The Making Of

In this episode, we welcome Daniel Myrick, co-director of The Blair Witch Project, one of the most influential independent films of all time. Released in 1999, the groundbreaking horror phenomenon helped redefine the found-footage genre, became a cultural touchstone, and changed the landscape of indie filmmaking. In our conversation, Daniel reflects on the origins of the project, its innovative production approach, the unprecedented impact of the film's release, and the lessons he has carried throughout his career as a filmmaker and storyteller.
“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:
Bridging ST 2110 with the Broader IP World
As IP adoption accelerates, establishing a seamless flow for IP media across a production is fundamental. Need to move compressed IP production media onto an ST 2110 network or deliver ST 2110 media to platforms that only accept compressed media? Discover how AJA BRIDGE LIVE makes both easy.
Join The Making Of at Panasonic’s Cine Gear Panel:
The Making Of joins Panasonic at Cine Gear Expo Los Angeles for “The New Talk Show,” a panel exploring how cinematic tools and studio design are transforming video podcasts into next-generation talk shows. Founder and host Michael Valinsky joins SoundShed AV Solutions CEO Matt Alvarez for the discussion on Saturday, June 6, 3:45pm–4:35pm in Theater 1. To register for the show, visit here
Thunderbolt 5 Speed. DIY RAID Without Limits.
The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is a next-gen Thunderbolt 5 NVMe enclosure built for serious post workflows. Delivering up to 6622MB/s, it lets you use your own drives to create a high-performance RAID with up to 32TB—and beyond via daisy chaining. Compact, powerful, and scalable for 8K+ and VFX workflows. Available for pre-order now, shipping in late June. Browse here
IgelkottPlates: One-Lens 360° Driving Plates for VFX
IgelkottPlates announces its redesigned storefront for licensing single-lens 360° driving plates. Read full horizon-strip thumbnails, share collections with DP and VFX supervisor via one link — no logins, and download free ProRes 422 HQ samples in seconds. Captured on real European and US roads, up to 16K.
Learn more here
Meet the YoloCam S7
The YoloCam S7 paired with the included YoloLiv MFT 18mm F1.4 Lens gives creators a complete professional video solution right out of the box — all for just $799. Featuring stunning 4K60FPS video, real-time autofocus, interchangeable lenses, simultaneous HDMI and USB-C output, and seamless integration with YoloBox and YoloLiv workflows, the YoloCam S7 delivers incredible flexibility for livestreaming, content creation, and video production.
Whether you’re using it as a high-end webcam or a full live production camera, this bundle gives you everything you need to get started. Learn more today by contacting Videoguys at 800-323-2325. Visit here
Podcast Rewind:
May 2026 - Ep. 135.
Advertise in The Making Of:
Promote your products or services to 260K film industry pros and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore a partnership, email mvalinsky@me.com


Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Pepe Avila del Pino. Pepe has shot projects including Ozark, House of the Dragon, and The Deuce, along with films such as The Kindergarten Teacher and Worth. In our conversation, we discuss the series Love Story, which explores the relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, two of the most iconic and heavily photographed public figures of the 1990s. We talk about building the visual language of the series, recreating the look and energy of New York City during that era, and other insights into the making of Love Story.
“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:
AJA solves IP, sync gen hurdles at NAB
From remote production to monitoring, IP introduces new challenges across productions. Get ahead of them with AJA’s latest ST 2110 solutions, including BRIDGE LIVE IP and an upcoming IP25-R firmware update. The company also unveiled a new OG-GEN10 solution bringing its GEN10 Mini-Converter functionality to an openGear format. Find out more.
You’re invited…
ZEISS Launch Event | Tuesday, June 2 | L.A.
Join us as we move beyond tradition and launch the next major advancement in lens technology…
ZEISS enters a new chapter in lens technology that will be revealed on Tuesday, June 2 at the ZEISS Cinema Showroom in Sherman Oaks, CA. Be one of the first to experience this new technology first hand!
Register here
June 2, 6:00-9:00 PM | 15260 Ventura Boulevard #820, Los Angeles, CA 91403
Thunderbolt 5 Speed. DIY RAID Without Limits.
The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is a next-gen Thunderbolt 5 NVMe enclosure built for serious post workflows. Delivering up to 6622MB/s, it lets you use your own drives to create a high-performance RAID with up to 32TB—and beyond via daisy chaining. Compact, powerful, and scalable for 8K+ and VFX workflows. Available for pre-order now, shipping in late June. Browse here
Our Conversation with Markiplier on YouTube:
Women In Media Altitude Awards
June 7th, 11:00am | Burbank, CA
The 5th Annual Women In Media Altitude Awards celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women and gender non-conforming cinematographers, gaffers, and camera operators. Join us for a special champagne toast at 10:30 AM honoring this year’s participants! Tickets here
Meet the YoloCam S7
The YoloCam S7 paired with the included YoloLiv MFT 18mm F1.4 Lens gives creators a complete professional video solution right out of the box — all for just $799. Featuring stunning 4K60FPS video, real-time autofocus, interchangeable lenses, simultaneous HDMI and USB-C output, and seamless integration with YoloBox and YoloLiv workflows, the YoloCam S7 delivers incredible flexibility for livestreaming, content creation, and video production. Whether you’re using it as a high-end webcam or a full live production camera, this bundle gives you everything you need to get started. Learn more today by contacting Videoguys at 800-323-2325. Visit here
Podcast Rewind:
May 2026 - Ep. 134.
Advertise in The Making Of:
Promote your products or services to 260K film industry pros and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore a partnership, please email mvalinsky@me.com


Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Emmy-nominated director Andrew Bernstein. Known for his work on acclaimed series including Mad Men, Ozark, The Americans, The Diplomat, and Fear the Walking Dead, Andrew has built a remarkable career crafting visually dynamic and emotionally grounded stories across film and television. In our conversation, we discuss Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan: Ghost War, his collaboration with writer and star John Krasinski, shooting on location in New York City, and the creative process behind bringing the latest chapter of the iconic franchise to life.
The Making Of is presented by AJA:
AJA solves IP, sync gen hurdles at NAB
From remote production to monitoring, IP introduces new challenges across productions. Get ahead of them with AJA’s latest ST 2110 solutions, including BRIDGE LIVE IP and an upcoming IP25-R firmware update. The company also unveiled a new OG-GEN10 solution bringing its GEN10 Mini-Converter functionality to an openGear format. Find out more.
Upcoming Event:
ATX TV Festival | May 28–31
TV Camp for Grown Ups returns with ATX TV Festival: Season 15 happening in downtown Austin on May 28–31 — and it is packed full of TV goodness.
This year’s lineup includes Friday Night Lights 20 Year Reunion, a celebration with Phil Rosenthal & Ray Romano for Everybody (Still) Loves Raymond‘s 30th anniversary, HBO’s House of the Dragon returns for S3, Apple TV brings us the enigmatic Tatiana Maslany, Jake Johnson & Murray Bartlett for Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed,and the return of Steve Zahn and Rick Gomez. British TV invasion with Jane Austin in Austin courtesy of Britbox, Universal TV celebrates NBC’s 100th Anniversary with The Paper, Funny AF and Procedurals, and the Mark Duplass led inaugural Indie TV Pilot Competition.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a TV industry insider, there’s a seat at the campfire for you. Badges on sale now — don’t miss the weekend where TV people come to celebrate the medium they love most. 20% off Camp, GP, TV Pass with code: atxtvpartnerMAKE — expires 5/20/26. Visit here
Thunderbolt 5 Speed. DIY RAID Without Limits.
The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is a next-gen Thunderbolt 5 NVMe enclosure built for serious post workflows. Delivering up to 6622MB/s, it lets you use your own drives to create a high-performance RAID with up to 32TB—and beyond via daisy chaining. Compact, powerful, and scalable for 8K+ and VFX workflows. Available for pre-order now, shipping in late June. Browse here
ZEISS LA Event | June 4th
Join ZEISS Camera Lenses and Beers & Cameras LA for a special evening of photography, lenses, lighting and community before we kick off CineGear LA 2026!
Whether it was a hand-me-down SLR, a thrift store point-and-shoot, or your grandpa’s coveted rangefinder, every filmmaker begins their journey examining light and shape through the viewfinder of a still camera. ZEISS Camera Lenses is honored to have spent the last 130 years supporting the Photography and Filmmaking community on sets in LA and abroad and is thrilled to join Beers and Cameras LA to continue our legacy of community building and image making.
The ZEISS and B&C:LA teams invite all LA imagemakers to Arts District Brewing Co on Thursday June 4th from 6:30-9:30 PM for an evening of lens testing, portrait shooting, analog geekery, and so much more, including: Otus ML, ZEISS ZM, Batis, Touit, and Milvus lenses will be available for testing at the ZEISS Lens Bar!
A series of beautifully lit portrait bays will be provided by our friends and sponsors Harlowe Lighting! Additional event support provided by our friends at LA Film Lab and The Darkroom! With a special guest appearance by Photographer, Filmmaker, Analog Enthusiast, and YouTuber, Caleb Knueven! (@BadFlashes)
RSVP here
Meet the YoloCam S7
The YoloCam S7 paired with the included YoloLiv MFT 18mm F1.4 Lens gives creators a complete professional video solution right out of the box — all for just $799. Featuring stunning 4K60FPS video, real-time autofocus, interchangeable lenses, simultaneous HDMI and USB-C output, and seamless integration with YoloBox and YoloLiv workflows, the YoloCam S7 delivers incredible flexibility for livestreaming, content creation, and video production. Whether you’re using it as a high-end webcam or a full live production camera, this bundle gives you everything you need to get started. Learn more today by contacting Videoguys at 800-323-2325. Visit here
Podcast Rewind:
May 2026 - Ep. 133.
Advertise in The Making Of:
Promote your products or services to 260K film industry pros and content creators reading this newsletter. To explore a partnership, email mvalinsky@me.com


Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome cinematographer Armando Salas, ASC. Armando has shot acclaimed projects including Ozark, Griselda, Cocaine Cowboys, The Terminal List, Mr. Mercedes, Lanterns, and Normal. In our conversation, he shares his upbringing, path into cinematography, experiences working across various projects, and all about the making of Normal. He also offers invaluable advice for the next generation of cinematographers and filmmakers today.
“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:
AJA solves IP, sync gen hurdles at NAB
From remote production to monitoring, IP introduces new challenges across productions. Get ahead of them with AJA’s latest ST 2110 solutions, including BRIDGE LIVE IP and an upcoming IP25-R firmware update. The company also unveiled a new OG-GEN10 solution bringing its GEN10 Mini-Converter functionality to an openGear format. Find out more.
Upcoming Event:
ATX TV Festival | May 28–31
TV Camp for Grown Ups returns with ATX TV Festival: Season 15 happening in downtown Austin on May 28–31 — and it is packed full of TV goodness.
This year’s lineup includes Friday Night Lights 20 Year Reunion, a celebration with Phil Rosenthal & Ray Romano for Everybody (Still) Loves Raymond‘s 30th anniversary, HBO’s House of the Dragon returns for S3, Apple TV brings us the enigmatic Tatiana Maslany, Jake Johnson & Murray Bartlett for Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed, and the return of Steve Zahn and Rick Gomez. British TV invasion with Jane Austin in Austin courtesy of Britbox, Universal TV celebrates NBC’s 100th Anniversary with The Paper, Funny AF and Procedurals, and the Mark Duplass led inaugural Indie TV Pilot Competition.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a TV industry insider, there’s a seat at the campfire for you. Badges on sale now — don’t miss the weekend where TV people come to celebrate the medium they love most. 20% off Camp, GP, TV Pass with code: atxtvpartnerMAKE — expires 5/20/26. Visit here
Thunderbolt 5 Speed. DIY RAID Without Limits.
The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is a next-gen Thunderbolt 5 NVMe enclosure built for serious post workflows. Delivering up to 6622MB/s, it lets you use your own drives to create a high-performance RAID with up to 32TB—and beyond via daisy chaining. Compact, powerful, and scalable for 8K+ and VFX workflows. Available for pre-order now, shipping in late June. Browse here
ZEISS CinCraft LensCore: Cinema Lens Looks for Compositing
ZEISS announces the launch of CinCraft LensCore, a novel solution for creating physically based cinematic lens looks for visual effects and animation. Built on the Virtual Lens Technology introduced at FMX in 2025, this new Nuke plugin brings decades of ZEISS optical expertise into post-production, bridging the gap between on-set lens choices and the VFX pipeline. Visit here
Meet the Elgato Prompter XL
The Elgato Prompter XL is an all-in-one studio teleprompter designed for larger, more professional setups, featuring a 15.6” removable display and an extended reading range of up to 15 feet so talent can stay on script even at a distance. With ultra-wide compatibility, simple USB 3.2 connectivity, and included software, it easily integrates into multi-camera productions, live shows, and content creation workflows—while also doubling as a secondary monitor between shoots. Available at Videoguys.com, call us at 800-323-2325 for more information. Browse here
Podcast Rewind:
May 2026 - Ep. 132.
Advertise in The Making Of:
Promote your products or services to 250,000 film and TV industry pros reading this newsletter each week. To explore a partnership, please email mvalinsky@me.com


Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we welcome Lee Cronin. Lee is the writer and director of The Mummy, which follows his breakout work on The Hole in the Ground and Evil Dead Rise. In our conversation, Lee shares about reimagining The Mummy, writing the script, his directing process, and other creative workflows. He also discusses his approach to crafting horror, along with the lessons learned from his career making movies.
“The Making Of” is presented by AJA:
AJA solves IP, sync gen hurdles at NAB
From remote production to monitoring, IP introduces new challenges across productions. Get ahead of them with AJA’s latest ST 2110 solutions, including BRIDGE LIVE IP and an upcoming IP25-R firmware update. The company also unveiled a new OG-GEN10 solution bringing its GEN10 Mini-Converter functionality to an openGear format. Find out more.
Upcoming Event:
Cine Gear Expo LA | June 5-6, 2026
Cine Gear Expo LA is a place where creatives, technicians, and business professionals can come together, share ideas, forge new relationships, and create lasting collaborations. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, established industry veteran, or technology enthusiast, this is an event that celebrates the passion and dedication of the cinematic community!
Learn more here
Thunderbolt 5 Speed. DIY RAID Without Limits.
The OWC Express 4M2 Ultra is a next-gen Thunderbolt 5 NVMe enclosure built for serious post workflows. Delivering up to 6622MB/s, it lets you use your own drives to create a high-performance RAID with up to 32TB—and beyond via daisy chaining. Compact, powerful, and scalable for 8K+ and VFX workflows. Available for pre-order now, shipping in late June.
Explore here
ZEISS CinCraft LensCore: Cinema Lens Looks for Compositing
ZEISS announces the launch of CinCraft LensCore, a novel solution for creating physically based cinematic lens looks for visual effects and animation. Built on the Virtual Lens Technology introduced at FMX in 2025, this new Nuke plugin brings decades of ZEISS optical expertise into post-production, bridging the gap between on-set lens choices and the VFX pipeline.
Learn more here
Meet the Elgato Prompter XL
The Elgato Prompter XL is an all-in-one studio teleprompter designed for larger, more professional setups, featuring a 15.6” removable display and an extended reading range of up to 15 feet so talent can stay on script even at a distance. With ultra-wide compatibility, simple USB 3.2 connectivity, and included software, it easily integrates into multi-camera productions, live shows, and content creation workflows—while also doubling as a secondary monitor between shoots. Available at Videoguys.com, call us at 800-323-2325 for more information.
Browse here
Podcast Rewind:
April 2026 - Ep. 131.
Advertise in The Making Of:
Promote your products or services to 250,000 film and TV industry pros each week. To explore a partnership, please email mvalinsky@me.com


Get full access to The Making Of at themakingof.substack.com/subscribe