Cinematography Salon
Tune in to the Cinematography Salon Podcast every other Thursday for an enlightening journey into the realm of cinematography, hosted by Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr. Drawing inspiration from the rebellious ethos of historic art salons, our show serves as a platform for emerging talents to both showcase their art and challenge the conventional boundaries of our craft. Through our podcast, we connect like-minded filmmakers and catalyze the exchange of resources, ideas, and wisdom in the cinematography community.
Episodes
Doug Emmett: Lighting Emmy Rossum and Anya Taylor-Joy in Furious and Lucky
Doug Emmett made Lucky in Los Angeles through the spring of 2025, took three weeks off, and went straight to New York to prep Furious with Brian Kirk, who directed the first two episodes. He got the job after an interview at 4:45 in the morning from a trailer in the desert, where Kirk told him the deck he had built was the opposite of what he had in mind. Showrunner Liz Meriwether then had the dep
Pat Scola, ASC: Grit, Restraint, and Firelight in The Death of Robin Hood
The Death of Robin Hood is Pat Scola's third film with Michael Sarnoski, made an hour outside Belfast on a production budget of around eleven million, somewhere between the scrappiness of Pig and the scale of A Quiet Place: Day One. Sarnoski wanted grit, and Scola is precise about the word. He does not mean film grain. "Grit comes from restraint and control," he says, and a large pa
Adam Newport-Berra, ASC: Four Faces in One Apartment for The Invite
The Invite, Olivia Wilde's comedy for A24, plays out almost entirely inside one San Francisco apartment, where a couple played by Wilde and Seth Rogen host an evening that goes sideways with visitors played by Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton. Adam Newport-Berra, ASC photographed it on 35mm, in story order, on a Los Angeles soundstage with a single day of exteriors in San Francisco. The brief h
Gustav Danielsson, FSF: Chasing Dusk in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
Gustav Danielsson, FSF got the job by text message. "Do you wanna shoot a sequel to Game of Thrones?" arrived from director Owen Harris, who had made San Junipero with him, and it landed while Danielsson was at home rewatching the original series with his kids and buying them the board games. He cut short a show in Sweden to take it. The result, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, is HBO
James Laxton, ASC: Shooting Beef, Season 2
James Laxton, ASC came to Beef for its second season as the one new voice in a room that had already made something people loved. His job, as he saw it, was to carry forward what Beef is at the level of shot structure, whose shoulder the camera sits over, whose scene it is, how far back the wide holds, while telling a different story than Season 1.He and host Jared Levy get into the season's
Tari Segal, ASC: Three Days on the Strip for Margo's Got Money Troubles
When Tari Segal, ASC, took over the Las Vegas block of Margo's Got Money Troubles, the A24 series for Apple TV adapted by David E. Kelley from Rufi Thorpe's novel, she had three days and a working casino floor on which to extend a look someone else had established. It is the episode that earned her an ASC Award nomination, and in this conversation with host Jared Levy she is candid that th
Nicholas Lam: How Losing Everything Teaches Us What Really Matters
Against the backdrop of industry upheaval and the rise of AI, Nicholas Lam joins hosts Ava Benjamin Shorr and David Kruta to explore what it means to future-proof creativity. Lam critiques performative diversity initiatives, warns against chasing trends, and makes a case for human, low-fi storytelling as the antidote to algorithmic content. Taking a personal turn, Lam recounts losing his home in t
Mike Pecci: Hollywood Always Plays It Safe, So Show Them Something They Can’t Ignore
Director Mike Pecci joins host David Kruta to dissect the chaos of post-COVID Hollywood, the false promises of AI disruption, and the suffocating gatekeeping of the studio system. Pecci lays bare the existential challenges of trying to create authentic work in an industry gripped by fear, algorithmic control, and vanishing opportunities. In a world where pitching feels like shouting into a void, P
Jim Geduldick: The Machines Are Here to Take Your Job, But Only if You Let Them
As fears mount over AI’s impact on creative labor, cinematographer and technologist Jim Geduldick joins host David Kruta to dissect the frenzy surrounding artificial intelligence and its encroachment into the film industry. As AI-generated imagery floods social media and marketing departments chase cost-cutting automation, Geduldick challenges the doom-and-gloom narrative with a nuanced, insider p
Matt Workman: From Light Meters to Game Engines and the Future of Cinematography
This week, we’re joined by Matt Workman—filmmaker, developer, and creator of Cine Tracer—for a candid look at the shifting landscape of cinematography. We explore how filmmakers can better communicate, justify resources, and protect their creative choices in a rapidly evolving industry, and why futureproofing your skillset now means knowing both a light meter and a game engine. From the emergence
Rachel Clark, BSC: A Meditation on Innocence, Silence, and the Space Between Words (Special Camerimage Episode)
Rachel Clark, BSC, brings a poetic realism to the screen, and in this special edition episode recorded at the Camerimage Festival, she reveals how she constructs that visual language. Joining hosts Ava Benjamin Shorr and Lauren Guiteras to reflect on the making of “Edge of Summer”, a lyrical coming-of-age film set in the haunting landscapes of Cornwall. Clark unpacks her immersive handheld approac
Bianca Cline: A Cinematographer’s Reckoning With Tragedy, Legacy, and Honoring a Fallen Colleague on the Set of Rust
What does it mean to carry someone else’s artistic legacy forward? Bianca Cline joins the Cinematography Salon Podcast to share a rare and deeply moving look behind the lens, stepping into the unfinished production of Rust following the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, ASC. Bianca discusses the moral and emotional calculus behind accepting the role, her consultations with Hutchins’
Zach Kuperstein: A Cinematographer’s Mission to Make Local 600 Transparent, Democratic, and Member-Led
Joining us this week is Zach Kuperstein, a New York-based cinematographer known for his work on "Barbarian" and his collaboration with Anna Kendrick on her highly anticipated directorial debut, "Woman of the Hour". Zach sits down with host David Kruta to discuss why he’s running for office in Local 600, breaking down contract negotiations, leadership stagnation, and why democratic engagement among
Sam Levy: A Well-Rested Mind and The Art of Invisible Cinematography
Sam Levy’s body of work has helped define contemporary American independent cinema. In this episode, Levy pulls back the curtain on his methodical, deeply personal approach to cinematography, revealing how scripts, performances, and even sleep all shape his lens. Levy revisits career-defining moments with Greta Gerwig, Noah Baumbach, and Kelly Reichardt, and speaks on how technical mastery is ofte
Santiago Gonzalez: How Los Frikis Brought 1990s Havana to Life (Special Cameraimage Episode)
When the realities of censorship made filming in Cuba impossible, production of Los Frikis moved to the Dominican Republic, where cinematographer Santiago González and his team worked tirelessly to create a world that felt authentic down to the sodium vapor streetlights. In this special Camerimage episode, Ava Benjamin Shorr and Lauren Guiteras sit down with Santiago and break down how the film’s
Alan Besedin of IronGlass: Shaping the Future by Reclaiming the Past
In an age of pristine, digitally clinical imagery, cinematographers are increasingly drawn to imperfection—the swirl of a bokeh, the dreamlike haze of vintage glass. The Soviet-era lenses that once defined an era of photography are experiencing a rebirth through IronGlass, a Ukrainian company turning vintage optics into modern cinema glass. Hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr sit down with
Are We In a Golden Age of Cinematography? Feat. Jomo Fray and Oren Soffer
With the proliferation of accessible cinema cameras, affordable lighting, and the democratization of filmmaking tools, cinematography is changing with breathtaking speed. Hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr speak with Jomo Fray and Oren Soffer about the unprecedented access to filmmaking tools, the impact of shifting industry models, and the dangers of complacency. As filmmakers navigate A
Lol Crawley: VistaVision, Underexposure and The Brutalist (Special Camerimage Episode)
On this special edition of The Cinematography Salon Podcast, recorded at the 32nd Camerimage Film Festival, hosts Ava Benjamin Shorr and Lauren Guiteras sit down with cinematographer Lol Crawley to dissect his latest collaboration with Brady Corbet, The Brutalist. Crawley discusses the philosophy behind his bold visual choices, the interplay between maximalism and minimalism, his daring use of und
Jomo Fray: Crafting Bespoke Visual Narratives
In this episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, Jomo Fray discusses his distinctive approach to image-making on films such as All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt, Selah and the Spades, and Port Authority. He delves into the humanism shared by the directors he collaborates with and the significance of specificity in storytelling. Fray also explores how expanding his emotional spectrum enhances his wo
Kira Kelly, ASC: Unveiling the Power in a Frame from Working in the Electric Department to Shooting Marvel TV Shows
In this episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Kira Kelly, ASC. Known for her work on the documentary 13th, the FX series Y: The Last Man, and the Hulu miniseries Echo, Kira has made a significant impact in the industry. With two Primetime Emmy nominations for Insecure and 13th, she shares insights into breaking barriers, pushing artistic boundaries, and the power
Ava Berkofsky, ASC: The Journey from Art School and Documentary Filmmaking to Emmy Nominations
Ava Berkofsky, ASC, joins hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr on the Cinematography Salon podcast to provide a view into their methodical approach to cinematography. They explore how their work aims to forge emotional connections between the subject and the viewer, particularly in their approach to lighting and composition in projects like HBO's Insecure. Ava also speaks candidly about the
Frederick Elmes, ASC: Reinventing Yourself, One Visionary Film at a Time
In the latest installment of the "Cinematography Salon Podcast," we sit down with renowned cinematographer Frederick Elmes, ASC, whose career has seamlessly intertwined with some of cinema's most innovative directors. Elmes, who is celebrated for his emotional and visionary approach to cinematography, shares insights into his collaborative processes with directors like David Lynch, Jim Jarmusch, J
Greig Fraser, ASC, ACS: Collaboration, Humility and Mentorship, From "The Batman" to "Dune"
This week on the Cinematography Salon Podcast, we interview Greig Fraser, ASC, ACS, cinematographer behind "Dune" and "The Batman”. He discusses collaborating with directors, the challenges of adapting source material, and his innovative approach to integrating visual effects into storytelling. Through thought-provoking insights into Dune: Part Two and other highly regarded films in his repertoire
Jay Holben: The Role of Technical Innovation in Storytelling
This week on the show, we welcome the Jay Holben, an associate member of the American Society of Cinematographers. Jay is known for his extensive contributions to film literature and technology, particularly through the books, "Cine Lens Manual" and "Shot Craft". He shares his journey as a cinematographer, filmmaker, writer, and researcher. Ever curious, Holben emphasizes the importance of continu
David Mullen, ASC: Using Film History to Empower Today's Cinematographers
This week we welcome David Mullen, ASC, Emmy winner for his exceptional work on "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel". Sharing his insights into his creative journey, and his steadfast commitment to blending research with education, he takes us behind the scenes of renowned projects like "Westworld" and "The Love Witch," highlighting his collaborative ethos with both crew and cast, and his passion for the c
Dan Kanes: For the Love of Anamorphic Lenses
In this episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, we’re joined by Dan Kanes, CEO and co-founder of Atlas Lens Co. Kanes shares his journey from lighting technician to entrepreneur, emphasizing the influence of his skateboarding and punk rock background on his creative and pragmatic approach to forging one’s own path and simultaneously uplifting those around you. Highlighting the significance of
Andrew Thomas Huang: Finding Yourself Through the Process of Creating
On this episode of the Cinematography Salon Podcast, hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr welcome Andrew Thomas Huang, a versatile director blending fantasy with reality. They discuss his journey from a Fine Art and Animation student at USC to becoming a Grammy-nominated director and how his collaborations with artists like Björk and FKA Twigs reflect his unique style, deeply rooted in Chin
2023: Year in Review
As the new year begins, hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr welcome guests Oren Soffer, former co-host of the podcast, and David Kruta, founder of Cinematography Salon. In 2023, the Salon expanded its reach, successfully hosted gatherings on both coasts, with holiday parties, panels, master classes and networking events, enriching the community's understanding and appreciation of the filmm
Christopher Blauvelt: Finding Your Path with Relentless Curiosity
Christopher Blauvelt joins us this week on the Cinematography Salon podcast as he shares his unique upbringing in LA within a filmmaking family and his journey to establish his own identity in the industry - a meeting with renowned cinematographer Harris Savides was a pivotal moment in Christopher's career, shifting his trajectory towards independent films. Discussing the advancements in both film
Natalie Kingston: The Art of Lighting from Within
In this episode, cinematographer Natalie Kingston discusses her approach to achieving a dense, immersive quality in her images. She discusses lighting techniques, color grading, and the crucial role of collaborating closely with costume and production designers, underlining her meticulous attention to detail in creating visually striking work. Natalie reflects on the concept that lighting need not
Griffin Stoddard: Reimagining Reality and the Art of World-Building
Joining us this week on the Cinematography Salon podcast, we welcome Production Designer and Director, Griffin Stoddard, who offers an unconventional perspective on set design and breaking the mold of traditional concepts. His approach, blending gothic influences and surrealism, showcases his ability to create unique work. Hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr explore the evolving landscape
Ashley Connor: Defying the Male Gaze and Achieving Balanced Representation
Hosts Peter Pascucci and Ava Benjamin Shorr are back this week with Ashley Connor, whose hands-on experience with indie filmmaking has shaped her into a master storyteller with a flair for genuine representation. Connor discusses her transition into union work, the emotional intimacy of her cinematography techniques, and her advocacy for ethical filmmaking. The conversation offers profound insight
Oren Soffer: Behind the Scenes of "The Creator" and the Beauty of Spontaneity
We’re back for the second season of the Cinematography Salon podcast, and we are thrilled to welcome our new co-host Ava Benjamin Shorr alongside returning host Peter Pascucci. Kicking off this season is a deep dive into the filmmaking process of "The Creator", with special guest, cinematographer Oren Soffer. Oren shares a treasure trove of insights about working on the film directed by the vision
Mandy Walker, ASC, ACS: Creative Collaboration and Translating the Director’s Vision
Cinematographer Mandy Walker, ASC, ACS, joins hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer on this week’s episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast to demystify her techniques, with real-world examples from blockbuster hits like Elvis and Mulan. From collaborations with Baz Luhrmann and the intricacies of lens choice, to translating the director's vision onto the screen in the most collaborative and art
Andrew Roberts of ILM: The Art and Science Behind Seamless Visual Effects
Are you fascinated by how visual effects can transform storytelling? Tune in to this episode featuring two-time Emmy-winning VFX supervisor Andrew Roberts, who has worked on bringing the worlds of Avatar, Obi-Wan Kenobi and The Creator to life. This episode touches on his experience working in virtual production at ILM, how he approaches collaborative-decision making in his role, and the modern to
Todd Banhazl, ASC: The Power of Trust & Collaborative Work
On this episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer interview cinematographer Todd Banhazl, ASC about his work on HBO’s “Winning Time” and “Hustlers” starring Jennifer Lopez. Touching on the mechanics of bold decision-making and the necessity of exciting everyone involved in a project, this episode peels back the curtain on artistic integrity across different
Oren Soffer & Peter Pascucci: Navigating Challenges and Cultivating Growth
In this episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer answer your questions about the film industry. From building relationships with directors to evolving from low-budget projects to big-budget shoots, learn how to convince potential collaborators of your skills, even without past work to show, and discover strategies for career planning in an unpredictable ind
Marysia Makowska: The Power of Empathy and Preparation
In this episode, director Marysia Makowska imparts wisdom from her rich career, stressing the significance of enthusiasm, meticulous preparation, and clear vision. Marysia shares her insights on transitioning from art directing to helming a film, the digital revolution in cinematography, and how platforms like TikTok are reshaping editing techniques. Listen in to unravel the ever-evolving landscap
Jeremy Truong: Fighting for Equality and Impactful Storytelling
On the latest episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer are joined by producer Jeremy Truong. From selecting the right cinematographer to nurturing a positive working environment, today’s episode is a compelling exploration of authenticity, representation, and the transformative power of storytelling. Jeremy reveals the inner workings of the documentary "38
Andrii Kotliar: Hope and Resilience Amidst Conflict in Ukraine
This week on the Cinematography Salon podcast, Peter Pascucci is joined by David Kruta as they interview renowned Ukrainian cinematographer and producer Andrii Kotliar. Kotliar discusses his experience growing up in post-Soviet Ukraine, the profound impact of the Revolution of Dignity, and the Ukrainian film industry's resilience amidst war and conflict. He discusses the riveting story behind "Iro
Mackenzie Lansing: Action and Solidarity in Hollywood
Actor Mackenzie Lansing joins hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer to take a critical look at the complexities and politics of acting. Lansing offers her perspective on the issues plaguing the industry, particularly the importance of actors supporting each other amidst a competitive environment. She expresses her solidarity with the ongoing strikes, and explores the challenging aspects of residual
Mark Lafleur Of Old Fast Glass Pt. 2: Pursuing the Perfect Lens
In Part 2 of a fascinating discussion with Mark LaFleur, hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer discuss the intricacies of running a camera rental house instead of committing to a freelance cinematography career. Mark underlines the importance of education and workshops to give budding filmmakers access to both equipment knowledge and hands-on experience. They also discuss his love for Lomo Super Sp
Mark Lafleur Of Old Fast Glass Pt. 1: The Beauty of Vintage Glass
In Part 1 of a fascinating conversation with Mark LaFleur, hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer dive into the nuances of lens testing and vintage lens characteristics. They dissect topics like the "sweet spot" of a lens, the implications of shooting at varying apertures, and the contrasting traits of anamorphic and spherical lenses. Mark also underscores the significance of fostering a sense of co
Olan Collardy: Decoding the Craft of Cinematography
In this week’s episode, hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer host UK-based cinematographer Olan Collardy. Collardy emphasizes the importance of demystifying the craft and making it accessible. He discusses his self-education journey, DIY approach, and how he transitioned from replicating others' techniques to finding his unique voice in cinematography. From utilizing a friend's studio space in Hac
Kath Raisch: From Darkroom to Digital with Company3 Senior Colorist
In this episode of The Cinematography Salon Podcast, Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer host senior colorist Kath Raisch. The conversation uncovers Kath's journey from working with film in a darkroom to becoming a colorist, emphasizing the necessity of mastering film basics while navigating the possibilities of digital technology. They explore the dynamics of the relationship between a colorist and a
Ava Benjamin Shorr: Mentorship, Career Evolution & Personal Work
In this week’s episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer interview innovative cinematographer Ava Benjamin Shorr. Known for her exemplary work on "Equal," "Gussie," and "Sisters," Shorr opens up about her personal project "Ava and Bianca," her experiences with lighting, and her ambition to transition from documentaries to narrative features. She advocates fo
Jon Bregel: Pursuit of Wellness in the Film Industry
On the latest episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, Jon Bregel candidly discusses the critical impact of societal pressures, the myth of pain as a prerequisite for creating good art, and the skewed work-life balance in the film industry. Drawing from his experiences with Variable, he advocates for a holistic approach to wellness, emphasizing mental, spiritual, emotional, and physical health
Maria Rusche: Exploring the Visuals of Shiva Baby
In this episode of the Cinematography Salon Podcast, hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer welcome guest Maria Rusche, the cinematographer behind the film Shiva Baby. The conversation delves into the visual style, challenges, and collaborative efforts that went into the creation of the movie. Maria shares her experiences with lighting and lens choices, and the importance of collaboration with the d
Zen Pace: Unpacking Spirituality, Identity, & Creativity
In this episode, Zen Pace joins the conversation with hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer to discuss the spiritual nature of Zen's work and its connection to their non-binary identity. They share insights on the challenges and rewards of working in the commercial world, dealing with agencies and clients, and the role of diplomacy in directing. The conversation explores the significance of music i
David Kruta: Cinematography Salon Founder's Vision for the Future
In this episode of the Cinematography Salon podcast, hosts Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer welcome David Kruta, the founder of the Cinematography Salon. They delve into the inception of the Salon, its expansion from a modest Facebook group to a flourishing community, and their aspirations for its future, encompassing the potential establishment of a physical space and the possibility of transformin
The Importance of Community with Peter Pascucci & Oren Soffer
Welcome to the Cinematography Salon Podcast! Join us on our first episode in which our hosts, Peter Pascucci and Oren Soffer give you a sneak peek into the exciting interviews and show topics ahead. The goal of this show is to create space for in-depth discussions on challenging topics within cinematography and filmmaking at large.Next week, we'll be featuring an exclusive interview with the Salon
Welcome to the Cinematography Salon Podcast
Inspired by the rebellious spirit of the art salons of the past, Cinematography Salon seeks to provide a platform for emerging talent in the field of cinematography to showcase their work and push the boundaries of the craft. By connecting filmmakers with each other and providing a space to exchange ideas, resources, and knowledge, we hope to encourage the development of new and innovative approac
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