The Making Of

In this episode of The Making Of, we welcome legendary colorist and Company 3 founder/CEO Stefan Sonnenfeld. Stefan shares his journey into color grading, the evolution of his career, and the story behind building one of the industry's most respected post-production companies. He also discusses his work on Michael, the global blockbuster about Michael Jackson that has grossed nearly $1 billion worldwide, and how he helped shape the film’s visual identity through color. During our chat, Stefan offers advice for the next generation of creatives on craftsmanship, collaboration, and building a lasting career in film.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Bridging ST 2110 with the Broader IP WorldAs IP adoption accelerates, establishing a seamless flow for IP media across a production is fundamental. Need to move compressed IP production media onto an ST 2110 network or deliver ST 2110 media to platforms that only accept compressed media? Discover how AJA BRIDGE LIVE makes both easy.Thunderbolt 5 Speed. DIY RAID Without Limits.The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is a next-gen Thunderbolt 5 NVMe enclosure built for serious post workflows. Delivering up to 6622MB/s, it lets you use your own drives to create a high-performance RAID with up to 32TB—and beyond via daisy chaining. Compact, powerful, and scalable for 8K+ and VFX workflows. Available for pre-order now, shipping in late June. Browse hereZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows. Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors.Read more hereSanDisk Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSDPower your workflow with the SanDisk Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSD, available in 2TB and 4TB capacities. Featuring speeds up to 3800 MB/s read and 3700 MB/s write, it’s built for fast transfers and editing. The rugged, IP65-rated design is ready for work anywhere. Learn more at Videoguys or call 800-323-2325 for free tech advice. View herePodcast Rewind:June 2026 - Ep. 138.Advertise with The Making Of:Reach 270,000+ film industry professionals and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore a partnership, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Jamie Ramsay BSC, SASC, whose latest work can be seen in the WWII thriller Pressure, now playing in theaters. Jamie's credits include Goodrich, All of Us Strangers, District 9, Living, and See How They Run. In our conversation, Jamie reflects on his early years and filmmaking journey before taking us behind the scenes of Pressure. We explore the film's visual language, his creative and technical approach, and the tools used to bring the story to life. Jamie also shares lessons learned throughout his career and offers advice for the next generation of storytellers.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Bridging ST 2110 with the Broader IP WorldAs IP adoption accelerates, establishing a seamless flow for IP media across a production is fundamental. Need to move compressed IP production media onto an ST 2110 network or deliver ST 2110 media to platforms that only accept compressed media? Discover how AJA BRIDGE LIVE makes both easy.ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology PlatformZEISS unveils the Horizon Anamorphic series, a new lineup of full-frame 2x anamorphic cinema lenses designed to deliver a distinctive cinematic look along with a new lens technology platform that answers the need for speed and precision demanded by contemporary production workflows. Spanning 35mm to 200mm across seven focal lengths, Horizon lenses combine their anamorphic look—incorporating a pronounced oval bokeh and stretched sense of spatial depth—with a lightweight, fully integrated motorized system that eliminates the need for external focus or iris motors.Read more hereThunderbolt 5 Speed. DIY RAID Without Limits.The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is a next-gen Thunderbolt 5 NVMe enclosure built for serious post workflows. Delivering up to 6622MB/s, it lets you use your own drives to create a high-performance RAID with up to 32TB—and beyond via daisy chaining. Compact, powerful, and scalable for 8K+ and VFX workflows. Available for pre-order now, shipping in late June. Browse hereScreamfest — Call to All Storytellers!Whether you craft terrifying scripts or visioned features and shorts, Screamfest is your home. Our screenplay competition deadline is June 15th—bring your stories to life here. Filmmakers, our extended final deadline is August 15th, 2026. Share your unique perspective and join our vibrant horror community. Submit your film today!SanDisk Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSDPower your workflow with the SanDisk Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSD, available in 2TB and 4TB capacities. Featuring speeds up to 3800 MB/s read and 3700 MB/s write, it’s built for fast transfers and editing. The rugged, IP65-rated design is ready for work anywhere. Learn more at Videoguys or call 800-323-2325 for free tech advice. View here Podcast Rewind:June 2026 - Ep. 136.Advertise in The Making Of:Promote your products or services to 270K film industry pros and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore a partnership, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Pepe Avila del Pino. Pepe has shot projects including Ozark, House of the Dragon, and The Deuce, along with films such as The Kindergarten Teacher and Worth. In our conversation, we discuss the series Love Story, which explores the relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, two of the most iconic and heavily photographed public figures of the 1990s. We talk about building the visual language of the series, recreating the look and energy of New York City during that era, and other insights into the making of Love Story.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:AJA solves IP, sync gen hurdles at NABFrom remote production to monitoring, IP introduces new challenges across productions. Get ahead of them with AJA’s latest ST 2110 solutions, including BRIDGE LIVE IP and an upcoming IP25-R firmware update. The company also unveiled a new OG-GEN10 solution bringing its GEN10 Mini-Converter functionality to an openGear format. Find out more.You’re invited…ZEISS Launch Event | Tuesday, June 2 | L.A.Join us as we move beyond tradition and launch the next major advancement in lens technology…ZEISS enters a new chapter in lens technology that will be revealed on Tuesday, June 2 at the ZEISS Cinema Showroom in Sherman Oaks, CA. Be one of the first to experience this new technology first hand! Register hereJune 2, 6:00-9:00 PM | 15260 Ventura Boulevard #820, Los Angeles, CA 91403Thunderbolt 5 Speed. DIY RAID Without Limits.The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is a next-gen Thunderbolt 5 NVMe enclosure built for serious post workflows. Delivering up to 6622MB/s, it lets you use your own drives to create a high-performance RAID with up to 32TB—and beyond via daisy chaining. Compact, powerful, and scalable for 8K+ and VFX workflows. Available for pre-order now, shipping in late June. Browse hereOur Conversation with Markiplier on YouTube: Women In Media Altitude AwardsJune 7th, 11:00am | Burbank, CAThe 5th Annual Women In Media Altitude Awards celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women and gender non-conforming cinematographers, gaffers, and camera operators. Join us for a special champagne toast at 10:30 AM honoring this year’s participants! Tickets hereMeet the YoloCam S7The YoloCam S7 paired with the included YoloLiv MFT 18mm F1.4 Lens gives creators a complete professional video solution right out of the box — all for just $799. Featuring stunning 4K60FPS video, real-time autofocus, interchangeable lenses, simultaneous HDMI and USB-C output, and seamless integration with YoloBox and YoloLiv workflows, the YoloCam S7 delivers incredible flexibility for livestreaming, content creation, and video production. Whether you’re using it as a high-end webcam or a full live production camera, this bundle gives you everything you need to get started. Learn more today by contacting Videoguys at 800-323-2325. Visit herePodcast Rewind:May 2026 - Ep. 134.Advertise in The Making Of:Promote your products or services to 260K film industry pros and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore a partnership, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Armando Salas, ASC. Armando has shot acclaimed projects including Ozark, Griselda, Cocaine Cowboys, The Terminal List, Mr. Mercedes, Lanterns, and Normal. In our conversation, he shares his upbringing, path into cinematography, experiences working across various projects, and all about the making of Normal. He also offers invaluable advice for the next generation of cinematographers and filmmakers today.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:AJA solves IP, sync gen hurdles at NABFrom remote production to monitoring, IP introduces new challenges across productions. Get ahead of them with AJA’s latest ST 2110 solutions, including BRIDGE LIVE IP and an upcoming IP25-R firmware update. The company also unveiled a new OG-GEN10 solution bringing its GEN10 Mini-Converter functionality to an openGear format. Find out more.Upcoming Event: ATX TV Festival | May 28–31TV Camp for Grown Ups returns with ATX TV Festival: Season 15 happening in downtown Austin on May 28–31 — and it is packed full of TV goodness.This year’s lineup includes Friday Night Lights 20 Year Reunion, a celebration with Phil Rosenthal & Ray Romano for Everybody (Still) Loves Raymond‘s 30th anniversary, HBO’s House of the Dragon returns for S3, Apple TV brings us the enigmatic Tatiana Maslany, Jake Johnson & Murray Bartlett for Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed, and the return of Steve Zahn and Rick Gomez. British TV invasion with Jane Austin in Austin courtesy of Britbox, Universal TV celebrates NBC’s 100th Anniversary with The Paper, Funny AF and Procedurals, and the Mark Duplass led inaugural Indie TV Pilot Competition. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a TV industry insider, there’s a seat at the campfire for you. Badges on sale now — don’t miss the weekend where TV people come to celebrate the medium they love most. 20% off Camp, GP, TV Pass with code: atxtvpartnerMAKE — expires 5/20/26. Visit here Thunderbolt 5 Speed. DIY RAID Without Limits.The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is a next-gen Thunderbolt 5 NVMe enclosure built for serious post workflows. Delivering up to 6622MB/s, it lets you use your own drives to create a high-performance RAID with up to 32TB—and beyond via daisy chaining. Compact, powerful, and scalable for 8K+ and VFX workflows. Available for pre-order now, shipping in late June. Browse hereZEISS CinCraft LensCore: Cinema Lens Looks for CompositingZEISS announces the launch of CinCraft LensCore, a novel solution for creating physically based cinematic lens looks for visual effects and animation. Built on the Virtual Lens Technology introduced at FMX in 2025, this new Nuke plugin brings decades of ZEISS optical expertise into post-production, bridging the gap between on-set lens choices and the VFX pipeline. Visit hereMeet the Elgato Prompter XLThe Elgato Prompter XL is an all-in-one studio teleprompter designed for larger, more professional setups, featuring a 15.6” removable display and an extended reading range of up to 15 feet so talent can stay on script even at a distance. With ultra-wide compatibility, simple USB 3.2 connectivity, and included software, it easily integrates into multi-camera productions, live shows, and content creation workflows—while also doubling as a secondary monitor between shoots. Available at Videoguys.com, call us at 800-323-2325 for more information. Browse herePodcast Rewind:May 2026 - Ep. 132.Advertise in The Making Of:Promote your products or services to 250,000 film and TV industry pros reading this newsletter each week. To explore a partnership, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome director Paris Barclay and editor Scott D. Hanson. Paris is an Emmy Award–winning director whose work spans series such as The West Wing, Sons of Anarchy, In Treatment, and Monster, and Scott is an Emmy-nominated editor with projects including Dolemite is My Name, McMillions, and Born to Bowl. In our conversation, they share their journeys into the industry, how they developed their craft, and dive into the making of the documentary Billy Preston: That’s the Way God Planned It. They also reflect on key moments from their careers and share thoughtful insights for the next generation of filmmakers.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:MeyerPro bridges long-distance signal transport with AJAGo behind-the-scenes of MeyerPro’s Microsoft Ignite live event production with Broadcast Engineer Cole Miller. Explore how he used AJA conversion, frame sync, and recording technology to facilitate seamless production on- and off-site, ensuring smooth signal transmission, support for multiple formats, and high-quality event recordings. Read the full interview.Upcoming Event: Eurocine | May 8-9 | BudapestThis celebration of the moving image unites industry pros from cinematography to VFX. Free to attend — including expos, seminars, workshops, & networking. Visit www.euro-cine.com for the full program.Turn Your Spare NVMe into a Blazing-Fast Production DriveAlready have NVMe SSDs from a recent upgrade? Put them back to work with the OWC Express 1M2 80G enclosure. Simply install your existing M.2 drive and unlock next-gen performance—over 6000MB/s with USB4 and Thunderbolt 5 compatibility. It’s a smart, cost-effective way for editors and creators to maximize the storage they already own.Learn more hereZEISS Aatma – Contemporary Full Frame Primes with a Soulful Legacy LookZEISS introduces the new Aatma, set of nine high-end full frame T1.5 cinema primes (18mm, 25mm, 35mm, 40mm, 50mm, 65mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm) designed to marry the benefits of modern optical design with the nostalgic image characteristics that are popular today. Drawing inspiration from some of the most beloved ZEISS lenses of the 20th century, Aatma combines an emotion-driven look with the mechanical reliability, data integration, and workflow compatibility that’s expected for current production. Visit hereMeet the Elgato Prompter XLThe Elgato Prompter XL is an all-in-one studio teleprompter designed for larger, more professional setups, featuring a 15.6” removable display and an extended reading range of up to 15 feet so talent can stay on script even at a distance. With ultra-wide compatibility, simple USB 3.2 connectivity, and included software, it easily integrates into multi-camera productions, live shows, and content creation workflows—while also doubling as a secondary monitor between shoots. Available at Videoguys.com, call us at 800-323-2325 for more information.Take a look herePodcast Rewind:April 2026 - Ep. 130.Partner with The Making Of:Advertise in The Making Of and reach 250,000 film and TV industry pros and content creators each week. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Making Of, we’re joined by Vanessa Bendetti, Kodak’s VP and Head of Motion Picture. She shares insights into her role at the iconic company, where she sits at the intersection of technology and storytelling, and we explore the continued resurgence of analog acquisition. We also discuss standout recent productions choosing to shoot on film, and film’s place in exhibition and the theatrical experience.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:MeyerPro bridges long-distance signal transport with AJAGo behind-the-scenes of MeyerPro’s Microsoft Ignite live event production with Broadcast Engineer Cole Miller. Explore how he used AJA conversion, frame sync, and recording technology to facilitate seamless production on- and off-site, ensuring smooth signal transmission, support for multiple formats, and high-quality event recordings. Read the full interview.Kodak expands motion picture portfolio with KODAK VERITA 200D Color Negative FilmEastman Kodak Company today announced the availability of VERITA 200D 5206/7206, a new color negative motion picture film stock, which will be offered in 65mm, 35mm, and 16mm formats.Developed in close collaboration with writer, director and producer Sam Levinson and cinematographer Marcell Rév, HCA, ASC, VERITA 200D was commercialized in motion picture format to achieve a distinct visual aesthetic for the third season of HBO’s original drama series Euphoria. The stock has also been selectively trade‑tested by cinematographers worldwide over several years.Read more hereSee What’s Next for Film & Video Production at NAB 2026OWC is in North Hall, Booth #N2373 with innovations built for the way you work — Thunderbolt 5 solutions, DIT workflow tools, Jellyfish shared storage, Innergize software, and a brand-new product launching exclusively at the show. Join us April 19–22 in Vegas. Learn more hereWhy Video Editors and Filmmakers Attend Post|Production World at NAB ShowPost|Production World is a leading post-production training conference at NAB Show Las Vegas. With 200+ sessions across seven tracks, creative professionals explore AI workflows, video editing, motion graphics, color grading, and emerging production technologies through expert-led sessions and hands-on workshops. Visit hereAJA: A Must-See at NAB 2026 for Production ProsAJA is heading to NAB 2026 with exciting new and field-tested products and updates that production pros won’t want to miss out on. Find out why a stop by their booth in the North Hall (N1927) is a must. Check out AJA’s What’s New PageZEISS Aatma – Contemporary Full Frame Primes with a Soulful Legacy LookZEISS introduces the new Aatma, set of nine high-end full frame T1.5 cinema primes (18mm, 25mm, 35mm, 40mm, 50mm, 65mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm) designed to marry the benefits of modern optical design with the nostalgic image characteristics that are popular today. Drawing inspiration from some of the most beloved ZEISS lenses of the 20th century, Aatma combines an emotion-driven look with the mechanical reliability, data integration, and workflow compatibility that’s expected for current production. Visit hereA New Solution from Videoguys:Power your most demanding creative workflows with the G-RAID PROJECT 2, a high-performance 2-bay storage system built to handle massive 4K, 8K, and VR video projects with ease. Featuring 7200RPM Ultrastar enterprise-class hard drives, Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, and RAID 0 pre-configured for maximum speed and efficiency, it delivers fast data transfers up to 520MB/s to keep your editing and archiving workflows moving without interruption. If you’re ready to expand your storage and streamline your production workflow, learn more about the G-RAID PROJECT 2 and other professional media solutions at Videoguys. Explore herePodcast Rewind:March 2026 - Ep. 128.Partner with The Making Of:Advertise in “The Making Of” and reach 250,000 film and TV industry pros each week. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Chris Gore, founder and publisher of Film Threat. Chris shares the story behind building the defining indie film publication, plus his take on the state of independent cinema today. He also provides insights for up-and-coming filmmakers, breaks down many of his personal favorite movies, and much more.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:MeyerPro bridges long-distance signal transport with AJAGo behind-the-scenes of MeyerPro’s Microsoft Ignite live event production with Broadcast Engineer Cole Miller. Explore how he used AJA conversion, frame sync, and recording technology to facilitate seamless production on- and off-site, ensuring smooth signal transmission, support for multiple formats, and high-quality event recordings. Read the full interview.MLB Opening Day 2026YES Network Reimagines Stamford Studio With New LED Wall, Graphics Package, Software-Based WorkflowAs the New York Yankees open another highly anticipated season, YES Network is rolling out a significant upgrade to its Stamford, CT–based studio. Designed not just to modernize the look of its pre/postgame coverage, the tech upgrades will fundamentally enhance how the content is produced.Read more hereSee What’s Next for Film & Video Production at NAB 2026OWC is in North Hall, Booth #N2373 with innovations built for the way you work — Thunderbolt 5 solutions, DIT workflow tools, Jellyfish shared storage, Innergize software, and a brand-new product launching exclusively at the show. Join us April 19–22 in Vegas. Learn more hereWhy Video Editors and Filmmakers Attend Post|Production World at NAB ShowPost|Production World is a leading post-production training conference at NAB Show Las Vegas. With 200+ sessions across seven tracks, creative professionals explore AI workflows, video editing, motion graphics, color grading, and emerging production technologies through expert-led sessions and hands-on workshops. Visit hereAJA: A Must-See at NAB 2026 for Production ProsAJA is heading to NAB 2026 with exciting new and field-tested products and updates that production pros won’t want to miss out on. Find out why a stop by their booth in the North Hall (N1927) is a must. Check out AJA’s What’s New Page on Thursday, April 9.Enter the Altitude Awards 2026:The Altitude Awards celebrate exemplary women and gender non-conforming cinematographers, gaffers, & camera operators. Through this recognition, the awards not only honor outstanding craft and artistic excellence, but also spotlight established and emerging talent. Moreover, we’re proud to have seen the careers of past finalists accelerate after their wins — they have gained increased visibility, new professional opportunities, and well-deserved recognition across the field. Learn more here ZEISS Aatma – Contemporary Full Frame Primes with a Soulful Legacy LookZEISS introduces the new Aatma, set of nine high-end full frame T1.5 cinema primes (18mm, 25mm, 35mm, 40mm, 50mm, 65mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm) designed to marry the benefits of modern optical design with the nostalgic image characteristics that are popular today. Drawing inspiration from some of the most beloved ZEISS lenses of the 20th century, Aatma combines an emotion-driven look with the mechanical reliability, data integration, and workflow compatibility that’s expected for current production. Visit hereA New Solution from Videoguys:Power your most demanding creative workflows with the G-RAID PROJECT 2, a high-performance 2-bay storage system built to handle massive 4K, 8K, and VR video projects with ease. Featuring 7200RPM Ultrastar enterprise-class hard drives, Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, and RAID 0 pre-configured for maximum speed and efficiency, it delivers fast data transfers up to 520MB/s to keep your editing and archiving workflows moving without interruption. If you’re ready to expand your storage and streamline your production workflow, learn more about the G-RAID PROJECT 2 and other professional media solutions at Videoguys. Explore herePodcast Rewind:March 2026 - Ep. 126.Partner with The Making Of:Advertise your products or services in The Making Of newsletter and reach 250K film, TV and video industry each week. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Mark Fischbach, aka Markiplier — writer, director, editor, and star of Iron Lung. In our conversation, Mark shares his origin story and all about the making of his debut feature film, which has grossed $50 million at the box office. He also dives into the collaboration with his cinematographer and team, his visual approach, and detailed insights into his production and post workflows.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Butcher Bird Studios solves common video routing and I/O challenges with AJAStep inside Butcher Bird Studios’ hybrid production environment with Technical Director Brian Druckman and Executive Producer MeeRa Kim. They explain how KUMO SDI routers and Io 4K Plus help their team deliver flexible routing, low-latency monitoring, and streamlined I/O inside and outside the studio. Read the full interview.Why Video Editors and Filmmakers Attend Post|Production World at NAB ShowPost|Production World Las Vegas is a leading post-production training conference at NAB Show Las Vegas. With 200+ sessions across seven tracks, creative professionals explore AI workflows, video editing, motion graphics, color grading, and emerging production technologies through expert-led sessions and hands-on workshops. Explore hereTurn Your Spare NVMe into a Blazing-Fast Production DriveAlready have NVMe SSDs from a recent upgrade? Put them back to work with the OWC Express 1M2 80G enclosure. Simply install your existing M.2 drive and unlock next-gen performance—over 6000MB/s with USB4 and Thunderbolt 5 compatibility. It’s a smart, cost-effective way for editors and creators to maximize the storage they already own.Learn more hereAJA: A Must-See at NAB 2026 for Production ProsAJA is heading to NAB 2026 with exciting new and field-tested products and updates that production pros won’t want to miss out on. Find out why a stop by their booth in the North Hall (N1927) is a must. Check out AJA’s What’s New Page on Thursday, April 9.ZEISS Aatma – Contemporary Full Frame Primes with a Soulful Legacy LookZEISS introduces the new Aatma, set of nine high-end full frame T1.5 cinema primes (18mm, 25mm, 35mm, 40mm, 50mm, 65mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm) designed to marry the benefits of modern optical design with the nostalgic image characteristics that are popular today. Drawing inspiration from some of the most beloved ZEISS lenses of the 20th century, Aatma combines an emotion-driven look with the mechanical reliability, data integration, and workflow compatibility that’s expected for current production. Visit hereA New Solution from Videoguys:Power your most demanding creative workflows with the G-RAID PROJECT 2, a high-performance 2-bay storage system built to handle massive 4K, 8K, and VR video projects with ease. Featuring 7200RPM Ultrastar enterprise-class hard drives, Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, and RAID 0 pre-configured for maximum speed and efficiency, it delivers fast data transfers up to 520MB/s to keep your editing and archiving workflows moving without interruption. If you’re ready to expand your storage and streamline your production workflow, learn more about the G-RAID PROJECT 2 and other professional media solutions at Videoguys. Learn more herePodcast Rewind:March 2026 - Ep. 124.Advertise in The Making Of:Promote your products or solutions in The Making Of and reach 255,000 film and TV industry each week. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome legendary sound mixer and CAS President Peter Kurland, CAS. Peter is a BAFTA-winning, Grammy-winning, 4x Oscar-nominated, and 3x CAS Award-winning Sound Mixer who’s worked on films such as Blood Simple, Hoosiers, Raising Arizona, Barton Fink, Fargo, Men in Black, The Big Lebowski, O Brother Where Are Thou, The Man Who Wasn’t There, Walk The Line, No Country for Old Men, A Serious Man, True Grit, Inside Llewan Davis, and The Tragedy of Macbeth. In our conversation, Peter shares his origin story, about his decades-long collaboration with the Coen Brothers, and stories from capturing sound on set. He also offers insights and advice for the next generation of artists and storytellers today. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:Butcher Bird Studios solves common video routing and I/O challenges with AJAStep inside Butcher Bird Studios’ hybrid production environment with Technical Director Brian Druckman and Executive Producer MeeRa Kim. They explain how KUMO SDI routers and Io 4K Plus help their team deliver flexible routing, low-latency monitoring, and streamlined I/O inside and outside the studio. Read the full interview.Kodak Celebrates Kristen Stewart, Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Joachim Trier and Patricia Keighley at the 8th Annual Kodak Film AwardsChristopher Nolan Presents Inaugural Keighley Award at ASC Clubhouse CeremonyOn March 2, Kodak hosted the 8th Annual Kodak Film Awards at the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Clubhouse in Hollywood, honoring filmmakers and artists whose work continues to advance cinematic storytelling on film. 2026 Honorees included: Debut Feature Award: Kristen Stewart (presented by Corey C. Waters, Director of Photography), Lumière Award: Autumn Durald Arkapaw (presented by Vanessa Bendetti, VP and Head of Motion Picture, Kodak), Auteur Award: Joachim Trier (presented by Jason Reitman, Director), Keighley Award: Patricia Keighley of IMAX (presented by Christopher Nolan, Director, Producer and Screenwriter), Music & Commercial Film Director Award: Salomon Ligthelm (presented by Ali Brown, PRETTYBIRD President/Executive Producer), Television Series of the Year: Fallout (presented by Vanessa Bendetti, VP and Head of Motion Picture, Kodak). Read more hereLos Angeles Event: ZEISS Aatma Lenses - A Conversation with Pascale Marin, AFCTuesday, March 10th | Los AngelesJoin ZEISS Cinema at the Showroom for an in-depth discussion and demo of the new ZEISS Aatma cinema lenses. Director Helene de Roux and cinematographer Pascale Marin, AFC will be on hand to discuss their experience using the lenses to craft the short film Welcoming Grace. Join us from 6pm-9pm on March 10th to be one of the first to experience this unique lens family from ZEISS!RSVP for free hereAttendees will receive free parking validation.Now with Massive 8TB Capacity—Thunderbolt 5 SpeedThe OWC Envoy Pro Ultra now comes in a new 8TB capacity, pairing enormous space with next‑generation Thunderbolt 5 performance. With real‑world speeds over 6000 MB/s and a rugged, bus‑powered design, it’s perfect for 4K/8K workflows, on‑location shoots, and fast media offloads. High‑speed, high‑capacity, and ready for serious creative work. Browse hereA New Solution from Atomos:The Atomos Shogun AV-19 Rack-Mounted 4K HDR Monitor/Recorder/Switcher is your all-in-one solution for professional live production, combining a stunning 19” 4K HDR DCI-P3 display with quad-channel switching, real-time ISO recording of up to four camera feeds plus program out, and support for 10-bit Apple ProRes, ProRes RAW, and Avid DNx recording to CFexpress or USB-C media. Perfect for studios, video village, and broadcast environments, it delivers the monitoring accuracy and workflow efficiency your production demands. The Atomos Shogun AV-19 is available for pre-order now for $2,099.00. Learn more at Videoguys.com or call our production experts at 800-323-2325 today!Advertise in The Making Of:Feature your products or solutions in The Making Of and reach over 250,000 film and TV industry each week.To explore a partnership, please email mvalinsky@me.comPodcast Rewind:Feb. 2026 - Ep. 122. Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Adolpho Veloso, ABC, AIP. Adolpho is the Oscar-nominated cinematographer of Train Dreams, which has been nominated for 4 Academy Awards. In our chat, he shares his origin story, how he learned his craft, and all about the making of this period drama. Adolpho also provides insights into both the creative and technical aspects of his cinematography, as well as recommendations for younger filmmakers today. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA:From cinema to proAV: gaining a competitive edge with streaming knowledgeThe worlds of cinema production and proAV are converging. Cinema-grade equipment is making its way into more stadiums, houses of worship, and concert venues. Because of this, professionals that understand the tools and disciplines powering both will stand out. Get ahead of the curve with the latest streaming insights and gear from AJA.Kodak Announces Honorees for the Eighth Annual Kodak Film AwardsAutumn Durald Arkapaw to Receive Lumiere Award; Kristen Stewart to Receive First Feature Award; Christopher Nolan to Present Inaugural Keighley AwardThe 8th Annual Kodak Film Awards will take place on Monday evening, March 2, 2026, at the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Clubhouse in Hollywood at an invitation-only event honoring Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Joachim Trier, Kristen Stewart, Patricia Keighley of IMAX, Salomon Ligthelm and the acclaimed television series Fallout.Kristen Stewart will be honored with the Debut Feature Award for her directorial debut, The Chronology of Water. The award recognizes first-time filmmakers who bring a distinctive voice and vision to their inaugural feature. Past recipients of the First Feature Award include Céline Song, Michael Morris, and Melina Matsoukas.Read more hereNow with Massive 8TB Capacity—Thunderbolt 5 SpeedThe OWC Envoy Pro Ultra now comes in a new 8TB capacity, pairing enormous space with next‑generation Thunderbolt 5 performance. With real‑world speeds over 6000 MB/s and a rugged, bus‑powered design, it’s perfect for 4K/8K workflows, on‑location shoots, and fast media offloads. High‑speed, high‑capacity, and ready for serious creative work.Browse hereZEISS Aatma – Contemporary Full Frame Primes with a Soulful Legacy LookZEISS introduces the new Aatma, set of nine high-end full frame T1.5 cinema primes (18mm, 25mm, 35mm, 40mm, 50mm, 65mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm) designed to marry the benefits of modern optical design with the nostalgic image characteristics that are popular today. Drawing inspiration from some of the most beloved ZEISS lenses of the 20th century, Aatma combines an emotion-driven look with the mechanical reliability, data integration, and workflow compatibility that’s expected for current production. Read more hereA New Solution from Atomos:The Atomos Shogun AV-19 Rack-Mounted 4K HDR Monitor/Recorder/Switcher is your all-in-one solution for professional live production, combining a stunning 19” 4K HDR DCI-P3 display with quad-channel switching, real-time ISO recording of up to four camera feeds plus program out, and support for 10-bit Apple ProRes, ProRes RAW, and Avid DNx recording to CFexpress or USB-C media. Perfect for studios, video village, and broadcast environments, it delivers the monitoring accuracy and workflow efficiency your production demands. The Atomos Shogun AV-19 is available for pre-order now for $2,099.00. Learn more at Videoguys.com or call our production experts at 800-323-2325 today!Podcast Rewind:Feb. 2026 - Ep. 120.Feature Your Brand: Showcase your products or services in “The Making Of” newsletter and reach 255K film & TV industry pros each week. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Matt Finlin, director of “Matter of Time,” a documentary dedicated to an important cause. Matt has collaborated extensively with Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder and EB Research Partnership, using film to amplify awareness around Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) and accelerate efforts to find a cure. In our chat, he shares about creating this doc, his production workflows, and working with Eddie Vedder. Matt also offers many insights for students and filmmakers on the path today.“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:From cinema to proAV: gaining a competitive edge with streaming knowledgeThe worlds of cinema production and proAV are converging. Cinema-grade equipment is making its way into more stadiums, houses of worship, and concert venues. Because of this, professionals that understand the tools and disciplines powering both will stand out. Get ahead of the curve with the latest streaming insights and gear from AJA.Francis Ford Coppola Remembers Robert Duvall: ‘Such a Great Actor and Such an Essential Part of American Zoetrope’Francis Ford Coppola took to Instagram on Monday afternoon to honor his longtime collaborator and friend Robert Duvall, who died on Sunday at the age of 95.“What a blow to learn of the loss of Robert Duvall,” Coppola wrote. “Such a great actor and such an essential part of American Zoetrope from its beginning: ‘The Rain People,’ ‘The Conversation,’ ‘The Godfather,’ ‘The Godfather Part II,’ ‘Apocalypse Now,’ ‘THX 1138,’ ‘Assassination Tango.’”Read more hereNow with Massive 8TB Capacity—Thunderbolt 5 SpeedThe OWC Envoy Pro Ultra now comes in a new 8TB capacity, pairing enormous space with next‑generation Thunderbolt 5 performance. With real‑world speeds over 6000 MB/s and a rugged, bus‑powered design, it’s perfect for 4K/8K workflows, on‑location shoots, and fast media offloads. High‑speed, high‑capacity, and ready for serious creative work.Browse hereZEISS Aatma – Contemporary Full Frame Primes with a Soulful Legacy LookZEISS introduces the new Aatma, set of nine high-end full frame T1.5 cinema primes (18mm, 25mm, 35mm, 40mm, 50mm, 65mm, 85mm, 100mm, and 135mm) designed to marry the benefits of modern optical design with the nostalgic image characteristics that are popular today. Drawing inspiration from some of the most beloved ZEISS lenses of the 20th century, Aatma combines an emotion-driven look with the mechanical reliability, data integration, and workflow compatibility that’s expected for current production. Read more hereA New Solution from Atomos:The Atomos Shogun AV-19 Rack-Mounted 4K HDR Monitor/Recorder/Switcher is your all-in-one solution for professional live production, combining a stunning 19” 4K HDR DCI-P3 display with quad-channel switching, real-time ISO recording of up to four camera feeds plus program out, and support for 10-bit Apple ProRes, ProRes RAW, and Avid DNx recording to CFexpress or USB-C media. Perfect for studios, video village, and broadcast environments, it delivers the monitoring accuracy and workflow efficiency your production demands. The Atomos Shogun AV-19 is available for pre-order now for $2,099.00. Learn more at Videoguys.com or call our production experts at 800-323-2325 today!OWC Exclusive Listener Offer:Enjoy 10% off your next order as a thank-you for tuning in to The Making Of! Whether you’re upgrading your workflow or adding pro-level gear, OWC has you covered. Use your exclusive listener link below and save on the tools that help bring your creative vision to life. Explore herePodcast Rewind:Feb. 2026 - Ep. 119.Feature your products or solutions in this newsletter and reach 252K film and TV industry pros. To explore a sponsorship, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Zach Kuperstein, cinematographer of films such as Barbarian, Woman of the Hour, Don’t Move, The Eyes of My Mother, and Buddy, that just premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. In our chat, Zach shares on his early days, filmmaking education, career path, and about the making of Barbarian and Woman of the Hour. He also talks about his approach for shooting each film, camera technology choices, as well as many insights for younger filmmakers today. The Making Of is presented by AJA:From cinema to proAV: gaining a competitive edge with streaming knowledgeThe worlds of cinema production and proAV are converging. Cinema-grade equipment is making its way into more stadiums, houses of worship, and concert venues. Because of this, professionals that understand the tools and disciplines powering both will stand out. Get ahead of the curve with the latest streaming insights and gear from AJA.Imax Closes Out 2025 With $1.28 Billion At Global Box Office, Up 40% And Its Best Year EverImax ended 2025 with a record $1.28 billion grossed worldwide, the best year it’s ever had. The slate grew overall and local language films busted out with two of its top five films for the year — Ne Zha 2 ($167 million) and Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle ($95.9 million) — coming from beyond Hollywood.Read more hereNow with Massive 8TB Capacity—Thunderbolt 5 SpeedThe OWC Envoy Pro Ultra now comes in a new 8TB capacity, pairing enormous space with next‑generation Thunderbolt 5 performance. With real‑world speeds over 6000 MB/s and a rugged, bus‑powered design, it’s perfect for 4K/8K workflows, on‑location shoots, and fast media offloads. High‑speed, high‑capacity, and ready for serious creative work.Browse hereIntroducing the LiveU Solo PRO:Deliver an outstanding live video experience with the LiveU Solo PRO. Designed for creators and professionals alike, the Solo PRO video encoder provides one-touch, wireless live streaming directly from your camera to popular online platforms and any web destination. Stream with confidence using bonded 4G/5G connectivity and enjoy superior reliability and image quality up to 4K resolution. To learn more, contact Videoguys at 800-323-2325. Browse hereDonate to Help The Digital Cinema Society Survive:DCS, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to keeping filmmakers current on motion picture technology is currently in dire financial straights. We are trying to make the best of a tough situation and asking those who can afford it to help keep us afloat.Please consider donating to DCS herePodcast Rewind:Feb. 2026 - Ep. 117.Feature your products or services in this newsletter and reach 250K film and TV industry professionals. To activate a sponsorship, contact mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Matt Porwoll, cinematographer of the Oscar-nominated Documentary Short, All the Empty Rooms. In our chat, Matt shares on the making of this project, his creative approach, and the technologies used to capture the film. He also offers insights into the art of documentary filmmaking, the current state of the business, and offers invaluable recommendations for up-and-coming storytellers.The Making Of is presented by AJA:From cinema to proAV: gaining a competitive edge with streaming knowledgeThe worlds of cinema production and proAV are converging. Cinema-grade equipment is making its way into more stadiums, houses of worship, and concert venues. Because of this, professionals that understand the tools and disciplines powering both will stand out. Get ahead of the curve with the latest streaming insights and gear from AJA.Sundance Says Thank You, and Goodbye, to Park City“It’s hard not to feel a disturbance in the force,” said Ethan Hawke, whose acting career took off after his early movies appeared at the Utah festival in the 1990s.The actor Ethan Hawke wouldn’t be Ethan Hawke without the Sundance Film Festival. The director Cathy Yan might have given up her filmmaking dreams without it. And the producer Matthew Greenfield may not have become president of Searchlight Pictures if Sundance had not accepted his first film, “Star Maps,” into the festival in 1997.Read more hereNow with Massive 8TB Capacity—Thunderbolt 5 SpeedThe OWC Envoy Pro Ultra now comes in a new 8TB capacity, pairing enormous space with next‑generation Thunderbolt 5 performance. With real‑world speeds over 6000 MB/s and a rugged, bus‑powered design, it’s perfect for 4K/8K workflows, on‑location shoots, and fast media offloads. High‑speed, high‑capacity, and ready for serious creative work.Browse hereMeet LiveU Solo PRO:Deliver an outstanding live video experience with the LiveU Solo PRO. Designed for creators and professionals alike, the Solo PRO video encoder provides one-touch, wireless live streaming directly from your camera to popular online platforms and any web destination. Stream with confidence using bonded 4G/5G connectivity and enjoy superior reliability and image quality up to 4K resolution. To learn more, contact Videoguys at 800-323-2325.Learn more herePodcast Rewind:Jan. 2026 - Ep. 115.Showcase your products or services in this newsletter and reach 250K film and TV industry professionals. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe