Knowledge & tips from 23 years on set
What I've learned in over 23 years of advertising, radio, television and film, written down in a practical way. For anyone who shoots, plans productions or simply wants to understand how good films are made.
Guides
Production roadmap: 7 steps to a finished film
Every good production follows the same course, whether it's a 30-second spot or a documentary. Knowing the seven waypoints saves time, money and nerves, on the client side as well as the production side.
ReadScreenwriting: 10 tips for commercials and brand films
The script decides whether a film works. I apply these ten rules to every script, whether I'm writing it or reviewing it.
ReadLighting setups for interviews and film: the 8 classics
Light turns an image into a mood. These eight setups cover almost everything you need for interviews, brand films and portraits.
ReadFraming and composition: shot sizes, the axis and lead room
Good images are no accident. With a few basic rules of composition, interviews look calmer, scenes read more clearly and films look more polished.
ReadEditing techniques: L-cut, J-cut, match cut and more
The edit is the final draft of the script. These techniques make transitions invisible, or deliberately stand out.
ReadSound on set: microphones, levels and the most common mistakes
Viewers forgive a soft image sooner than bad sound. With these basic rules, production sound is clean right on set.
ReadCamera basics: sensor, aperture, shutter and anamorphic
Whether ARRI ALEXA, Blackmagic PYXIS or mirrorless: every camera follows the same rules. Understand them and you'll get more out of any camera.
ReadRoles and radio on set: who does what, and how do you talk?
On set, many people work at the same time under time pressure. Clear roles and good radio etiquette keep the day calm.
ReadRather work with a pro right away?
Knowledge is good, an experienced partner on set is better. Tell me about your project.