In this episode of the Hard Copy Media Podcast, Colton sits down with Arizona-based camera operator Jay Brodeur to unpack what it really looks like to build a career behind the camera—and when it’s time to pivot.

Jay shares his unconventional journey into filmmaking, from shooting church videos and weddings in middle school to navigating freelance burnout, turning down low-budget clients, and ultimately going all-in as a full-time camera operator. Together, they break down the realities of working on set, what makes a great DP, and how better communication and preparation can dramatically improve productions.

This episode covers:

• How Jay got started in film at a young age
• Making the leap from a full-time job to freelancing
• Why low-budget clients often create the most stress
• Red flags and green flags when working with DPs
• Why shot lists and clear direction matter on set
• How burnout leads creatives to specialize
• On-set efficiency, teamwork, and leadership
• Why “that’s not my job” can hurt a production
• Developing taste, style, and creative instincts

Whether you’re a filmmaker, camera operator, DP, producer, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation offers honest insight into the business, culture, and collaboration that shape successful careers in film and media.

Subscribe to the Hard Copy Media Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts for more honest conversations about filmmaking, creativity, and building a sustainable career in media.

00:00 – Welcome & Introducing Jay Brodeur
01:00 – How Jay Got Started in Filmmaking
02:30 – Shooting Weddings in Middle School
04:00 – Film School, COVID & Career Detours
05:40 – Quitting a Day Job to Freelance
07:00 – The Reality of Low-Budget Clients
09:30 – Burnout & Letting Clients Go
11:00 – Pivoting to Full-Time Camera Operating
13:00 – What a Camera Operator Actually Does
15:30 – Teamwork Inside the Camera Department
18:00 – Red Flags & Green Flags in a DP
21:00 – Why Shot Lists Matter
24:00 – Learning From Mistakes on Set
27:00 – Efficiency, Prep & Time Management
29:00 – Multi-Cam Setups for Interviews
32:00 – Gear Matters (And Why)
34:00 – “That’s Not My Job” Hot Take
37:00 – Collaboration on Small vs Big Sets
39:00 – Developing Creative Taste & Style
41:30 – Where to Find Jay & Closing Thoughts