I only wish I had those lenses (although the thing you're always fighting with a wide open lens is the super shallow depth of field).

As for the end product, no way am I ever going to be in Kubrick's league, so I can't even pretend to try.

:-)

Over the years, I've found that I both performance and camera operation go hand in hand for me. I find myself closer and more watchful of the performances when operating and also feel that I can enhance the performance with the operation. I'm so tuned in with the actor as a director that it allows me to take chances and move with them as an operator. So, I've realized it goes hand in hand. I feel comfortable enough now that we didn't really blow any takes. Also, honestly, the actors are so good (I think) that I don't find myself having to do much on set. Its a lot of small fine-tuning. It works for me in the way it might not work for others.

Thanks for the kind words. Hope it helps in some way on your future projects!

It's available on iTunes, Amazon, OnDemand and more! http://gwi.io/NegativeMovie

I understand in it certain contexts, like when you have a seven week production schedule but when you're only given 15 days, why spent such a significant amount of time lightining when you don't have to. I've found myself compromised on time to get great performances because so much time has to be devoted to lightning.

Meanwhile, audiences do not care about a little bit of noise in the image. If you've got a engaging story and compelling characters, they'll let a little bit of noise slide (or not even notice it at all).

Also, I've always told people to go back and watch some Cassavettes' films. His work is full of really heavy film grain and it doesn't seem to bother anyone. I know digital noise and film grain are a little different but so what?

Appreciate the support and kind words.

I've been wanting to get my hands on the C200 so consider me jealous. As for material, at such a low-budget level finding stuff is hard. People just aren't writing low-budget films, you know? So, you have to find a writer you like (someone who can do dialogue really well) and develop something out with them. Or write it yourself.

I have the same problem -- looking for stuff that can be shot on a low-budget and it ain't easy. I've yet to find something that really stands out quality wise, so development has been the way to go for me.

Don't know many writer groups. Where are you located?