In this episode, Kalvo & Yabui talk about the magic of catching real, unscripted, emotionally honest moments on camera — and how sometimes the best shots happen when you’re not chasing perfection. Whether it’s during rehearsals, between takes, or during improvised scenes, they explore how to stay ready and responsive behind the lens.

Kalvo & Yabui explore how the way you frame a face can completely shift the emotion of a scene. From direct-to-camera shots like Barry Jenkins’ signature gaze to off-angle close-ups in thrillers, they break down how eye contact, proximity, and intention shape the viewer’s emotional connection. Special Guest, Elrico Tunstall joins the conversation and shares his process for working on films. 

Every great cinematographer sees the world a little differently — that’s what gives their work power. In this episode, Kalvo & Yabui break down what it means to “find your eye” behind the camera. From framing and light to instinct and emotional perspective, they explore how your experiences, influences, and intuition shape your visual voice.

In this episode, Kalvo & Yabui break down what really separates a forgettable film from one that sticks with you. Is it the story? The shots? The emotion? Or something deeper? From the cinematography to the characters to the rhythm of the edit, they explore the elements that elevate a film — and how you can apply that same energy to your own work.

In this episode, Kalvo & Yabui go back to the beginning — breaking down what it really means to start as a filmmaker or cinematographer when you have a vision but don’t know where to begin. Whether you’ve got a camera in your hand or just a story in your heart, this is the blueprint for taking the first step with purpose.

What makes a shot unforgettable? It’s not just the lighting or the lens — it’s the intention behind it. In this episode, Kalvo & Yabui explore the art of shooting with purpose and how having a clear visual vision sets great filmmakers apart.

From Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter visuals to indie short films and music videos shot on a shoestring, we break down how making intentional choices — in lighting, framing, movement, color, editing, etc. — can elevate your work and communicate meaning before a single word is spoken.

Every great cinematographer has a look, a visual fingerprint that makes their work instantly recognizable. But how do you discover your own style behind the lens? In this episode, Kalvo & Yabui dive into what it means to build a visual signature as a cinematographer.

From horror’s haunting shadows to comedy’s bright punchlines, every genre has its own visual language and cinematographers are the ones who translate it. In this episode, Kalvo & Yabui break down how the look and feel of a film shift based on its genre.

We explore how lighting, camera movement, lens choice, and framing change across horror, comedy, drama, action, and more. Whether you’re behind the camera or just obsessed with how movies are made, this conversation will change the way you see film forever.

In this episode of The Shot Callers Podcast,  Kalvo and Yabui dive into one of the most honest conversations in the creative world: what happens when the thing you love starts to feel like a job? From freelancing to working full-time while chasing your dream, we explore how to balance passion and paycheck without burning out. We share personal stories, horror stories, and strategies to stay inspired when the hustle gets heavy. Yabui also encourages you to spark a conversation with your ChatGPT voice partners.

In this episode of The Shot Callers Podcast, we’re talking about the “coverage trap” — the habit of over-shooting scenes from every angle just to “get it in post.” We break down the difference between shooting with intention vs. overshooting for safety, how it affects storytelling, your editor, your actors, and your budget. Learn how to design your shots like a director — not a camera operator.