How do you leap and follow your dreams?

What does an assistant director actually do?

Join Lalita Gabriela Ballesteros in this episode of Vocal Liberation, where she has an in-depth conversation with Michael Ciminna, an award-winning Assistant Director known for his work on Day Shift (2022), The Black Phone (2022), HBO's "The Outsider" (2020), and Ford v Ferrari (2019).

Michael is a member of the DGA and works as an Assistant Director, as well as an independent writer and director. His latest short film, "By The Campfire" was released April of 2022, and won Best Short Film at the Tampa Bay Underground Film Festival.

Mike shares his unconventional journey from aspiring to move to Hawaii to finding his path in the film industry in Georgia. He discusses his early struggles, transitions, and how experimenting with different roles led him to become an Assistant Director.

Additionally, they delve into their love for unique films like 'Punch Drunk Love' and the art of filmmaking. Mike shares insights on the responsibilities of an Assistant Director, the importance of organization, delegation, and patience, and his aspirations as a filmmaker.

Don't miss the inspiring conversation and discover how Mike navigates the dual paths of a secure career and creative passion.

Enjoy!

Bravely,

Lalita

What we discuss:

00:00 A Life-Changing Decision

01:10 Discovering “Punch-Drunk Love”

03:11 Analyzing the Film's Impact

04:13 From Audience to Creator

08:15 Journey to Becoming an Assistant Director

15:14 Breaking into the Film Industry

17:57 Roles and Responsibilities of an AD

22:51 Creative Management vs. Filmmaking

23:24 Award-Winning Short Films

23:35 Nostalgic Inspirations

24:08 Labyrinth and Childhood Movies

26:39 Finding My Filmmaking Niche

28:51 Musical Improv and Creativity

32:57 Balancing Career and Creativity

34:38 Proof of Concept: A Filmmaker's Tool

39:08 Upcoming Short Film: Jack's Lantern

40:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Resources:

• Michael Ciminna | IMDB

• Michael Ciminna | Instagram

• “Jack’s Lantern”: Instagram

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How do you break into the film industry?

What does a Director of Photography actually do?

Today, Lalita welcomes LA native, Justin Aguirre, an accomplished Director of Photography (DP) in the film industry. Justin's work has been seen on Netflix, Apple Plus, Tribeca and more.

Justin discusses his unique story of becoming a DP. He addresses everyday DP responsibilities, common misconceptions, and the significance of communication, visual aesthetics, and collaboration in storytelling.

Topics include the challenges of breaking into the industry, renting versus owning gear, and personal anecdotes of career growth and education.

Highlights also cover the impactful use of visual interpretation tools like Shot Deck, practical advice for aspiring filmmakers, and the continuous journey of professional development in the cinematic world.

Enjoy!

Bravely,

Lalita Gabriella Ballesteros

What We discuss:

00:33 The Generosity of Sharing Knowledge

02:18 The Role of a Director of Photography (DP)

02:57 Challenges and Rewards in Narrative Filmmaking

06:46 Building Relationships in the Film Industry

08:43 The Importance of Collaboration and Communication

27:09 Misconceptions About the DP Role

02:13 Introduction to the DP Role

02:28 Responsibilities of a Director of Photography

02:57 Challenges in Narrative Storytelling

04:42 Recent Narrative Projects

08:59 Pre-Production Process

10:52 Production Phase Insights

57:37 Post-Production Involvement

01:01:05 Essential Skills for a DP

01:05:25 Common Misconceptions About DPs

01:07:05 Owning vs. Renting Gear

01:22:49 Personal Journey into Film

01:23:39 Discovering a Passion for Filmmaking

01:24:09 High School Broadcast Journalism

01:24:45 College and Career Beginnings

01:25:47 Craigslist Hustle and Film School Dropout

01:28:38 Working at the Academy Awards

01:29:59 Coping with Loss and Career Growth

01:39:07 Aspirations and Future Goals

02:04:00 Navigating Post-Production Challenges

02:07:32 The Importance of Collaboration and Communication

02:11:35 Misconceptions About the DP Role

01:22:43 The Journey to Becoming a DP

02:45:34 Aspirations for the Future

02:46:44 Current Projects and Film Focus

02:48:19 Social Media and Contact Information

02:57:45 The Journey into Film

03:09:12 Reflections on the Industry

03:18:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Resources:

• Justin Aguirre | Website

• Justin Aguirre | IMDB

• Justin Aguirre | Instagram

• Shot Deck: Website

Experience a 60-minute Chaos to Clarity Call

(Complimentary)

Click here to contact us and schedule a complimentary 60-minute from Chaos to Clarity Call.

"You bring clarity to my chaos," - Client

In this episode of Vocal Liberation, host Lalita Gabriela Ballesteros explores the common fear of not being heard or listened to. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's audience and reaching out to those who want and are open to what you have to offer rather than trying to convince those with different value systems.

She encourages listeners to focus on self-care and ensuring they are in a place to serve others before reaching out. Finally, she highlights the concept that presenting authentically is not about demanding acceptance but rather about offering service and delivering transformational experiences to the right audience.

00:00 Introduction to Vocal Liberation

00:53 Understanding the Fear of Not Being Heard

01:57 Identifying Your Audience

06:29 The Importance of Self-Care in Effective Communication

08:51 Delivering Transformational Experiences

08:59 Conclusion: The True Meaning of Service

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