the film industry and can be complex. We’re going to break everything down about residual pay – what they are, who can receive them, and the factors that determine how much one receives. Understanding residuals won’t just make you more industry-savvy in entertainment, it’ll also help you advocate yourself as a creator.  Continue reading What Are Residuals in Hollywood & How Do They Work?

What is Visual Storytelling — Elements & Techniques 101

Before we wrote stories, we painted them. Humans were interpreting the world visually long before there was written language. With cave walls as canvas, early humans told stories of community, ritual, and survival.Tens of thousands of years later, that same impulse lives on. The art of visual storytelling has evolved from cave drawings to the moving images of film and television, where a single frame can communicate a thousand words.In this article, we’ll explore the power of imagery to evoke emotion and how you can harness this tool to elevate your films at every stage of production, from the blank…

WGA Residuals Explained — How Union Screenwriters Get Paid

It’s a common misconception that only actors get residuals. Artists and artisans behind the camera, including writers, also qualify for this unique type of compensation in the entertainment industry. We’re going to break down what residuals are, how writers receive them, and why they matter. As confusing and convoluted as residuals may seem, a basic understanding of them will help you be a smarter and savvier writer and professional.  Continue reading WGA Residuals Explained — How Union Screenwriters Get Paid

SAG Residuals Explained — How Union Actors Get Paid

There’s no doubt that residuals are an important piece of an actor’s income, but how do they work? Residuals, specifically for actors, can be complicated, but we’re going to break down both why and how a performer receives them through the Screen Actors Guild, or SAG-AFTRA. SAG residuals differ from residuals for artists who are members of the Writers and/or Directors Guild. Yet educating yourself on a crucial tenet of film finances like SAG-AFTRA residuals allows actors to better advocate for themselves and makes anyone a more savvy filmmaker.  Continue reading SAG Residuals Explained — How Union Actors Get Paid

What is a Filmography — And Why it Matters

How is a filmmaker remembered? For their best film? For their worst? Or by their complete work of movies? The latter is known as a filmography. It is a tool used by filmmakers, critics, and fans alike to understand the work and evolution of individuals or companies within the film industry.Continue reading What is a Filmography — And Why it Matters