The Edit: a studio staple, screen time & summer attire
plus a few more things i'm using, trying, thinking, binging or buying.
Hello from the Auteur Edit, a roundup of what’s keeping me sane, inspired and awestruck in the madness that is the media arts business. Summer is officially underway and as we’ve all felt — it’s hot already! Here are a few things that might cool you down.
Standard for small studios. Well it won’t cool you down per se, but Blackmagic’s 4K Plus and Pro studio cameras are pretty darn cool — if this is your thing. If not, indulge me as I geek out for a minute. I’m slightly obsessed with film tech, including all things Blackmagic. And, I’m not alone. Between social media content and advances in better, cheaper gear — a lot of folks already have or want their own small studio setups. That doesn’t just apply to filmmakers but many other creative types who use these tools in some capacity. If that’s you, this studio camera line is a great staple. It’s among a few types we use in my studio — and it might be one more thing you add to your own list. We actually upgraded to the 4K Pro model to replace our older versions of Blackmagic’s studio cameras. It’s improved a lot with this iteration — in too many ways to list — but here are a few. It has an amazing sensor and expanded ISO — which is great for dimly lit settings or to get that film look when not using it broadcast-style. It boasts a smaller footprint, lighter frame, touchscreen with HDMI and SDI ports. There’s the ability to record right grom the camera to an SSD card — not so in the previous version. Additionally, the nifty new side handles makes the camera portable but rugged, thus versatile enough to take in the field if needed. Admittedly, I am having a little regret envy though. Since we just got a few of those 4K Pro models a year ago and of course Blackmagic has already released a newer version (the 6K Pro with a Canon EF mount!) Now I wish we waited — no I don’t — we actually get a lot of use out of the 4Ks. But the 6Ks will be on the list for our next upgrade. Overall, with three versions — and price points to choose from — there’s one that’s bound to fit your studio needs. And if you’re wondering, no, I am not being paid to say any of this.
Quite a duo. Zendaya and Chalamet (or Chai and Paul) pair up again for Dune Part Two. This time, with the Fremen, seeking revenge against those destroyed his family. It may not be considered part of the summer movie season, but it is my first movie of the summer. Given the running times of new movies these days, summer is about the only time I can get through and caught up with watching them. I loved Dune Part One so much and skeptical that the director, Denis Villeneuve could really top that — but he did. So much so that I’m actually looking forward to Part Three of the franchise — and I’m not a big fan of sequels. This sequel is long on runtime but keeps the storyline moving, so you don’t even notice. In addition to your summer reading list, add this to your list of summer viewing. Just be sure to watch the first one first.
Summer attire staples. A crisp, tailored pair of shorts — one in cream, brown and black, are my staples on repeat — all summer long. As a minimalist, I’m a firm believer in the capsule wardrobe — timeless, fewer pieces with quality sustainable materials that serve more than one function — and flatter. Variations on my summer short from the stylish and sustainable brands I prefer include these from Sezane, Everlane and Quince. The beauty of these is that they come in several colors, can be worn casually with a tee or dressed up with some kitten heels and blazer. And, unless I do have to dress up, you’ll find me rotating each of mine with a good ‘ole pair of Birkenstocks.
Fresh pressed on the go. For when I crave a fruity thirst quencher — other than water — without all the additive and preservative crap. I generally prefer to make my own fresh pressed juice — it’s healthier and saves money — but I don’t always have time. Especially on a busy shoot day. And there are a few raw juiceries near me — but again time is money. So, grab-and-go bottles to stock up on and pull from the frig — work best for me. And Greenheart is my go-to. They’re the freshest, closest to homemade that you can get without all the sugar of a smoothie — although they have those too if that’s your jam. The flavor combinations keep me from getting bored, and I’ll usually pick up a few bottles while at the farmers market. You can also drop into one of their brick-and-mortars, if you’re local, or order online if you’re not. So, stock up.
Parisian patio find. Who doesn’t like to sit on the patio on a cool summer night with a cold beverage of choice in hand? I certainly do. Since I'm tired of looking at the outdoor lounge set I’ve had for a while, this year I decided to spruce my outdoor patio up a little. A Parisian aesthetic has been calling out to me, so I pulled together a mood board that reflected some of things that came to mind — black and white tiles, casual and comfortable dining, some wrought iron and natural greenery.
This is the vibe I'm aiming for with the patio. Tres chic, right? I replaced my too matchy furniture set with a teak dining set and then replicated the tile pattern above, by scoring these great, budget-friendly, non-permanent patio tiles I never new existed until now. It’s coming together with all the other little details such as plants, lights, etc. — and should be ready just in time for the 4th. The tiles do come in other designs and even if you’re not in need of a porch or patio refresh they work great as scene set dressings too — which I’m always on the look out for.
What the bottled water? Speaking of hydration. Say hello to the paper water — or beer — bottle. It sounds a little sketchy, yes, but I am here for this new find. With all the confusion and ambiguity over plastic recycling — where to toss, what part is recyclable, is it actually being recycled — how about a completely compostable beverage container? That’s the goal behind this new paper water bottle concept. You read it correctly — paper. A lot of this is still in development while the company works to improve the materials to be stronger and 100% compostable — but its already having some success with early adapters like bottled beer companies, according to their website. I’m really hoping this takes off since I’d like to see new innovations that address our so much wasted — and non-recyclable plastic problem. Plus their process is just plain cool when it comes to technology.
That’s another Auteur Edit. I hope you found something useful. Thanks again for your support.