SHOTLIST

Marshal Chupa

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

  1. Cold Outreach That Actually Works for Filmmakers & Photographers - 045

    25 juin

    Cold Outreach That Actually Works for Filmmakers & Photographers - 045

    Creative producer and coach Chris Whitten joins Marshal Chupa to share a refreshing approach to outreach, networking, and relationship building that feels authentic instead of salesy. After years working inside agencies, production companies, and global brands, Chris explains what decision makers actually look for when hiring filmmakers and why most outreach fails before it even begins. Want Industry Resources & Tools Straight into your Inbox? Join the 🟠 SHOTLIST Substack Key Topics Discussed • Why most cold outreach emails fail before anyone even looks at your portfolio • The five principles for building genuine relationships that lead to work • How agency producers actually discover and hire photographers and filmmakers • Why curiosity creates stronger connections than pitching yourself • Practical CRM systems and AI tools that simplify relationship management • Building resilience through mindset, consistency, and personal health • Why relationships continue to outperform algorithms in the creative industry If you're a filmmaker, photographer, or creative entrepreneur looking to build a stronger network and create more opportunities, this episode offers practical strategies you can start using immediately. Episode Highlights 17:26 – Building authentic relationships Chris explains why genuine curiosity and asking thoughtful questions creates stronger industry relationships than leading with your portfolio. 29:43 – The five outreach principles Breaking down his framework for outreach: See them before you sell them, Lead with perspective, Offer collaboration, Invite don't ask, and Stay present without pushing. 49:17 – Systems that keep opportunities alive How LinkedIn, scheduled content, CRMs, and AI tools help filmmakers consistently nurture relationships without feeling overwhelmed. 59:53 – Finding the right decision makers Chris explains who actually hires photographers and filmmakers inside agencies, and how to use LinkedIn strategically to build connections. 1:04:47 – Building resilience as a creative Why fitness, mindset, and daily habits directly impact confidence, consistency, and long term success in the film industry. 1:17:14 – Overcoming self doubt Chris shares practical advice for filmmakers who feel stuck, discouraged, or believe cold outreach simply doesn't work. 1:20:36 – Where to start today A practical roadmap for creatives looking to improve their outreach, systems, finances, and long term career growth. CONNECT WITH CHRIS 📰 Newsletter | Get the goods in you inbox 🖥️ Coaching | CWP Coaching 📧 PDF | The Five Stages of Cold Outreach Guide 🔗 LinkedIn | Christopher Whitten  CONNECT WITH MARSHAL 📸 Instagram |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠⁠ 💻 Website |⁠⁠ www.marshalchupa.com⁠⁠ 🔗 LinkedIn |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠⁠ 🟠 Substack | ⁠⁠Substack Article⁠⁠ ABOUT THE PODCAST This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of. 🎧 LISTEN 🟢 ⁠⁠Spotify ⁠⁠ 🟣 ⁠⁠Apple Podcast⁠⁠ 🖥️ shotlistpodcast.com⁠⁠  👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW Please help me bring you more future episodes by subscribing and leaving a review 📱GET IN TOUCH You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email marshal@marshalchupa.com

    1 h 11 min
  2. How to Build a Filmmaking Business That Thrives - 044

    26 mars

    How to Build a Filmmaking Business That Thrives - 044

    Most creatives dream of building a sustainable career behind the lens, but few understand what it actually takes to turn talent into a real business. As a filmmaker, production company founder, and creator of Financially Free Filmmaker, Timothy Fare-Matthews shares how to move beyond trading time for money and start building systems that create retention, profitability, and long term freedom. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, they break down sales, positioning, financial clarity, and the mindset shifts filmmakers need to survive in a rapidly evolving industry. 🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals ⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - ⁠⁠llsr.com/shotlist⁠⁠  📞 Coaching Call with Tim - Click HERE 🎬 Free Workshop - 3 Ultimate Steps for Filmmaker Growth HERE 📄Download the LAPS framework + Tutorial HERE 💸Financially Free Filmmaker financiallyfreefilmmaker.com 🟠 SHOTLIST Substack | ⁠Resources & Tools Straight into your Inbox  Key Topics Discussed The difference between having a hobby that pays you and building a scalable filmmaking business Tim’s 4P framework and why most filmmakers stop at production instead of thinking about planning, publishing, and promotion How to sell without feeling salesy by focusing on serving, discovery, and retention Why retention and referrals compound faster than chasing new clients The financial metrics filmmakers should track to understand profitability, not just revenue If you're a filmmaker or photographer chasing long term creative freedom, this episode offers raw insight, real strategy, and a grounded look at what it takes. If you’re a filmmaker or photographer chasing long-term creative freedom, this episode offers raw insight, real strategy, and a grounded look at what it takes. Episode Highlights 07:45 – Hobby that pays vs real business Tim explains the difference between staying busy as a freelancer and building a scalable business with real leverage and longevity. 12:10 – The 4P framework for filmmakers Planning, Producing, Publishing, Promoting. He breaks down why most creatives stop at production and leave revenue and retention on the table. 23:50 – Selling without feeling salesy Sales is reframed as service. Tim shares how discovery calls and asking better questions lead to higher close rates and stronger client relationships. 28:40 – The five client acquisition channels From networking to partnerships, Tim outlines the five ways filmmakers generate work and why word of mouth and retention often outperform content. 39:10 – Why networking still wins Confidence is a skill. Tim shares how learning to work a room transformed his trajectory and why in person relationships still convert the fastest. 51:15 – Structuring proposals strategically Instead of sending one number, Tim explains how offering structured options opens dialogue and improves negotiation outcomes. 01:05:10 – Gear purchases vs real ROI Tim challenges the obsession with cameras and shares how to evaluate investments based on profitability, not ego. 01:14:30 – Measuring profit, not just revenue Why most filmmakers do not truly know their margins, and how tracking profit per project changes everything. 🔗 CONNECT WITH TIMOTHY  📸 Instagram | @timf.mathews 🖥️ Coaching | www.financiallyfreefilmmaker.com 🖥️ Website | ⁠⁠www.timothyfarematthews.com 🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL 📸 Instagram |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠⁠ 💻 Website |⁠⁠ www.marshalchupa.com⁠⁠ 🔗 LinkedIn |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠⁠ 🟠 Substack | ⁠⁠Substack Article⁠⁠ 🗂️The Contact Sheet - A Simple Client Tracking System for Filmmakers & Photographers - shotlist.substack.com/p/the-contact-sheet

    1 h 28 min
  3. Staying Booked in a Changing Industry: DOP, Keaton Nye on Mindset, Relationships, and Problem Solving - 043

    2025-11-08

    Staying Booked in a Changing Industry: DOP, Keaton Nye on Mindset, Relationships, and Problem Solving - 043

    The filmmaking world is changing fast, budgets are tighter, crews are smaller, and adaptability has never mattered more. As a commercial cinematographer and YouTuber, Keaton Nye shares how staying booked in today’s market comes down to mindset, problem-solving, and understanding the business behind the craft. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, they break down the habits, strategies, and client relationships that keep filmmakers thriving when the industry shifts beneath them. 🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals ⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - ⁠⁠llsr.com/shotlist⁠⁠  🗂️ Get your copy of The Contact Sheet - A Simple Client Tracking System for Filmmakers & Photographers - shotlist.substack.com/p/the-contact-sheet  Key Topics Discussed The difference between skill and mindset, and why problem solvers stay booked Navigating shrinking budgets and crew sizes while maintaining production quality Balancing projects “one for the meal, one for the reel” Building trust, simplifying business for clients, and thinking like a business owner How to think like both an artist and a business owner to build a sustainable long-term career Episode Highlights 00:25 – Why Problem Solvers Stay BookedReliability, curiosity, and initiative create more opportunity than technical skill alone. 00:27 – Adapting to a Changing IndustrySmaller crews and tighter budgets are reshaping production work and what clients expect. 00:36 – Craft Meets CommerceThinking in terms of ROI helps bridge the gap between artistry and business. 00:42 – One for the Meal, One for the ReelBalancing creative fulfillment with financial sustainability without burning out. 00:46 – The Money GapUnderstanding what separates lower-paid shooters from high-value professionals. 00:54 – Make Business Easy for ClientsClear communication and simple pricing structures lead to repeat bookings and trust. 00:57 – The Power of RelationshipsHigh-value work comes from genuine relationships, not cold outreach. 01:02 – Staying Top of MindPractical ideas for building outreach systems and keeping your network engaged. 🔗 CONNECT WITH KEATON NYE 📸 Instagram | @keatonnye ▶️ Youtube | www.youtube.com/keatonnye 🖥️ Website | ⁠www.keatonnye.com 🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL 📸 Instagram | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠⁠ 💻 Website  | ⁠www.marshalchupa.com⁠⁠ 🔗 LinkedIn | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠⁠ 🟠 Substack | ⁠⁠Substack Article⁠⁠ 🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of. 🎧 LISTEN 🟢| ⁠⁠Spotify ⁠⁠ 🟣| ⁠⁠Apple Podcast⁠⁠ 🖥️| ⁠⁠shotlistpodcast.com⁠⁠  👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW Please help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review 📱GET IN TOUCH You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email marshal@marshalchupa.com

    1 h 13 min
  4. Insurance for Filmmakers: What You Need to Know About Coverage, Risk, and Equipment Claims - 042

    2025-10-01

    Insurance for Filmmakers: What You Need to Know About Coverage, Risk, and Equipment Claims - 042

    Most creatives dream of filming in remote places, working with global brands, and living a life of freedom behind the lens, but few understand the risks and protections that come with it. As Associate Vice President at Front Row Insurance, David McLeish shares how filmmakers and photographers can protect their gear, their business, and their livelihood when unexpected events happen. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, they break down the realities of insurance in creative work, from liability waivers to international coverage 🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals ⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - ⁠⁠llsr.com/shotlist⁠⁠  🗂️ Get your copy of The Contact Sheet - A Simple Client Tracking System for Filmmakers & Photographers - shotlist.substack.com/p/the-contact-sheet  Key Topics Discussed Why most filmmakers misunderstand what insurance actually covers and how to avoid costly assumptions How to handle high-risk shoots like underwater filming, climbing, or stunts, and what insurers need to know in advance Practical steps for gear rental, deal memos, and certificates of insurance when working with production companies or directly with brands The importance of liability waivers when shooting with athletes or in dangerous environments What international coverage looks like and how to protect footage and equipment while traveling Episode Highlights 4:00 – Broker vs Insurer Why knowing the difference matters when making a claim. 12:00 – High-Risk ShootsUnderwater, vehicles, or extreme sports must be disclosed or risk voiding coverage. 19:00 – Stunts vs AdventureInsurers often treat risky outdoor shoots as stunts, which changes coverage. 26:00 – Liability WaiversSigned waivers reduce your exposure and improve insurability. 29:00 – International CoverageMost policies are Canada/US only unless you add worldwide protection. 33:00 – Reshoot CoverageScripted reshoots may be covered. Portfolio or passion projects are not. 41:00 – Gear RentalYour deal memo should make production responsible for your kit. 1:19:00 – Direct-to-ClientCovering friends’ gear requires written agreements. Without them, it is not insured. 🔗 CONNECT WITH FRONT ROW INSURANCE 🖥️ Website | ⁠⁠www.frontrowinsurance.com 📧 Email: mcleish@frontrowinsurance.com 📸 Instagram | @ frontrowinsurance 🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL 📸 Instagram |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠⁠ 🟠 Substack | ⁠⁠Substack Article⁠⁠ 💻 Website |⁠⁠ www.marshalchupa.com⁠⁠ 🔗 LinkedIn |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠⁠ 🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of. 🎧 LISTEN 🟢| ⁠⁠Spotify ⁠⁠ 🟣| ⁠⁠Apple Podcast⁠⁠ 🖥️| ⁠⁠shotlistpodcast.com⁠⁠  👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW Please help me bring you more future episodes by subscribing and leaving a review 📱GET IN TOUCH You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email marshal@marshalchupa.com

    1 h 30 min
  5. How Director and Aerial DP, Zac Moxley Built a Dream Filmmaking Career - 041

    2025-08-13

    How Director and Aerial DP, Zac Moxley Built a Dream Filmmaking Career - 041

    Most creatives dream of filming in remote places, working with global brands, and living a life of freedom behind the lens, but few understand the discipline and long game it actually takes to get there. As a director and aerial cinematographer, Zac Moxley shares how his mindset, work ethic, and willingness to take risks helped him turn passion into a career. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Zach breaks down the realities of momentum, burnout, spec work, and what it really means to bet on yourself 🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals ⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - ⁠llsr.com/shotlist⁠  Key Topics Discussed How saying yes early on created a snowball effect and why treating every job like it matters can change everything The real cost of chasing your dream job, including the emotional and financial pressure behind self-funded projects The truth about spec work and how Zac uses personal projects to grow, experiment, and land bigger clients Buying gear with intention, including how to think about expensive tools, what actually delivers value, and when to pull the trigger Navigating the long game of a creative career and why it’s built through grind, self-belief, and patience Episode Highlights 00:03 A Turning Point in His Teens How a personal transformation helped Zac develop the grit and drive that sparked his creative journey 00:08 Early Career and Instagram Growth The story behind his glide-cam days and how his Instagram started gaining traction in 2017 00:13 The Drone Chapter Zac’s early aerial content and the moment he began shifting toward directing full campaigns 00:21 Every Opportunity Can Change Your Life Zac’s philosophy on saying yes and how staying open has led to his biggest projects 00:27 Behind the Instagram Highlight Reel The grind, burnout, and loneliness that people don’t see when they scroll 00:36 Spec Work as a Career Catalyst Zac’s approach to funding personal projects and the most he’s ever spent out of pocket 00:44 Breaking Down a Spec Project From idea to post-production, how Zac builds personal pieces with intention and impact 00:51 Undercutting Versus Opportunity Where he draws the line between strategy and self-sabotage when pricing work 01:01 Buying the Right Gear How to approach big purchases like the RED Raptor and which tools have earned their keep 01:09 Building Relationships That Lead to Work Zac’s take on staying top of mind, creating value, and earning trust over time 01:15 Manifestation and Career Alignment How Zac’s mindset and focus on alignment have helped him call in the kind of projects and lifestyle he once only imagined 🔗 CONNECT WITH ZAC MOXELY 📸 Instagram | @downtofilm 🖥️ Website | ⁠www.zacharymoxley.com⁠ 🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL 📸 Instagram |⁠ ⁠⁠@marshalchupa⁠ 💻 Website |⁠ www.marshalchupa.com⁠ 🔗 LinkedIn |⁠ ⁠⁠Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn⁠ 🟠 Substack | ⁠Substack Article⁠ 🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of. 🎧 LISTEN 🟢| ⁠Spotify ⁠ 🟣| ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ 🖥️| ⁠shotlistpodcast.com⁠  👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW Please help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review 📱GET IN TOUCH You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email marshal@marshalchupa.com

    1 h 21 min
  6. Soul Over Strategy | Building a Career with Creative Depth and Longevity as a Photographer and Director - 040

    2025-06-29

    Soul Over Strategy | Building a Career with Creative Depth and Longevity as a Photographer and Director - 040

    What does it actually look like to build a thriving photography and directing career, not just on paper, but in practice? Hubert Kang has steadily built a respected presence in the industry, known for his soulful personal work, big-hearted leadership style, and high-level commercial campaigns. 🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals ⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - llsr.com/shotlist  ⚒️ Tool & Resources to Grow your Career: HERE Key Topics Discussed • Why Hubert believes side hustles don’t cut it in a creative career, and what it really takes to go full time • The essential role of kindness, curiosity, and personal values in business growth • What personal projects reveal to clients that commercial work never can • Why directing became a natural extension of his photography path • The real reason to start a production company • When and why reps will come knocking, and what they actually look for Episode Highlights 00:06 Starting from Scratch After Business School Why Hubert left a “safe” career path to start photographing houses for $100 a shoot 00:15 The 360 Motel Job That Changed Everything How traveling solo across the U.S. turned into a photography education 00:20 Getting in the Room with the Greats What Hubert learned assisting world-renowned photographers at Santa Fe Workshops 00:31 Why He Was a Terrible Assistant And how getting fired helped him discover his true path in documentary photography 00:37 Building Community One Relationship at a Time How showing up with appreciation and treating crew like friends became Hubert’s secret weapon 00:45 Personal Work That Means Something From Ugandan baseball to global human-animal connections, Hubert shares his why 00:54 Directing as a Natural Progression How curiosity, collaboration, and team leadership drew him behind the monitor 01:00 The Vision Behind Kindred and Scout Why Hubert and his producer Amy started a company rooted in values, not profit 01:08 Do You Need a Rep? 01:14 Staying Resilient Through the Highs and Lows The rituals, mindset, and gratitude that keep Hubert grounded in a roller-coaster career 🔗 CONNECT WITH HUBERT KANG 📸 Instagram | @hubertkang 🖥️ Website | www.hubertkang.com 💼 Production Co. | Kindred and Scout 🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL 🟠 Substack | ⁠Substack Article⁠ 📸 Instagram | @marshalchupa 💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com 🔗 LinkedIn | Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn 🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of. 🎧 LISTEN 🟢| Spotify 🟣| Apple Podcast 🖥️| shotlistpodcast.com  👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEWPlease help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review 📱GET IN TOUCHYou can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email marshal@marshalchupa.com

    1 h 13 min
  7. Career Strategy, Creative Leadership, and Building a Scalable Studio in the Action Sports World — with Darren Rayner - 039

    2025-06-12

    Career Strategy, Creative Leadership, and Building a Scalable Studio in the Action Sports World — with Darren Rayner - 039

    Most creatives struggle to find the balance between doing work they love and building a business that lasts. In this episode, Darren shares the story of how a devastating snowboarding injury launched his career behind the lens and how he went on to build Magnifier, a creative studio producing high-level content for top outdoor brands. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Darren breaks down his go-to systems for guiding clients, crafting retainers, and generating leads. He also shares the mindset shifts that helped him move from passion projects into a thriving commercial career. 🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals ⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - llsr.com/shotlist  Key Topics Discussed • How Darren transitioned from passion projects to paid commercial work by aligning with client needs • The "Ikigai" framework as a tool for sustainable business — balancing what you love with what pays • Why leading clients through a discovery session is essential to avoid scope creep and unclear expectations • The content pyramid method — and how capturing additional “shoulder assets” creates more value with less effort • Darren’s system for generating leads through authentic LinkedIn content, not cold pitches • How to offer retainers as a solution to the feast-or-famine cycle and bring stability to your freelance career • Why defining your ideal client profile helps you focus outreach and build trust faster • How to scale a creative business by hiring based on workload and clearly defined roles • The importance of giving team members ownership to avoid bottlenecks and burnout Episode Highlights 00:01 From Injury to InspirationHow breaking his back snowboarding led Darren to pick up a video camera and find a new purpose 00:05 Building Voleurz from Dorm Room to Cult BrandThe DIY roots of a creative crew that mixed action sports, art, and humor before YouTube even existed 00:10 Lessons from Action Sports FilmmakingWhat fast-paced sports shoots taught Darren about storytelling, energy, and creative style 00:17 From Passion Projects to Paid WorkThe scary but pivotal leap Darren made when friends told him to skip sales and go all in on film 00:25 The “Ikigai” Framework for FulfillmentHow aligning passion, skill, market need, and money became Darren’s compass for business decisions 00:31 Retainers and Reverse EngineeringThe method Darren uses to guide clients from messy ideas to clear deliverables and long-term value 00:38 The Content PyramidWhy clients often overlook the highest-performing content, and how to make every shoot more efficient 00:44 Shooting BTS, Making ConnectionsThe strategy that helped Darren grow trust, book bigger projects, and mentor newcomers 00:50 LinkedIn and Lead Gen Without SellingDarren’s low-pressure approach to getting clients by being curious, helpful, and visible 01:00 Growing a Team Without Losing YourselfThe mindset, systems, and reality checks needed to scale a studio while staying creatively fulfilled 🔗 CONNECT WITH DARREN 📸 Instagram | @darren_rayner 🖥️ Website | www.magnafiremedia.com 💼 LinkedIn | Darren Rayner 🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL 📸 Instagram | @marshalchupa 💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com 🔗 LinkedIn | Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn 🟠Substack | Substack Article 🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of. 🎧 LISTEN 🟢| Spotify 🟣| Apple Podcast 🖥️| shotlistpodcast.com  👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEWPlease help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review 📱GET IN TOUCHYou can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email marshal@marshalchupa.com

    1 h 18 min
  8. What Gets You Hired (and Remembered): A Creative Director’s Take on Building the Portfolio, Presence, and Energy That Stands Out - 038

    2025-04-24

    What Gets You Hired (and Remembered): A Creative Director’s Take on Building the Portfolio, Presence, and Energy That Stands Out - 038

    Many creatives dream of working with iconic brands — but few understand what it actually takes to get there. As a creative director with decades of experience at companies like Roxy, DC Shoes, Hollister, and Eddie Bauer, Chris Vestal shares what makes a portfolio stand out, how to navigate the politics of big-budget shoots, and why the energy you bring to set matters just as much as the work you create. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Chris breaks down the unspoken tiers of creative talent, the importance of self-awareness in your growth journey, and the practical ways to get noticed by decision-makers in the industry. Key Topics Discussed The power of proximity — how Chris went from pinning surf mag pages on his wall to becoming creative director for the very brands that inspired him. Climbing the creative ladder — how scrappy, self-driven experience led to high-budget global campaigns. Creative outreach that lands — what it actually takes to get the attention of high-level creative directors (hint: it's not a mass email blast). Building trust as a leader — how Chris creates unforgettable shoot energy by curating people, not just portfolios. If you're a filmmaker or photographer navigating the industry, this episode is full of real talk, career strategy, and powerful reminders about staying aligned with your creative vision. Episode Highlights 00:06 From Superfan to Creative Director How childhood inspiration and personal passion shaped a career in global brand leadership 00:09 Lessons from Working with Iconic BrandsWhat Chris learned while designing for Roxy, DC Shoes, Eddie Bauer, and more 00:11 Big Budgets, Bigger PoliticsThe creative tradeoffs and team dynamics behind multi-million-dollar productions 00:29 What Gets You Noticed as a CreativeInside a creative director’s inbox — and how to actually stand out 00:30 Authentic Outreach vs. Template PitchesWhy a thoughtful DM or email matters more than a slick portfolio 00:37 Building Set Energy & Why It MattersThe hidden value of vibe, chemistry, and energy when curating a crew 00:52 Creating “White Space” to Make Great WorkHow adding just one extra day can unlock breakthrough creative 01:00 Shooting Beyond the Brief: Portfolio GoldHow personal ideas on set can lead to standout, career-making images 01:04 Manifestation & Career AlignmentThe mindset shift that helped Chris land his dream job at Aspen One 01:15 Leading Through Systems, Vision & VibeWhy good leadership means making space for your team to thrive creatively 🔗 CONNECT WITH CHRIS VESTAL 📸 Instagram | @_vestal 🖥️ Website | www.vestalindustries.com 💼 LinkedIn | Chris Vestal on LinkedIn 🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL 📸 Instagram | @marshalchupa 💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com 🔗 LinkedIn | Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn 📄 SHOW NOTES & TRANSCRIPT Visit the website for the transcript and highlights from the conversation www.shotlistpodcast.com 🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of. 🎧 LISTEN 🟢| Spotify 🟣| Apple Podcast 👊 SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A REVIEW Please help me bring you more future episode by subscribing and leaving a review 📱GET IN TOUCHYou can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email marshal@marshalchupa.com

    1 h 12 min
Tout afficher (45)

Notes et avis

5
sur 5
18 notes

À propos

This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.

Informations

  • Créateur
    Marshal Chupa
  • Années d’activité
    2022 - 2026
  • Épisodes
    45
  • Classement
    Contenu explicite
  • Copyright
    © Marshal Chupa
  • Site Web de l’émission
    SHOTLIST

Vous aimerez peut-être aussi