Yale Gurney's Lounge Discussions

Boy! You got that right ... and I am clueless about cameras, but learned that the hard way. If one is good, you're good. Crap is still crap. Skill seems to jump off the screen at you, I've found. I must also confess it doesn't happen as often as I'd like.

Thank you!!! I was told that once, so I thought "Wow, it must be a big deal." I mean, I'm an actor, I don't know about cameras. The entire production was very unorganized. Today's technology has gotten so easy to get a hold of, that now everyone is a "filmmaker".

I've been in many a film shot on the Red, as well as Canon 5D and 7D. The Red camera is pretty high maintenance, and it takes a longer time to move memory cards to the hard drive. (Don't get me started on how long it takes for Post!) I think it's more about the DP and how good they are, rather than the camera, just as Peter has said. I've seen some crappy "Red" films and some pretty awesome 5D productions. Nothing wrong with the Red camera--it just has its own limitations too.

Hello let's talk I produce,direct, act let's network

still like to work with you let's talk

Well Adam Strange - as was posted by a few others - having a passion for movie making goes a long way - it's got nothing to do with going pro or just a pick up game IMHO having the passion give one the drive energy and will to make it happen. Anyone who loves what they do has that wow factor and will move ahead one way or the other. I agree these two communities shouldn't be at odds with one another. They should be very symbiotic, but I also see the realities of life and everyone has to work it the best way they can

The late, great Philip Seymour Hoffman said recently, "Audition and act as much as you can." If you want to see his "exact" words go to my twitter page, @jookennedy1

I helped a friend paint his house. I literally painted half of an entire house. Question: Should I have charged him for my time (and yes, my considerable skill)? Should I be chastised for clearly taking a job away from a "professional house painter?" Or because I don't call myself a house painter and he was my friend, does that then change everything? Are there no friends in our business anymore?

There are plenty of friends, Hank, but friends don't often post on craigslist for other friends to come help out. Perfect example, my gaffer and I were on a (paid) shoot together. he brought up he was DoPing something middle of the week to me and would love to have me come out and lend a hand. I said, well it's a long way, and he said he'd cover gas, I said sure. But I've been working with this gaffer for over 5 years-- so there is a real relationship built up. Plus I didn't have to bring any kit (though I did bring and leave him some of my lights). It's a world away from "Cool people, free food, IMDB credit, use on your reel," strangers. Now, that's not to say that in 100% of cases you should pass up on that work-- once in a blue moon a non-paid shoot pays off really well (using new camera system, working with legitimate actors. or free travel) but those are the massive exception to the rest.

Well, working gratis we get important things - our portfolio and experience. Later you can use it to sell your service, show your works, getting hired for advertising/film work, make connections with people from industry and so on. Without it you just can say: "I'm so talented! Believe me! I can do perfectly what you need" :) Wish you luck and great projects.