The Making Of

In this episode, we welcome Justin Lin. Justin is a producer and director with a resume that includes Better Luck Tomorrow, Fast & Furious, Star Trek Beyond, “True Detective,” “Magnum P.I.,” Annapolis, The Fast & the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Fast Five, Fast & Furious 6, F9: The Fast Saga, Fast X, and Last Days — his return to indie filmmaking. In our chat, he shares about his formative years, his pathway into directing, and the making of Last Days. He also offers practical recommendations for today’s up-and-coming independent filmmakers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converterAJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges.Shoot. Store. Secure. Smile.The OWC Guardian is a bus‑powered, portable NVMe SSD featuring 256‑bit AES OPAL hardware encryption and a color touch‑screen for intuitive, secure access. With up to 1,000 MB/s real‑world transfer speeds, platform‑agnostic operation (Mac, PC, iPad Pro), and a rugged anodized aluminum enclosure, it’s built to protect audit‑sensitive media and projects anytime, anywhere. Learn more hereNDI November:NDI November is a month-long, free, virtual event series dedicated to exploring the power of NDI technology for modern live production. Throughout November 2025, we’ll bring together industry experts, vendors, dealers, and system integrators to deliver an in-depth look at NDI workflows and innovations shaping the future of IP-based production.Each session will feature live demos, real-world case studies, and practical workflow tips, along with dedicated deep dives into the past, present, and future of NDI technology. Attendees will learn how NDI can transform their productions—whether in broadcast, education, worship, corporate AV, or live events.Learn more hereMeet Stream Deck Studio:Meet Stream Deck Studio, the ultimate control surface designed for professional broadcast and live production environments. Built on the iconic Elgato hardware and powered by Bitfocus software, it offers a hyper-customizable experience that simplifies even the most complex workflows. With compatibility across hundreds of devices from the industry’s top vendors, Stream Deck Studio gives you complete command over your production setup, making it easier than ever to create seamless, high-quality broadcasts. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to learn more and take your production control to the next level today!Learn more hereAmerican Film Market (AFM)Nov. 11-16, 2025 | Los AngelesAFM is the premier film acquisition, development and networking event where more than $1 Billion in distribution and film financing deals are closed each year on completed films and those in every stage of development. More business-oriented than any other motion picture event, thousands of professionals from all corners of our industry come together at AFM to develop, showcase, discover, finance and license 1000s of independent films and projects destined for the world’s audiences.Visit the site herePodcast Rewind:Oct 2025 - Ep. 101…Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Ben Leonberg. Ben wrote, produced and directed Good Boy, the new horror film now playing in theaters nationwide. In our chat, he shares about the inspiration and making of this unique supernatural thriller, what it was like working with his dog as the lead actor, and the technologies used to capture this story. Ben also provides insights into the film’s path to distribution, and offers practical advice for independent filmmakers everywhere. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converterAJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges.The Making Of “Halloween”: An Exclusive Evening with Dean Cundey, ASC, CSCWednesday, Oct. 29 | Los AngelesJoin us in-person for a conversation with legendary cinematographer Dean Cundey, ASC, CSC as he discusses his work on this landmark horror film!ZEISS Cinema Showroom | 5:00 - 8:00pm PDTFree tickets hereNext-Gen DIY Storage, UnleashedThe OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore hereVimeo Chicago Event:Wednesday, Oct. 29 | Siskel Film CenterA night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary!6:30pm Doors7:30-9pm Films + commentary 9-10:30pm Reception (complimentary drinks + bites)Free tickets hereIntroducing Ninja TX:Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more herePodcast Rewind:Oct. 2025 - Ep. 101…Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, & content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome two-time Oscar-nominated cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth, ASC. Jeff has shot films including Fight Club, One Hour Photo, The Social Network, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Hitchcock, Gone Girl, Being the Ricardos, and Tron: Ares. In our chat, Jeff shares his origin story, experiences working with David Fincher — and all about his latest movie, Tron: Ares. He also offers extensive insights and recommendations for today’s cinematographers and filmmakers.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converterAJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges.TMO Presents…The Making Of “Halloween”: An Exclusive Evening with Dean Cundey, ASC, CSCWed., Oct. 29 | Los AngelesJoin us in-person for a conversation with legendary cinematographer Dean Cundey, ASC, CSC as he discusses his work on this landmark horror film!ZEISS Cinema Showroom | 5:00 - 8:00pm PDTFree Tickets hereNext-Gen DIY Storage, UnleashedThe OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore hereVimeo Chicago Event:Wed., Oct. 29 • Siskel Film CenterA night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary!6:30pm Doors7:30-9pm Films + commentary 9-10:30pm Reception (complimentary drinks + bites)Free tickets hereIntroducing Ninja TX:Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more herePodcast Rewind:Oct. 2025 - Ep. 100…Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators every week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this 100th episode, we welcome two-time Oscar nominated cinematographer Seamus McGarvey, ASC, BSC. Seamus has shot films including High Fidelity, The Hours, Atonement, The Soloist, We Need to Talk About Kevin, The Avengers, Anna Karenina, Fifty Shades of Grey, Nocturnal Animals, The Accountant, The Greatest Showman, and Die My Love. In our chat, Seamus shares his origin story, about his longtime collaboration with Lynne Ramsay, insights into shooting on 35mm, and about the making of Die My Love. He also offers recommendations for the next generation of creators.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converterAJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges.TMO Presents…The Making Of “Halloween”: An Exclusive Evening with Dean Cundey, ASC, CSCWednesday, Oct. 29 | Los Angeles Join us in-person for a conversation with legendary cinematographer Dean Cundey, ASC, CSC as he discusses his work on the landmark horror film!ZEISS Cinema Showroom | 5:00 - 8:00pm PDTFree tickets available hereNext-Gen DIY Storage, UnleashedThe OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore hereIntroducing Ninja TX:Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more hereVimeo NYC Event:Thursday, Oct. 23 | Florence Gould TheaterA night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary!6:30pm Doors7:30 - 9pm Films + commentary 9:00 - 11pm Reception - free drinks + bites!Free Passes herePost|Production World NY 2025:We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass herePodcast Rewind:Oct 2025 - Ep. 99…Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

Image courtesy of Hulu.In this episode, we welcome Nadia Latif and Ula Pontikos, BSC. Nadia directed the new film, The Man in My Basement, starring Willem Dafoe — and Ula was the film’s cinematographer. Previously, Ula has shot projects including “Russian Doll,” “Three Women” and the upcoming “Blade Runner 2099” series. In our chat, they share about the making of this feature, their creative collaboration, and insights into color grading. The Man in My Basement is now streaming on Hulu and Disney+.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converterAJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges.Next-Gen DIY Storage, UnleashedThe OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore hereExclusive Deals for Filmmakers, Broadcast, & Content Creators: Explore all the discounts hereVimeo NYC Event:Thurs, Oct. 23 | Florence Gould TheaterA night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary!6:30pm Doors7:30 - 9pm Films + commentary 9:00 - 11pm Reception - free drinks + bites!Free Passes hereIntroducing Ninja TX:Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more hereFeatured Trailer of the Week: Post|Production World NY 2025:We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass hereEvolution Mallorca Film FestivalOct. 21-29, 2025Filmmakers, experience the best of cinema at EMIFF 2025! Discover groundbreaking films, forge high-quality connections, and dive into exceptional industry events including Cinematography Focus, Innovation Focus, Acting Focus, and Producers Club. Join us in Mallorca—where creativity and networking meet beneath the Mediterranean skies!Learn more herePodcast Rewind:Sept 2025 - Ep. 98…Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome four-time Oscar-nominated writer, producer and actor Ethan Hawke and five-time Oscar-nominated writer, producer and director Richard Linklater. In our chat, we hear about the inspiration and making of their new film, Blue Moon, the ninth film they’ve collaborated on — as well as what’s at the heart of their longtime creative partnership. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:UDC-4K: More than just an average 12G-SDI and HDMI up/down/cross converterAJA’s newest Mini-Converter boasts powerful 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.0 I/O, 4K/UltraHD/2K/HD scaling, frame sync, frame rate conversion, and more. Unlocking an expansive range of conversion possibilities, UDC-4K enables teams to get disparate sources into a common format and timing reference. Explore how UDC-4K solves some of the most common production and post challenges.Next-Gen DIY Storage, UnleashedThe OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore hereScreamfest Horror Film Festival 2025 Oct. 7–16 | Los AngelesGet ready to scream! The 25th annual Screamfest Horror Film Festival slashes into TCL Chinese 6 Theatres Oct. 7–16. Experience spine-chilling world premieres, shocking new genre films, and unforgettable frights on the big screen. Don’t miss the nation’s longest-running horror fest celebrating 25 years of fear! Tickets at Screamfestla.comIntroducing Ninja TX:Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more hereVimeo NYC Event:Thursday, Oct. 23 | Florence Gould TheaterA night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary!6:30pm Doors7:30 - 9pm Films + commentary 9:00 - 11pm Reception - free drinks + bites!Free passes herePodcast Rewind:Sept 2025 - Ep. 97…Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome director Bernard MacMahon and producer Allison McGourty. This team brought us Becoming Led Zeppelin — the first documentary the legendary group has ever agreed to participate in. The film is currently streaming on Netflix and continues to be played at select theaters in the U.S. and around the world. In our chat, we hear about their path creating this doc, their creative back stories, and much more. Bernard and Allison also offer incredible insights for up-and-coming directors, about producing documentaries, and filmmaking in general.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Gear up: AJA just launched new techFlexibility is everything in production, which is one of many reasons to check out AJA's newest products. IP25-R bridges SMPTE ST 2110 networks and 4K SDI/HDMI infrastructure, UDC-4K scales between HD and 4K/UltraHD, and BRIDGE LIVE 12G-4 provides a multi-channel UltraHD IP video workflow bridge for remote production, streaming, video contribution, and more. Learn more.Next-Gen DIY Storage, UnleashedThe OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore hereVimeo NYC Event:Thursday, Oct. 23 | Florence Gould TheaterA night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary!6:30pm Doors7:30 - 9pm Films + commentary 9:00 - 11pm Reception - free drinks + bites!Free Passes here Introducing Ninja TX:Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more hereSTEADICAM VOLT 3 Experience Tour:Sunday, October 5 · 4-7pm ET | Keslow Camera AtlantaJoin us for an exclusive hands-on demo of the brand-new STEADICAM® VOLT 3 – the next evolution in award-winning camera stabilization.Whether you're a seasoned Steadicam operator or exploring new tools for dynamic cinematography, this is your chance to experience first-hand how smarter stabilization can transform your workflow.Learn more herePost|Production World NY 2025:We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass herePodcast Rewind:Sept 2025 - Ep. 96…Advertise in “The Making Of” newsletter and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome editor Glen Scantlebury, ACE. Glen has worked on a variety of influential films such as Megalopolis, Dracula, The Cotton Club, The Godfather Part III, Armageddon, Con Air, The Rock, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003), Friday the 13th (2009), A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010), Tropic Thunder, and Palo Alto. In our chat, we hear about his pathway to editing features, his role in pioneering digital editing workflows, collaborating with Francis Ford Coppola, and much more. Glen also offers the next generation of creators various insights and recommendations on editing and storytelling. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Gear up: AJA just launched new techFlexibility is everything in production, which is one of many reasons to check out AJA's newest products. IP25-R bridges SMPTE ST 2110 networks and 4K SDI/HDMI infrastructure, UDC-4K scales between HD and 4K/UltraHD, and BRIDGE LIVE 12G-4 provides a multi-channel UltraHD IP video workflow bridge for remote production, streaming, video contribution, and more. Learn more.Next-Gen DIY Storage, UnleashedThe OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore hereThe Art of Editing “Andor” with Yan Miles, ACE: OWC Takes Home Two Future’s Best of IBC2025 Show Awards:Both the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dual 10GbE Network Dock and OWC Jellyfish S24 Earn Coveted Honor at IBCOther World Computing announced its OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dual 10GbE Network Dock and its OWC Jellyfish S24 have both been awarded a Future’s Best of Show Award, presented at IBC2025 by TVBEurope. Read more here Introducing Ninja TX:Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more herePost|Production World NY 2025:We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass herePodcast Rewind:Sept 2025 - Ep. 95…Sponsor “The Making Of” newsletter and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Jo Willems, ASC, SBC. Jo has shot an impressive list of films including Hard Candy, 30 Days of Night, Limitless, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 and 2, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, Red Sparrow, His House, Finch, and The Long Walk. In our chat, he shares about the making of The Long Walk, adapted from a Stephen King novel. He speaks about all the filmmaking techniques employed to pull off this gritty, naturalistic story — and offers advice for the next generation of creators today.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Gear up: AJA just launched new techFlexibility is everything in production, which is one of many reasons to check out AJA's newest products. IP25-R bridges SMPTE ST 2110 networks and 4K SDI/HDMI infrastructure, UDC-4K scales between HD and 4K/UltraHD, and BRIDGE LIVE 12G-4 provides a multi-channel UltraHD IP video workflow bridge for remote production, streaming, video contribution, and more. Learn more.Next-Gen DIY Storage, UnleashedThe OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor. Explore hereInsights from Legendary TV Director Alan Taylor:Introducing Ninja TX:Introducing Ninja TX, the all-new addition to the Ninja family. It’s equipped with 12G-SDI and HDMI, so now you can monitor & record from any pro camera to ultra-fast CFexpress media or external USB-C storage. You also get built in Wi-Fi for C2C workflows and AirGluTM timecode for multicam projects, all in a lightweight, compact 5-inch form factor. Atomos Ninja TX is available for pre-order for only $999 at Videoguys.com. Learn more herePost|Production World NY 2025:We’re proud to support Post|Production World NY 2025, October 22–23 at NAB Show New York. Join editors, filmmakers, and creators for two days of expert-led sessions in color grading, cinematography, workflows, and creative AI. Save 15% with code FMCP15. Get your pass hereNewsletter Rewind:Sponsor “The Making Of” newsletter and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. For more info, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Mark Irwin, CSC, ASC. Mark is the cinematographer of many iconic films including Scream, The Brood, Scanners, Videodrome, The Fly, The Dead Zone, New Nightmare, Dumb and Dumber, There’s Something About Mary, Road Trip, and Old School. In our chat, we hear all about his early days in Canada, his filmmaking education, and his journey collaborating with directors David Cronenberg and Wes Craven. Mark also shares about making Scanners, The Fly, and Scream — and offers recommendations for up-and-coming cinematographers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:DIT Chris Bolton talks on-set live grading and routingIn on-set production, precise, real-time color management and conversion and reliable routing are essential, which is why DIT Chris Bolton leverages AJA ColorBox and KUMO 3232-12G across projects. Read this interview to get his perspective on what makes a great DIT and to learn more about his live grading setup.Next-Gen DIY Storage, UnleashedThe OWC Express 1M2 80G delivers over 6000 MB/s real-world performance using the latest USB4 v2 (80 Gb/s) interface, with Thunderbolt 5 compatibility for next-gen workflows. Choose a ready-to-run or DIY enclosure—upgradeable to 8 TB using NVMe M.2 SSDs. Its passive heatsink design ensures silent, consistent speeds, all in a bus-powered, palm-sized form factor.Explore hereInsights from “Jaws” Production Designer Joe Alves: New Solutions from Videoguys:Bring your vision to life with the SanDisk Professional Creator Series—fast, reliable storage designed specifically for content creators like you. Whether you're capturing footage on your iPhone or Android device, flying a drone, or shooting with a digital camera, SanDisk gives you the tools to stay in control of every shoot, every transfer, every edit, and every backup. From microSD and SD cards to portable SSDs and high-performance flash drives, the Creator Series is built to keep up with your creativity.Ready to take your content to the next level? Call Videoguys today at 800.323.2325 to learn more and find the perfect storage solution for your workflow! Browse hereZEISS Summer Savings Event:Now through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3.Visit herePodcast Rewind:Aug 2025 - Ep. 93…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Sponsor this newsletter and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. Please email us to learn more: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

Photo by Phil Caruso.In this episode, we welcome Buddy Joe Hooker. Buddy Joe is a legendary Stuntman and Stunt Coordinator, with over sixty years working in the business. Some of the films he’s worked on include The Conversation, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, First Blood, The Outsiders, Rumble Fish, The Right Stuff, Scarface, To Live and Die in L.A., Days of Thunder, Carlito’s Way, From Dusk Till Dawn, Grosse Pointe Blank, Deja Vu, Grindhouse, Django Unchained, and Megalopolis. In our chat, he shares about his early days, how he learned all his skill-sets — and stories from performing stunts in motorcycles, cars, trucks, fight scenes, and beyond.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:DIT Chris Bolton talks on-set live grading and routingIn on-set production, precise, real-time color management and conversion and reliable routing are essential, which is why DIT Chris Bolton leverages AJA ColorBox and KUMO 3232-12G across projects. Read this interview to get his perspective on what makes a great DIT and to learn more about his live grading setup.Next-Gen Connectivity for Demanding WorkflowsThe OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock delivers cutting-edge performance with Thunderbolt 5 ports that offer up to 2x more bandwidth than previous generations. Perfect for post-production pros, it powers up to 3 high-res displays, ultra-fast storage, and pro accessories simultaneously. With 2.5Gb Ethernet and a full array of essential ports, it's your all-in-one hub for high-performance creative workflows.Explore hereInsights from Giovanni Ribisi:HED: Bring Filmmaking to Your Classroom with LUMIX EDUDEK: Discover how LUMIX EDU can support your school’s video production goals with camera loaners, curriculum resources, and hands-on training.Learn more and get involved hereZEISS Summer Savings Event:Now through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3.Visit hereNew Solutions from Videoguys:Bring your vision to life with the SanDisk Professional Creator Series—fast, reliable storage designed specifically for content creators like you. Whether you're capturing footage on your iPhone or Android device, flying a drone, or shooting with a digital camera, SanDisk gives you the tools to stay in control of every shoot, every transfer, every edit, and every backup. From microSD and SD cards to portable SSDs and high-performance flash drives, the Creator Series is built to keep up with your creativity.Ready to take your content to the next level? Call Videoguys today at 800.323.2325 to learn more and find the perfect storage solution for your workflow! Browse hereFeatured Film Book:KISS ME QUICK BEFORE I SHOOTThis film memoir is all about the magic of filmmaking and forging a cinematic personal life in Hollywood. It is full of invaluable experiences and unique industry stories of a celebrated film/TV career, and should be required reading for every film lover. It includes stories of a producer turning out to be the assassin of the Mafia boss who allowed The Godfather to film in NY; to shooting the pyramids of Egypt for Battlestar Galactica; to directing a grumbling Mr. T on The A-Team; to almost decapitating a young Drew Barrymore right after ET; and to unwittingly almost delaying James Cameron’s early career!“Finally, a book for all who love the movies written by a filmmaker who has walked the walk in TV and film. A very entertaining journey of fascinating industry stories providing a true look behind the curtain of filmmaking.”JOE ALVES, Production Designer JAWS, British Academy Award for CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KINDPickup a copy at KISS ME QUICK BEFORE I SHOOT Kindle Ebook AmazonPodcast Rewind:August 2025 - Ep. 92…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Promote your products or services in this newsletter and reach 250K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators each week. Email us at: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Oscar-nominated Production Designer Joe Alves. Joe made history for his work on Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Jaws 2, and Escape from New York. In our chat, he shares on his career working alongside masters such as Walt Disney, Alfred Hitchcock, Rod Serling, Steven Spielberg, and John Carpenter. He talks about starting out as a young Art Director, working as a Production Designer, and other hats he wore. Joe also offers advice on the business, breaking down a script — and other insights from a life in the industry.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:DIT Chris Bolton talks on-set live grading and routingIn on-set production, precise, real-time color management and conversion and reliable routing are essential, which is why DIT Chris Bolton leverages AJA ColorBox and KUMO 3232-12G across projects. Read this interview to get his perspective on what makes a great DIT and to learn more about his live grading setup.Next-Gen Connectivity for Demanding WorkflowsThe OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock delivers cutting-edge performance with Thunderbolt 5 ports that offer up to 2x more bandwidth than previous generations. Perfect for post-production pros, it powers up to 3 high-res displays, ultra-fast storage, and pro accessories simultaneously. With 2.5Gb Ethernet and a full array of essential ports, it's your all-in-one hub for high-performance creative workflows.Explore hereInspiration from Embeth Davidtz: Featured Documentary Project:In 1990, environmental engineer Hugo Martínez Cazón discovered the last standing factory of the Lumière Brothers’, which had been lost to history for almost a century. This short documentary follows his journey of mystery and discovery, while uncovering the birthplace of color photography in America — and a forgotten landmark of early cinematic history. Learn more hereZEISS Summer Savings Event:Now through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3.Explore hereNew Solutions from Videoguys:Bring your vision to life with the SanDisk Professional Creator Series—fast, reliable storage designed specifically for content creators like you. Whether you're capturing footage on your iPhone or Android device, flying a drone, or shooting with a digital camera, SanDisk gives you the tools to stay in control of every shoot, every transfer, every edit, and every backup. From microSD and SD cards to portable SSDs and high-performance flash drives, the Creator Series is built to keep up with your creativity.Ready to take your content to the next level? Call Videoguys today at 800.323.2325 to learn more and find the perfect storage solution for your workflow! Browse herePodcast Rewind:July 2025 - Ep. 91…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Advertise in this newsletter and reach 250,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, & content creators each week. For more information, email: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome back Eric Hasso. Eric is a modern-day master in the art of In-Camera Visual FX, used in both film and TV production. In our conversation, he shares all about his latest projects, recent developments in his workflow and technologies — and other insights into his craft. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:AJA DRM2-Plus 3RU Frame Unlocks Flexible Mini-Converter ConfigurationsIdeal for production and post environments where signal conversion needs vary, the AJA DRM2-Plus is a high-capacity, 3RU Mini-Converter frame houses up to 12 full-size AJA Mini-Converters of any kind, and up to 24 of AJA’s compact Mini-Converters. DRM2-Plus boasts flexible cooling and redundant power supply options and an intuitive faceplate design that lets users quickly access installed converters. Learn more about DRM2-Plus.Massive Speed. Big Capacity. DIY Ready.The OWC Express 4M2 delivers up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage with real-world speeds up to 3200MB/s over USB4. Built for demanding workflows like 4K/8K editing and VFX, it features thermally controlled fans for quiet, sustained performance. With massive capacity, a compact footprint, and easy drive installation, it’s the ultimate DIY solution for creative pros who need speed and flexibility.Browse hereHED: Bring Filmmaking to Your Classroom with LUMIX EDUDEK: Discover how LUMIX EDU can support your school’s video production goals with camera loaners, curriculum resources, and hands-on training. Learn more and get involved hereZEISS Summer Savings EventNow through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3. Explore hereNew Solutions from Videoguys:Bring your vision to life with the SanDisk Professional Creator Series—fast, reliable storage designed specifically for content creators like you. Whether you're capturing footage on your iPhone or Android device, flying a drone, or shooting with a digital camera, SanDisk gives you the tools to stay in control of every shoot, every transfer, every edit, and every backup. From microSD and SD cards to portable SSDs and high-performance flash drives, the Creator Series is built to keep up with your creativity. Ready to take your content to the next level? Call Videoguys today at 800.323.2325 to learn more and find the perfect storage solution for your workflow! Browse here Podcast Rewind:July 2025 - Ep. 90…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.To advertise your products or services to 228K filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter, send an email to: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome back Jay Holben. Jay is a director, producer, educator and author of many essential filmmaking books. In our chat, we hear about his new book, The Director’s Guide to Everything — as well as his thoughts on where the industry is at now, and about new technologies that he finds interesting. Jay also offers useful advice for students, younger filmmakers, and other creatives persevering through these challenging times. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:AJA DRM2-Plus 3RU Frame Unlocks Flexible Mini-Converter ConfigurationsIdeal for production and post environments where signal conversion needs vary, the AJA DRM2-Plus is a high-capacity, 3RU Mini-Converter frame houses up to 12 full-size AJA Mini-Converters of any kind, and up to 24 of AJA’s compact Mini-Converters. DRM2-Plus boasts flexible cooling and redundant power supply options and an intuitive faceplate design that lets users quickly access installed converters. Learn more about DRM2-Plus.Massive Speed. Big Capacity. DIY Ready.The OWC Express 4M2 delivers up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage with real-world speeds up to 3200MB/s over USB4. Built for demanding workflows like 4K/8K editing and VFX, it features thermally controlled fans for quiet, sustained performance. With massive capacity, a compact footprint, and easy drive installation, it’s the ultimate DIY solution for creative pros who need speed and flexibility.Browse hereFeatured Book: The Director’s Guide to Everything is the ultimate road map for mastering the craft. More than just a guide — it’s a masterclass in how to turn your vision into reality. The Director’s Guide delivers a comprehensive, no-nonsense education in the art and science of directing — with practical knowledge drawn from decades of experience in the trenches of motion picture production.www.adakinpress.comGet your copy hereZEISS Summer Savings EventNow through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3.Browse here New Solutions from Videoguys:The SanDisk Professional G-RAID PROJECT 2 is a powerhouse 2-bay storage system built for serious creators. Pre-configured in RAID 0 and featuring Thunderbolt™ 3 connectivity, it delivers the speed and capacity you need for demanding 4K, 8K, and VR video workflows—up to a massive 52TB. With a PRO-BLADE™ SSD Mag slot for ultra-fast offloads and edits, it's the perfect solution for high-performance production environments. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to for free tech advice and to learn more!Visit herePodcast Rewind:July 2025 - Ep. 89…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Advertise your products or services to over 215K filmmakers, TV production pros, studios, & content creators reading this newsletter… email us: mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Embeth Davidtz. Embeth has her directorial debut, Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight, hitting theaters nationwide this week. A veteran actor, she is known for roles in Schindler’s List, Army of Darkness, Matilda, Fallen, Mansfield Park, Bridget Jones’ Diary, Junebug, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Amazing Spider-Man, “Mad Men,” “Ray Donovan,” and “The Morning Show”. In our chat, she shares her backstory, stories from working with Spielberg — and all about her new film which she wrote, directed and starred in. Embeth also offers invaluable advice for actors and filmmakers working today. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:AJA DRM2-Plus 3RU Frame Unlocks Flexible Mini-Converter ConfigurationsIdeal for production and post environments where signal conversion needs vary, the AJADRM2-Plus is a high-capacity, 3RU Mini-Converter frame houses up to 12 full-size AJA Mini-Converters of any kind, and up to 24 of AJA’s compact Mini-Converters. DRM2-Plus boasts flexible cooling and redundant power supply options and an intuitive faceplate design that lets users quickly access installed converters. Learn more about DRM2-Plus.Massive Speed. Big Capacity. DIY Ready.The OWC Express 4M2 delivers up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage with real-world speeds up to 3200MB/s over USB4. Built for demanding workflows like 4K/8K editing and VFX, it features thermally controlled fans for quiet, sustained performance. With massive capacity, a compact footprint, and easy drive installation, it’s the ultimate DIY solution for creative pros who need speed and flexibility.Browse hereZEISS Summer Savings EventNow through September 1, save up to $4,000 on select Nano Prime lens sets and another $3,000 on the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3.Browse here New Solutions from Videoguys:The SanDisk Professional G-RAID PROJECT 2 is a powerhouse 2-bay storage system built for serious creators. Pre-configured in RAID 0 and featuring Thunderbolt™ 3 connectivity, it delivers the speed and capacity you need for demanding 4K, 8K, and VR video workflows—up to a massive 52TB. With a PRO-BLADE™ SSD Mag slot for ultra-fast offloads and edits, it's the perfect solution for high-performance production environments. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to for free tech advice and to learn more!Visit herePodcast Rewind:July 2025 - Ep. 89…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Advertise your products or services to 205,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter — contact us at mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Phil Arntz and Will Banks. Phil is an Aerial Director of Photography and Will a top Camera Pilot. This filmmaking team has worked on a range of projects including F1: The Movie, Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, The Gorge, Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, “The Agency: Central Intelligence,” “The Day of the Jackal” and “The Diplomat”. In our chat, they share their back stories, how they learned their skill-sets, and about working on the latest Mission: Impossible. They also talk about their unique collaboration — and reveal some of the tools, technologies and techniques used to capture these iconic shots. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:AJA DRM2-Plus 3RU Frame Unlocks Flexible Mini-Converter ConfigurationsIdeal for production and post environments where signal conversion needs vary, the AJADRM2-Plus is a high-capacity, 3RU Mini-Converter frame houses up to 12 full-size AJA Mini-Converters of any kind, and up to 24 of AJA’s compact Mini-Converters. DRM2-Plus boasts flexible cooling and redundant power supply options and an intuitive faceplate design that lets users quickly access installed converters. Learn more about DRM2-Plus.Massive Speed. Big Capacity. DIY Ready.The OWC Express 4M2 delivers up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage with real-world speeds up to 3200MB/s over USB4. Built for demanding workflows like 4K/8K editing and VFX, it features thermally controlled fans for quiet, sustained performance. With massive capacity, a compact footprint, and easy drive installation, it’s the ultimate DIY solution for creative pros who need speed and flexibility.Browse hereFeatured Book: The Horror Movie ReportBlumhouse calls The Horror Movie Report, “the ultimate guide to every horror movie ever made” and that it “helped us shape how we think about horror”. Get under the skin of over 27,000 horror movies with the most detailed data-led insights ever compiled at HorrorMovieReport.comRead more here The new ZEISS Otus ML:Now on sale, the Otus ML 1.4/50mm photography lens from ZEISS is the new generation of high-quality optics for your photographic art. Find it at your favorite photo retailer!Learn more hereNew Solutions from Videoguys:The SanDisk Professional G-RAID PROJECT 2 is a powerhouse 2-bay storage system built for serious creators. Pre-configured in RAID 0 and featuring Thunderbolt™ 3 connectivity, it delivers the speed and capacity you need for demanding 4K, 8K, and VR video workflows—up to a massive 52TB. With a PRO-BLADE™ SSD Mag slot for ultra-fast offloads and edits, it's the perfect solution for high-performance production environments. Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to for free tech advice and to learn more!Browse herePodcast Rewind:June 2025 - Ep. 88…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Advertise your products or services to 202,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter — contact us at mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Alan Taylor. Alan is an Emmy-winning Director who has worked on shows including “The Sopranos,” “Six Feet Under,” “Sex in the City,” “The West Wing,” “Mad Men,” “Deadwood,” “Game of Thrones” and “House of the Dragon”. He’s also directed films such as The Many Saints of Newark, Thor: The Dark World, and Terminator: Genisys. In our chat, he shares about his early days, cinematic inspirations, experiences on epic shows such as “The Sopranos,” working with James Gandolfini — plus many insights into his creative process and workflow.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Commercial shoots require speed and precision, which is why Dubai-based freelance editor Nikolay Ivanov depends on AJA’s Io 4K Plus for fast, reliable I/O for on set editorial. Find out how he uses the technology alongside other creative tools to collaborate with stakeholders and deliver cuts while the camera is still rolling. Read the Story HereVimeo L.A. Event:Tuesday, June 24 | VidiotsA night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary!Join the Vimeo curation team as they screen recent Staff Picked films with live, unscripted commentary from some of the best creators on Vimeo.6:30pm Doors7:30-9pm Films + commentary 9-11pm Reception - complimentary drinks + bites!RSVP required. Screening and reception are free to attend!Register hereThunderbolt 5 Speed. Ultra Portable Storage.The OWC Envoy Pro Ultra the first portable SSD to harness the power of Thunderbolt 5, delivering real-world speeds over 6000MB/s in a rugged, pocket-sized design. With up to 4TB of capacity and next-gen bandwidth, it’s built for high-res video, VFX, and demanding post-production workflows—anytime, anywhere. Lightweight, bus-powered, and blazing fast, it redefines what portable storage can do.Explore it hereNew Solutions from Videoguys:Now through June 30, 2025, get more value when you buy an Atomos monitor-recorder from Videoguys.com! Purchase a Ninja or Ninja Ultra and receive a FREE qualified 240GB SSD. Upgrade to a Shogun Classic, Shogun Ultra, or Sumo 19SE and get a FREE qualified 480GB SSD. To claim your free drive, simply buy from Videoguys.com and complete the mail-in rebate directly through Atomos.With five big reasons to go Atomos—record direct from the sensor, enable a direct-to-edit workflow, capture longer sessions, access pro monitoring tools, and share your shoot—this is the perfect time to upgrade. Act fast, this offer ends June 30, 2025! Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to find the right Atomos monitor-recorder for your workflow.Browse hereCheck out the ZEISS Otus ML:Now on sale, the Otus ML 1.4/50mm photography lens from ZEISS is the new generation of high-quality optics for your photographic art. Find it at your favorite photo retailer! Explore it herePodcast Rewind:June 2025 - Ep. 87…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Promote your products or services to over 200,000 filmmakers, TV production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter… contact us at mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Jessica Lee Gagné. Jessica is the cinematographer of the award-winning series, “Severance”. In our chat, she shares about her upbringing, early inspirations, and path to becoming a Director of Photography. She also sheds light on her longtime collaboration with Ben Stiller on both “Escape at Dannemora” and “Severance”. In addition, she talks about the tools and techniques used to capture this groundbreaking series — and offers invaluable advice for filmmakers today.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Commercial shoots require speed and precision, which is why Dubai-based freelance editor Nikolay Ivanov depends on AJA’s Io 4K Plus for fast, reliable I/O for on set editorial. Find out how he uses the technology alongside other creative tools to collaborate with stakeholders and deliver cuts while the camera is still rolling. Read the Story HereVimeo L.A. Event:Tuesday, June 24 | Vidiots A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary!Join the Vimeo curation team as they screen recent Staff Picked films with live, unscripted commentary from some of the best creators on Vimeo.6:30pm Doors7:30-9pm Films + commentary 9-11pm Reception - complimentary drinks + bites!RSVP required. Screening and reception are free to attend!Register hereThunderbolt 5 Speed. Ultra Portable Storage.The OWC Envoy Pro Ultra the first portable SSD to harness the power of Thunderbolt 5, delivering real-world speeds over 6000MB/s in a rugged, pocket-sized design. With up to 4TB of capacity and next-gen bandwidth, it’s built for high-res video, VFX, and demanding post-production workflows—anytime, anywhere. Lightweight, bus-powered, and blazing fast, it redefines what portable storage can do.Explore it hereNew Solutions from Videoguys:Now through June 30, 2025, get more value when you buy an Atomos monitor-recorder from Videoguys.com! Purchase a Ninja or Ninja Ultra and receive a FREE qualified 240GB SSD. Upgrade to a Shogun Classic, Shogun Ultra, or Sumo 19SE and get a FREE qualified 480GB SSD. To claim your free drive, simply buy from Videoguys.com and complete the mail-in rebate directly through Atomos.With five big reasons to go Atomos—record direct from the sensor, enable a direct-to-edit workflow, capture longer sessions, access pro monitoring tools, and share your shoot—this is the perfect time to upgrade. Act fast, this offer ends June 30, 2025! Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to find the right Atomos monitor-recorder for your workflow. Browse hereOWC Announces Powerful New Updates to Jellyfish, Network-Attached Storage (NAS) SolutionsOther World Computing (OWC®), a trusted leader in high-performance storage, memory, connectivity, software, and accessories that empower creative and business professionals to maximize performance, enhance reliability, and streamline workflows, today announced the latest software release for its acclaimed OWC Jellyfish network-attached storage (NAS) solution. The new updates, designed specifically for video production teams, introduce a redesigned Jellyfish Manager and an all-new Jellyfish Media Manager, delivering smarter media workflows, deeper integrations, and unprecedented visibility into team activity and storage performance.Read more hereCheck out the ZEISS Otus ML:Now on sale, the Otus ML 1.4/50mm photography lens from ZEISS is the new generation of high-quality optics for your photographic art. Find it at your favorite photo retailer! Explore it herePodcast Rewind:June 2025 - Ep. 86…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Promote your products or services to 198K filmmakers, TV & broadcast production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter… email us at mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Stefani Robinson. Stefani is a 6x Emmy-nominated Writer/Producer, who has worked on shows including “Atlanta,” “Fargo,” “What We Do in the Shadows” and “Adults”. In our chat, she shares her upbringing, early inspirations, pathway into television, and experiences working on a variety of hit shows. She also provides a healthy dose of inspiration and advice for up-and-coming creators. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Commercial shoots require speed and precision, which is why Dubai-based freelance editor Nikolay Ivanov depends on AJA’s Io 4K Plus for fast, reliable I/O for on set editorial. Find out how he uses the technology alongside other creative tools to collaborate with stakeholders and deliver cuts while the camera is still rolling. Read the Story HereVimeo L.A. Event:A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary!Join the Vimeo curation team as they screen recent Staff Picked films with live, unscripted commentary from some of the best creators on Vimeo.6:30pm Doors7:30-9pm Films + commentary 9-11pm Reception - complimentary drinks + bites!RSVP required.Screening + reception are free to attend! Register hereThunderbolt 5 Speed. Ultra Portable Storage.The OWC Envoy Pro Ultra the first portable SSD to harness the power of Thunderbolt 5, delivering real-world speeds over 6000MB/s in a rugged, pocket-sized design. With up to 4TB of capacity and next-gen bandwidth, it’s built for high-res video, VFX, and demanding post-production workflows—anytime, anywhere. Lightweight, bus-powered, and blazing fast, it redefines what portable storage can do.Explore it hereNew Solutions from Videoguys:Now through June 30, 2025, get more value when you buy an Atomos monitor-recorder from Videoguys.com! Purchase a Ninja or Ninja Ultra and receive a FREE qualified 240GB SSD. Upgrade to a Shogun Classic, Shogun Ultra, or Sumo 19SE and get a FREE qualified 480GB SSD. To claim your free drive, simply buy from Videoguys.com and complete the mail-in rebate directly through Atomos.With five big reasons to go Atomos—record direct from the sensor, enable a direct-to-edit workflow, capture longer sessions, access pro monitoring tools, and share your shoot—this is the perfect time to upgrade. Act fast, this offer ends June 30, 2025! Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to find the right Atomos monitor-recorder for your workflow. Browse hereCheck out the ZEISS Otus ML:Now on sale, the Otus ML 1.4/50mm photography lens from ZEISS is the new generation of high-quality optics for your photographic art. Find it at your favorite photo retailer! Explore it hereFeatured Film Festival: The 14th Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF) celebrates its eighth consecutive year on MovieMaker Magazine’s prestigious “50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee” list for 2025. Set in beautiful Palma de Mallorca, EMIFF stands out for its vibrant international community and commitment to bridging cultures through film. This year, the festival proudly presents its unique 4th annual Cinematography Focus, dedicated to honoring the art and craft of cinematography with special screenings, panels, and masterclasses. With its filmmaker-friendly atmosphere, stunning Mediterranean backdrop, and dedication to innovation and diversity, EMIFF is a must-enter festival for storytellers seeking inspiration, connection, and industry recognition. Learn more hereLast Submission Deadlines: July 6th and August 6th, 2025.Festival Dates: October 21st - 29th, 2025.Podcast Rewind:June 2025 - Ep. 85…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Promote your products or services to 190K filmmakers, broadcast production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter… email us at mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Toby Oliver, ACS. Toby is an award-winning cinematographer of projects including Get Out, Insidious: The Last Key, M3GAN 2.0, “Apple Cider Vinegar” and “Dead to Me.” In our chat, he shares about his early days, education, and his collaboration with Jordan Peele on Get Out. He also dives deep into his latest TV series — and offers many insights for up-and-coming filmmakers today. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Commercial shoots require speed and precision, which is why Dubai-based freelance editor Nikolay Ivanov depends on AJA’s Io 4K Plus for fast, reliable I/O for on set editorial. Find out how he uses the technology alongside other creative tools to collaborate with stakeholders and deliver cuts while the camera is still rolling. Read the Story HereThunderbolt 5 Speed. Ultra Portable Storage.The OWC Envoy Pro Ultra the first portable SSD to harness the power of Thunderbolt 5, delivering real-world speeds over 6000MB/s in a rugged, pocket-sized design. With up to 4TB of capacity and next-gen bandwidth, it’s built for high-res video, VFX, and demanding post-production workflows—anytime, anywhere. Lightweight, bus-powered, and blazing fast, it redefines what portable storage can do.Explore it hereScreamfest Horror Film Festival: The 25th annual Screamfest Horror Film Festival call for entries deadlines are approaching! Screenplay submission deadline is June 15th. Winning screenplay receives $1,000 cash prize, software and more. Deadlines for new genre feature films and shorts are regular 7/15, final 8/1 and extended final 8/15. For more information visit screamfestla.com New Solutions from Videoguys:Now through June 30, 2025, get more value when you buy an Atomos monitor-recorder from Videoguys.com! Purchase a Ninja or Ninja Ultra and receive a FREE qualified 240GB SSD. Upgrade to a Shogun Classic, Shogun Ultra, or Sumo 19SE and get a FREE qualified 480GB SSD. To claim your free drive, simply buy from Videoguys.com and complete the mail-in rebate directly through Atomos.With five big reasons to go Atomos—record direct from the sensor, enable a direct-to-edit workflow, capture longer sessions, access pro monitoring tools, and share your shoot—this is the perfect time to upgrade. Act fast, this offer ends June 30, 2025! Call Videoguys at 800-323-2325 to find the right Atomos monitor-recorder for your workflow. Browse hereFeatured Book Release:The Director’s Guide to Everything is the ultimate road map for mastering the craft. More than just a guide — it’s a masterclass in how to turn your vision into reality. The Director’s Guide delivers a comprehensive, no-nonsense education in the art and science of directing — with practical knowledge drawn from decades of experience in the trenches of motion picture production. www.adakinpress.comPre-orders only for now. Shipping July 1st.One-Lens 360 Plates. Seamless by Design.IgelkottPlates.com offers the only plug-and-play driving and environment plates made specifically for virtual production. No stitching, no setup fuss—just clean, calibrated material designed to drop into any pipeline with zero surprises. Built for real-time workflows and in-camera results.Learn more hereCheck out the ZEISS Otus ML:Now on sale, the Otus ML 1.4/50mm photography lens from ZEISS is the new generation of high-quality optics for your photographic art. Find it at your favorite photo retailer! Explore it herePodcast Rewind:June 2025 - Ep. 84…“The Making Of” is created by Michael Valinsky.Promote your products or services to 190K filmmakers, broadcast production pros, and content creators reading this newsletter… email us at mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe