The Making Of The Making Of

In this episode, we welcome cinematographer John Matysiak. John has shot acclaimed features such as Old Henry, Acid Man, and Big George Foreman, as well as series including “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty” and “Still the King.” In our chat, we hear John’s origins, path into filmmaking, and his experience working on a range of projects. We also learn about his approach to collaborating with different directors, and how he formulates the look for each production.
The Making Of is presented by AJA Video Systems:
Uplevel your pipeline with AJA’s latest updates
From color management to IP video, data management, and beyond, media production pipelines are rapidly evolving. Stay ahead of the curve with AJA’s latest technology updates for production and post professionals, including a new ColorBox release with ACES support and other great improvements, new Desktop software features, and more. Find out what’s new here
From our Friends at Videoguys…
Atomos Shogun is a 7-inch monitor-recorder with integrated networking for cloud workflows, ideal for DSLR, mirrorless and cinematic cameras. More codecs & monitoring tools than ever before. Today’s Shogun is bolstered by new abilities from AtomOS 11, massive connectivity from integrated networking, more codecs, and compatibility with almost every camera. Shogun is the Atomos dream writ large.
Learn more here
Tiffen Tech Day '24, Stabilizer Expo, & Steadicam's 50th with Garrett Brown
Burbank | June 9th, 11am - 4pm
Tiffen welcomes filmmakers to Tech Day '24 featuring the Stabilizer Expo, live equipment demos, and Tech Talks with renowned Operators and Cinematographers.
Stabilizer Expo | Tiffen Filters On Set | Steadicam Try & Fly | Tech Talks
That Steadicam Shot and I How Got It: Charles Papert moderates Neal Bryant SOC, Andy Schwartz and more. Plus, How I Got that Filter Shot: Richard Crudo ASC moderates Cinematographers Dean Cundey ASC, Alicia Robbins, Shane Hurlbut ASC
Tall Steadicam Tales: A Conversation with Garrett Brown & Dave Chameides
Free RSVP here
Meet ZEISS At Cine Gear LA
Cine Gear is right around the corner! Find ZEISS at Booth #105 where they will be showing the new Nano Prime lenses. More than that, you can check out a demo of the CinCraft Scenario camera tracking system in an outdoor environment.
Register here
Featured NYC Photo Exhibit:
Edwin Pagán’s Los Inocentes (The Innocents) is a documentary photoessay that focuses on the resiliency of children who live in urban communities in less-than-ideal circumstances, but who prevail and thrive beyond their environments in the South Bronx, Spanish Harlem (El Barrio), and the Lower East Side (Loisaida).
The images compiled in this photographic showcase reveal the untainted splendor of children just being themselves in everyday situations. Individually, they present fleeting tableaux of precise personal incidents. Taken together, they provide a wider understanding of how universal youth resiliency really is. If from the mouth of babes comes the truth, then this metaphoric photo album speaks to the will and tenacity of human beings.
More on this exhibit here
Steven Poster, ASC Shares About His Latest Feature, "Scared To Death"
In this episode of the Digital Cinema Show, DCS Founder James Mathers interviews renowned Director of Photography Steven Poster, ASC about the tools he used on his latest feature, "Scared To Death" — including Canon cinema cameras and lenses, and Tiffen filters. Watch the interview here
Upcoming Event:
Cine Gear Expo | Burbank, CA
Cine Gear Expo features exhibits, new product and service introductions, complimentary seminars led by industry leaders, masterclasses, a film competition, and awards ceremony. From June 7-9th, the LA Expo will be held at the historic Warner Bros Studios in Burbank, CA.
A fitting backdrop for the Cine Gear industry trade show, visitors can enjoy outdoor booths on Warner Bros Midwest and French Streets, former home to The Music Man,

In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Denson Baker ACS NZCS. Denson has lensed projects including The Colour Room, Ophelia, Mountain Boy, Measure of a Man, “The Luminaries,” “Victoria,” The Black Balloon, The Waiting City, Ukraine on Fire, The Dark Horse, Oranges and Sunshine, and Deck Dogz. In our chat, Denson shares his backstory, early education, cinematic influences, and behind the scenes of working on various films. He also describes how he creates the look for each project, his process for choosing certain filmmaking technologies, and much more.
The Making Of is presented by AJA Video Systems.
Uplevel your pipeline with AJA’s latest updates
From color management to IP video, data management, and beyond, media production pipelines are rapidly evolving. Stay ahead of the curve with AJA’s latest technology updates for production and post pros, including a new ColorBox release with ACES support and other great improvements, to new Desktop software features, and beyond. Find out more here
ZEISS Conversations with Eszter Csepeli
Eszter Csepeli, a founding member of the Hungarian Cinematographers' Association (HCA), stands as Hungary's leading female cinematographer and the sole woman on the board. Recognized as a Fulbright Scholar and previously nominated for the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, she continues to shine. Honored with the ZEISS + WiM Altitude Awards Main Prize and featured in British Cinematographer, Csepeli's talent knows no bounds.
Currently residing between Los Angeles and Budapest, she was selected for the esteemed ASC Mentorship Program in 2022, with Cynthia Pusheck ASC as her mentor. To hear more about her journey, join ZEISS for an exciting conversation with Eszter Csepeli, where she'll also share experiences using ZEISS Supreme Prime lenses for the feature film "Our Blossom," and other favorite projects.
Register for this conversation with Eszter Csepeli on Wednesday 5/29 at 10am PDT, 1pm EDT, 7pm CEST here
Featured Book:
American Cinematographer's Shot Craft
A collection of Jay Holben’s SHOT CRAFT articles from American Cinematographer magazine. A treasured series of educational pieces on the art and science of cinematography. An extraordinary book for the film student and refresher for the seasoned pro, SHOT CRAFT is written in an easy-to-read tone that explains the technical and complicated in simple language. It is a collection of lessons, tips & techniques that is a must-have for everyone working in the art of visual storytelling in motion pictures.
This book features a curated selection from the first five years of this monthly column providing insights on: cinematography fundamentals, formats, exposure, lighting & electricity, optics, travel & locations, filmmaking techniques, relationships, communication & career. Get your copy here
From our Friends at Videoguys…
V-RAPTOR® [X] 8K VV combines the strengths of RED’s two families of cameras into one powerful all-purpose workhorse. The frame rates, lowlight performance, and resolution of the V-RAPTOR® line combined with the global shutter advancements of KOMODO®, the V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV sensor is the culmination of the latest advancements in digital cinema image making. Using RED’s newest 8K VV sensor, V-RAPTOR [X] leverages the benefits and flexibility of large format, global shutter, high framerate, 8K acquisition, all inside of a compact and feature rich body weighing just over 4lbs.
Check it out here
Upcoming Event:
Cine Gear Expo | Burbank, CA
Cine Gear Expo features exhibits, new product and service introductions, complimentary seminars led by industry leaders, masterclasses, a film competition, and awards ceremony. From June 6-9th, the LA Expo will be held at the historic Warner Bros Studios in Burbank, CA.
A fitting backdrop for the Cine Gear industry trade show, visitors can enjoy outdoor booths on Warner Bros Midwest and French Streets, former home to The Music Man, Bonnie and Clyde, an

In this episode, we welcome Tony Wisniewski. Tony is the Sr. Marketing Manager for Cinematography and Photography divisions at ZEISS. Having supported creatives in both communities for many years, he has his pulse on the latest movements in each market. In our chat, we hear Tony’s backstory, career evolution into the world of optics, and all about the latest products from ZEISS — including their solutions for Virtual Production. In addition, we hear his predictions for the filmmaking industry for the second half of 2024 and into next year.
The Making Of is presented by AJA Video Systems.
Uplevel your pipeline with AJA’s latest updates
From color management to IP video, data management, and beyond, media production pipelines are rapidly evolving. Stay ahead of the curve with AJA’s latest technology updates for production and post pros, including a new ColorBox release with ACES support and other great improvements, to new Desktop software features, and beyond. Find out more here
Brendan Steacy ASC, CSC Shoots CSC-Nominated "Rabbit Hole" with ZEISS Supreme Prime Lenses, Creating a Visual Masterpiece
Brendan Steacy ASC, CSC, a virtuoso of visual language, trusted ZEISS Supreme Primes once again. Read the full interview on the ZEISS Lenspire blog to find out how he achieved the modern visual aesthetic that complements the film's cyber-spy-privacy-invasive narrative.
Read here
From our Friends at Videoguys…
V-RAPTOR® [X] 8K VV combines the strengths of RED’s two families of cameras into one powerful all-purpose workhorse. The frame rates, lowlight performance, and resolution of the V-RAPTOR® line combined with the global shutter advancements of KOMODO®, the V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV sensor is the culmination of the latest advancements in digital cinema image making. Using RED’s newest 8K VV sensor, V-RAPTOR [X] leverages the benefits and flexibility of large format, global shutter, high framerate, 8K acquisition, all inside of a compact and feature rich body weighing just over 4lbs.
Browse here
Upcoming Event:
Cine Gear Expo | Burbank, CA
Cine Gear Expo features exhibits, new product and service introductions, complimentary seminars led by industry leaders, masterclasses, a film competition, and awards ceremony. From June 6-9th, the LA Expo will be held at the historic Warner Bros Studios in Burbank, CA.
A fitting backdrop for the Cine Gear industry trade show, visitors can enjoy outdoor booths on Warner Bros Midwest and French Streets, former home to The Music Man, Bonnie and Clyde, and “Gilmore Girls”. Simultaneously, The Friends and Young Sheldon Stages will house indoor booths filled with the latest tech from popular equipment vendors. Warner’s full-service facility also offers state-of-the-art venues like the Steven J. Ross Theatre to accommodate Cine Gear’s hallmark Film Competition, Screening Series, and Presentations.
Free registration here
Featured Film Festival:
Mallorca International Film Festival
Join us at the 13th edition of the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival, celebrating the art of cinema in all its diversity! This year marks the 3rd edition of our Cinematography Focus, highlighting the visual storytelling mastery behind the lens. Immerse yourself in a world of creativity through screenings, workshops and networking events on the picturesque island of Mallorca. Come be a part of the evolving narrative of filmmaking.
Visit us here
Featured Book:
Scenes from the City: Filmmaking in New York
Scenes from the City: Filmmaking in New York is a celebration of the rise of New York-shot films, particularly after the Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting was formed in 1966. This revised and expanded edition, edited by James Sanders, includes a new decade of filmmaking in NYC, a section on women filmmakers and rare, behind-the-scenes shots directly from studio archives. It also explores the recent growth of the City's television industry with more episodic series being prod

In this episode, we welcome producer Mark Skelton. Mark is currently at work on a feature-length documentary about the infamous Cannonball Run car race across America. He has a long history of producing films, documentaries, and other content. In our conversation, Mark shares his path into filmmaking, prior projects he’s worked on, and artists that have inspired him. He also shows us under the hood about how he’s producing this documentary, Cannonballer, that’s currently in production.
The Making Of is presented by AJA Video Systems.
Uplevel your pipeline with AJA’s latest updates
From color management to IP video, data management, and beyond, media production pipelines are rapidly evolving. Stay ahead of the curve with AJA’s latest technology updates for production and post pros, including a new ColorBox release with ACES support and other great improvements, to new Desktop software features, and beyond. Find out more here
Brendan Steacy ASC, CSC Shoots CSC-Nominated "Rabbit Hole" with ZEISS Supreme Prime Lenses, Creating a Visual Masterpiece
Brendan Steacy ASC, CSC, a virtuoso of visual language, trusted ZEISS Supreme Primes once again. Read the full interview on the ZEISS Lenspire blog to find out how he achieved the modern visual aesthetic that complements the film's cyber-spy-privacy-invasive narrative. Available to read here
From our Friends at Videoguys…
V-RAPTOR® [X] 8K VV combines the strengths of RED’s two families of cameras into one powerful all-purpose workhorse. The frame rates, lowlight performance, and resolution of the V-RAPTOR® line combined with the global shutter advancements of KOMODO®, the V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV sensor is the culmination of the latest advancements in digital cinema image making. Using RED’s newest 8K VV sensor, V-RAPTOR [X] leverages the benefits and flexibility of large format, global shutter, high framerate, 8K acquisition, all inside of a compact and feature rich body weighing just over 4lbs.
Inquire here
Vimeo Staff Picks Screening:
Tuesday, May 7th | Toronto
A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! Join Vimeo curator Ina Pira as she screens recent and upcoming Staff Picked films with live, unscripted commentary from some of the best creators on Vimeo. Free RSVP here
Featured Industry Event:
Cine Gear Expo | Burbank, CA
Cine Gear Expo features exhibits, new product and service introductions, complimentary seminars led by industry leaders, masterclasses, a film competition, and awards ceremony. From June 6-9th, the LA Expo will be held at the historic Warner Bros Studios in Burbank, CA.
A fitting backdrop for the Cine Gear industry trade show, visitors can enjoy outdoor booths on Warner Bros Midwest and French Streets, former home to The Music Man, Bonnie and Clyde, and “Gilmore Girls”. Simultaneously, The Friends and Young Sheldon Stages will house indoor booths filled with the latest tech from popular equipment vendors. Warner’s full-service facility also offers state-of-the-art venues like the Steven J. Ross Theatre to accommodate Cine Gear’s hallmark Film Competition, Screening Series, and Presentations.
Learn more here
Movie List of the Month:
John Carpenter’s Top 10
Check out The Master of Horror’s list here
Podcast Rewind:
April 2024 - Ep. 30…
The Making Of is published by Michael Valinsky.
If interested in promoting your products to over 13,700 leading film, TV and video industry pros reading this newsletter, please email us: mvalinsky@me.com











Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Vimeo curators Meghan Oretsky and Ina Pira. This pivotal team at Vimeo leads the curation of the platform’s celebrated Staff Picks and engages with the filmmaking community on a constant basis. In our chat, we hear their back stories, how they got involved with Vimeo, and their unique roles with curation. In addition, they share insights on the state of independent film today — and what’s coming for Staff Picks events throughout 2024.
The Making Of is presented by AJA Video Systems.
As productions grow in complexity, access to on-set displays for monitoring is crucial. With ample routing inputs and outputs, it’s easy to achieve greater monitoring flexibility and redundancy on-set. Check out this Q&A with DIT Kevin Shiramizu to learn how he’s leveraging AJA KUMO SDI routers to do just this across projects.
Vimeo Staff Picks Screening:
Tuesday, April 23rd | San Francisco
A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! 
Join Vimeo curator Meghan Oretsky as she screens a handful of exceptional Staff Picked films with live, unscripted commentary from some of the best creators on Vimeo. After the screening, grab some swag and mingle with other filmmakers over apps and drinks. This event is free to attend.
RSVP here
From our Friends at Videoguys…
Media Composer is the most acclaimed and trusted collaborative video editing software solution across the media and entertainment industry. With options for all types of content creators—from students and independent video editors to creative teams, high-level post-production teams and broadcasters, Media Composer provides the most powerful storytelling tools in the industry. From AI-powered timesaving features, flexible workflow options, to customizable UI and remote collaboration tools, Media Composer makes it easy to create and deliver content from anywhere and turn around more projects faster. In the highest quality. On time and on budget.
Learn more here
ZEISS Wins Multiple Awards at NAB 2024
Congratulations to ZEISS for taking home three awards at NAB 2024 for Nano Primes and CinCraft Scenario camera tracking solutions. Check out these award-winning products and more here
Featured Book:
Stanley Kubrick and Me: Thirty Years at His Side
This intimate portrait by his former personal assistant and confidante reveals the man behind the legendary filmmaker—for the first time.
Stanley Kubrick, the director of a string of timeless movies from Lolita and Dr. Strangelove to A Clockwork Orange, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Full Metal Jacket, and others, has always been depicted by the media as the Howard Hughes of filmmakers, a weird artist obsessed with his work and privacy to the point of madness. But who was he really? Emilio D'Alessandro lets us see. A former Formula Ford driver who was a minicab chauffeur in London during the Swinging Sixties, he took a job driving a giant phallus through the city that became his introduction to the director. Honest, reliable, and ready to take on any task, Emilio found his way into Kubrick's neurotic, obsessive heart. He became his personal assistant, his right-hand man and confidant, working for him from A Clockwork Orange until Kubrick's death in 1999.
View here
Podcast Rewind:
April 2024 - Ep. 29…
The Making Of is published by Michael Valinsky.
If you’d like to promote your products to 12,600 leading film, TV and video industry pros reading this newsletter, please email us: mvalinsky@me.com


Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome filmmaker Chris Kentis. Chris is a writer, director, producer and editor, who achieved great success with his independent film, Open Water, in 2003. In our chat, we hear his backstory, path into filmmaking, and process making this movie. Chris also shares about his cinematic inspirations, other projects he’s worked on, and what's next for him.
The Making Of is presented by AJA Video Systems.
As productions grow in complexity, access to on-set displays for monitoring is crucial. With ample routing inputs and outputs, it’s easy to achieve greater monitoring flexibility and redundancy on-set. Check out this Q&A with DIT Kevin Shiramizu to learn how he’s leveraging AJA KUMO SDI routers to do just this across projects.
From our Friends at Videoguys…
Media Composer is the most acclaimed and trusted collaborative video editing software solution across the media and entertainment industry. With options for all types of content creators—from students and independent video editors to creative teams, high-level post-production teams and broadcasters, Media Composer provides the most powerful storytelling tools in the industry. From AI-powered timesaving features, flexible workflow options, to customizable UI and remote collaboration tools, Media Composer makes it easy to create and deliver content from anywhere and turn around more projects faster. In the highest quality. On time and on budget.
Learn more here
Visit ZEISS at the NAB Show:
NAB is around the corner, and you don't want to miss what's new at the ZEISS Booth #7312 in Hall C! Come discover the cinematic look of the Nano Prime lenses and check out live demonstrations of the ZEISS CinCraft Scenario camera tracking solution. ZEISS' knowledgeable Product Specialists are excited to discuss your upcoming camera tracking needs and offer their expertise. Whether you're working in indoor or outdoor settings, on film sets with green and blue screens, or in LED volumes, they have the solution for you.
If you're looking to save time on lens calibration, come and see how Scenario can accelerate your workflow. Plus, you can explore the complete lineup of ZEISS cinema lenses — including Supreme Prime, Supreme Prime Radiance, CZ.2 Cinema Zoom lenses, CP.3 Primes, and more! Use ZEISS' guest pass code NS7892 to register for free admission and click the link below to add ZEISS to your planner. 
To add ZEISS to your Show Planner, click here
Vimeo Staff Picks Screening:
April 23, 2024 | San Francisco
Join us for this free screening of recent Vimeo Staff Pick favorites, handpicked and hosted by our curators. Short films will be accompanied by live commentary from featured local filmmakers. After the screening, there’ll be a Networking Party with drinks, snacks, music and swag!
RSVP for free here
Podcast Rewind:
March 2024 - Ep. 28…
The Making Of is published by Michael Valinsky.
If you’d like to promote your products to over 12,500 leading film, TV and video industry pros reading this newsletter, please email us: mvalinsky@me.com


Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe