Oct. 5, 2023

114: "SAW X" DP Nick Matthews

114:

I'm not gonna lie everyone, I've given this AI "summary" program quite a few tries the past few weeks and it's been total ass, so I'm just gonna say enjoy this fantastic conversation with Nick Matthews, the DP off "Saw X". I absolutely adored this conversation, he's a fantastic DP and a wonderful man, and it was a privilege to talk to him.

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NOW, a little inside baseball... I've been emailed too many times from this "podcast assistant" company about giving advice to them... so now having used their product (that I paid for) you tell me what you think of their work. Here we go:


"Listen in as I'm joined by the talented Nick Matthews, the Director of Photography for Song X, as we journey through the evolution of camera technology in filmmaking. From the days of traditional tube cameras to the digital cinema revolution, we reminisce on the progression and reminisce on the good old days of stacking ND filters and metal tubes. As technology continues to evolve, we share our insights on how filmmakers are becoming more camera agnostic and how to maximize resources even with limited budgets.


We continue our engaging conversation by sharing our experiences on transitioning from non-union to union work, discussing the nuances of false color and the unique approaches for DPs. Gearheads will love our chat about the gear I use and how I prove to people they'll love the results. We also fondly look back at the Nycore lenses and the T2i camera, which I bought as a hipster. We then move on to the essential aspects of workflow in shooting a scene, lens selection, and how a c500 can simplify the process.


As we conclude our discussion, Nick and I explore the exciting world of film lighting and color palette. From discussing the challenges of incorporating glamorization techniques into cinematography to creating a unique color palette for films like Saw X, we touch on various aspects that go into creating a compelling visual narrative. We even discuss the emerging Chinese lenses in the market and the challenges of working with international crews. Lastly, we share our experiences in color grading, the importance of hiring a colorist whose vision aligns with yours, and how to build a successful filmmaking career."


I'm sorry I subjected y'all to these show notes. I guess I have to do them myself. Again, I do this all for free, I've yet to recieve a cent for this show, so if one of you wants to be the first, you can support the show at


www.buymeacoffee.com/FrameAndRefPod


I very much appreciate it, and going forward we won't be using this AI nonsense. I won't mention the company because it wouldn't matter but it's Podium. Hey the chapters below were generated by them as well!


--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------


(0:00:15) - Evolution of Camera Technology in Filmmaking

(0:14:21) - Discussion on Camera Gear and Lenses

(0:25:31) - Workflow and Lens Selection in Filmmaking

(0:33:26) - Zoom Lenses vs Lighting in Film

(0:37:11) - Film Lighting and Color Palette

(0:46:32) - Lighting and Color in Saw Film

(0:59:31) - Cinematic Techniques and Visual Approaches

(1:08:48) - Learning From Shooting Film

(1:21:37) - Finding Colorist and Building Filmmaking Career

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