Work in Process

Larkhaus

Work in Process is a series that focuses on getting to know the people behind great work. We learn about their stories. What's helped them along the way? What inspires them, and how they've overcome challenges and failures? Our focus is not on the tools they use but on the artists and their unique paths in their creative journeys. As part of our commitment at Larkhaus, the 'Work in Process' series is one of the many resources we're developing to empower filmmakers , helping them bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential. visit www.larkhaus.com for more and follow us! www.instagram.com/larkhaus www.youtube.com/@larkhaus

  1. 06.06.2025

    From Cinematographer To Director: What I Had To Learn The Hard Way | Jay Holben

    In this conversation, Director, Producer, Author Jay Holben shares the unexpected turns, hard-won lessons, and deeply personal reflections from a career that spans decades — from walking out of Star Wars at age five and declaring he’d be a Director, to spending 30 years learning every role on set to prepare for that moment… only to watch his early directing projects fall apart. This episode isn’t about shortcuts. It’s about the long road: learning by doing, failing forward, and staying curious in an industry that constantly tests your patience, your passion, and your purpose. Jay opens up about the real emotional toll of the business, why he believes most filmmakers start too late, and how writing — and teaching — saved him when nothing else was working. We explore: Why learning every job on set made Jay a better director The harsh reality of “arriving” — and what happens when it all falls apart How to build a sustainable career in film when the industry keeps shifting What Spielberg, impostor syndrome, and tequila have in common The soft skills no one talks about: leadership, politics, people How writing for American Cinematographer changed everything The power of community, mentorship, and honest conversations Whether you’re just starting out or decades into your career, Jay’s story will challenge you to rethink how success is defined — and remind you why you fell in love with storytelling in the first place. About us: Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential. Larkhaus community members and collaborators are among the world's top filmmakers, working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, and more. We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential. The future is created by those who tell the best stories. www.larkhaus.com www.instagram.com/larkhaus

    1 ч. 26 мин.
  2. 17.03.2025

    Alice Brooks, ASC on Wicked, Visual Storytelling & The Art of Light

    Alice Brooks, ASC is the visionary Cinematographer behind Wicked and many other great works. From her early love of musicals to the art of lighting, composition, and collaboration, Alice shares how she uses cinematography to shape emotion and storytelling. About us:Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential. We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential. www.larkhaus.comwww.instagram.com/larkhaus Timestamps:00:00 - Intro & Welcome01:30 - Alice’s Early Love for Musicals & Storytelling03:00 - Growing Up with Artist Parents & Watching Live Theater04:30 - Learning to Read Early to Watch Movies with Her Father06:00 - Growing Up in a Creative Family & Discovering Cinematography07:30 - Acting as a Child & Getting Exposure to Film Sets09:00 - Watching Cinematographers Work & Realizing That’s What She Wanted to Do10:30 - The Moment Alice Told Her Mom She Wanted to Be a Cinematographer12:00 - Transitioning from Child Actor to Cinematographer14:00 - How Acting Helped Her Understand Camera Work & Performance16:00 - The Power of Visual Storytelling Over Performance18:00 - Collaborating with Jon M. Chu on Wicked & Other Films20:00 - How Alice & Jon Built Trust Over the Years22:00 - Breaking Down a Script by Emotion Before Planning Cinematography24:00 - How Lighting Shapes Emotion in Storytelling26:00 - Why Alice Thinks of Light as an Emotional Language28:00 - Assigning Single-Word Emotions to Every Scene in a Film30:00 - Designing the Color & Light for Wicked32:00 - The 18-Week Process of Testing Colors for Wicked34:00 - How Wicked Was Designed Like a Modern Technicolor Film36:00 - How They Used 6,000 Lights to Build the World of Oz38:00 - The Process of Lighting the Yellow Brick Road40:00 - The Role of Shadows & Silhouettes in the Film’s Look42:00 - The Emotional Impact of Cinematic Framing & Composition44:00 - Choosing Camera Angles to Reflect Character Growth46:00 - The Key Moments Where Wicked Breaks the Fourth Wall48:00 - Balancing Practical Effects with VFX & CGI50:00 - The Importance of Tactile Realism in a VFX-Heavy Film52:00 - Creating a Seamless Blend Between CGI & Practical Sets54:00 - The Importance of Restraint in Cinematography56:00 - Why Holding on a Still Shot Can Be More Powerful Than a Camera Move58:00 - The Use of Long Takes & When to Let a Scene Breathe1:00:00 - How Alice Balances Leadership & Creativity on Set1:02:00 - Managing a Crew for 155 Shooting Days1:04:00 - Hosting Weekly “Movie Club” for the Crew to Build Trust1:06:00 - Why Collaboration Is the Heart of Filmmaking1:08:00 - The Personal & Emotional Challenges of Large-Scale Filmmaking1:10:00 - The Pressure of Working on a High-Profile Musical1:12:00 - How Alice Stays Grounded During Intense Productions1:15:00 - Advice for Aspiring Cinematographers & Filmmakers1:16:30 - Why There’s No Such Thing as a “Perfect Frame” in Cinematography1:18:00 - Why Taking Risks Is Essential for Filmmakers1:20:00 - Final Reflections on the Power of Storytelling1:22:00 - The Personal Meaning Behind Defying Gravity & Alice’s Own Journey1:24:00 - “Close Your Eyes and Leap” – Why That Phrase Defines Her Career

    55 мин.
  3. 14.02.2025

    The Art of Cinematography with Nicholas Matthews: Light, Story & Emotion

    In this deep-dive conversation, Cinematographer Nicholas Matthews shares his journey from a childhood immersed in storytelling to becoming a cinematographer shaping compelling, visually striking narratives. From his early inspirations to navigating the emotional and physical demands of filmmaking, Nicholas provides invaluable insights into the craft, collaboration, and philosophy behind cinematography. 📺 Watch now and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes filmmaking conversations! About us:Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc.  We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential. The future is created by those who tell the best stories. www.larkhaus.comwww.instagram.com/larkhaus Timestamps00:00 - Intro & Welcome01:30 - Nicholas' Journey into Filmmaking & Storytelling06:00 - Growing Up in a Conservative Home & Its Impact on Creativity12:30 - Early Filmmaking Experiences & Learning the Craft18:00 - Breaking Into Cinematography24:00 - Developing a Personal Visual Language30:00 - Shooting Saw X and Working in the Horror Genre34:00 - Navigating Visual Contrast in Horror Cinematography38:00 - The Emotional & Physical Toll of Filmmaking42:00 - Learning to Lead as a Cinematographer44:00 - The Importance of Collaboration & Creative Risk-Taking on Set48:00 - Balancing Artistry & Technical Constraints in Filmmaking50:00 - The Power of Visual Storytelling & "Less is More" Cinematography53:00 - How Lighting Choices Affect Mood & Storytelling56:00 - Why Filmmakers Need to Prioritize Rest & Recovery1:00:00 - The Psychological Toll of Working on Dark-Themed Films1:03:00 - Final Thoughts & Advice for Aspiring Cinematographers1:06:00 - How to Develop Your Own Cinematic Style1:10:00 - The Role of Cinematography in World-Building1:15:00 - The Future of Cinematography & Emerging Trends1:20:00 - Favorite Cinematic Inspirations & Directors Who Shaped His Style1:25:00 - The Best Advice He Ever Received in the Film Industry1:30:00 - Closing Remarks & Where to Follow Nicholas' Work

    1 ч. 12 мин.
  4. The Power Of Cinema And How It Shapes Culture | Em Michelle Gonzales

    17.09.2024

    The Power Of Cinema And How It Shapes Culture | Em Michelle Gonzales

    In this compelling episode, we sit down with Em Michelle Gonzales, a Camera Operator and Cinematographer.Em is a rising star in the world of cinematography, and we explore the nuances of collaboration, relationships, and the creative process behind the camera.Em shares their journey from humble beginnings as a PA to working on major TV shows like Better Call Saul, providing a unique and intimate look into the hard work and dedication required to succeed in the film industry.Through personal anecdotes and invaluable lessons, we dive deep into the importance of teamwork on set, the art of listening, and the critical role collaboration plays in bringing a director's vision to life. From navigating the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry to learning the ropes by doing every job in the camera department, this conversation highlights the power of relationships and mentorship in building a successful career in film. This episode is packed with insights for aspiring filmmakers, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how relationships, resilience, and creativity shape both personal growth and cinematic storytelling. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned professional, this discussion will inspire you to rethink how collaboration elevates both the art and business of filmmaking. About us:Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc.  We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential. The future is created by those who tell the best stories. www.larkhaus.comwww.instagram.com/larkhaus Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction"Em Michelle Gonzales on carving your name in film and the power of storytelling."01:33 - Early Artistic Inspiration"How Em’s first job and passion for photography shaped her love for the camera."03:04 - From Photography to Cinematography"Combining theater and photography: The natural transition into filmmaking."06:47 - Film as a Mirror of Society"How cinema shows us who we are and helps us understand history."09:05 - Breaking Into the Industry"Em’s journey from PA on Better Call Saul to a career in cinematography."13:27 - The Value of Learning Every Role"Why mastering every job in the camera department is essential for success."15:09 - The Importance of Listening and Collaboration"How paying attention and listening on set makes you a better collaborator."16:08 - Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry"Em shares insights on handling the difficulties of gender bias in film."24:29 - Serving the Story Through Cinematography"Why the story is the boss: Em’s approach to camera work and storytelling."28:09 - Being Present on Set"Operating the camera with intention: The importance of mindfulness in filmmaking."34:09 - The Evolution of Perspective Through Film"How rewatching films over time changes your understanding and connection."44:49 - The Impact of AI on Filmmaking"Em’s thoughts on the future of AI in the industry and its impact on creatives."53:30 - Lessons from the Set of Griselda"What Em learned from working on Griselda and how it shaped her career."59:06 - How You Do Anything is How You Do Everything"Em’s philosophy on paying attention to the details in both life and film."01:02:19 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers"Why slowing down and enjoying the process is key for the next generation of filmmakers."

    1 ч. 5 мин.
  5. Why Great Films Are Built on Relationships | Eric Branco & Matheus Bastos

    30.08.2024

    Why Great Films Are Built on Relationships | Eric Branco & Matheus Bastos

    In this insightful episode, we sit down with Director & Cinematographer Eric Branco and Cinematographer Matheus Bastos to explore the dynamics of collaboration and relationships in filmmaking. Eric and Matheus, recently worked on a film together, and they offer a behind-the-scenes look at how creative partnerships are forged, nurtured, and leveraged to bring great visions to life. They share their experiences of working together on feature films, emphasizing the critical role that trust, communication, and mutual respect play in creating an environment where creativity can thrive. From the challenges of shifting roles from cinematographer to director to the importance of surrounding oneself with mentors and like-minded peers, this conversation delves deep into the personal and professional relationships that shape every frame of a film. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or a seasoned industry veteran, this episode provides invaluable insights into the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the power of relationships in driving artistic success. Learn how Eric and Matheus navigate the complexities of creative collaboration, manage the pressures of set life, and maintain the delicate balance between leadership and teamwork. Join us for an engaging discussion that highlights the importance of building strong connections in the film industry, and discover how great relationships can elevate your work and career. About us: Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential. Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc.  We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential. The future is created by those who tell the best stories. www.larkhaus.com www.instagram.com/larkhaus

    1 ч. 18 мин.
  6. Building a Career in Film: The Art of Collaboration | Colorist Bryan Smaller

    16.08.2024

    Building a Career in Film: The Art of Collaboration | Colorist Bryan Smaller

    In this thought-provoking and inspiring conversation, we sit down with Bryan Smaller, a seasoned colorist and filmmaker, to explore the intricate balance between art and science in the creative industry. From directing his first commercial at just 14 years old to working on high-profile films, Bryan shares his remarkable journey of blending technical expertise with artistic vision. In this episode, Bryan delves into the challenges of building a sustainable career in filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, community, and finding your guiding principles. He offers profound insights on how embracing the process, rather than focusing solely on the end result, can lead to long-term success and fulfillment. Through captivating stories and real-world examples, Bryan highlights why helping others and building strong creative relationships are key to thriving in any artistic field. Whether you're a filmmaker, artist, or creative professional, this episode provides invaluable advice on how to turn your passion into a lasting career while staying true to your mission and values. Join us as we unpack the secrets to longevity in the industry and how you can prosper by serving others. 🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes content! About us: Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential. Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc.  We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential. The future is created by those who tell the best stories. www.larkhaus.com www.instagram.com/larkhaus

    59 мин.
  7. How to Make Your Mark in the Film Industry | Cinematographer Shelly Johnson, ASC

    07.08.2024

    How to Make Your Mark in the Film Industry | Cinematographer Shelly Johnson, ASC

    In this captivating and insightful conversation, we sit down with the President of the American Society of Cinematographers, Shelly Johnson, ASC, to delve into the fascinating world of cinematography and filmmaking.  Shelly shares his journey from growing up in a creative household to becoming a leading figure in the film industry, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of cinematic storytelling. Shelly opens up about the significant shifts from film to digital, the critical importance of collaboration, and the intricacies of navigating the political landscape of the industry. This discussion provides invaluable insights into the artistry and technical expertise required to succeed in cinematography, as well as the personal qualities that drive creative professionals to leave a lasting legacy. In this episode, we explore: Shelly’s early influences and pathway into cinematographyThe dramatic transition from film stock to digital technologyThe role of collaboration and mentorship in filmmakingOvercoming challenges and setbacks in the film industryHow personal experiences and insights shape artistic visionThe impact of new technologies on the art of cinematographyStrategies for building a successful and enduring film career Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned professional, or a creative enthusiast, this conversation offers essential wisdom and inspiration for navigating the ever-changing landscape of cinema. This episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about filmmaking, storytelling, and the visual arts. Join us as we uncover the stories, challenges, and triumphs that define a career in cinematography with the ASC President, Shelly Johnson, ASC. 🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes content! About us: Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential. Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc.  We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential. The future is created by those who tell the best stories. www.larkhaus.com www.instagram.com/larkhaus

    1 ч. 13 мин.

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Work in Process is a series that focuses on getting to know the people behind great work. We learn about their stories. What's helped them along the way? What inspires them, and how they've overcome challenges and failures? Our focus is not on the tools they use but on the artists and their unique paths in their creative journeys. As part of our commitment at Larkhaus, the 'Work in Process' series is one of the many resources we're developing to empower filmmakers , helping them bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential. visit www.larkhaus.com for more and follow us! www.instagram.com/larkhaus www.youtube.com/@larkhaus