Introduction
Netflix’s high technical standards are known to set the bar for cinematic quality, pushing filmmakers to use only the most advanced equipment to bring visual storytelling to life. With a focus on high-quality visuals, Netflix requires that all original content meets a specific set of technical requirements—starting with its exclusive list of Netflix-approved cameras. These standards ensure that each frame captivates viewers with clarity, depth, and cinematic richness, making the selection of the right camera one of the most important decisions a filmmaker can make when aiming for Netflix distribution.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through Netflix’s approved camera list for 2024, breaking down the key requirements each camera must meet to make the cut. From resolution standards to color depth and dynamic range, we’ll cover everything you need to know to choose the perfect camera for Netflix-quality content. Plus, we’ll provide practical guidance to help you make the right choice, whether you’re an independent filmmaker, production house, or an aspiring cinematographer looking to take your work to the next level.
By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge of Netflix-approved camera specs, Netflix production requirements, and tips for selecting a camera that not only meets Netflix’s rigorous standards but also supports your creative vision and budget.
Comprehensive Guide On Netflix Approved Film Cameras
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Why Netflix Has Camera Standards & What They Mean for Filmmakers
Netflix’s camera standards are designed with one core goal in mind: to ensure consistently high image quality across all its original content. These standards help Netflix deliver a uniform viewing experience, whether a show is viewed on a mobile phone or a large home theater screen. By setting strict requirements for approved cameras, Netflix ensures that each frame meets their visual quality benchmarks, preserves cinematic storytelling, and prepares content for future advances in display technology.
Explanation of Requirements
Netflix’s technical requirements address three critical aspects: image quality, consistency, and future-proofing. Image quality is achieved through high-resolution, dynamic range, and accurate color depth to enhance viewer engagement. Consistency is maintained by using equipment that meets standardized settings, allowing Netflix shows and movies to visually align across diverse genres. Future-proofing means that Netflix content will look exceptional on next-gen displays as technology advances.
Main Technical Requirements
Netflix’s core technical standards focus on ensuring that content is shot with the highest fidelity and dynamic capabilities. Here’s a high-level look at the main requirements:
- Resolution: All cameras must shoot in at least 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) to meet the minimum resolution for Netflix streaming. This guarantees that footage remains sharp and clear, even on high-resolution displays.
- RAW Format and Log Processing: Content must be captured in RAW format or 10-bit log, ensuring flexibility in post-production and allowing for extensive color grading.
- Dynamic Range: Netflix requires a minimum of 14 stops of dynamic range, allowing filmmakers to capture greater contrast and shadow detail, enhancing visual depth and cinematic appeal.
Common Misconceptions
One common misconception is that Netflix’s approved camera list restricts filmmakers creatively. In reality, these standards are less about limiting creative options and more about maintaining a certain level of technical quality. Netflix allows flexibility within the approved list and even makes exceptions for certain types of shots (e.g., underwater or drone footage) when standard cameras might not be feasible.
These standards are not intended to box in creativity but to provide a high bar for technical quality that supports all kinds of storytelling. With this understanding, filmmakers can work within Netflix’s requirements to elevate their projects and confidently submit content that meets industry-leading quality standards.
The 2024 Netflix-Approved Camera List by Manufacturer
Overview of Approved Camera Categories
Netflix organizes its camera approval based on two primary categories: Principal Photography and non-standard shots. Principal Photography refers to the main scenes of a film or show, where cameras must meet Netflix’s strict requirements to capture the full range of cinematic quality in resolution, color, and dynamic range. However, for non-standard shots—such as underwater, drone, or crash cam shots—Netflix may approve additional cameras on a case-by-case basis, allowing filmmakers more flexibility for specialized or challenging environments.
The list below details the cameras Netflix has approved for 2024, organized by manufacturer.
Camera List by Manufacturer
ARRI
ARRI cameras are well-regarded for their rich color science, depth of field, and versatility across various productions. These cameras deliver exceptional image quality, making them a staple for Netflix productions.
Canon
Canon’s cinema cameras deliver vibrant colors and a range of options for high-resolution video capture, with models often used in both cinematic and documentary filmmaking.
Panasonic
Panasonic’s cinema cameras are recognized for their strong performance in specialized shooting scenarios, though they have fewer models on Netflix’s approved camera list compared to other major manufacturers.
- Known for its true 4K capture and dual native ISO technology (800/5000), making it ideal for varied lighting conditions. It also features a V-Log gamma curve and over 14 stops of dynamic range.
- Approved for specialized shots such as crash camera setups, car mount sequences, B-roll footage, and behind-the-scenes content. Though it’s not a primary production camera, it excels in secondary or specialty use cases.
RED
RED cameras are known for their high-resolution capabilities and advanced color reproduction. Many of these models shoot in 8K, making them ideal for Netflix productions requiring ultra-high-definition content.
Blackmagic
Known for its cost-effective options, Blackmagic’s high-resolution cameras allow smaller productions to meet Netflix’s 4K requirements without sacrificing quality.
Panavision offers custom-made cameras tailored to the unique needs of high-budget productions. These cameras are often chosen for their superior optics and image quality.
Each camera on this list meets Netflix’s technical specifications for approved productions, ensuring quality for both theatrical and digital viewing experiences. For filmmakers, choosing an approved camera means aligning with industry standards while meeting Netflix’s high bar for visual excellence.
What Makes These Cameras Netflix-Approved? Breaking Down the Technical Requirements
Netflix’s stringent camera standards ensure high-quality production values, providing a consistent, cinematic experience across all original content. Here’s a breakdown of the key technical requirements that make a camera eligible for Netflix approval.
Resolution and Sensor Standards
To meet Netflix’s high-quality standards, cameras must capture in 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution or higher. This ensures that content is crisp, detailed, and suitable for modern, large-screen viewing experiences.
In addition to the resolution, Netflix requires cameras to have true 4K sensors. This means the sensor must not be upscaled from a lower resolution, ensuring that the image retains maximum clarity and detail. Approved cameras also need to feature a single Bayer pattern sensor, which helps to achieve accurate color capture and high image quality.
Color & Dynamic Range Requirements
One of the most important factors in cinematic image quality is dynamic range, and Netflix demands a minimum of 14 stops. This allows filmmakers to capture greater detail in both the brightest highlights and darkest shadows, creating a more immersive and visually striking image.
Additionally, the cameras must have high color depth, typically recorded in Log or RAW formats, to preserve color fidelity and post-production flexibility. These formats offer more latitude in editing, enabling color grading that aligns with the creative vision of the production team. This ensures that content has the vibrant, nuanced color palette that Netflix is known for.
Recording Formats and Codecs
To maintain optimal image quality, Netflix-approved cameras must record in specific codecs. The most common is ProRes 4444 or higher, which provides lossless or near-lossless compression, ensuring that image quality isn’t compromised during the recording process.
Moreover, the minimum data rate requirements vary by codec and production needs, but they ensure that the video remains at the highest quality throughout post-production. These technical standards guarantee that the final product is polished, with every frame as crisp and dynamic as possible, whether you’re watching it on a tablet or a large-screen TV.
By adhering to these requirements, filmmakers can achieve the superior image quality and cinematic look that Netflix demands, allowing them to create content that meets the streaming platform’s rigorous production standards.
Choosing the Right Netflix-Approved Camera for Your Production Needs
Selecting the right camera for your Netflix-approved production is crucial, as it directly impacts the visual quality and overall feel of the content. With a variety of cameras available, it’s important to understand which model aligns best with your production type, budget, and creative needs.
Evaluating Production Type
The type of production you’re working on plays a major role in determining the best camera. For example:
Documentaries: Typically, documentaries require cameras that offer flexibility, portability, and exceptional low-light performance. Cameras like the Sony VENICE or Canon C300 Mark III are great choices, offering high resolution, dynamic range, and ease of use in varied environments.
Feature Films/High-Budget TV Shows: For large-scale productions like feature films or Netflix original series (e.g., Bridgerton or The Diplomat), cameras like the ARRI ALEXA LF or RED RANGER MONSTRO 8K VVare preferred. These cameras deliver superior color science, image resolution, and depth, making them ideal for cinematic storytelling on a grand scale.
Action and Sci-Fi: For fast-paced action or sci-fi films, the RED cameras such as the RANGER MONSTRO 8K VV and RAPTOR 8K VV are the go-to choices. Their high resolution and versatile shooting capabilities—particularly in high-frame-rate settings—make them perfect for capturing dynamic scenes with detailed effects. Series like Rebel Moon and Wednesday showcase these strengths.
Feature Comparisons
ARRI Cameras: Known for their superior color science and cinematic quality, ARRI cameras are the top choice for high-budget productions that demand rich, nuanced color and texture. The ALEXA LF and ALEXA Mini LFare frequently used in major Netflix productions like Bridgerton and The Diplomat, where visual depth and consistency are paramount. ARRI’s ALEXA 35 offers similar quality but in a smaller, more compact form, making it a versatile option for different production needs.
RED Cameras: Famous for their high resolution and versatility, RED cameras are often chosen for action-heavy or visually complex content. Their ability to capture in 8K and 6K resolution, like the RANGER MONSTRO 8K VV and RAPTOR 8K VV, makes them ideal for shows such as Rebel Moon and Wednesday. RED cameras excel in fast-paced environments where dynamic shots and precision are critical.
Sony & Canon Cameras: If you’re working on a tighter budget but still need Netflix-approved quality, Sony VENICE and Canon C500 Mark II offer excellent alternatives. Both cameras meet Netflix’s technical requirements while being more affordable than ARRI or RED models. Sony’s VENICE 2 and FX9 are widely used for both documentary and scripted series, offering flexibility in various shooting conditions without compromising on image quality.
Budgeting Tips
When considering which Netflix-approved camera to use, you’ll need to factor in your budget. High-end models like the ARRI ALEXA or RED RANGER cameras can be expensive, but renting these cameras can be a more cost-effective solution. Here are some practical tips for budgeting:
Renting vs. Purchasing: Renting is often a more affordable option, especially for smaller production teams or filmmakers on a tight budget. It allows you to access top-tier equipment without the large upfront investment. Many rental houses offer a wide variety of Netflix-approved cameras at different price points, allowing you to select the best fit for your needs.
Budget Ranges: Entry-level Netflix-approved cameras, like the Sony FX6 or Canon C300 Mark III, typically fall in the mid-to-high range, while models like the ARRI ALEXA 65 and RED MONSTRO are in the premium price range. Rental costs can vary, but you might find that renting a camera for a few days on a smaller production is far more affordable than purchasing one.
Affordable Rental Options: To help maximize your budget, consider working with local rental houses that offer equipment bundles, including lenses and accessories, which could save you even more. Many rental houses also provide consultation services to help you select the right gear for your production’s needs.
By weighing the technical requirements, your production’s needs, and your budget, you can make an informed decision on which Netflix-approved camera to use to ensure your project meets the highest standards while staying within budget.
Spotlight on Popular Productions & Their Camera Choices
In this section, we dive into the cameras used in some of Netflix’s most popular shows and films, exploring why certain models were selected for their specific visual styles and technical demands. Understanding the reasoning behind these choices can offer valuable insights for your own productions.
ARRI: Bridgerton & All the Light We Cannot See
ARRI cameras are renowned for their exceptional color science and cinematic quality, making them a top choice for high-budget productions that demand stunning visual storytelling. For shows like Bridgerton and All the Light We Cannot See, the ARRI ALEXA LF and ARRI ALEXA Mini LF were selected for their ability to capture rich, immersive colors and exquisite detail.
Why ARRI?: These cameras are particularly prized for their color depth, which is essential for period dramas and emotionally rich scenes. Their true-to-life skin tones and ability to handle complex lighting scenarios make them ideal for productions where visual beauty is paramount. The deep, vibrant color grading seen in Bridgerton adds a sense of luxury and elegance, helping to immerse viewers in the Regency-era world.
Lessons for Your Production: If you’re working on a high-budget period piece or want your film to have that “cinematic” feel, consider ARRI cameras. Their color depth and sensor sensitivity are perfect for capturing both natural and artificial light, ensuring a high-end look that resonates with audiences.
RED: Rebel Moon & Shadow and Bone
The RED RANGER MONSTRO 8K VV and RED RAPTOR 8K VV are the go-to choices for high-resolution, action-packed shows like Rebel Moon and Shadow and Bone. RED cameras are celebrated for their dynamic range, versatility in action sequences, and ability to capture extreme detail, even in the most intense environments.
Why RED?: With its ability to shoot in 8K and offer exceptional resolution and dynamic range, RED cameras excel in action-packed genres and visually complex worlds like Rebel Moon and Shadow and Bone. These shows rely on detailed special effects, sweeping action scenes, and vibrant landscapes, all of which RED cameras are built to handle with precision. RED’s high-resolution sensors allow for intricate visual effects and digital matte paintings that seamlessly integrate with live-action shots.
Lessons for Your Production: If your project involves fast-moving scenes, visual effects, or expansive environments, a RED camera might be the best fit. The resolution and dynamic range offered by these cameras allow you to create visually striking content with detailed textures, even in low-light conditions.
Sony VENICE: The Night Agent & Leave the World Behind
The Sony VENICE has become a popular choice for productions like The Night Agent and Leave the World Behind due to its flexibility in varied lighting conditions and its ability to deliver superb dynamic range. The Sony VENICE 2, in particular, is known for its high dynamic range (HDR) capabilities, making it ideal for productions that require detailed highlights and shadows in both bright and dark environments.
Why Sony VENICE?: Sony’s VENICE cameras offer a great balance of dynamic range and flexibility, which makes them ideal for productions like The Night Agent, where scenes shift from dark, moody interiors to bright, action-packed outdoors. The Venice 2‘s wide color gamut and ability to capture intricate shadow details make it a fantastic choice for complex lighting setups, ensuring that each scene’s lighting conveys the desired tone.
Lessons for Your Production: If you are working on a project with a mix of exterior and interior shots or require extreme control over lighting, consider the Sony VENICE. Its robust HDR performance and versatile shooting capabilities allow for nuanced lighting and depth in the final product, making it a strong option for projects with varied lighting setups.
Lessons from the Pros
Each of these camera choices brought something unique to their respective productions:
- ARRI: Perfect for capturing rich colors and detailed textures, ideal for period dramas or projects requiring sophisticated color grading.
- RED: The go-to for action sequences and high-resolution content, especially when your project relies on visual effects, dynamic range, and wide open landscapes.
- Sony VENICE: A flexible, HDR-friendly option, great for productions with a mix of lighting conditions and detailed shadow/highlight work.
By understanding the key strengths of each camera, filmmakers can make more informed decisions based on their production’s needs, whether they’re aiming for cinematic beauty, action-packed sequences, or highly detailed visual storytelling.
Additional Technical Requirements & Tools to Achieve Netflix Quality
To achieve Netflix-quality visuals, the camera is only one part of the equation. Filmmakers must pay careful attention to other equipment, workflows, and post-production processes that work in tandem to bring the high standards set by Netflix to life. This section covers the additional tools and steps needed to ensure your content meets or exceeds Netflix’s technical requirements.
Beyond the Camera: Essential Equipment for High-End Productions
While Netflix’s camera standards are demanding, your production setup will also require complementary tools to optimize the footage and ensure the best image quality possible.
Lenses:
The choice of lenses plays a pivotal role in shaping the visual aesthetic of your production. When working with Netflix-approved cameras, high-quality lenses are essential to capture the sharpness and detail required for 4K UHD.
- Prime Lenses: Known for delivering exceptional clarity and minimal distortion, prime lenses are favored for their sharpness, depth of field control, and consistent quality.
- Zoom Lenses: While zoom lenses offer flexibility during shooting, ensure that the lens resolution is on par with your camera’s capabilities to maintain sharpness across all focal lengths.
Lighting Kits:
Proper lighting is essential for achieving the high dynamic range and accurate color representation that Netflix requires.
- LED Lights: These offer a flexible, energy-efficient solution for controlled lighting setups. Look for high-CRI LED panels that provide accurate color reproduction.
- HMI Lights: If you’re shooting outdoors or need daylight-balanced lighting, HMI lights provide the intensity and quality needed for high-budget productions.
Audio Equipment:
While Netflix primarily focuses on the visual aspect, don’t neglect audio. High-quality microphones and sound equipment ensure clear, immersive sound design that complements your visual storytelling.
- Shotgun Microphones: These are ideal for capturing directional sound in dynamic environments.
- Lavalier Microphones: Perfect for capturing clear dialogue in intimate or moving shots.
Post-Production Workflow Tips
Achieving Netflix-quality output doesn’t stop at the shoot—it extends into post-production, where managing large RAW files, maintaining color accuracy, and ensuring high-quality delivery are essential.
Handling Large RAW Files:
RAW footage offers unmatched image quality but results in large file sizes that can be challenging to manage. Ensure your post-production pipeline is optimized for efficient file storage and processing:
- Storage Solutions: Use high-speed storage systems, like RAID drives or NAS, to handle large amounts of data while minimizing the risk of data loss.
- Editing Systems: Ensure you’re using professional editing software such as Avid Media Composer, Adobe Premiere Pro, or DaVinci Resolve, all of which are optimized for handling 4K RAW footage.
Color Grading for HDR:
Achieving accurate color grading in post-production is crucial for Netflix-standard content. With a 14-stop dynamic range requirement, your footage must be meticulously graded to ensure natural skin tones and rich shadows/highlights.
- HDR Mastering: Use color grading tools that support HDR10 or Dolby Vision to ensure that your film’s colors are vibrant, rich, and true to life. DaVinci Resolve is particularly favored for its powerful color grading capabilities, offering precise control over exposure, saturation, and color contrast.
- Monitor Calibration: To properly grade in HDR, your monitors need to be color-calibrated and capable of displaying a wide color gamut, ensuring the final product translates correctly across all devices.
Maintaining 4K and HDR Standards:
When dealing with 4K UHD content and HDR, ensure that all stages of post-production, from editing to visual effects and final delivery, are handled with precision.
- Scaling and Upscaling: If you’re working with lower resolution footage, ensure that any upscaling is done using high-quality algorithms that preserve sharpness and clarity.
- Delivery Specifications: Double-check that your final deliverables meet Netflix’s exact technical standards. This includes the correct aspect ratio, frame rate, and codec (e.g., ProRes 4444 or DPX for visual effects) for delivery. Use Dolby Vision or HDR10 for HDR content, ensuring your project meets the high standards of dynamic range Netflix requires.
Achieving Netflix-quality visuals involves more than just choosing an approved camera. You need a cohesive production setup with high-quality lenses, precise lighting, and an efficient post-production workflow. By paying attention to every detail, from handling large RAW files to ensuring accurate color grading and maintaining 4K and HDR standards, you can ensure that your project meets the rigorous technical requirements that Netflix demands.
Practical Advice for Filmmakers: Renting, Testing, and Prepping
Filmmakers aiming to meet Netflix’s high standards face a number of considerations, from selecting the right camera to ensuring smooth workflows. Here’s practical advice to help you prepare and execute your production with the required technical precision, from renting and testing cameras to organizing your set.
Rental and Testing Tips
Where to Rent Netflix-Approved Cameras:
Renting high-end, Netflix-approved cameras is an excellent option for filmmakers working within a budget or on a short-term project. Many rental houses offer the latest gear, including ARRI, RED, Sony, and Canon cameras, all meeting Netflix’s specifications.
- Major Rental Houses: Some of the top camera rental companies that stock Netflix-approved gear include Panavision, LensProToGo, Sim Video, and ARRI Rental. These providers also offer equipment packages with lenses, lighting kits, and accessories tailored to your production needs.
- Local Film Equipment Rentals: In addition to big names, check with local film equipment suppliers in your area for Netflix-approved cameras. Many smaller companies can offer competitive prices while still maintaining the highest standards of equipment.
How to Test Different Camera Settings:
Once you’ve rented your camera, testing is essential to ensure it meets your creative and technical needs. Here’s how to conduct a thorough test:
- Resolution and Codec Testing: Make sure the camera captures in the required 4K UHD resolution and records in an approved format, like RAW or ProRes 4444. Test both the camera’s full-frame and crop modes (if applicable) to see how it impacts your framing.
- Color Science and Dynamic Range: Test your camera’s color grading flexibility and dynamic range by shooting in high-contrast lighting conditions. Pay attention to shadow detail and highlight preservation, as these elements will be critical in your final grade, especially when working with HDR.
- Sensor and Lens Compatibility: Shoot with a variety of lenses to see how they perform on the camera, especially if you’re using third-party or rental lenses. Ensure the image quality holds up at different focal lengths.
Conducting Practice Shots:
Test your equipment in the exact environment where you’ll be filming—whether that’s outdoors, on a set, or at a unique location. Doing so will help you understand how the camera performs under various lighting conditions. It also provides an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the camera’s settings, buttons, and interface.
- Dynamic Range Testing: Ensure that the camera’s dynamic range is up to par by shooting scenes with a mix of bright highlights and deep shadows. This will help you see how the camera performs in high-dynamic-range situations and ensure that you’re capturing every detail.
- Focus and Stability: Check how well the camera holds focus, especially when panning or tracking. Consider testing your rig setup with gimbals or other stabilizers to ensure smooth shots.
Setting Up for Success
Pre-Production Planning:
A well-planned shoot is key to making sure everything runs smoothly. Here are tips for prepping your production with Netflix’s specifications in mind:
- Know Your Camera Settings: Familiarize your team with the approved settings (4K UHD, RAW format, 14-stop dynamic range, etc.) so everyone knows exactly what’s required to capture footage according to Netflix’s guidelines.
- Shot List and Storyboarding: Make sure your shot list is clear and your crew understands the visual style and technical demands of each shot. If you’re using dynamic range-heavy shots, plan how to light them to maintain detail in both highlights and shadows.
- Location Scouting: Ensure your locations meet the technical needs for lighting and set design. For instance, if you’re shooting a highly detailed scene with lots of textures or high-contrast elements, make sure you have the proper lighting and lenses to capture it in stunning detail.
Organizing Equipment on Set:
With Netflix’s high technical requirements, it’s essential to have a systematic approach to equipment management:
- Labeled and Organized Gear: Use clear labels on each piece of gear to avoid confusion on set, especially if multiple cameras or rigs are involved. This ensures that all team members are familiar with the equipment and its settings.
- Camera Setup and Configuration: Have your camera assistants ensure that every camera on set is properly configured for Netflix-approved settings before filming begins. They should test resolution, focus, color settings, and codecs to ensure everything aligns.
Managing Data and Workflow:
One of the most critical aspects of a production adhering to Netflix’s technical standards is managing the massive amounts of data that come with high-resolution filming:
- Data Backup Protocols: Create a backup plan that includes multiple copies of your footage, ideally with both on-site and off-site backups. Use reliable hard drives or cloud storage services to store footage safely.
- Data Transfer and Storage: If shooting RAW footage, ensure you have high-speed storage and data transfer options to avoid bottlenecks. Consider using RAID arrays for redundant storage and rapid access.
- Daily Checklists: Make it part of your routine to back up your footage at the end of each shooting day. Keep a checklist of what’s been shot and ensure each data set is properly labeled and categorized.
Proper preparation is essential for meeting Netflix’s high standards. Renting the right camera, thoroughly testing settings, and meticulously organizing your set are crucial steps for achieving top-tier results. With careful planning and execution, you’ll be well on your way to delivering professional, Netflix-ready content that meets the technical requirements for 4K UHD, RAW recording, and dynamic range.
From Netflix: “In all cases, such cameras must be explicitly approved by Netflix for a specific project. The use of a non-approved camera on one project does not constitute blanket approval of that camera for other projects. Footage from non-approved cameras will count towards the total allotment of non-approved capture.”
Conclusion
Achieving Netflix’s high technical standards is undoubtedly a challenging endeavor, but it’s also a rewarding one. With the right knowledge, equipment, and preparation, filmmakers can capture stunning, cinematic content that not only meets these standards but elevates their creative vision. Whether you’re working on a high-budget series, a documentary, or a smaller-scale project, the Netflix-approved camera list offers a wide array of options suited to different needs and budgets.
Next Steps: Take the time to explore the available cameras and their features. Consider how each model aligns with your production style, whether it’s the immersive color science of ARRI cameras or the versatility and resolution of RED. With so many choices, there’s a perfect fit for your project.
Call to Action: Start by researching rental options to get hands-on experience with the camera models you’re considering. Reaching out to industry peers or visiting local rental houses for demos can also provide valuable insights and help you feel more confident in your decision-making. With the right tools and a bit of practice, you’ll be ready to create content that meets Netflix’s exceptional standards—and brings your creative vision to life.
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Trent Peek (IMDB | Youtube \ Stage 32) is a filmmaking wizard with over 20 years of experience making award-winning content for film, TV, and social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram.
Former president of Cinevic (Society of Independent Filmmakers), Trent’s work ranges from snapping stunning stills with Leica and Hasselblad to handling powerful cinema cameras from RED and ARRI.
His recent short film “Going Home” was selected to the 2024 Soho International Film Festival in New York, showcasing his storytelling prowess to a sold-out crowd.
He’s currently obsessed with the cinematic magic of compact cameras like the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema. When he’s not behind the camera, you’ll find him globe-trotting, buried in a good book, or plotting his next short film masterpiece.
Tune In: Catch my guest spot on the Pushin Podcast for some cinematic chatter and behind-the-scenes insights!
Hey loved the article
Appreciate the work put in
Wanted to know if you can provide a list of Cameras that are approved by Amazon Prime Video in India
Thanks and Regards
That’s a great idea. I haven’t thought about doing an article on amazon prime, but I will now. Stay tuned!
cool you taking this on. I would suggest a comparison between movies made with say a lot of BGH1 footage to say the alexa mini LF – what are the differences on screen.
That’s a great idea. I will have to work on that, as I have been playing around lately with the Alexa mini LF and the BGH1.
Great article! Thank you Trent. I am looking to film a reality series. I wanted to pitch it to Hulu or HBO. I was looking at the: Canon EOS C300 Mark II Cinema EOS 4K Camera. I was wondering do you know where I could get the cell phone numbers to the project leads who could answer certain questions for me? And could you recommend me a good agent who could shop the project for me, who isn’t difficult to get in touch with like some of these agents?
When it comes to pitching to HBO and Hulu, I always search for film festivals or conferences that allow for the opportunity to pitch to networks. I have pitched to HBO and Hulu at the American Film Market and The Austin Film Festival over the past few years before Covid. If your project is a Comedy, I would suggest looking into the Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal, Canada for passes that allow you to pitch to producers at HBO and Hulu.
Be warned that when pitching, most producers will ask if you are being represented, and don’t often listen to pitches unless you have an agent.
To get an agent, start looking around and send spec scripts to agents. With spec scripts, they can better understand your writing style and help you get in front of a producer to pitch your projects. For me, I just made short films and submitted to festivals that had agents and producers coming to the festivals, and if they see your project on the screen, and like it, you have a better shot at landing either an agent or the opportunity to get a meeting with a streaming service like Hulu or HBO.
I know this might not be the answer you are looking for, but I hope it will point you in the right direction.