TV & FilmFilm InterviewsExplicit

The Making Of

"The Making Of" explores the creative pros behind the most innovative films & TV shows in recent history.

themakingof.substack.com

Play

Open in

28 episodes
weekly
Avg 34 min
English

Episodes 28

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

September 24 · 20 min
“Futurama” Showrunner David X. Cohen on the New Season, Collaborating with Matt Groening, & More
In this episode, we welcome four-time Emmy Award winner David X. Cohen, co-creator, executive producer and head writer of Futurama. David takes us inside the making of the iconic animated series, from its origins and his longtime collaboration with Matt Groening on The Simpsons, to the creative process behind Futurama and its new season. He also shares insights and advice for today’s writers and creators developing their own original work. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Tackle production problems head-on with AJA’s latest products From FS8 to OG-FiDO-4, AJA’s newest products address modern production demands. A 12G-SDI/SMPTE ST 2110 Media Processor, FS8 delivers powerful tools for navigating mismatched frame rates, rasters, and color spaces, streamlining audio routing, and more. OG-FiDO-4 openGear four-channel SDI/Fiber conversion cards let teams extend SDI infrastructure over fiber. Explore here Vimeo Announces 2nd Annual Short Film Grant Launched in 2025, this initiative supports the production of artistically driven short films by awarding five emerging filmmakers with money, mentorship, and access to gear for the production of their next short film projects. Following this open call for submissions, a dream team jury featuring Koganada, Josephine Decker, Pete Ohs, Sarah Winshall, and Jomo Fray, ASC will select five winners to each receive a $60,000 cash production grant, access to select Panavision camera packages and OWC storage, one-on-one mentorship with the jury, screenings, distribution and promotion on Vimeo, and more. With support from Panavision, OWC, AJA Video Systems, and ShotDeck. Explore here Post|Production World New York Oct. 20-21 | New York, NY Post|Production World New York returns to NAB Show New York, Oct 20-21 at the Javits Center. Two days of high-impact training in editing, motion graphics, AI workflows, & visual storytelling, taught by the industry’s leading trainers in Premiere, After Effects, DaVinci Resolve, and Cinema 4D. Discount Code: PPWTMO Visit here Build Your RAID. Save While You Do It. The OWC Express 4M2 gives video and post professionals a flexible four-slot NVMe RAID solution with speeds up to 3200MB/s, support for up to 32TB today, and near-silent adaptive cooling. Choose your own NVMe drives and configure the storage your workflow needs. Right now, the Express 4M2 enclosure is on sale starting at just $178.99 Explore here Cineverse Oct. 16-17 | Rome, Italy Cinematography, technology, and the next generation - at the iconic Cinecittà Studios, Rome. Join us for Cineverse from 16–17 October 2026. Two days of exhibition, technology, AIC IMAGO panels, Frame Bar sessions and networking. Discover the people, ideas and innovations shaping the future of cinematography, from established industry voices to the next generation of talent. Visit here What’s Better Than Royalty Free Music? Music That Enhances Your Creative Experience. Unlimited music. Unlimited productions. One straightforward license. CSS Music gives filmmakers and content creators access to music from human composers, backed by a broad standard license with unlimited uses, unlimited productions, and no time limits. Find the right track faster with 8 powerful search options, then customize it for your production with custom-length and stem extraction tools. Plus, easily create playlists and generate cue sheets—all designed to make music licensing and production simpler. No hassles. No surprises. Just great music and tools built for creators. Explore here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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. Visit here Meet G-RAID PROJECT 2 G-RAID PROJECT 2 delivers high-performance storage for demanding video workflows. With dual 7200RPM Ultrastar enterprise-class drives, Thunderbolt 3, and capacities up to 52TB, it’s built for 4K, 8K, VR, and content-intensive projects. Shop at Videoguys or call 800-323-2325 for expert advice. Visit here Podcast Rewind: Sept. 2026 - Ep. 151. Partner with The Making Of: Reach 275,000 film industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore advertising opportunities, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
September 16 · 25 min
“Mayday” Directors John Francis Daley & Jonathan Goldstein on Making the Apple TV Film
In this episode of The Making Of, we’re joined by John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, the writer-director team behind Vacation, Game Night, and Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, to go behind the scenes of their latest film, Apple TV’s MAYDAY, starring Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh. John and Jonathan take us inside the making of MAYDAY, reflect on the creative partnership they’ve built across more than a decade, and share advice for the next generation of filmmakers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Tackle production problems head-on with AJA’s latest products From FS8 to OG-FiDO-4, AJA’s newest products address modern production demands. A 12G-SDI/SMPTE ST 2110 Media Processor, FS8 delivers powerful tools for navigating mismatched frame rates, rasters, and color spaces, streamlining audio routing, and more. OG-FiDO-4 openGear four-channel SDI/Fiber conversion cards let teams extend SDI infrastructure over fiber. Explore here What’s Better Than Royalty Free Music? Music That Enhances Your Creative Experience. Unlimited music. Unlimited productions. One straightforward license. CSS Music gives filmmakers and content creators access to music from human composers, backed by a broad standard license with unlimited uses, unlimited productions, and no time limits. Find the right track faster with 8 powerful search options, then customize it for your production with custom-length and stem extraction tools. Plus, easily create playlists and generate cue sheets—all designed to make music licensing and production simpler. No hassles. No surprises. Just great music and tools built for creators. Explore here Post|Production World New York Oct. 20-21 | New York, NY Post|Production World New York returns to NAB Show New York, October 20-21 at the Javits Center. Two days of high-impact training in editing, motion graphics, AI workflows, and visual storytelling, taught by the industry’s leading trainers in Premiere, After Effects, DaVinci Resolve, and Cinema 4D. Discount Code: PPWTMO Register here A Solution Built Around Your Workflow The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Explore here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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. Visit here Meet G-RAID PROJECT 2 G-RAID PROJECT 2 delivers high-performance storage for demanding video workflows. With dual 7200RPM Ultrastar enterprise-class drives, Thunderbolt 3, and capacities up to 52TB, it’s built for 4K, 8K, VR, and content-intensive projects. Shop at Videoguys or call 800-323-2325 for expert advice. Visit here Podcast Rewind: Sept. 2026 - Ep. 150. Partner with The Making Of: Reach 275K film industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore advertising opportunities, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
September 10 · 16 min
Carlson Young on Directing “The Last Sunrise” for Amazon MGM Studios
In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Carlson Young to discuss her latest feature, The Last Sunrise, and her evolution from actor to director. Carlson reflects on her early years in front of the camera, including Scream: The TV Series and Emily in Paris, and how those experiences shaped her instincts as a filmmaker. She also takes us inside the making of The Last Sunrise, her collaboration with cinematographer Rob Givens, and shares advice for emerging filmmakers building their own careers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Tackle production problems head-on with AJA’s latest products From FS8 to OG-FiDO-4, AJA’s newest products address modern production demands. A 12G-SDI/SMPTE ST 2110 Media Processor, FS8 delivers powerful tools for navigating mismatched frame rates, rasters, and color spaces, streamlining audio routing, and more. OG-FiDO-4 openGear four-channel SDI/Fiber conversion cards let teams extend SDI infrastructure over fiber. Explore here OWC @ IBC 2026 OWC is bringing new storage and connectivity built for demanding video workflows to IBC 2026, including the Thunderbolt 5 Dock with Dual HDMI and the USB4 Hub. Stop by the booth to go hands-on with the gear and talk shop with the team. Learn more here SportStream Sept. 15 | Virtual SportStream is a three-day event featuring vendors and experts focused on the impact of live streaming and production in today’s dynamic world of sports. Discover tips, tricks, and tools for remote production, live video streaming, professional graphics, and instant replay — all designed to help you capture the action and excitement of every game. From schools to pro leagues, we’re here to provide you with everything you need to elevate your sports productions and live streams. Join us September 15 – 17th, 2026! Your FREE one-time registration gains you access to three days of informative webinars, interviews with industry guests, live demos, chances to win great prizes, and more! Register here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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. Visit here Meet G-RAID PROJECT 2 G-RAID PROJECT 2 delivers high-performance storage for demanding video workflows. With dual 7200RPM Ultrastar enterprise-class drives, Thunderbolt 3, and capacities up to 52TB, it’s built for 4K, 8K, VR, and content-intensive projects. Shop at Videoguys or call 800-323-2325 for expert advice. Visit here Podcast Rewind: Aug. 2026 - Ep. 149. Partner with The Making Of: Reach 275,000 film industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To explore advertising opportunities, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
September 1 · 20 min
PBS KIDS’ Sara DeWitt on Back-to-School Programming, Navigating Funding Challenges & More
In this episode, we welcome Sara DeWitt, SVP & GM of PBS KIDS and Education, for a wide-ranging conversation about her background and career, her leadership role at PBS KIDS, and the organization’s mission to educate and inspire children nationwide. We discuss current and back-to-school programming, supporting early literacy, and how PBS KIDS is navigating funding challenges while continuing its educational mission. Sara also shares her perspective on the future of children’s media, education, and much more. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Futureproofing with IP video As production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today. SportStream Sept. 15 | Virtual SportStream is a three-day event featuring vendors and experts focused on the impact of live streaming and production in today’s dynamic world of sports. Discover tips, tricks, and tools for remote production, live video streaming, professional graphics, and instant replay — all designed to help you capture the action and excitement of every game. From schools to pro leagues, we’re here to provide you with everything you need to elevate your sports productions and live streams. Join us Sept 15–17th! Your FREE registration gains you access to three days of informative webinars, interviews with industry guests, live demos, chances to win great prizes, and more! Register here A Solution Built Around Your Workflow The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Explore here Elgato Prompter XL The Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more. Learn more here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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. Explore here Podcast Rewind: Aug. 2026 - Ep. 148. Partner with The Making Of: Reach 275,000+ film production industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To explore advertising, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
August 26 · 25 min
“LION” Cinematographer Sophie Darlington ASC on Crafting the Disney+ and National Geographic Documentary
In this episode, we welcome Sophie Darlington ASC, an award-winning cinematographer whose remarkable career has taken her around the world capturing wildlife and the natural world. In our conversation, she takes us behind the scenes of LION, sharing how she filmed the documentary over the course of four years in the wild, and what went into bringing the Jon Favreau–executive-produced project to life. She discusses the technologies used to craft the film’s stunning imagery, along with the challenges of this type of production. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Futureproofing with IP video As production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today. Post|Production World New York Oct. 20-21 | New York Sharpen your edit, your motion graphics, and your AI workflow in two days. Post|Production World New York brings certified trainers and working pros to NAB Show New York, October 20-21, with hands-on sessions in Premiere, After Effects, DaVinci Resolve, and Cinema 4D. Registration includes show floor access. Discount Code: PPWTMO Register here A Solution Built Around Your Workflow The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Explore here Elgato Prompter XL The Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more. Explore here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here Podcast Rewind: July 2026 - Ep. 147. Partner with The Making Of: Reach 275,000+ film industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To explore advertising, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
August 20 · 39 min
How 3 Indie Filmmakers Made an $8,000 Horror Feature—and Got Distribution
In this episode, we welcome co-directors Christian Hurley and Ben Oliphint, and producer Matt Wassong—the filmmakers behind the horror feature A Most Atrocious Thing, made for just $8,000 and ultimately landing distribution on Roku and other platforms. In our conversation, the team shares the inspiration behind the film, writing it during the pandemic, shooting the feature on a shoestring budget, and navigating its evolving post-production process. They also demystify indie film distribution—sharing their experiences on the festival circuit, making a key connection at Tubi, and other secrets behind the film’s success. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Futureproofing with IP video As production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today. Screamfest 2026 October 6-15 | Los Angeles, CA Ready for a thrill? Screamfest returns October 6–15 with ten nights of spine-chilling world premieres, terrifying shorts, and exclusive filmmaker Q&As and panels. Catch the newest discoveries in horror on the big screen before anyone else. Don’t wait—secure your festival passes and tickets today before they sell out! Learn more here A Solution Built Around Your Workflow The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Explore here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here Elgato Prompter XL The Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more. Explore here Podcast Rewind: July 2026 - Ep. 146. Partner with The Making Of: Reach 275K film production industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore advertising, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
August 12 · 35 min
“Widow’s Bay” Cinematographer, Editor & Sound Mixer on Crafting the Hit Apple TV Series
In this episode, we welcome the creative team behind the 19-time Emmy-nominated Apple TV series Widow’s Bay—cinematographer Christian Sprenger ASC, editor Isaac Hagy ACE, and production sound mixer Kevin S. Parker. In our conversation, Christian, Isaac, and Kevin take us behind the scenes of the series, sharing how they helped create its distinctive blend of horror, comedy, mystery, and character. They break down the elements that shape the world of Widow’s Bay, while exploring their collaboration, and the tools and techniques behind some of the series’ most memorable moments. They also offer advice for students and filmmakers looking to improve their craft and grow their careers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Futureproofing with IP video As production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today. A Solution Built Around Your Workflow The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Learn more here Elgato Prompter XL The Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more. Explore here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here Podcast Rewind: July 2026 - Ep. 145. Advertise with The Making Of: Reach 270K film production industry, broadcast professionals, and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore advertising, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
August 5 · 40 min
"Other Mommy" Cinematographer Lowell A. Meyer on Making the Horror Film, Crafting "Tuner," & More
In this episode, we welcome Lowell A. Meyer, cinematographer of Other Mommy, Tuner, Knock at the Cabin, Thunder Road, and the Apple TV+ series Servant. In our conversation, Lowell shares his early inspirations, his journey to becoming a feature film cinematographer, and about the making of Tuner and Other Mommy. He also breaks down the tools and techniques used on Tuner, offering behind-the-scenes insights into his creative process, as well as invaluable advice for the next generation of filmmakers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Futureproofing with IP video As production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today. A Solution Built Around Your Workflow The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Learn more here Cost Effective Sports Video Production Guide Hosted by Key Code Media Thursday, August 6 | 1-2PM EDT Mid-tier sports programs, college athletics departments, and K-12 media teams are being asked to produce more live content for traditional and emerging sports with less time, fewer staff, and tighter budgets. The challenge is not just finding the right gear. It is building a production workflow that looks professional, is easy to operate, and can be used consistently by staff, students, and volunteers without requiring a large technical team. In this Broadcast2Post Live Podcast, host Michael Kammes will be joined by Dennis Trapani, Associate Athletics Director for Broadcast and Video Production at the University of Wyoming. Together, they will explore how schools and organizations are creating broadcast-quality sports productions using cost-effective tools, practical system design, and streamlined workflows. Register here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here Elgato Prompter XL The Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more. Explore here Podcast Rewind: July 2026 - Ep. 144. Explore a Partnership with The Making Of: Reach 270,000 film production industry, broadcast professionals, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
July 30 · 43 min
Natasha Braier ASC, ADF on Crafting "I Love Boosters," DeepLight Community, & More
In this episode, we welcome Natasha Braier ASC, ADF, the cinematographer behind acclaimed films such as She Said, Honey Boy, The Neon Demon, Gloria Bell, and I Love Boosters. In our conversation, Natasha shares her journey from her roots in Argentina to building a career in Los Angeles, along with a behind-the-scenes look at the making of I Love Boosters, directed by Boots Riley. She also discusses DeepLight, the cinematography community she founded, and offers thoughtful advice for the next generation of filmmakers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Futureproofing with IP video As production workflows rapidly evolve, IP video is key to building more scalable, future-ready pipelines. To get up to speed on the IP fundamentals and gain insights into the various IP paths – like ST 2110, NDI, Dante AV, and SRT – download AJA’s free IP video white paper today. A Solution Built Around Your Workflow The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Learn more here Intelligent Production Hub New this summer from the Intelligent Production Hub: hands-on training in the AI and real-time tools working productions run on. Intro to NVIDIA NvRTX (Jul 29), AI Video Creators Workshop (Aug 7), AI Creativity with Comfy (Aug 12), plus role-based AI sessions for editing, VFX, sound, and design. See the full schedule here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here Elgato Prompter XL The Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6” removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it’s ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more. Explore here Podcast Rewind: July 2026 - Ep. 143. Explore a Partnership with The Making Of: Reach over 270,000 film production industry, broadcast professionals, and content creators reading this newsletter. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
July 22 · 33 min
"Dark" Cinematographer Nik Summerer ASC on Crafting "Color Book" in Black & White
In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Nik Summerer ASC, best known for his work on the critically acclaimed series Dark, as well as 1899 and the feature film Color Book, now streaming on Netflix. In our conversation, Nik shares his journey into cinematography, reflecting on his influences and the path that led him behind the camera. We take a deep dive into the making of Color Book, exploring his visual storytelling approach, the techniques he employed, and the tools he used to bring this striking black-and-white drama to life. Nik also offers real-world advice for students and emerging filmmakers looking to build a career in the industry. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: AJA introduces high-performance Thunderbolt™ 5-enabled PCIe expansion chassis Meet Io Xpand, a Thunderbolt 5 expansion chassis for AJA KONA and Corvid I/O cards. Io Xpand lets video professionals integrate the performance of AJA PCIe I/O cards on Thunderbolt 5 laptops and mini-PCs for an incredibly powerful, fast, and portable I/O solution for on set, remote production, and live switching. Visit here Intelligent Production Hub New this summer from the Intelligent Production Hub: hands-on training in the AI and real-time tools working productions run on. Intro to NVIDIA NvRTX (Jul 29), AI Video Creators Workshop (Aug 7), AI Creativity with Comfy (Aug 12), plus role-based AI sessions for editing, VFX, sound, and design. See the full schedule here A Solution Built Around Your Workflow The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Learn more here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here Elgato Prompter XL The Elgato Prompter XL is a professional all-in-one teleprompter with a 15.6" removable display and a reading range of up to 15 feet. Featuring USB 3.2 connectivity and broad compatibility, it's ideal for live productions and content creation. Available now at Videoguys.com—call 800-323-2325 to learn more. Explore here Podcast Rewind: July 2026 - Ep. 142. Explore a Partnership with The Making Of: Reach over 275,000 film production industry, broadcast professionals, and content creators reading this newsletter. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
July 15 · 24 min
Filmmaker Connie He + Google DeepMind's Márcia Mayer on Making the Tribeca Festival Animated Short Film
In this episode, we welcome director Connie He and Google DeepMind’s Márcia Mayer to discuss the making of Dear Upstairs Neighbors, which premiered at the Tribeca Festival in June. Connie and Márcia, both Pixar alumni, embarked on a creative journey to explore how emerging technologies could help bring Connie’s story and artistic vision to life. In our conversation, they discuss their respective roles in the project, the collaborative process behind this unique animated film, DeepMind’s mission to empower creators through cutting-edge technology, and what they learned along the way. They also share advice for the next generation of storytellers navigating today’s rapidly evolving creative landscape. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: AJA introduces high-performance Thunderbolt™ 5-enabled PCIe expansion chassis Meet Io Xpand, a Thunderbolt 5 expansion chassis for AJA KONA and Corvid I/O cards. Io Xpand lets video professionals integrate the performance of AJA PCIe I/O cards on Thunderbolt 5 laptops and mini-PCs for an incredibly powerful, fast, and portable I/O solution for on set, remote production, and live switching. Visit here A Solution Built Around Your Workflow The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is available in a range of configurations to fit your workflow and budget. Choose from ready-to-run solutions with up to 32TB of high-performance NVMe storage, giving you the speed, capacity, and reliability needed for everything from multi-camera editing to demanding VFX and finishing workflows. Available now. Learn more here New York City | July 28 The sports-production landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation as a result of the cloud and AI, and SVG’s new Cloud & Content Workflows Summit is where the industry comes together to navigate it. As virtualized hardware, cloud-based workflows, and AI-powered tools become more commonplace, the entire sports-production supply chain is being reimagined from the ground up. This special event brings together SVG’s previous Cloud Production and Content Management events into a single, comprehensive day of programming—covering both live and non-live production workflows alike. Learn more here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here SanDisk Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSD Power 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: July 2026 - Ep. 141. Explore a Partnership with The Making Of: Reach over 275,000 film industry, broadcast professionals, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To learn more, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
July 8 · 26 min
"Hammerhead Sharks Up Close" Cinematographer Jeff Hester on Capturing Sharks Underwater for Nat Geo
In this episode, we welcome award-winning cinematographer Jeff Hester, whose work includes documentaries such as Postcard from Earth, Our Planet, Dolphins Up Close with Bertie Gregory, Planet Earth III, and Hammerhead Sharks Up Close for Nat Geo’s annual summer event, SHARKFEST. In our conversation, Jeff shares his journey into cinematography, how he developed his unique skill set, and the making of Hammerhead Sharks Up Close. He also discusses what it’s like to film underwater alongside sharks, the specialized cameras and techniques used to capture these incredible images, and offers valuable insights for the next generation of filmmakers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: AJA introduces high-performance Thunderbolt™ 5-enabled PCIe expansion chassis Meet Io Xpand, a Thunderbolt 5 expansion chassis for AJA KONA and Corvid I/O cards. Io Xpand lets video professionals integrate the performance of AJA PCIe I/O cards on Thunderbolt 5 laptops and mini-PCs for an incredibly powerful, fast, and portable I/O solution for on set, remote production, and live switching. 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. Explore here New York City | July 28 The sports-production landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation as a result of the cloud and AI, and SVG’s new Cloud & Content Workflows Summit is where the industry comes together to navigate it. As virtualized hardware, cloud-based workflows, and AI-powered tools become more commonplace, the entire sports-production supply chain is being reimagined from the ground up. This special event brings together SVG’s previous Cloud Production and Content Management events into a single, comprehensive day of programming—covering both live and non-live production workflows alike. Learn more here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here SanDisk Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSD Power 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: July 2026 - Ep. 140. Promote your brand with The Making Of: Reach 275,000+ film industry, broadcast 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
July 2 · 42 min
"Cape Fear" Cinematographer Eben Bolter ASC, BSC on Crafting the Series for Apple TV
In this episode, we welcome Eben Bolter ASC, BSC, cinematographer of the new Apple TV series Cape Fear. Eben has also lensed acclaimed projects including The Life of Chuck, The Last of Us, and Slow Horses. In our conversation, he shares his journey into cinematography, the experiences that shaped his career, and his approach to developing the visual language of Cape Fear. He takes a deep dive into the cameras, lenses, lighting, and techniques used to bring the series to life, while offering valuable advice for the next generation of filmmakers. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: AJA introduces high-performance Thunderbolt™ 5-enabled PCIe expansion chassis Meet Io Xpand, a Thunderbolt 5 expansion chassis for AJA KONA and Corvid I/O cards. Io Xpand lets video professionals integrate the performance of AJA PCIe I/O cards on Thunderbolt 5 laptops and mini-PCs for an incredibly powerful, fast, and portable I/O solution for on set, remote production, and live switching. 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. Explore here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here SanDisk Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSD Power 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. 139. Promote your Brand with The Making Of: Reach 270,000+ film industry, broadcast pros, and content creators reading this weekly newsletter. To explore a partnership, please email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
June 24 · 46 min
"Michael" Colorist & Company 3 Founder Stefan Sonnenfeld on Grading the Record-Breaking Biopic
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 World As 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 here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here SanDisk Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSD Power 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. 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
June 17 · 29 min
"Backrooms" Cinematographer, VFX Supervisor, Editor & Production Sound Mixer on Making the Indie Box Office Hit
In this episode, we welcome the Backrooms production team— Cinematographer Jeremy Cox, VFX Supervisor Edward J. Douglas, Editor Greg Ng, and Production Sound Mixer Jan Hetmer. Together, they take us behind the scenes of the groundbreaking indie horror phenomenon, sharing how they brought the film’s unsettling world to life through innovative cinematography, visual effects, editing, and sound design. We explore their creative process, technical workflows, lessons learned during production, and the collaborative approach that transformed a viral internet sensation into a blockbuster feature film. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Bridging ST 2110 with the Broader IP World As 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. Vimeo L.A. Event | June 23 A night of inspiring Vimeo Staff Picks + live filmmaker commentary! 6:30pm | Doors7:30-9pm | Films + commentary9-11:00pm | Reception (complimentary drinks) Vidiots — 4884 N Eagle Rock Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041 Free passes 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 here ZEISS Introduces Horizon Anamorphic: Full-Frame 2x Anamorphics with a New Lens Technology Platform ZEISS 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 here SanDisk Extreme PRO USB4 Portable SSD Power 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. 137. Sponsor The Making Of: Reach 250,000+ 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
June 11 · 29 min
"Pressure" Cinematographer Jamie Ramsay BSC, SASC on Crafting the WWII Period Film
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 World As 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 Platform ZEISS 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 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 here Screamfest — 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 SSD Power 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
June 3 · 53 min
"The Blair Witch Project" Director Daniel Myrick on Creating the Legendary Horror Film
In this episode, we welcome Daniel Myrick, co-director of The Blair Witch Project, one of the most influential independent films of all time. Released in 1999, the groundbreaking horror phenomenon helped redefine the found-footage genre, became a cultural touchstone, and changed the landscape of indie filmmaking. In our conversation, Daniel reflects on the origins of the project, its innovative production approach, the unprecedented impact of the film's release, and the lessons he has carried throughout his career as a filmmaker and storyteller. “The Making Of” is presented by AJA: Bridging ST 2110 with the Broader IP World As 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. Join The Making Of at Panasonic’s Cine Gear Panel: The Making Of joins Panasonic at Cine Gear Expo Los Angeles for “The New Talk Show,” a panel exploring how cinematic tools and studio design are transforming video podcasts into next-generation talk shows. Founder and host Michael Valinsky joins SoundShed AV Solutions CEO Matt Alvarez for the discussion on Saturday, June 6, 3:45pm–4:35pm in Theater 1. To register for the show, 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 here IgelkottPlates: One-Lens 360° Driving Plates for VFX IgelkottPlates announces its redesigned storefront for licensing single-lens 360° driving plates. Read full horizon-strip thumbnails, share collections with DP and VFX supervisor via one link — no logins, and download free ProRes 422 HQ samples in seconds. Captured on real European and US roads, up to 16K. Learn more here Meet the YoloCam S7 The 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 here Podcast Rewind: May 2026 - Ep. 135. 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, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
May 27 · 38 min
FYC: "Love Story" Cinematographer Pepe Avila del Pino on Crafting the JFK Jr. & Carolyn Bessette Limited Series
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 NAB From 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 here June 2, 6:00-9:00 PM | 15260 Ventura Boulevard #820, Los Angeles, CA 91403 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 here Our Conversation with Markiplier on YouTube: Women In Media Altitude Awards June 7th, 11:00am | Burbank, CA The 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 here Meet the YoloCam S7 The 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 here Podcast 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
May 19 · 11 min
"Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan: Ghost War" Director Andrew Bernstein on Helming the Franchise
In this episode, we welcome Emmy-nominated director Andrew Bernstein. Known for his work on acclaimed series including Mad Men, Ozark, The Americans, The Diplomat, and Fear the Walking Dead, Andrew has built a remarkable career crafting visually dynamic and emotionally grounded stories across film and television. In our conversation, we discuss Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan: Ghost War, his collaboration with writer and star John Krasinski, shooting on location in New York City, and the creative process behind bringing the latest chapter of the iconic franchise to life. The Making Of is presented by AJA: AJA solves IP, sync gen hurdles at NAB From 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 28–31 TV 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 here ZEISS LA Event | June 4th Join ZEISS Camera Lenses and Beers & Cameras LA for a special evening of photography, lenses, lighting and community before we kick off CineGear LA 2026! Whether it was a hand-me-down SLR, a thrift store point-and-shoot, or your grandpa’s coveted rangefinder, every filmmaker begins their journey examining light and shape through the viewfinder of a still camera. ZEISS Camera Lenses is honored to have spent the last 130 years supporting the Photography and Filmmaking community on sets in LA and abroad and is thrilled to join Beers and Cameras LA to continue our legacy of community building and image making. The ZEISS and B&C:LA teams invite all LA imagemakers to Arts District Brewing Co on Thursday June 4th from 6:30-9:30 PM for an evening of lens testing, portrait shooting, analog geekery, and so much more, including: Otus ML, ZEISS ZM, Batis, Touit, and Milvus lenses will be available for testing at the ZEISS Lens Bar! A series of beautifully lit portrait bays will be provided by our friends and sponsors Harlowe Lighting! Additional event support provided by our friends at LA Film Lab and The Darkroom! With a special guest appearance by Photographer, Filmmaker, Analog Enthusiast, and YouTuber, Caleb Knueven! (@BadFlashes) RSVP here Meet the YoloCam S7 The 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 here Podcast Rewind: May 2026 - Ep. 133. 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, email mvalinsky@me.com Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe
May 13 · 43 min
"Normal" Cinematographer Armando Salas ASC on Crafting the Film, Working on "Ozark," & More
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 NAB From 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 28–31 TV 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 here ZEISS CinCraft LensCore: Cinema Lens Looks for Compositing ZEISS 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 here Meet the Elgato Prompter XL The 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 here Podcast 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

Showing 1–20 of 28 episodes