Filmmaking Conversations Podcast With Damien Swaby podcast

41:52

In this episode, we had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the remarkable Mike, an Emmy Award-winning cinematographer with over 25 years of experience in the film industry. We traversed the fascinating landscape of his career, uncovering the pivotal moments that shaped his unique approach to visual storytelling. Mike's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the courage to pursue one's true calling. Initially setting his sights on a career in dentistry, his path took an unexpected turn when he discovered his innate talent for capturing the world through the lens of a camera. This led him to the world of documentary filmmaking, where he honed his skills in weaving compelling narratives and addressing pressing social issues. Throughout the interview, Mike's passion for his craft was palpable. He emphasized the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision, even when faced with the pressures of the industry. His dedication to capturing the essence of his subjects and his commitment to using film as a tool for change were truly inspiring. We delved into some of the key aspects of Mike's filmmaking process, from his meticulous pre-production planning to his hands-on approach to cinematography. He shared his insights on the ever-evolving technology of filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of mastering the fundamentals while remaining adaptable to new tools and techniques. Mike's advice to aspiring cinematographers was both practical and heartfelt: "Have fun, be passionate, and never stop learning." He stressed the significance of building strong relationships within the industry and the value of continuous self-improvement. This episode was an insightful exploration of the art and craft of cinematography, guided by the wisdom and experience of a true master. Mike's journey is a reminder that the path to success is rarely linear, but with passion, dedication, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected, anything is possible. Relevant links: https://www.film180.com/about Spalding University's MFA in Writing Program…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 226: The Art of Music Law: Navigating the Industry with Sarah Falzon 24:02

hace 7 días24:02

24:02

In this episode of The Art of Music Law, we dive into the world of entertainment law with Sarah Falzon, an accomplished associate at Taylor Oballa Murray Leyland LLP. With her expertise in music and entertainment law, Sarah shares her insights on the unique legal challenges artists and music companies face today.Episode Highlights:1. Background & Career Path Sarah shares her journey into entertainment law and the experiences that sparked her interest in the field. How her background in mathematics and statistics shapes her approach to legal work and problem-solving. The transition from law school to practicing entertainment law and the lessons she learned along the way. 2. Music & Entertainment Law The biggest legal challenges artists and music companies face today, and how they can protect their interests. A breakdown of a common legal issue Sarah helps artists navigate, from contract negotiations to copyright concerns. The significant impact streaming platforms and digital media have had on music law. Legal protections that emerging artists should prioritize early in their careers to safeguard their work. 3. Personal Connection to Music Sarah reflects on her personal connection to music, having played the violin for over 20 years, and how this influences her work as a lawyer. How being a musician herself helps Sarah relate to her clients and advocate for their needs in a more empathetic and effective manner. 4. Advice & Future Trends Sarah offers valuable advice for young lawyers interested in pursuing a career in entertainment law. The trends and legal issues shaping the future of the music industry, including the evolving relationship between artists and digital platforms. W: SARAH FALZON…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 225: Mastering the Art of Cinematography with Quenell Jones, SOC 1:04:55

hace 12 días1:04:55

1:04:55

Guest : Quenell Jones, SOC (Society of Camera Operators)Episode Overview: In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with Quenell Jones, an accomplished cinematographer and camera operator, to discuss his journey in the film industry, his passion for cinematography, and the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Quenell shares insights from his experiences working with various networks, his education in film, and the technical aspects of creating impactful visual stories.Key Topics Discussed: Early Beginnings: Quenell reflects on his introduction to the film industry through high school projects and internships at CNN and PBS. Passion for Cinematography: He discusses how his curiosity for visual storytelling was sparked by watching documentaries and his experiences with different camera technologies. Education in Film: Quenell shares his decision to pursue a master's degree in film in Manchester, England, and the international perspective he gained from working with filmmakers from diverse backgrounds. The Role of a Cinematographer: Insights into the responsibilities of a cinematographer, including collaboration with directors and the technical processes involved in capturing images. Challenges in the Industry: Quenell talks about the ups and downs of a filmmaking career, including recent strikes and the stress that can accompany the profession. Artistic Collaboration: The importance of merging creative ideas with directors and other artists to construct compelling visual narratives. Recent Projects: Quenell highlights some of his recent work, including his role as a camera operator on notable films and shows. Quotes: "The passion to create movies, the passion to create content, the passion to build a story that is impactful." "Cinematography goes way, way back, and it’s about the construction of many artisans working together." Contact Quenell : Quenell Jones, SOC Watch Zero Day: Zero Day…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 224: Breaking Barriers in Hollywood with Diane Strand 19:13

hace 15 días19:13

19:13

Episode Summary: Welcome to another episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby! In this inspiring episode, we sit down with powerhouse producer, entrepreneur, and mentor Diane Strand. From working on legendary TV shows like Friends and General Hospital to founding the JDS Creative Academy, Diane has dedicated her career to both storytelling and uplifting the next generation of media professionals.We dive into Diane’s journey—her early love for theatre, the challenges of making it in Hollywood, and her transition into entrepreneurship. She shares firsthand experiences from the entertainment industry, the grit required to succeed, and how she turned obstacles into opportunities. Most importantly, we explore her passion for mentorship and education, and how JDS Creative Academy is creating career pathways for aspiring creatives, including those with special needs.Whether you're a filmmaker, writer, producer, or just someone passionate about the entertainment industry, this episode is packed with wisdom, motivation, and actionable insights. Tune in to hear how Diane is breaking barriers and empowering the future of media arts.Key Topics Covered: 🎭 Diane’s early passion for storytelling and theatre 🎬 Behind the scenes of Friends and General Hospital 💪 The reality of making it in Hollywood—hard work, perseverance, and grit 🚀 Pivoting from TV production to entrepreneurship 🎓 How JDS Creative Academy is shaping the next generation of filmmakers and media professionalsGuest Info: 🌟 Diane Strand – Founder of JDS Creative Academy, Producer, Author, and Industry Mentor. W: https://jdscreativeacademy.org/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianestrand/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/jdscreativeacademy/ Follow & Subscribe: 🎙️ Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby is available on all major podcast platforms! Subscribe and leave a review to support the show. Email: filmmakingconversations@mail.com…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 223: The DocuStoryteller: Behind the Lens with Ann Rogers 33:11

hace 25 días33:11

33:11

Ann Rogers A 2021 Impact Partners Documentary Producers Fellow, Ann Rogers is a jack-of-all-trades Documentary Producer who has spent the last decade in the entertainment trenches learning the creative and business nuts and bolts of bringing a nonfiction story to screen. Dedicated to bringing true stories to life with integrity and heart, she thrives in the world of premium feature documentary and docuseries. With experience of ushering nonfiction work through the different phases of production and distribution, her specialty is international production having sent crews to nearly 30 countries on almost every continent. Her skill-set and experience includes: - Development - Budgeting and Scheduling- Production Management- Editorial Management- Distribution Delivery- Film Festival and Awards Circuits Strategy. Her production credits include works for Netflix, National Geographic, HBO, Showtime, Participant, MRC, Fifth Season, POV, PBS, and CNN. She is also member of the Documentary Producers Alliance (DPA) and the Producer's Guild of America (PGA).In 2021, Ann founded HUMBLE HEART FILMS, a documentary-focused film production company that is currently developing it's first slate of projects. Originally from the Montana mountains, Ann now lives near the Los Angeles beaches with her husband and rescue pup. Website…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 222: Breaking In: Class, Rejection & Resilience with Helen Tompson 27:38

hace 30 días27:38

27:38

Episode Summary: In this episode we sit down with screenwriter, script editor, and playwright Helen Tompson to talk about the often-overlooked struggles of working-class creatives in the film and TV industry. From imposter syndrome to industry gatekeeping, Helen shares her personal journey—from leaving school early and working as a young carer to later pursuing a master's in screenwriting and securing funding for her first short film. We discuss: 🎬 The hidden barriers working-class writers and filmmakers face 💰 The impact of financial instability on creative careers 🚪 Dealing with rejection and finding resilience 📝 How mentorship and community can make a difference 📢 What the industry needs to change to become more inclusive. Helen’s story is proof that talent and determination can break through, even when the odds are stacked against you. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong in this industry, this episode is for you LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-tompson/…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 221: Cutting Through the Story: Amelia Allwarden’s ACE Journey 31:10

hace 6 weeks31:10

31:10

Episode Description: In this episode, we sit down with accomplished editor Amelia, whose journey from a childhood passion for storytelling to editing high-profile projects like Dune, Westworld, and Pen15 is nothing short of extraordinary. Amelia takes us behind the scenes of the editing room, sharing her deep knowledge of tools like Avid Media Composer and Adobe Premiere Pro, and how they shaped her creative and technical evolution. We explore: The tools of the trade: Why Avid is her go-to for large-scale productions and how Premiere Pro paved the way in her early days. Mentorship and collaboration: How the ACE Internship Program and supportive communities shaped her path. The art of storytelling: Balancing pacing, tone, and emotion in projects ranging from Westworld to Pen15. Technical versus creative: How Emilia relies on her assistants for technical tasks so she can focus on pure creativity. Staying ahead of the curve: Thoughts on the future of editing and adapting to technological advancements. Whether you’re an aspiring editor or a curious film enthusiast, this episode is a treasure trove of practical advice, heartfelt stories, and inspiration. Key Quotes: “Editing is more than cutting scenes—it's crafting a story with rhythm, tone, and emotion.” “The right tools matter, but passion and mentorship are what really make a career.” “Trusting your instincts as an editor is a muscle you train every day.” Resources Mentioned: https://www.avid.com/media-composer Adobe Premiere Pro https://americancinemaeditors.org/ed-center/ace-internship-program/ About Our Guest: Amelia is a seasoned editor who has worked on major Hollywood productions and champions the importance of mentorship and community in the editing world. W: https://www.ameliaallwardeneditor.com/about…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 220: Arkansas Roots, NYC Dreams: Joe Lusby's Journey 44:50

hace 7 weeks44:50

44:50

Episode Overview: In this engaging episode, Damien Swaby speaks with Joe Lusby, a seasoned creative video producer whose journey has taken him from small-town Arkansas to the vibrant streets of New York City. Joe shares his insights into the challenges and triumphs of balancing corporate work, nonprofit projects, and creative storytelling. From early days in Arkansas’ budding film scene to working with prestigious organizations like Never Whisper Justice, Joe reflects on the importance of impactful storytelling, the lessons learned from working solo, and the evolution of his craft. Key Topics Covered: The Creative Hustle: How Joe turned passion projects into a thriving career. Lessons from Failures: Overcoming creative challenges and learning from mistakes. Corporate vs. Creative: Navigating the balance between commercial and nonprofit projects. Cultural Impact: Exploring racial and social justice themes through filmmaking. Filmmaking Tips: Why collaboration matters and how to embrace fast turnarounds. Memorable Quotes: "You learn so much faster by listening to other professionals that are above you. Take the time—it can wipe a year off your learning curve." "Storytelling is about condensing real experiences into narratives that resonate. It's about doing justice to the people whose stories you’re privileged to tell." W: https://www.joelusbymedia.com/about Educational Corner: Pro Tips for Emerging Filmmakers Start Small but Smart: Begin with passion projects to hone your skills. Use constraints to fuel creativity. Collaborate Early: Don’t be afraid to bring in specialists. Sound designers, editors, and cinematographers elevate your work. Be Adaptable: Deadlines and fast turnarounds are inevitable. Learn to stay calm and efficient. Tell Stories That Matter: Seek out stories that inspire change and resonate deeply with audiences. Never Stop Learning: Every project, success or failure, adds to your toolkit.…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 219: Reinvention, Collaboration, and Storytelling: Diane Lansing 42:25

hace 10 weeks42:25

42:25

In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, we dive deep into the world of storytelling with Diane Lansing, a screenwriter, playwright, and filmmaker whose passion for reinvention and collaboration shines through her craft. Diane shares her inspiring journey from studying acting under Larry Moss to writing multidimensional characters for stage and screen. We discuss the challenges of transitioning from theatre to film, the lessons learned while directing her short film Out of Her Element, and the beauty of collaboration in filmmaking. Diane also reveals her approach to creating authentic and layered characters, the importance of trust in the filmmaking process, and her upcoming documentary project that promises to blend art, humanity, and inspiration.This episode is a masterclass in storytelling and collaboration, offering valuable insights for filmmakers and creatives looking to refine their craft.Key Topics and Takeaways Reinvention through Writing: How Diane transitioned from acting to writing plays and screenplays, creating more dimensional female characters along the way. Character-Driven Screenwriting: Diane's process for building deep, believable characters rooted in her acting background and how it influences her screenwriting. Lessons in Directing: Diane’s experience directing Out of Her Element and the challenges of adapting theatre concepts to the screen. Collaborative Filmmaking: The importance of building trust with cast and crew, allowing creative freedom, and finding inspiration through teamwork. The Power of Music and Post-Production: A behind-the-scenes look at the score creation for Trust, featuring the Budapest Orchestra, and how post-production enhances storytelling. Documentary Filmmaking: Diane’s plans for her new documentary project, Be Seen, Be Heard, showcasing the resilience and beauty of children with disabilities and cancer. Educational Value of This Episode Screenwriting Techniques: Learn how to create layered, authentic characters and balance action with dialogue in your scripts. Directorial Insights: Understand the differences between directing for theatre and film and the key lessons Diane learned from her first directorial experience. The Art of Collaboration: Discover the importance of trust, creative freedom, and community in successful filmmaking. Practical Tips for Filmmakers: Gain actionable advice on casting, working with composers, and navigating post-production challenges. Inspiration for Aspiring Filmmakers: Diane’s journey offers encouragement to embrace reinvention, take creative risks, and pursue meaningful stories. Call to ActionDon’t miss this inspiring conversation with Diane Lansing! Subscribe to the Filmmaking Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform, and leave us a review to share your thoughts. For more updates, follow Damien Swaby on social media and visit the podcast website. https://www.dianelansing.com/…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 218: Anna Toomey: Fighting for Dyslexic Students in Left Behind 33:05

hace 13 weeks33:05

33:05

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Anna Toomey, an Emmy Award-winning producer with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Anna has worked with major outlets like ABC News, Good Morning America, and Peter Jennings Reporting, creating powerful, character-driven stories with passion and integrity. Her notable credits include The Gun Fight, an Emmy Award-winning deep dive into the National Rifle Association, and the critically acclaimed The Beatles Anthology. As the director of the powerful documentary Left Behind, Anna shares the inspiring journey of a group of determined mothers who fought to open New York City’s first public school for dyslexic children. Through their struggle against a system that neglected over 200,000 students, the film highlights the personal and institutional challenges they faced, and the political obstacles they overcame. Stay tuned as we discuss the impact of this film and the ongoing fight for educational equality. Guest: Anna Toomey , Director of Left Behind Highlights: Anna’s career as an Emmy-winning producer with credits including The Gun Fight and The Beatles Anthology The making of Left Behind : A documentary about the fight to establish NYC's first public school for dyslexic children The impact of the film and its role in advocating for change in the education system The collaboration with key team members like David Beal, Sian Edwards Beal, and Juju Chang Anna's work with Sandy Dog Productions and her commitment to telling compelling, socially relevant stories Resources: Left Behind at DOC NYC Support the film’s Impact Campaign for dyslexia awareness https://www.leftbehindthefilm.com…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 217: Shaping Stories with Helen De Michiel 38:45

hace 15 weeks38:45

38:45

Helen De Michiel – A Pioneer in Participatory Media and Community StorytellingIn this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, we dive into the fascinating world of participatory media and innovative storytelling with Helen De Michiel—a trailblazing producer, director, writer, and community engagement specialist. Helen shares insights from her decades-long career, starting with her pioneering work in public television on The Independents and Alive TV in the 1980s. As a visionary filmmaker, Helen has always pushed boundaries, blending traditional storytelling with co-creative practices to foster dialogue and create impactful media. Her work is featured in museum collections across the United States and continues to inspire new generations of storytellers.We explore Helen’s innovative concept of open space media, which she detailed in her book Open Space New Media Documentary: A Toolkit for Theory and Practice, co-authored with Patricia Zimmermann. She also reflects on the transformative impact of her episodic documentary projects, Lunch Love Community and Berkeley Vs. Big Soda, which address pressing issues like food justice and public health.In addition to her creative work, Helen discusses her role as an educator at California College of the Arts in San Francisco and how she supports other filmmakers through consulting and coaching. Helen’s dedication to sparking dialogue and creating social impact across media and communities is a powerful reminder of the potential of filmmaking to drive meaningful change.Highlights from this episode include: The evolution of participatory media and its impact on storytelling. Helen’s journey in co-creating Lunch Love Community and its global influence on food justice. The concept of open space media and its application to modern documentary filmmaking. How Helen mentors filmmakers in refining their creative processes and reaching their distribution goals. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a true innovator in the world of independent filmmaking. Helen’s passion for collaboration, creativity, and community engagement is sure to leave you inspired and ready to take your storytelling to the next level.Links & Resources: Helen De Michiel’s website: https://www.thirtyleaves.org Listen now and join the conversation!…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 216: Alexsiya Flora Empowers Filmmakers to Fund Their Dreams 30:30

hace 17 weeks30:30

30:30

In this episode, we dive into the world of independent filmmaking with Alexsiya Flora, an acclaimed filmmaker, producer, and social media mentor for rising female creatives. Alexsiya’s passion for storytelling and creative independence has propelled her to produce award-winning work and lead a thriving mentorship program, where she empowers the next generation of female filmmakers to fund their dreams through social media mastery. Who is Alexsiya Flora?Alexsiya Flora is best known for her internationally celebrated documentary Adventures in Plymptoons!, which explores the life and work of Oscar-nominated animator Bill Plympton. A true independent artist, she’s a powerhouse in the indie film community and a self-proclaimed “social media networking ninja.” Beyond her own films, Alexsiya dedicates her expertise to mentoring young female filmmakers, teaching them how to leverage their online presence to gain financial and creative freedom.Notable Works Director: Adventures in Plymptoons! - A documentary on animator Bill Plympton, showcasing his unique creative journey. Creator: Ginger Girls: The Secret Lives of Redheads (in production) – A fascinating exploration into the lives of red-haired women. Creator: Little Fishes - A narrative feature exploring human connections. Co-Producer & Co-Star: Supernaturalz: Weird, Creepy and Random and 7 Deadly Sins: Inside the Ecomm Cult Editor: Vampira: The Movie - A tribute to the iconic horror hostess. Associate Producer: The Wild World of Ted V. Mikels - Documenting the life of a cult film director. Co-Producer: Beyond the Noise: My Transcendental Meditation Journey Co-Producer & Co-Star: The Amazing Kreskin on Ultimate Fear Upcoming ProjectCurrently, Alexsiya is in post-production for her latest narrative film, Fantastic Santa Monaco. Set in Los Angeles, it follows a group of performance artists navigating love, connection, and significance in a sprawling metropolis.Educational Value Points Harnessing Social Media for Funding: Alexsiya’s mentorship reveals how aspiring filmmakers can use social media platforms to build an audience and attract funding without relying on traditional film studios. Creative Control and Financial Freedom: She highlights how independent funding strategies give filmmakers full control over their artistic vision, allowing for innovation in both storytelling and production. Breaking into Independent Filmmaking: Alexsiya teaches practical steps for creating an indie film from scratch, sharing insights on production, networking, and resourcefulness. The Art of Storytelling: From documentary to narrative features, Alexsiya’s diverse work emphasizes the importance of storytelling in resonating with audiences and driving engagement. Fun FactAs an actress, Alexsiya has appeared in HBO’s Bored to Death, VH1’s “If you like...” commercial, and Vetiver’s “Everyday” music video, showing her versatility as both a creator and performer.How Alexsiya Can Help You Live Your Creative DreamThrough one-on-one consulting, Alexsiya offers guidance on independent filmmaking, sharing the secrets that have allowed her to thrive creatively. Her life mission? To inspire creative minds to live fully and bring their art to life. She believes in the power of magic, passion, dedication, and creativity, and she’s here to help aspiring artists unlock their potential. Join Alexsiya on her journey, watch her live adventures on Facebook, and learn how you, too, can bring your creative dreams to reality. She promises to spark the magic to help you move mountains in your artistic life. W: http://alexsiyaflora.com/contact…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 215: From Art to Impact: Linda Royal's Documentary Tales 39:34

hace 27 weeks39:34

39:34

Show Notes In this episode, we explore: Linda Booker’s transition from a career in art direction to documentary filmmaking at the age of 40. The journey of creating her upcoming documentary, "Minnie Evans: Draw or Die," which sheds light on the life and art of the remarkable self-taught artist, Minnie Evans. The deep connection between Minnie Evans' art, nature, and spirituality, and how these elements shaped her creative legacy. The significance of Linda’s previous works, including her environmental documentary Straws and the social issue-focused Love Lived on Death Row. Linda’s insights into the role of documentary films in driving social awareness and change. How Linda’s background and upbringing influenced her passion for nature, art, and storytelling. Educational Value of the Podcast This episode offers listeners valuable insights into the world of documentary filmmaking, particularly how it can be used as a tool for social change and cultural preservation. Linda Booker’s experience highlights the importance of following one’s passion, even later in life, and using art as a means to educate and inspire others. The discussion also emphasizes the intersection of art, nature, and spirituality, providing a rich exploration of how creative expression can convey deeper meanings and foster a connection with the natural world. Educators and students alike can gain a deeper understanding of how documentaries can impact policy, awareness, and cultural appreciation. W: https://www.bythebrookfilms.com…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 214: From West Indian Roots to Black Cinema: Curtis Caesar John 51:25

hace 27 weeks51:25

51:25

Episode Summary: In this episode, we sit down with Curtis, a Filmmaker, Cultural advocate, and Executive Director of the nomadic cinema and The Luminal Theater (founded in 2015 ) to discuss his journey in the film industry. Influenced by his West Indian heritage and passion for storytelling. Curtis shares his experiences co-founding the New Voices in Black Cinema, his approach to creating spaces for Black filmmakers, and the importance of community-driven art. We also explore the significance of diverse representation in cinema and how Curtis continues to support emerging Black filmmakers through innovative platforms. Key Topics Discussed: Curtis's journey into filmmaking and the impact of his West Indian heritage. The founding of New Voices in Black Cinema and its role in amplifying Black stories. The importance of creating community-driven film spaces. Curtis’s experiences as a producer of impactful documentaries. The role of representation and heritage in storytelling. This podcast provides valuable insights into: Cultural Influence in Creative Work: Curtis discusses how his West Indian heritage shaped his approach to filmmaking and storytelling, offering listeners a perspective on how culture can influence creative careers. Creating Inclusive Spaces in Cinema: Curtis’s experience in founding New Voices in Black Cinema sheds light on the importance of community-driven spaces that amplify underrepresented voices. Impact of Representation in Media: The conversation delves into why representation matters in cinema, providing educational value for listeners interested in diversity and inclusivity in media. Practical Filmmaking Insights: Aspiring filmmakers and producers can learn from Curtis's experiences, challenges, and successes in producing impactful documentaries and films. The Power of Community Collaboration: The episode highlights how building networks and collaborations within communities can lead to successful creative projects and events. W: https://www.luminaltheater.org/curtiscaesarjohn…

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

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Ep 213: Dance Films, Diversity, and Tech at Lincoln Center 47:48

hace 28 weeks47:48