HVX/M2 Demo Reel of Past Three Projects as DP

the sun was still setting when we shot

no filters on the camera, all that stuff is raw except the Baghdad scene, but all I did was change the levels within the image itself.
 
That is amazing work!!!! I am envious envious envious... teach me all that you know! =)

Really, though, phenomenal stuff. This further justifies my desire to purchase an HVX.
 
diputsboy said:
COMMENTS ON THAT SHOT POSTED: just a little white board bounce for fill. That is what we call MAGIC HOUR, baby. Check out Nestor Almendros' Days of Heaven. I say Nestor's, not Malick's, cause he was the DP. It's all Magic Hour- and he got an Academy Award for it. Not that my footage is even close that that stuff!... but it is shot during the same time of day.

I thought I recognized a few shots inspired from Visions of Light... Tremendous work, My Man. You've got a real handle on the craft.

BTW, I just noticed the domain name. Are you from Kansas City? I was born in KC and grew up in Independence, MO. :)
 
That was beautiful. I loved the high shutter look on the Baghdad shots, it added nice variety to the reel. The framing and lighting on every shot was excellent. For the handheld stuff, did you use a support? (eg, Spiderbrace).
 
This footage looks fantastic. Some of the best HVX stuff and I loved the bold use of color. Compositions are very well framed and I love the molding on some of the lighting. Bravo. I disagree with the assessment that the reel is too long. If someone wants to hire you and values their film, then five minutes reviewing your prospective DPs reel is a minimal and wholely necessary requirement...in my opinion....then again that statement is completely self-serving.
 
I agree that his footage looks great. It looks just like film to me. As a Dp I am jealous.

If you are thinking of hiring Seth to shoot your gig, do not hesitate.

He is a professional and creative artist with a regimented mentality mixed with a humorous spice - you can not go wrong. He is always on time, he is always on point, he is collaborative and not conceited (though maybe deserves to be).

I worked with Seth on the "I am the Bluebird" set as his AC and focus-puller for over 30 days. It was fun and I learned a lot from him.
 
Very nice. HiPro. How you frame for 2:35 in the monitor? tape?
Smooth GG? Cant find it on the redrock shop. Is that an optional?
 
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I just used a thin line of tape to give reference marks for 2:35. The GG I used the the only one they ship. I thought it was the smooth GG.
 
what is GG?

so you like the redrock adaptor?....and you used nikon lenses...where did you get the Nikon lenses? why didn't you use Zeiss super speeds or something like that. It seems everyone that uses the redrock uses the Nikon lenses....just wondering why and what kind did you use?
 
I like your work- well done. As people have commented, you have talent! Instead of re-itterating the congrats others have said - and you deserve - I think I'll comment on some things stood out to me in the reel. (I assume that you are looking for some feedback - if so, read on, if not do not continue to read.)

This is all IMO, so take it with a grain of salt.

The opening shot- Titles are nice, and work, however the shot does not work, at least not for a demo reel. It is a good shot and it probably works in what ever film it is for, however for a demo reel, it is plain. From the demo reels that I have seen, and the ones that I like the best, they usually start with their strongest work first, and then go to their "weaker" work. (All the work they have is strong, but the strongest goes first.)

The shot that follows it, is the same IMO. Both of these shots can be used, I just wouldn't start with them. The third shot, for example, is MUCH stronger then the two opening shots. This one really shows off you ability to control lighting, framing, movement, set the tone ... Same with the next shot. Both of these are stronger then the current opening shots. The shots of the guy in the field with the fog / mist. They are ok, but again, they are not as compelling as the other work you have showcased.

I think you have enough GREAT work here to put together a shorter demo reel, that is more to the point, and shows you off at your best. Generally, at least from what I've heard from people who view demo reels- you want to start with your best stuff, and keep them hooked. WOW them at first with the opening. If they do not like the opening, many times they will not stay around long enough to see your better work.

Anyway, with that said- GREAT work. Very impressive stuff- I'd higher you in a heart beat.
 
Just wanted to say I loved the reel. I myself usually am not a fan of the 35mm adapters, because I think too many people using them are not educated enough on the other aspects of cinematography. However, your reel impressed me on all levels, loved the framing, the focus, the camera movement (especially) , and the lighting. I think you've done some great work here, and I'd love to see some more of these films.

-Steve
 
That footage is absolutely incredible. Some of the camera moves are a bit slow for my liking, but that's just a personal taste deal. The use of light in confined centers is excellent!
 
235 Studios-
Excellent feedback. I appreciate it very much. I will take to heart what you said and correct those things and "tighten" up the reel after the next couple projects I do in the coming months (one of which we got the Panavision camera package grant for, and are doing a 2K transfer). Again, thanks for the honest and seasoned advice.
 
let me ask this again?

let me ask this again?

what is GG?

so you like the redrock adaptor?....and you used nikon lenses...where did you get the Nikon lenses? why didn't you use Zeiss super speeds or something like that. It seems everyone that uses the redrock uses the Nikon lenses....just wondering why and what kind did you use?
 
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