Work in Process

In this conversation, Director, Producer, Author Jay Holben shares the unexpected turns, hard-won lessons, and deeply personal reflections from a career that spans decades — from walking out of Star Wars at age five and declaring he’d be a Director, to spending 30 years learning every role on set to prepare for that moment… only to watch his early directing projects fall apart.

This episode isn’t about shortcuts. It’s about the long road: learning by doing, failing forward, and staying curious in an industry that constantly tests your patience, your passion, and your purpose.

Jay opens up about the real emotional toll of the business, why he believes most filmmakers start too late, and how writing — and teaching — saved him when nothing else was working.

We explore:

• Why learning every job on set made Jay a better director

• The harsh reality of “arriving” — and what happens when it all falls apart

• How to build a sustainable career in film when the industry keeps shifting

• What Spielberg, impostor syndrome, and tequila have in common

• The soft skills no one talks about: leadership, politics, people

• How writing for American Cinematographer changed everything

• The power of community, mentorship, and honest conversations

Whether you’re just starting out or decades into your career, Jay’s story will challenge you to rethink how success is defined — and remind you why you fell in love with storytelling in the first place.

About us:

Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.

Larkhaus community members and collaborators are among the world's top filmmakers, working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, and more.

We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential.

The future is created by those who tell the best stories.

www.larkhaus.com

www.instagram.com/larkhaus

Alice Brooks, ASC is the visionary Cinematographer behind Wicked and many other great works.

From her early love of musicals to the art of lighting, composition, and collaboration, Alice shares how she uses cinematography to shape emotion and storytelling.

About us:
Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.

We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential.

www.larkhaus.com
www.instagram.com/larkhaus

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro & Welcome
01:30 - Alice’s Early Love for Musicals & Storytelling
03:00 - Growing Up with Artist Parents & Watching Live Theater
04:30 - Learning to Read Early to Watch Movies with Her Father
06:00 - Growing Up in a Creative Family & Discovering Cinematography
07:30 - Acting as a Child & Getting Exposure to Film Sets
09:00 - Watching Cinematographers Work & Realizing That’s What She Wanted to Do
10:30 - The Moment Alice Told Her Mom She Wanted to Be a Cinematographer
12:00 - Transitioning from Child Actor to Cinematographer
14:00 - How Acting Helped Her Understand Camera Work & Performance
16:00 - The Power of Visual Storytelling Over Performance
18:00 - Collaborating with Jon M. Chu on Wicked & Other Films
20:00 - How Alice & Jon Built Trust Over the Years
22:00 - Breaking Down a Script by Emotion Before Planning Cinematography
24:00 - How Lighting Shapes Emotion in Storytelling
26:00 - Why Alice Thinks of Light as an Emotional Language
28:00 - Assigning Single-Word Emotions to Every Scene in a Film
30:00 - Designing the Color & Light for Wicked
32:00 - The 18-Week Process of Testing Colors for Wicked
34:00 - How Wicked Was Designed Like a Modern Technicolor Film
36:00 - How They Used 6,000 Lights to Build the World of Oz
38:00 - The Process of Lighting the Yellow Brick Road
40:00 - The Role of Shadows & Silhouettes in the Film’s Look
42:00 - The Emotional Impact of Cinematic Framing & Composition
44:00 - Choosing Camera Angles to Reflect Character Growth
46:00 - The Key Moments Where Wicked Breaks the Fourth Wall
48:00 - Balancing Practical Effects with VFX & CGI
50:00 - The Importance of Tactile Realism in a VFX-Heavy Film
52:00 - Creating a Seamless Blend Between CGI & Practical Sets
54:00 - The Importance of Restraint in Cinematography
56:00 - Why Holding on a Still Shot Can Be More Powerful Than a Camera Move
58:00 - The Use of Long Takes & When to Let a Scene Breathe
1:00:00 - How Alice Balances Leadership & Creativity on Set
1:02:00 - Managing a Crew for 155 Shooting Days
1:04:00 - Hosting Weekly “Movie Club” for the Crew to Build Trust
1:06:00 - Why Collaboration Is the Heart of Filmmaking
1:08:00 - The Personal & Emotional Challenges of Large-Scale Filmmaking
1:10:00 - The Pressure of Working on a High-Profile Musical
1:12:00 - How Alice Stays Grounded During Intense Productions
1:15:00 - Advice for Aspiring Cinematographers & Filmmakers
1:16:30 - Why There’s No Such Thing as a “Perfect Frame” in Cinematography
1:18:00 - Why Taking Risks Is Essential for Filmmakers
1:20:00 - Final Reflections on the Power of Storytelling
1:22:00 - The Personal Meaning Behind Defying Gravity & Alice’s Own Journey
1:24:00 - “Close Your Eyes and Leap” – Why That Phrase Defines Her Career

In this deep-dive conversation, Cinematographer Nicholas Matthews shares his journey from a childhood immersed in storytelling to becoming a cinematographer shaping compelling, visually striking narratives. 
From his early inspirations to navigating the emotional and physical demands of filmmaking, Nicholas provides invaluable insights into the craft, collaboration, and philosophy behind cinematography.

📺 Watch now and subscribe for more behind-the-scenes filmmaking conversations!

About us:
Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.
Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc. 

We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential.

The future is created by those who tell the best stories.

www.larkhaus.com
www.instagram.com/larkhaus

Timestamps
00:00 - Intro & Welcome
01:30 - Nicholas' Journey into Filmmaking & Storytelling
06:00 - Growing Up in a Conservative Home & Its Impact on Creativity
12:30 - Early Filmmaking Experiences & Learning the Craft
18:00 - Breaking Into Cinematography
24:00 - Developing a Personal Visual Language
30:00 - Shooting Saw X and Working in the Horror Genre
34:00 - Navigating Visual Contrast in Horror Cinematography
38:00 - The Emotional & Physical Toll of Filmmaking
42:00 - Learning to Lead as a Cinematographer
44:00 - The Importance of Collaboration & Creative Risk-Taking on Set
48:00 - Balancing Artistry & Technical Constraints in Filmmaking
50:00 - The Power of Visual Storytelling & "Less is More" Cinematography
53:00 - How Lighting Choices Affect Mood & Storytelling
56:00 - Why Filmmakers Need to Prioritize Rest & Recovery
1:00:00 - The Psychological Toll of Working on Dark-Themed Films
1:03:00 - Final Thoughts & Advice for Aspiring Cinematographers
1:06:00 - How to Develop Your Own Cinematic Style
1:10:00 - The Role of Cinematography in World-Building
1:15:00 - The Future of Cinematography & Emerging Trends
1:20:00 - Favorite Cinematic Inspirations & Directors Who Shaped His Style
1:25:00 - The Best Advice He Ever Received in the Film Industry
1:30:00 - Closing Remarks & Where to Follow Nicholas' Work

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Em Michelle Gonzales, a Camera Operator and Cinematographer.
Em is a rising star in the world of cinematography, and we explore the nuances of collaboration, relationships, and the creative process behind the camera.
Em shares their journey from humble beginnings as a PA to working on major TV shows like Better Call Saul, providing a unique and intimate look into the hard work and dedication required to succeed in the film industry.
Through personal anecdotes and invaluable lessons, we dive deep into the importance of teamwork on set, the art of listening, and the critical role collaboration plays in bringing a director's vision to life. From navigating the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry to learning the ropes by doing every job in the camera department, this conversation highlights the power of relationships and mentorship in building a successful career in film.

This episode is packed with insights for aspiring filmmakers, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how relationships, resilience, and creativity shape both personal growth and cinematic storytelling. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned professional, this discussion will inspire you to rethink how collaboration elevates both the art and business of filmmaking.

About us:
Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.
Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc. 

We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential.

The future is created by those who tell the best stories.

www.larkhaus.com
www.instagram.com/larkhaus

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction
"Em Michelle Gonzales on carving your name in film and the power of storytelling."
01:33 - Early Artistic Inspiration
"How Em’s first job and passion for photography shaped her love for the camera."
03:04 - From Photography to Cinematography
"Combining theater and photography: The natural transition into filmmaking."
06:47 - Film as a Mirror of Society
"How cinema shows us who we are and helps us understand history."
09:05 - Breaking Into the Industry
"Em’s journey from PA on Better Call Saul to a career in cinematography."
13:27 - The Value of Learning Every Role
"Why mastering every job in the camera department is essential for success."
15:09 - The Importance of Listening and Collaboration
"How paying attention and listening on set makes you a better collaborator."
16:08 - Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry
"Em shares insights on handling the difficulties of gender bias in film."
24:29 - Serving the Story Through Cinematography
"Why the story is the boss: Em’s approach to camera work and storytelling."
28:09 - Being Present on Set
"Operating the camera with intention: The importance of mindfulness in filmmaking."
34:09 - The Evolution of Perspective Through Film
"How rewatching films over time changes your understanding and connection."
44:49 - The Impact of AI on Filmmaking
"Em’s thoughts on the future of AI in the industry and its impact on creatives."
53:30 - Lessons from the Set of Griselda
"What Em learned from working on Griselda and how it shaped her career."
59:06 - How You Do Anything is How You Do Everything
"Em’s philosophy on paying attention to the details in both life and film."
01:02:19 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
"Why slowing down and enjoying the process is key for the next generation of filmmakers."

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Director & Cinematographer Eric Branco and Cinematographer Matheus Bastos to explore the dynamics of collaboration and relationships in filmmaking. Eric and Matheus, recently worked on a film together, and they offer a behind-the-scenes look at how creative partnerships are forged, nurtured, and leveraged to bring great visions to life.

They share their experiences of working together on feature films, emphasizing the critical role that trust, communication, and mutual respect play in creating an environment where creativity can thrive. From the challenges of shifting roles from cinematographer to director to the importance of surrounding oneself with mentors and like-minded peers, this conversation delves deep into the personal and professional relationships that shape every frame of a film.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or a seasoned industry veteran, this episode provides invaluable insights into the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the power of relationships in driving artistic success. Learn how Eric and Matheus navigate the complexities of creative collaboration, manage the pressures of set life, and maintain the delicate balance between leadership and teamwork.

Join us for an engaging discussion that highlights the importance of building strong connections in the film industry, and discover how great relationships can elevate your work and career.

About us:

Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.

Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc. 

We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential.

The future is created by those who tell the best stories.

www.larkhaus.com

www.instagram.com/larkhaus

In this thought-provoking and inspiring conversation, we sit down with Bryan Smaller, a seasoned colorist and filmmaker, to explore the intricate balance between art and science in the creative industry. From directing his first commercial at just 14 years old to working on high-profile films, Bryan shares his remarkable journey of blending technical expertise with artistic vision.

In this episode, Bryan delves into the challenges of building a sustainable career in filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, community, and finding your guiding principles. He offers profound insights on how embracing the process, rather than focusing solely on the end result, can lead to long-term success and fulfillment. Through captivating stories and real-world examples, Bryan highlights why helping others and building strong creative relationships are key to thriving in any artistic field.

Whether you're a filmmaker, artist, or creative professional, this episode provides invaluable advice on how to turn your passion into a lasting career while staying true to your mission and values. Join us as we unpack the secrets to longevity in the industry and how you can prosper by serving others.

🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes content!

About us:

Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.

Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc. 

We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential.

The future is created by those who tell the best stories.

www.larkhaus.com

www.instagram.com/larkhaus

In this captivating and insightful conversation, we sit down with the President of the American Society of Cinematographers, Shelly Johnson, ASC, to delve into the fascinating world of cinematography and filmmaking. 

Shelly shares his journey from growing up in a creative household to becoming a leading figure in the film industry, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of cinematic storytelling.

Shelly opens up about the significant shifts from film to digital, the critical importance of collaboration, and the intricacies of navigating the political landscape of the industry. This discussion provides invaluable insights into the artistry and technical expertise required to succeed in cinematography, as well as the personal qualities that drive creative professionals to leave a lasting legacy.

In this episode, we explore:

• Shelly’s early influences and pathway into cinematography
• The dramatic transition from film stock to digital technology
• The role of collaboration and mentorship in filmmaking
• Overcoming challenges and setbacks in the film industry
• How personal experiences and insights shape artistic vision
• The impact of new technologies on the art of cinematography
• Strategies for building a successful and enduring film career

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned professional, or a creative enthusiast, this conversation offers essential wisdom and inspiration for navigating the ever-changing landscape of cinema.

This episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about filmmaking, storytelling, and the visual arts. Join us as we uncover the stories, challenges, and triumphs that define a career in cinematography with the ASC President, Shelly Johnson, ASC.

🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes content!

About us:

Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.

Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc. 

We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential.

The future is created by those who tell the best stories.

www.larkhaus.com

www.instagram.com/larkhaus

In this revealing and heartfelt conversation, we sit down with acclaimed cinematographer Oren Soffer to uncover the real stories behind his creative journey in the film industry. 

Oren opens up about his passion for filmmaking, the pivotal moments that defined his career, and the continuous evolution of his artistic vision.

Oren shares invaluable insights on turning a love for movies into a thriving career, the importance of collaboration in filmmaking, and the challenges faced along the way. This discussion offers profound wisdom on embracing the creative process, navigating industry changes, and finding one's unique voice in the world of cinema.

In this episode, we explore:

• 
  Oren's early inspirations and pathway into cinematography
• How personal experiences shape artistic vision
• Overcoming challenges and setbacks in the film industry
• The critical role of trust and collaboration in filmmaking
• The impact of new technologies on cinematic storytelling
• Inspirational stories of resilience and creative determination
• The evolving journey of a cinematographer in today's film landscape

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned professional, or a creative soul, this conversation provides essential insights and inspiration for navigating the highs and lows of a creative career.

About us:

Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.

Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc. 

We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential.

The future is created by those who tell the best stories.

www.larkhaus.com

www.instagram.com/larkhaus

In this vulnerable conversation, we engage in a deep and honest dialogue with acclaimed filmmaker Elle Brooks-Tao. 

Discover the real stories behind balancing ADHD, creative ambitions, and the relentless pursuit of meaningful art.

Elle shares profound insights on transforming ADHD into a creative superpower, navigating the financial and emotional sacrifices required to pursue a career in the arts, and the importance of intentional self-care. 

This discussion offers invaluable wisdom on harmonizing personal and professional life, embracing struggles, and harnessing the power of curiosity and resilience.

In this episode, we explore:

• How ADHD can be a unique advantage in the creative process
• The actual cost of following your artistic passion
• Overcoming internal and external challenges in the art world
• Strategies for balancing a demanding creative career with personal well-being
• Inspirational stories of resilience and determination
• The transformative power of self-awareness and intentionality in sustaining artistic passion

Whether you're an artist, filmmaker, or creative soul, this conversation provides essential insights and inspiration for navigating the highs and lows of a creative life. 

Learn how to turn your struggles into strengths and create art that resonates deeply.

About us:

Larkhaus exists to help filmmakers bridge the gap between where they are today and their full potential.

Larkhaus community members and collaborators are some of the world's top filmmakers working across multiple disciplines in features, commercials, music videos, short films, etc. 

We are committed to building a community that will help you grow, learn, and find connections, support, and resources to reach your full potential.

The future is created by those who tell the best stories.

www.larkhaus.com

www.instagram.com/larkhaus