Griffin keeps a full gear list at griffinhammond.com/gear – but 2022 brought some workflow changes, so it’s time to review and update his inventory. Plus, Nick decides to buy a new electric vehicle, and picks it up the very same day!

Griffin keeps a full gear list at <a href="http://griffinhammond.com/gear" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">griffinhammond.com/gear</a> – but 2022 brought some workflow changes, so it’s time to review and update his inventory. Plus, Nick decides to buy a new electric vehicle, and picks it up the very same day!

Time to update griffinhammond.com/gear for 2023!

Griffin didn’t buy the Insta360 Link 4K Webcam because it has a gimbal. But it turns out, auto-tracking movement is its most useful feature. Even better, the image quality outperforms the similarly priced 4K Opal C1 ($300), which is marketed as “The first professional webcam.”Plus, Nick lets Lensa AI reference his selfies to generate “Magic Avatars.”Nick is now on Mastodon: https://techhub.social/@ampsonicSo is Griffin: https://creators.social/@griffinAlso mentioned in this episode: Griffin uses this Westcott mini boom arm.

Griffin didn’t buy the <a href="https://amzn.to/3Q1KlyT" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Insta360 Link 4K Webcam</a> because it has a gimbal. But it turns out, auto-tracking movement is its most useful feature. Even better, the image quality outperforms the similarly priced 4K <a href="https://opalcamera.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Opal C1</a> ($300), which is marketed as “The first professional webcam.” Plus, Nick lets <a href="https://land.prisma-ai.com/magic-avatars/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lensa AI</a> reference his selfies to generate “Magic Avatars.” Nick is now on Mastodon: https://techhub.social/@ampsonicSo is Griffin: https://creators.social/@griffin Also mentioned in this episode: Griffin uses this <a href="https://bhpho.to/3vqj6Ey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Westcott mini boom arm</a>.

Didn’t realize I needed a gimbal webcam!

Nick has been writing prompts for AI images on Midjourney v4. Griffin’s been playing with DiffusionBee on Mac. Our faces may render horrifically in AI, but for many other use cases, the results are uncanny, with plenty of rapidly arriving ethical and copyright implications for artists.Nick recommends listening to this interview with Midjourney founder and CEO David Holz.Hey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by Squarespace. Go to squarespace.com/griffin to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Nick has been writing prompts for AI images on Midjourney v4. Griffin’s been playing with <a href="https://diffusionbee.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">DiffusionBee on Mac</a>. Our faces may render horrifically in AI, but for many other use cases, the results are uncanny, with plenty of rapidly arriving ethical and copyright implications for artists. Nick recommends listening to <a href="https://stratechery.com/2022/an-interview-with-midjourney-founder-david-holz-about-generative-ai-vr-and-silicon-valley/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this interview with Midjourney founder and CEO David Holz</a>. Hey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by Squarespace. Go to <a href="http://squarespace.com/griffin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">squarespace.com/griffin</a> to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

We look horrific as AI-generated art

Griffin shares his crazy experience filming Election Night in America—how much travel, expense and work hours go into building maybe 5 minutes of a television show. He earned a “Director of Photography” credit on Showtime, and safely navigated around a known COVID-positive team member on set.

Griffin shares his crazy experience filming Election Night in America—how much travel, expense and work hours go into building maybe 5 minutes of a television show. He earned a “Director of Photography” credit on Showtime, and safely navigated around a known COVID-positive team member on set.

The craziness of filming U.S. Election Night drama

The U.S. State Department has invited Griffin to teach DIY documentary filmmaking in Zimbabwe—should he do it? Nick says yes.We apologize for the delayed uploads. It’s been a rough month—Griffin’s mom Carol died mid-October, and he wrote this tribute to the positive impact she’s had.Many commenters have referenced previous episodes that featured Carol:March 2018 from the campus of Illinois State UniversityApril 2018, following Carol’s apartment fire

The U.S. State Department has invited Griffin to teach DIY documentary filmmaking in Zimbabwe—should he do it? Nick says yes.We apologize for the delayed uploads. It’s been a rough month—Griffin’s mom Carol died mid-October, and he wrote <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj5WoXqOG2m/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this tribute to the positive impact she’s had</a>.Many commenters have referenced previous episodes that featured Carol:<a href="https://youtu.be/PmG_fo5nu-M" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">March 2018 from the campus of Illinois State University</a><a href="https://youtu.be/le9KIEMn6f4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">April 2018, following Carol’s apartment fire</a>

Should I teach filmmaking in Zimbabwe?

Griffin asks for your input: Should he activate YouTube memberships, the paid tiers that allow creators to offer additional value alongside their existing, free channel? Nick offers his opinions, as they review the various monetization options available across platforms. Griffin shares revenue numbers from the monetization methods he already uses, including AdSense, and the videos he sells directly, like his 1-hour doc filmmaking crash course, his 5-hour CreativeLive class, Shooting Documentary Short Films, and his film Sriracha. They also explain YouTube Handles, and discuss how they saved their friend’s “Hocus Pocus” projection show (Welter Family Holiday House).

Griffin asks for your input: Should he activate YouTube memberships, the paid tiers that allow creators to offer additional value alongside their existing, free channel? Nick offers his opinions, as they review the various monetization options available across platforms. Griffin shares revenue numbers from the monetization methods he already uses, including AdSense, and the videos he sells directly, like his <a href="https://griffinhammond.com/crash" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">1-hour doc filmmaking crash course</a>, his 5-hour CreativeLive class, <a href="https://griffinhammond.com/class" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shooting Documentary Short Films</a>, and his film <a href="http://bio.site/sriracha" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sriracha</a>. They also explain <a href="https://www.youtube.com/handle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube Handles</a>, and discuss how they saved their friend’s <a href="https://youtu.be/mlffk_BYgxc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">“Hocus Pocus” projection show</a> (Welter Family Holiday House).

Should I turn on YouTube memberships?

Griffin calls it a “Robo Camera.” It’s the Feelworld NDI20X, and it’s $6,244 cheaper than the pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera used at his former job (Panasonic AW-UE100). Nick helps Griffin set up his network to remote control this 1080p camera over ethernet, using NDI Tools software.Nick shows off his new office, featuring an Elgato Key Light and Elgato Master Mount S (desk-mounted arm). Griffin is now recording with a Shure SM7B microphone plus Cloudlifter CL-1, he purchased used on eBay.

Griffin calls it a “Robo Camera.” It’s the <a href="https://bhpho.to/3wIHF0N" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Feelworld NDI20X</a>, and it’s $6,244 cheaper than the pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera used at his former job (<a href="https://bhpho.to/3eaP1nh" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Panasonic AW-UE100</a>). Nick helps Griffin set up his network to remote control this 1080p camera over ethernet, using <a href="https://www.ndi.tv/tools/#download-tools" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NDI Tools</a> software.Nick shows off his new office, featuring an <a href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1597487-REG/corsair_10gak9901_spot_light.html/BI/19987/KBID/13229/DFF/d10-v21-t1-x1074404/SID/DFF" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Elgato Key Light</a> and <a href="https://bhpho.to/3ebVpKX" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Elgato Master Mount S</a> (desk-mounted arm). Griffin is now recording with a <a href="https://bhpho.to/3xTvJIX" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shure SM7B microphone</a> plus <a href="https://bhpho.to/3wLkToR" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cloudlifter CL-1</a>, he purchased used on eBay.

Controlling this Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) Cam over Ethernet

Griffin attempts to use Canon C300s for livestreaming, but runs into two major HDMI issues. Plus, Nick needs lighting for his new office, and Griffin plays with tally lights on the Blackmagic Studio Camera 4K Pro.

Don't use HDMI to stream from a Canon C300 Mark II

Apple launching their new Mac Studio desktop machine. Plus, Griffin’s been stress testing and crashing his broadcasting software (OBS), and needs Nick’s help diagnosing the problem.

Mac Studio—more ports, powerful M1 Ultra chip

Following Panasonic’s Monday night launch of the LUMIX GH6 camera, Griffin and Nick react in real-time, answer live audience questions, and put the new camera specs in perspective.

Following Panasonic’s Monday night launch of the <a href="https://bhpho.to/3rQxzZI" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LUMIX GH6 camera</a>, Griffin and Nick react in real-time, answer live audience questions, and put the new camera specs in perspective.

Just launched: LUMIX GH6 camera features

"Hey Indie Filmmakers" is a podcast about DIY filmmaking, cameras and technology, hosted by documentary filmmaker Griffin Hammond and tech expert Nick Bodmer. Watch video versions of these episodes on YouTube.

It’s mind-blowing how much information they have in these podcasts. It’s mostly technical but that’s always helpful. Keep up the good work!

Packed with information!

Love the show. I look forward to it every week. Thanks guys.

Thanks!

"Hey Indie Filmmakers" is a podcast about DIY filmmaking, cameras and technology, hosted by documentary filmmaker Griffin Hammond and tech expert Nick Bodmer. Watch video versions of these episodes on YouTube.

Hey Indie Filmmakers

A full-frame camera from Panasonic sounds really exciting—but what will it mean for Griffin’s streamlined travel style? Plus, your questions about shooting telephoto on the iPhone, losing signal on the Mavic Air drone, and why you should avoid cheap step-up rings.

A full-frame camera from Panasonic sounds really exciting—but what will it mean for Griffin’s streamlined travel style? Plus, your questions about shooting telephoto on the iPhone, losing signal on the Mavic Air drone, and why you should avoid cheap step-up rings.

Episode 80: Do you need Full Frame? Lumix S Series

Recreating this podcast look on a budgetFor the video version of this podcast, Griffin and Nick use decent cameras, lighting, and a few filmmaking tricks. But can it be simplified, replicated for budget-conscious non-filmmakers to achieve the same look?Hey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by Squarespace. Try it for free, then save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain—visit squarespace.com/griffinMost of the gear I talk about in this episode is listed out at griffinhammond.com/gear. But I also mention several mobile phone-ready microphones I’m testing out:Shure MOTIV MV5Shure MOTIVE MV88 and MOTIVE MV88+IK Multimedia iRig Mic HD 2Blue Snowball iCE

<h2>Recreating this podcast look on a budget</h2>For the video version of this podcast, Griffin and Nick use decent cameras, lighting, and a few filmmaking tricks. But can it be simplified, replicated for budget-conscious non-filmmakers to achieve the same look?Hey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by <a href="http://squarespace.com/griffin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Squarespace</a>. Try it for free, then save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain—visit <a href="http://squarespace.com/griffin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">squarespace.com/griffin</a>Most of the gear I talk about in this episode is listed out at <a href="http://griffinhammond.com/gear" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">griffinhammond.com/gear</a>. But I also mention several mobile phone-ready microphones I’m testing out:<ul><li><a href="https://bhpho.to/2Nnr2Qv" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shure MOTIV MV5</a></li><li><a href="https://bhpho.to/2pqVZLH" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shure MOTIVE MV88</a> and <a href="https://bhpho.to/2MVRxxC" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MOTIVE MV88+</a></li><li><a href="https://bhpho.to/2BXxSH2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">IK Multimedia iRig Mic HD 2</a></li><li><a href="https://bhpho.to/34dZsfk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blue Snowball iCE</a></li></ul>

Recreating this podcast look on a budget

Episode 59: Blackmagic Design Pocket 4K cameraFilm tech announcements from the NAB Show, including the new Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K. Plus, your questions about shooting for cinema screens, what framerate to choose for editing, and if you should spend $1,000 on a microphone.NAB announcements that caught our eye:Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4KPanasonic EVA1 firmware updateVimeo app for MacOSRode NT-SF1 ambisonic microphone

<h2>Episode 59: Blackmagic Design Pocket 4K camera</h2>Film tech announcements from the NAB Show, including the new Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K. Plus, your questions about shooting for cinema screens, what framerate to choose for editing, and if you should spend $1,000 on a microphone.NAB announcements that caught our eye:<ul><li><a href="https://bhpho.to/2HLNDTX" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K</a></li><li><a href="http://shop.panasonic.com/about-us-latest-news-press-releases/02212018-EVA1firmware2.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Panasonic EVA1 firmware update</a></li><li><a href="https://vimeo.com/blog/post/vimeo-for-macos-final-cut-pro" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vimeo app for MacOS</a></li><li><a href="http://www.rode.com/nt-sf1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rode NT-SF1 ambisonic microphone</a></li></ul>

Episode 59: Blackmagic Design Pocket 4K camera

Episode 49: The New, Low-Light Panasonic GH5SPanasonic debuted their low-light, dual-native-ISO GH5S camera at CES last week. Griffin and Nick share the 10 big changes that separate it from its predecessor, the Lumix GH5. Plus, your questions about daylight-balanced bulbs, how to transfer large video files online, and whether you should give your client the raw footage.10 Changes to the Panasonic GH5S:C4K 60p/30p. These 4:2:0 8-bit framerates were available in 3840x2160 UHD on the GH5, but not in C4K 4096x2160.Multi-aspect sensor. C4K 4096x2160 actually uses a wider portion of the sensor, resulting in a 1.8x crop factor (slightly wider field of view).No IBIS (in-body image stabilization). The newly designed, slightly larger sensor catches more light, but is too big for IBIS—which would cause vignetting. But many Panasonic lenses have built-in OIS (optical image stabilization).10-megapixel, not 20. Smaller photographs, but Panasonic added 14-bit RAW files—up to 10 frames per second.14 stops of dynamic range. That’s two more stops than the GH5 is capable of.Dual native ISO. Native ISOs at 400 and 2500 means noise level at ISO12800 on the GH5S is comparable to ISO1600 on the GH5.Includes V-log. The GH5S ships with V-Log L already installed. Previously a $99 upgrade on the GH5.Timecode port. For syncing timecode across bodies, Panasonic includes a cable that adapts the PC/flash port to BNC.Red detailing on Rec Button and Drive Mode Dial.Price: $2499—the GH5S is $500 more than the GH5, and will be released February 6, 2018. Griffin filmed behind-the-scenes as three filmmakers shot with the Panasonic GH5S for the first time:Jacob Schwarz shot Horizons*. Watch his behind-the-scenesLuke Neumann shot The Middle Path*. Watch his behind-the-scenesAlexandria Bombach shot Finding the Light*. Watch her behind-the-scenes (coming soon).*Taking advantage of the GH5S’ greater dynamic range, all three films were mastered in HDR, so if you have a high dynamic range television, they look especially great. I shot all the behind-the-scenes films on my Panasonic GH5.Hey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by Squarespace. Try it for free, then save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain—visit squarespace.com/griffin

<h2>Episode 49: The New, Low-Light Panasonic GH5S</h2>Panasonic debuted their low-light, dual-native-ISO <a href="https://bhpho.to/2DbF69E" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">GH5S camera</a> at CES last week. Griffin and Nick share the 10 big changes that separate it from its predecessor, the Lumix GH5. Plus, your questions about daylight-balanced bulbs, how to transfer large video files online, and whether you should give your client the raw footage.<h2>10 Changes to the Panasonic GH5S:</h2><ol><li>C4K 60p/30p. These 4:2:0 8-bit framerates were available in 3840x2160 UHD on the GH5, but not in C4K 4096x2160.</li><li>Multi-aspect sensor. C4K 4096x2160 actually uses a wider portion of the sensor, resulting in a 1.8x crop factor (slightly wider field of view).</li><li>No IBIS (in-body image stabilization). The newly designed, slightly larger sensor catches more light, but is too big for IBIS—which would cause vignetting. But many Panasonic lenses have built-in OIS (optical image stabilization).</li><li>10-megapixel, not 20. Smaller photographs, but Panasonic added 14-bit RAW files—up to 10 frames per second.</li><li>14 stops of dynamic range. That’s two more stops than the GH5 is capable of.</li><li>Dual native ISO. Native ISOs at 400 and 2500 means noise level at ISO12800 on the GH5S is comparable to ISO1600 on the GH5.</li><li>Includes V-log. The GH5S ships with V-Log L already installed. Previously a $99 upgrade on the GH5.</li><li>Timecode port. For syncing timecode across bodies, Panasonic includes a cable that adapts the PC/flash port to BNC.</li><li>Red detailing on Rec Button and Drive Mode Dial.</li><li>Price: $2499—the GH5S is $500 more than the GH5, and <a href="https://bhpho.to/2DbF69E" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">will be released February 6, 2018</a>.</li></ol> Griffin filmed behind-the-scenes as three filmmakers shot with the Panasonic GH5S for the first time:<ul><li>Jacob Schwarz shot <a href="https://youtu.be/QoyFxuFh3AE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Horizons</a>*. <a href="https://youtu.be/9epL3btNvgo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Watch his behind-the-scenes</a></li><li>Luke Neumann shot <a href="https://youtu.be/clbE9fRHo-8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Middle Path</a>*. <a href="https://youtu.be/1ZngGNXZiMI" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Watch his behind-the-scenes</a></li><li>Alexandria Bombach shot Finding the Light*. Watch her behind-the-scenes (coming soon).</li></ul>*Taking advantage of the GH5S’ greater dynamic range, all three films were mastered in HDR, so if you have a high dynamic range television, they look especially great. I shot all the behind-the-scenes films on my Panasonic GH5.Hey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by <a href="http://squarespace.com/griffin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Squarespace</a>. Try it for free, then save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain—visit <a href="http://squarespace.com/griffin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">squarespace.com/griffin</a>

Episode 49: The New, Low-Light Panasonic GH5S

Can I make my own press pass?I attempted to hire Vistaprint to create a plastic card with my name, face, and the word PRESS on it—a press pass that I designed. But the proof was rejected as “suspicious.” A press pass is not a government-issued ID. It’s akin to a business card, something that honestly conveys what you do for a living, and something you have to make yourself if you’re a freelancer. A press pass is not the same as media credentials, which are created and granted by an event organizer. The freedom of the press extends to all U.S. citizens—anyone can do journalism.Ultimately, I was able to print my design through Custom Lanyard.So why would I want a press pass?Delta Airlines, for example, will allow media organizations to check excess-weight bags for $50, instead of the usual $150 fee. “Camera, film, video tape, lighting and sound equipment that is tendered by representatives of network or local television broadcasting companies or commercial film-making companies will be accepted as baggage at the fees noted below. Valid photo ID with company insignia is required.” (Delta Airlines)Hey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by Squarespace. Try it for free, then save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain—visit squarespace.com/griffinHere’s Nick’s finished video—a very short tutorial on fixing his speaker with a vacuum. 

<h2>Can I make my own press pass?</h2>I attempted to hire <a href="https://www.vistaprint.com/business-cards/plastic?GP=04%2f23%2f2019+23%3a11%3a12&amp;GPS=5362668852&amp;GNF=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vistaprint to create a plastic card</a> with my name, face, and the word PRESS on it—a press pass that I designed. But the proof was rejected as “suspicious.” A press pass is not a government-issued ID. It’s akin to a business card, something that honestly conveys what you do for a living, and something you have to make yourself if you’re a freelancer. A press pass is not the same as media credentials, which are created and granted by an event organizer. The freedom of the press extends to all U.S. citizens—anyone can do journalism.Ultimately, I was able to print my design through <a href="https://www.customlanyard.net/pvc-order.php" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Custom Lanyard</a>.So why would I want a press pass? <a href="https://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/traveling-with-us/baggage/before-your-trip/special-items.html#media" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Delta Airlines, for example</a>, will allow media organizations to check excess-weight bags for $50, instead of the usual $150 fee. <blockquote>“Camera, film, video tape, lighting and sound equipment that is tendered by representatives of network or local television broadcasting companies or commercial film-making companies will be accepted as baggage at the fees noted below. Valid photo ID with company insignia is required.” (<a href="https://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/traveling-with-us/baggage/before-your-trip/special-items.html#media" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Delta Airlines</a>)</blockquote>Hey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by <a href="http://squarespace.com/griffin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Squarespace</a>. Try it for free, then save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain—visit <a href="http://squarespace.com/griffin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">squarespace.com/griffin</a>Here’s Nick’s finished video—<a href="https://youtu.be/BnHUA8nijvU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a very short tutorial on fixing his speaker with a vacuum</a>.

Can I make my own press pass?

Episode 69: How to Vacation with a CameraAs Nick prepares to travel with his family, what camera gear is essential for summer vacation? Plus, your questions about CTO and CTB gels, shooting in low light, and whether it’s legal to use a news broadcast in your film.Nick uses a Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L, and this Peak Design camera wrist strap.For lighter, sightseeing travel, Griffin prefers the Lowepro Photo Hatchback BP 150 AW II or Lowepro Photo Hatchback 16L AW.John Luna’s instagram—thank you, John for editing today’s episode!And thank you Pierre Barr for mixing today's audio!How I Produced, Distributed and Promoted Sriracha:Videomaker: “Telling the Story of Sriracha”“5 Lessons Learned from my Profitable Indie Documentary”Episode 8: Selling My Indie FilmI used this Video Talent Release Form to produce Sriracha. As I’m no lawyer, it certainly could be more legally airtight to mitigate risk, but a simple release like this serves as proof that talent participated willfully, understands the project and how you intend to distribute it, and whether they should expect compensation.This article by Jake Hicks on CTO and CTB gels explains exactly how much each gel affects white balance, including Kelvin numbers.

<h2>Episode 69: How to Vacation with a Camera</h2>As Nick prepares to travel with his family, what camera gear is essential for summer vacation? Plus, your questions about CTO and CTB gels, shooting in low light, and whether it’s legal to use a news broadcast in your film.Nick uses a <a href="https://bhpho.to/2lWP9Zj" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L</a>, and this <a href="https://bhpho.to/2IQ9yI8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peak Design camera wrist strap</a>. For lighter, sightseeing travel, Griffin prefers the <a href="https://bhpho.to/2JKyhTI" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lowepro Photo Hatchback BP 150 AW II</a> or <a href="https://bhpho.to/2lMS0nz" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lowepro Photo Hatchback 16L AW</a>.<a href="https://www.instagram.com/_john_luna/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">John Luna’s instagram</a>—thank you, John for editing today’s episode! And thank you <a href="https://barrsbackyard.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pierre Barr for mixing today's audio</a>!How I Produced, Distributed and Promoted Sriracha:<ul><li>Videomaker: “<a href="https://www.videomaker.com/article/f20/17129-telling-the-story-of-sriracha" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Telling the Story of Sriracha</a>”</li><li>“<a href="https://medium.com/@GriffinHammond/5-lessons-learned-from-my-profitable-indie-documentary-2017-update-fd8ded8be493" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">5 Lessons Learned from my Profitable Indie Documentary</a>”</li><li><a href="https://griffinhammond.com/podcast/episode8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 8: Selling My Indie Film</a></li></ul>I used this <a href="https://griffinhammond.com/s/video-talent-release-form-Sriracha.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Video Talent Release Form</a> to produce Sriracha. As I’m no lawyer, it certainly could be more legally airtight to mitigate risk, but a simple release like this serves as proof that talent participated willfully, understands the project and how you intend to distribute it, and whether they should expect compensation.<a href="http://jakehicksphotography.com/latest/2016/5/30/using-cto-ctb-utility-gels-for-creative-effect" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">This article by Jake Hicks on CTO and CTB gels</a> explains exactly how much each gel affects white balance, including Kelvin numbers.

Episode 69: How to Vacation with a Camera

Episode 73: Become a Licensed Drone PilotGriffin is now a licensed drone pilot, after passing the FAA knowledge test—granting him flight privileges hobbyists don’t get. Plus, your questions about shooting infrared, collaborating with another editor, and recording audio with a boom pole.In response to Aisha’s question about shooting infrared,I mentioned infrared filters by B+W and Hoya.Drone flight apps I find usefulKittyHawk is the perfect pre-flight and flight-logging app for drones. It displays easy-to-read airmaps and weather information, and even counts my drone battery cycles to help maintain airworthiness.Verifly provides instant liability insurance for drone flights. $1,000,000 of coverage, usually as low as $10 for an hour-long, ¼-mile flight. But you can also increase the coverage, time and distance, and schedule in advance.The website SkyVector is the simplest way to reference the FAA’s VFR sectional charts, TACs (terminal aeronautical charts) and TFRs (temporary flight restrictions).Why would you want an FAA drone license?Licensed sUAS (small unmanned aircraft system) pilots operate under Part 107 of the FAA rules. Some rules mirror those for hobbyists—like don’t fly over people—but a licensed pilot can fly for profit, and apply for authorizations to fly in controlled airspace, which hobbyists can never do.What is the process to become licensed?Two weeks of studying. You’ll likely need two weeks of study time to learn how to read VFR sectional charts, decode METARs, and learn Part 107 rules. You’ll find free practice tests and study materials online—in fact, I’ve posted all my study notes below. But I paid $149 to RemotePilot101 to access their 13-hour video course.$150 to sign up for the test. Find your local testing center, and call CATS, one of the testing companies that manages Airman tests. It will cost $150 to sign up for the test—it’s just a 60-question knowledge test. No flight test required.Score at least 70% on the test. You have two hours to answer 60 multiple-choice questions, drawn randomly from a pool of approximately 600 the FAA has designed. You can miss up to 18 questions—70% is a passing score. You’d have to pay another $150 to retake the test.Apply for your pilot certification through IACRA. Within 48 hours, the FAA should receive your test results, and you can register in IACRA. There you’ll submit a free application online, and within seven days, you’ll be approved, and the FAA will mail your pilot certificate. It’s possible to receive a certificate quicker, by visiting your local FSDO, but as you can see, this whole study-test-approval process should take over three weeks.Lastly, your drone (sUAS) needs to be registered with the FAA as well. This costs $5.Is the real test harder than practice tests?After scoring 96% on RemotePilot101’s final exam (in 19 minutes), I expected to breeze through the real knowledge test. Although I passed, I scored worse than expected: 87% in 45 minutes. What slowed me down is the practice tests display diagrams on-screen, but the real test uses this book—Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement. A question might say, Refer to Figure 75 (which is not on page 75, as you might imagine), so perhaps 15 minutes of my test was spent flipping back and forth through the book. Also, approximately 12 questions covered concepts I’d never heard of. So if you’re not scoring at least 80% on practice tests, don’t expect to pass (70%) the real test.What eight questions did I get wrong?The FAA provides codes/topics for the questions I got wrong, and I can remember some of the question text. Two questions I don’t remember at all, but they must fall into these six topics—PLT161 Recall airspace classes - limits / requirements / restrictions / airspeeds / equipment"Refer to Figure 75. You’ve been hired to inspect a new highway construction along the southern edge of Gila Bend, AZ. Do you need authorization to fly your sUAS?"(I said no, because I wasn't sure what “southern edge” meant, or where the Gila Bend city limits are, but now I see it's likely referring to Class D airspace, which would require authorization.)PLT263 Recall hazardous weather - fog / icing / turbulence / visibility restrictionSomething about 40-knot gusts around a mountain, which I wasn’t familiar with.PLT072 Interpret information on a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF)"Refer to Figure 15. According to the TAF for KMEM, during what time period does the weather become overcast at 2,500ft?"Strangely, this may have been the only TAF question on my test, and I’m not sure how I got it wrong. It sure looks like it’s forecasted to be overcast at 2,500ft (OVC025) at 22:00Z time.PLT146 Recall airport operations - traffic pattern procedures / communication procedures"Without a control tower UNICOM, what frequency should you monitor for planes?"( ATIS 123.75 ) ( MULTICOM 122.9 ) ( Flight Service 122.0 )PLT328 Recall performance planning - aircraft loading"If a sUAS is carrying cargo,"( make sure it's secured ) ( flight performance is diminished ) ( third choice I don’t remember )PLT534 Recall regulations – small UAS operational control / condition for safe operation / VLOS / frequency interferenceSomething about visual line of sight when passing control to another Remote PIC (pilot in command), a procedure I never learned about.Here are ALL of my notes from studying FAA Part 107.My notes alone can’t teach you all the necessary skills, but they can show you what to learn, and work as a study guide.----sUAS (small unmanned aircraft system) is 0.55lbs up to but not including 55lbs ALTITUDE AND SPEED CAPFly sUAS below 400ft AGL (above ground level), or up to 400ft above buildings, when within a 400ft radius of the building.100mph ground speed max (that's 87 knots)(400 ft is 120meters) MSL is mean sea levelAirport elevations, airspace notations are written MSLWritten on maps as big number with small number below in parentheses—that's MSL (AGL) Only fly during daylight, or in “civil twilight”—that’s the 30 minutes before sunrise/after sunset, which requires 3-mile collision avoidance lights VFR Sectional charts cover the whole U.S.Terminal aeronautical charts (TAC) are a zoomed in view of airports CONTROLLED AND UNCONTROLLED AIRSPACEClass A airspace is 18,000ft+ for commercial airlinersClass B airspace is major airports (SOLID BLUE LINE) multiple shelves, like an upside-down, tiered cake.Class C is smaller airports (SOLID MAGENTA LINE) one shelf, usually 20 nautical miles acrossClass D is still controlled but even smaller (DASHED BLUE LINE) no shelves, single cylinder. Typical height is 2,500ft AGL.Surface Class E is also controlled (DASHED MAGENTA LINE)Faded magenta means Class E airspace begins at 700ft, so not a problem for sUAS-Unlike other altitude notations, Class E 700ft is AGL-Outside of faded magenta, Class E begins at 1200ft AGLClass G is uncontrolled, requires no approval. The most comprehensive information on a given airport is provided by the “US Chart Supplement.” On a VFR sectional chart, those blue compass roses surround VORs (VHF omnidirectional range), which transmit navigational info to pilots.-V and T blue lines are IFR routes "highways in the sky"-long dashed magenta are "isogonic lines" showing magnetic north.-Blue airports have control towers. Magenta do not. TRSA is big grey lines. Have Class D at the core, but the Class C-style shelves are for FYI only. You don't have to talk to those towers. Other areas shown by blue hash is restricted or prohibited or warningMagenta hash is military operations area (MOA)-what kinds of activities in a MOA? Those that necessitate aerobatic or abrupt flight maneuvers.-In restricted space? Unusual, often invisible hazards to aircraft (eg artillery, guided missiles) Military training routes (MTR) are denoted by thin grey lines. IR means instrument route. VR means visual route. These are usually under 10,000ft. But a four-number character (ie VR1207) is 1,500ft AGL and below. Three characters or less have segments above 1,500ft. aviationweather.gov - Also uses HEMS (turbulence data for low-flying helicopters)METAR (french acronym) is an aviation routine weather report, released every 55 minutesLook like this:KLGA 251510Z 18010G19KT 10SM OVC010 26/23 A3000 RMK AO2 T02610228 $Decoded: LaGuardia, (July) 25 at 1510 zulu time. winds from the south (180°) at 10knots, with gusts up to 19knots. Visibility 10 statute miles (10 = unlimited). Overcast at 1000ft MSL. 26°C, dew point 23°C. Calibrate altimeter to 30.00Hg. RMK are remarks. WHAT IS STANDARD TEMP &amp; PRESSURE?15°C and 29.92Hg TAF (Terminal aerodrome forecast) is like METAR, but generally a 24-hour forecastLooks like this:KLGA 251607Z 2516/2618 17014G21KT P6SM VCSH SCT015 BKN035TEMPO 2516/2520 2SM SHRA BR BKN015 OVC025FM260000 17012KT 6SM BR VCSH OVC020TEMPO 2600/2604 3SM SHRAFM260400 20010KT 6SM BR VCSH OVC015FM260800 23006KT 4SM BR VCSH OVC015FM261400 25006KT P6SM VCSH BKN025 BKN040 LaGuardia (day, zulu time) forecast from 25 16:00z to 26 18:00z. 170° 14knots, gusts up to 21knots. P6SM (visibility more than 6 statute miles—6 is TAF max). In the vicinity (VC), showers (SH). THREE TYPES OF WEATHER BRIEFS: Standard, Abbreviated and Outlook1800wxbrief.comIf you had a waiver that required you to fill out a NOTAM, you can do it on that site. What is a characteristic of stable air?-Stratiform clouds (thin, low stratus clouds)-fair to poor visibility-continuous precipitation Unstable air-building cumulus clouds (extensive vertical development)-good visibility-inconsistent, showery precipitation When the temperature and dew point get close, that's when we get visible moisture—when fog forms.FOG TYPES:-Radiation fog, when heat rises from the ground at night (prefers no wind)-Advection Fog, warm moist air moves over a colder surface, like a body of water-Upslope fog, which moves up a mountain-Precipitation induced fog / steam fog When will clouds or fog form?-When water vapor condenses What would you expect on a hot day over a barren area?-Unstable air (because of the rising, uneven heat)-Low-level wind sheer, thunderstorms might occur if we add humidity to that CLOUD types:-high (cirrus or clouds with extensive vertical development)-middle (altocumulus and altostratus)-low 6,500ft below (stratus) (cumulus) Must fly sUAS 500ft below clouds ceiling cumulo-nimbus (CB clouds) means rain (also nimbo-stratus) A standing, lenticular cloud (often forms over a mountain, almond-shaped). Terrible, nasty weather. What is the definition of a ceiling?-The lowest broken (BKN) or overcast (OVC) layer. Not "few" or "scattered" FROST/DEWOn cool, clear calm nights, objects on the ground can cause surrounding air to drop below the dew point, condensing air on ground, buildings, aircraft, etc.-If the temperature is below freezing, that's frost.-Dew poses no threat to sUAS, but frost is a definite flight safety hazard. A small sUAS would need to be cleaned of frost before flight. Compass numbers that are written/read are "true north" (METAR, TAF) whereas heard ones, like on the radio, are "magnetic north." FAA says payload "should" be logged, in the event of an accident.-sUAS "MAY NOT" carry HAZARDOUS material-to ensure center of gravity (CG) confirm balance info in POH (pilot operating handbook) Normal plane flight pattern is rectangular: upwind, left crosswind, downwind, left base, final. REPORTING AN ACCIDENT-Report accident within 10 days, to the FAA if:-"serious injury" (hospitalization) to any person or loss of consciousness-damage to any property (other than sUAS) if the cost is greater than $500-shall be filed electronically, via FAA accident reporting-or by phone to nearest FSDO (Flight Standards District Office)

<h2>Episode 73: Become a Licensed Drone Pilot</h2>Griffin is now a licensed drone pilot, after passing the FAA knowledge test—granting him flight privileges hobbyists don’t get. Plus, your questions about shooting infrared, collaborating with another editor, and recording audio with a boom pole.In response to Aisha’s question about shooting infrared, I mentioned <a href="https://bhpho.to/2M5t4WW" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">infrared filters by B+W</a> <a href="https://bhpho.to/2AQh9rE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">and Hoya</a>.Drone flight apps I find useful<ul><li><a href="https://kittyhawk.io/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">KittyHawk</a> is the perfect pre-flight and flight-logging app for drones. It displays easy-to-read airmaps and weather information, and even counts my drone battery cycles to help maintain airworthiness.</li><li><a href="https://www.verifly.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Verifly</a> provides instant liability insurance for drone flights. $1,000,000 of coverage, usually as low as $10 for an hour-long, ¼-mile flight. But you can also increase the coverage, time and distance, and schedule in advance.</li><li>The website <a href="https://skyvector.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SkyVector</a> is the simplest way to reference the FAA’s VFR sectional charts, TACs (terminal aeronautical charts) and TFRs (temporary flight restrictions).</li></ul>Why would you want an FAA drone license? Licensed sUAS (small unmanned aircraft system) pilots operate under Part 107 of the FAA rules. Some rules mirror those for hobbyists—like don’t fly over people—but a licensed pilot can fly for profit, and apply for authorizations to fly in controlled airspace, which hobbyists can never do.What is the process to become licensed?<ul><li>Two weeks of studying. You’ll likely need two weeks of study time to learn how to read VFR sectional charts, decode METARs, and learn Part 107 rules. <a href="https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/part_107/remote_pilot_cert/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You’ll find free practice tests and study materials online</a>—in fact, I’ve posted all my study notes below. But I paid $149 to <a href="https://remotepilot101.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">RemotePilot101</a> to access their 13-hour video course.</li><li>$150 to sign up for the test. <a href="http://candidate.catstest.com/sitesearch.php" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Find your local testing center, and call CATS</a>, one of the testing companies that manages Airman tests. It will cost $150 to sign up for the test—it’s just a 60-question knowledge test. No flight test required.</li><li>Score at least 70% on the test. You have two hours to answer 60 multiple-choice questions, drawn randomly from a pool of approximately 600 the FAA has designed. You can miss up to 18 questions—70% is a passing score. You’d have to pay another $150 to retake the test.</li><li>Apply for your pilot certification through IACRA. Within 48 hours, the FAA should receive your test results, and you can <a href="https://iacra.faa.gov/IACRA/default.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">register in IACRA</a>. There you’ll submit a free application online, and within seven days, you’ll be approved, and the FAA will mail your pilot certificate. It’s possible to receive a certificate quicker, by visiting <a href="https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/field_offices/fsdo/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">your local FSDO</a>, but as you can see, this whole study-test-approval process should take over three weeks.</li><li>Lastly, <a href="https://faadronezone.faa.gov/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">your drone (sUAS) needs to be registered with the FAA as well</a>. This costs $5.</li></ul>Is the real test harder than practice tests? After scoring 96% on <a href="https://remotepilot101.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">RemotePilot101</a>’s final exam (in 19 minutes), I expected to breeze through the real knowledge test. Although I passed, I scored worse than expected: 87% in 45 minutes. What slowed me down is the practice tests display diagrams on-screen, but the real test uses this book—<a href="http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/supplements/media/sport_rec_private_akts.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement</a>. A question might say, Refer to Figure 75 (which is not on page 75, as you might imagine), so perhaps 15 minutes of my test was spent flipping back and forth through the book. Also, approximately 12 questions covered concepts I’d never heard of. So if you’re not scoring at least 80% on practice tests, don’t expect to pass (70%) the real test.What eight questions did I get wrong? The FAA provides codes/topics for the questions I got wrong, and I can remember some of the question text. Two questions I don’t remember at all, but they must fall into these six topics—<ul><li>PLT161 Recall airspace classes - limits / requirements / restrictions / airspeeds / equipment "<a href="http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/supplements/media/sport_rec_private_akts.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Refer to Figure 75</a>. You’ve been hired to inspect a new highway construction along the southern edge of Gila Bend, AZ. Do you need authorization to fly your sUAS?" (I said no, because I wasn't sure what “southern edge” meant, or where the Gila Bend city limits are, but now I see it's likely referring to Class D airspace, which would require authorization.)</li><li>PLT263 Recall hazardous weather - fog / icing / turbulence / visibility restriction Something about 40-knot gusts around a mountain, which I wasn’t familiar with.</li><li>PLT072 Interpret information on a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) "<a href="http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/supplements/media/sport_rec_private_akts.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Refer to Figure 15</a>. According to the TAF for KMEM, during what time period does the weather become overcast at 2,500ft?" Strangely, this may have been the only TAF question on my test, and I’m not sure how I got it wrong. It sure looks like it’s forecasted to be overcast at 2,500ft (OVC025) at 22:00Z time.</li><li>PLT146 Recall airport operations - traffic pattern procedures / communication procedures "Without a control tower UNICOM, what frequency should you monitor for planes?" ( ATIS 123.75 ) ( MULTICOM 122.9 ) ( Flight Service 122.0 )</li><li>PLT328 Recall performance planning - aircraft loading "If a sUAS is carrying cargo," ( make sure it's secured ) ( flight performance is diminished ) ( third choice I don’t remember )</li><li>PLT534 Recall regulations – small UAS operational control / condition for safe operation / VLOS / frequency interference Something about visual line of sight when passing control to another Remote PIC (pilot in command), a procedure I never learned about.</li></ul>Here are ALL of my notes from studying FAA Part 107. My notes alone can’t teach you all the necessary skills, but they can show you what to learn, and work as a study guide.----sUAS (small unmanned aircraft system) is 0.55lbs up to but not including 55lbs ALTITUDE AND SPEED CAPFly sUAS below 400ft AGL (above ground level), or up to 400ft above buildings, when within a 400ft radius of the building.100mph ground speed max (that's 87 knots)(400 ft is 120meters) MSL is mean sea levelAirport elevations, airspace notations are written MSLWritten on maps as big number with small number below in parentheses—that's MSL (AGL) Only fly during daylight, or in “civil twilight”—that’s the 30 minutes before sunrise/after sunset, which requires 3-mile collision avoidance lights VFR Sectional charts cover the whole U.S.Terminal aeronautical charts (TAC) are a zoomed in view of airports CONTROLLED AND UNCONTROLLED AIRSPACEClass A airspace is 18,000ft+ for commercial airlinersClass B airspace is major airports (SOLID BLUE LINE) multiple shelves, like an upside-down, tiered cake.Class C is smaller airports (SOLID MAGENTA LINE) one shelf, usually 20 nautical miles acrossClass D is still controlled but even smaller (DASHED BLUE LINE) no shelves, single cylinder. Typical height is 2,500ft AGL.Surface Class E is also controlled (DASHED MAGENTA LINE)Faded magenta means Class E airspace begins at 700ft, so not a problem for sUAS-Unlike other altitude notations, Class E 700ft is AGL-Outside of faded magenta, Class E begins at 1200ft AGLClass G is uncontrolled, requires no approval. The most comprehensive information on a given airport is provided by the “US Chart Supplement.” On a VFR sectional chart, those blue compass roses surround VORs (VHF omnidirectional range), which transmit navigational info to pilots.-V and T blue lines are IFR routes "highways in the sky"-long dashed magenta are "isogonic lines" showing magnetic north.-Blue airports have control towers. Magenta do not. TRSA is big grey lines. Have Class D at the core, but the Class C-style shelves are for FYI only. You don't have to talk to those towers. Other areas shown by blue hash is restricted or prohibited or warningMagenta hash is military operations area (MOA)-what kinds of activities in a MOA? Those that necessitate aerobatic or abrupt flight maneuvers.-In restricted space? Unusual, often invisible hazards to aircraft (eg artillery, guided missiles) Military training routes (MTR) are denoted by thin grey lines. IR means instrument route. VR means visual route. These are usually under 10,000ft. But a four-number character (ie VR1207) is 1,500ft AGL and below. Three characters or less have segments above 1,500ft. <a href="http://aviationweather.gov/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">aviationweather.gov</a> - Also uses HEMS (turbulence data for low-flying helicopters)METAR (french acronym) is an aviation routine weather report, released every 55 minutesLook like this:KLGA 251510Z 18010G19KT 10SM OVC010 26/23 A3000 RMK AO2 T02610228 $Decoded: LaGuardia, (July) 25 at 1510 zulu time. winds from the south (180°) at 10knots, with gusts up to 19knots. Visibility 10 statute miles (10 = unlimited). Overcast at 1000ft MSL. 26°C, dew point 23°C. Calibrate altimeter to 30.00Hg. RMK are remarks. WHAT IS STANDARD TEMP &amp; PRESSURE?15°C and 29.92Hg TAF (Terminal aerodrome forecast) is like METAR, but generally a 24-hour forecastLooks like this:KLGA 251607Z 2516/2618 17014G21KT P6SM VCSH SCT015 BKN035TEMPO 2516/2520 2SM SHRA BR BKN015 OVC025FM260000 17012KT 6SM BR VCSH OVC020TEMPO 2600/2604 3SM SHRAFM260400 20010KT 6SM BR VCSH OVC015FM260800 23006KT 4SM BR VCSH OVC015FM261400 25006KT P6SM VCSH BKN025 BKN040 LaGuardia (day, zulu time) forecast from 25 16:00z to 26 18:00z. 170° 14knots, gusts up to 21knots. P6SM (visibility more than 6 statute miles—6 is TAF max). In the vicinity (VC), showers (SH). THREE TYPES OF WEATHER BRIEFS: Standard, Abbreviated and Outlook<a href="http://1800wxbrief.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">1800wxbrief.com</a>If you had a waiver that required you to fill out a NOTAM, you can do it on that site. What is a characteristic of stable air?-Stratiform clouds (thin, low stratus clouds)-fair to poor visibility-continuous precipitation Unstable air-building cumulus clouds (extensive vertical development)-good visibility-inconsistent, showery precipitation When the temperature and dew point get close, that's when we get visible moisture—when fog forms.FOG TYPES:-Radiation fog, when heat rises from the ground at night (prefers no wind)-Advection Fog, warm moist air moves over a colder surface, like a body of water-Upslope fog, which moves up a mountain-Precipitation induced fog / steam fog When will clouds or fog form?-When water vapor condenses What would you expect on a hot day over a barren area?-Unstable air (because of the rising, uneven heat)-Low-level wind sheer, thunderstorms might occur if we add humidity to that CLOUD types:-high (cirrus or clouds with extensive vertical development)-middle (altocumulus and altostratus)-low 6,500ft below (stratus) (cumulus) Must fly sUAS 500ft below clouds ceiling cumulo-nimbus (CB clouds) means rain (also nimbo-stratus) A standing, lenticular cloud (often forms over a mountain, almond-shaped). Terrible, nasty weather. What is the definition of a ceiling?-The lowest broken (BKN) or overcast (OVC) layer. Not "few" or "scattered" FROST/DEWOn cool, clear calm nights, objects on the ground can cause surrounding air to drop below the dew point, condensing air on ground, buildings, aircraft, etc.-If the temperature is below freezing, that's frost.-Dew poses no threat to sUAS, but frost is a definite flight safety hazard. A small sUAS would need to be cleaned of frost before flight. Compass numbers that are written/read are "true north" (METAR, TAF) whereas heard ones, like on the radio, are "magnetic north." FAA says payload "should" be logged, in the event of an accident.-sUAS "MAY NOT" carry HAZARDOUS material-to ensure center of gravity (CG) confirm balance info in POH (pilot operating handbook) Normal plane flight pattern is rectangular: upwind, left crosswind, downwind, left base, final. REPORTING AN ACCIDENT-Report accident within 10 days, to the FAA if:-"serious injury" (hospitalization) to any person or loss of consciousness-damage to any property (other than sUAS) if the cost is greater than $500-shall be filed electronically, via FAA accident reporting-or by phone to nearest FSDO (Flight Standards District Office)

Episode 73: Become a Licensed Drone Pilot

Episode 60: The Story of the FireFire destroyed Griffin’s mom’s apartment in Bloomington, Illinois. She is safe, and the recovery process is going well. Plus, your questions about crop focal lengths, tracking freelance hours, and the best headphones for under $100.Central Illinois news agencies reported on the fire, including this story in The Pantagraph.How to protect yourselfThe Red Cross has several fire preparedness tips—most importantly making sure you have working smoke alarms.*My mom also appears in episode 54—she's interviewed on-campus at Illinois State University.Upcoming workshop in Los AngelesPHOTOCON LA 2018 is a three-day photo and cinema learning event in Los Angeles, which opens with my keynote Traveling Light While Filmmaking on June 8, 2018.Regarding Austin’s question about counting freelance hours, I’ve come across ZEI° by Timeular, a tabletop device that tracks your working hours.Although I prefer to trust wired lavalier mics (like the Sony ECM-44B) when possible, I’ve recently purchased a Sennheiser EW100 G3 wireless transmitter and ME 2-II lavalier mic.John—looking for sub-$100 headphones—is considering the Sennheiser HD 280 PRO. Griffin likes his Sony MDR-V6. One of Nick’s favorite review sites, Wirecutter, has several suggestions.

<h2>Episode 60: The Story of the Fire</h2>Fire destroyed Griffin’s mom’s apartment in Bloomington, Illinois. She is safe, and the recovery process is going well. Plus, your questions about crop focal lengths, tracking freelance hours, and the best headphones for under $100.Central Illinois news agencies reported on the fire, including <a href="http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/residents-escape-friday-morning-fire-at-apartment-building/article_5deccac3-06d9-5e9f-afcc-7efbaf042bf8.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this story in </a><a href="http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/residents-escape-friday-morning-fire-at-apartment-building/article_5deccac3-06d9-5e9f-afcc-7efbaf042bf8.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Pantagraph</a>.How to protect yourself <a href="http://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Red Cross has several fire preparedness tips</a>—most importantly making sure you have working smoke alarms.*My mom <a href="https://griffinhammond.com/podcast/episode54" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">also appears in episode 54</a>—she's interviewed on-campus at Illinois State University.Upcoming workshop in Los Angeles PHOTOCON LA 2018 is a three-day photo and cinema learning event in Los Angeles, which opens with my keynote <a href="https://photoconla.com/schedule/tba-friday-130-230pm-8/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Traveling Light While Filmmaking</a> on June 8, 2018.Regarding Austin’s question about counting freelance hours, I’ve come across <a href="https://timeular.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ZEI° by Timeular</a>, a tabletop device that tracks your working hours.Although I prefer to trust wired lavalier mics (like the <a href="https://bhpho.to/2z5J7d6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sony ECM-44B</a>) when possible, I’ve recently purchased a <a href="https://bhpho.to/2HUdSHz" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sennheiser EW100 G3 wireless transmitter</a> and <a href="https://bhpho.to/2FcRIxm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ME 2-II lavalier mic</a>.John—looking for sub-$100 headphones—is considering the <a href="https://bhpho.to/2HNkd7E" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sennheiser HD 280 PRO</a>. Griffin likes his <a href="https://bhpho.to/2HNVZdE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sony MDR-V6</a>. One of Nick’s favorite review sites, Wirecutter, has <a href="https://thewirecutter.com/electronics/headphones/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">several suggestions</a>.

Episode 60: The Story of the Fire

Episode 7: How to Produce Wedding Films [Rebroadcast]Episode originally aired February 14, 2017Happy Valentine’s Day! Nick and Griffin share their wedding film production techniques—from dealing with low light in dark receptions to copyrighted music. Plus your questions about DSLR recording limits, asking good interview questions, and what format to shoot commercials in.Watch Griffin &amp; Amy’s 5-minute wedding video, edited from only one good camera angle after Griffin screwed up Nick’s great close-up angle.A sampling of wedding films produced by Nick BodmerA sampling of wedding films produced by Griffin HammondNick mentioned finding collaborators on the /r/videography subreddit and /r/weddingvideographyNick uses this “Precomposed Zip Kit” After Effects template for DVD menus.

<h2>Episode 7: How to Produce Wedding Films [Rebroadcast]</h2>Episode originally aired February 14, 2017 Happy Valentine’s Day! Nick and Griffin share their wedding film production techniques—from dealing with low light in dark receptions to copyrighted music. Plus your questions about DSLR recording limits, asking good interview questions, and what format to shoot commercials in.<a href="https://vimeo.com/27397276" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Watch Griffin &amp; Amy’s 5-minute wedding video</a>, edited from only one good camera angle after Griffin screwed up Nick’s great close-up angle.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAY14NVB179ZQ22ZfJJybWIrVal2JNLxr" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A sampling of wedding films produced by Nick Bodmer</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL87909DA2E702FE18" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A sampling of wedding films produced by Griffin Hammond</a>Nick mentioned finding collaborators on the <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/videography/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">/r/videography</a> subreddit and <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/weddingvideography/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">/r/weddingvideography</a> Nick uses this “<a href="http://www.precomposed.com/products/zip_kits/01/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Precomposed Zip Kit</a>” After Effects template for DVD menus.

Episode 7: How to Produce Wedding Films [Rebroadcast]

Are Apple’s new MacBook Pros worth the upgrade? I have no idea, so Nick explains the new specs. Plus, your questions about recovering lost audio, organizing camera gear, and if your computer can handle 10-bit video files.Regarding hard-to-play video files, for playback I recommend VLC for Mac or PC, and for transcoding files—EditReady for Mac.This simple “underwear organizer” helps store my lenses, camera bodies, cords and accessories inside dresser drawers.For more information about camera bags Nick and I use, check out episode 69, How to Vacation with a Camera.

Are <a href="https://www.apple.com/macbook-pro/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple’s new MacBook Pros</a> worth the upgrade? I have no idea, so Nick explains the new specs. Plus, your questions about recovering lost audio, organizing camera gear, and if your computer can handle 10-bit video files.Regarding hard-to-play video files, for playback I recommend <a href="https://www.videolan.org/vlc/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">VLC for Mac or PC</a>, and for transcoding files—<a href="https://www.divergentmedia.com/editready" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">EditReady for Mac</a>.This <a href="https://amzn.to/2us7LoG" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">simple “underwear organizer”</a> helps store my lenses, camera bodies, cords and accessories inside dresser drawers. For more information about camera bags Nick and I use, check out episode 69, <a href="https://griffinhammond.com/podcast/episode69" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to Vacation with a Camera</a>.

Episode 71: Apple Updates the MacBook Pros

B&amp;H Surprised Me With a Canon EOS-R + 24 105mm!When B&amp;H invited Griffin to an after-hours gift exchange, he wasn’t expecting to go home with a $3,400 camera kit. And he definitely wasn’t expecting Canon’s new mirrorless EOS R with 24-105mm lens!Six other YouTubers walked away with excellent prizes as well: Steve Ronin, Armando Ferreira, Thunder E/Booredatwork, Jon Reyes, Jacklyn/NothingButTech88 and Brendan Miranda.Thank you so much to Mendy Paul at B&amp;H for inviting me! Happy holidays!Black Friday &amp; Cyber Monday Deals for FilmmakersI’ve started tracking November deals for filmmakers at griffinhammond.com/november

<h2>B&amp;H Surprised Me With a Canon EOS-R + 24 105mm!</h2>When B&amp;H invited Griffin to an after-hours gift exchange, he wasn’t expecting to go home with a $3,400 camera kit. And he definitely wasn’t expecting <a href="https://bhpho.to/2FyniuO" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Canon’s new mirrorless EOS R with 24-105mm lens</a>!Six other YouTubers walked away with excellent prizes as well: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/steveronin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steve Ronin</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/mondobytes" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Armando Ferreira</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/booredatwork" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Thunder E/Booredatwork</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/JonReyesNYC" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jon Reyes</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/NothingButTech88" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jacklyn/NothingButTech88</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/brendanmiranda" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brendan Miranda</a>.Thank you so much to Mendy Paul at B&amp;H for inviting me! Happy holidays!Black Friday &amp; Cyber Monday Deals for Filmmakers I’ve started tracking November deals for filmmakers at <a href="http://griffinhammond.com/november" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">griffinhammond.com/november</a>

B&H Surprised Me With a Canon EOS R + 24-105mm!

Episode 53: Retractable Closet CameraTo build a convenient, retractable podcasting system, Griffin mounted an LED panel and a retractable camera mount in his office closet. Plus, your questions about step-up rings, when to use shotgun vs hyper-cardioid mics, and if you can show the iPhone operating system in your film.Ingredients for Griffin’s retractable podcasting systemSpekular LED panel mounted via Pedco Ultra ClampLEE Filters CTO gel to make the bluish LED warmerReflex SR5 shoulder rig reconfigured into a retractable rail systemBarska Ball Head with an Arca-style quick release plateB+W 2-stop ND Filter to use with my 12mm f/1.4 lensIn addition to our usual filmmaking questions, Nick wants you to tweet other types of questions using the hashtag #askgriffinHey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by Squarespace. Try it for free, then save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain—visit squarespace.com/griffinWe received a question about the pocket-sized Panasonic LX10, which has a built-in f/1.4–2.8 24–70mm lens (super 35 equivalent).

<h2>Episode 53: Retractable Closet Camera</h2>To build a convenient, retractable podcasting system, Griffin mounted an LED panel and a retractable camera mount in his office closet. Plus, your questions about step-up rings, when to use shotgun vs hyper-cardioid mics, and if you can show the iPhone operating system in your film.Ingredients for Griffin’s retractable podcasting system<ul><li><a href="https://bhpho.to/2CxSRyd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spekular LED panel</a> mounted via <a href="http://griffinhammond.com/clamp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pedco Ultra Clamp</a></li><li><a href="https://bhpho.to/2ryBPji" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LEE Filters CTO gel</a> to make the bluish LED warmer</li><li><a href="http://www.reflexfab.com/blog.php?p=3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Reflex SR5 shoulder rig</a> reconfigured into a retractable rail system</li><li><a href="https://bhpho.to/2GujxCj" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Barska Ball Head</a> with an Arca-style quick release plate</li><li><a href="https://bhpho.to/2EJ2AHR" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">B+W 2-stop ND Filter</a> to use with my <a href="https://bhpho.to/2CxiRtD" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">12mm f/1.4 lens</a></li></ul>In addition to our usual filmmaking questions, Nick wants you to tweet other types of questions using the hashtag <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23askgriffin&amp;src=typd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#askgriffin</a>Hey Indie Filmmakers is brought to you by <a href="http://squarespace.com/griffin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Squarespace</a>. Try it for free, then save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain—visit <a href="http://squarespace.com/griffin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">squarespace.com/griffin</a>We received a question about the pocket-sized <a href="https://bhpho.to/2EnCwlA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Panasonic LX10</a>, which has a built-in f/1.4–2.8 24–70mm lens (super 35 equivalent).

Episode 53: Retractable Closet Camera

No Film School asked 43 filmmakers at this year’s SXSW film festival what cameras they shot with. (It’s mostly ARRI Alexas.) Plus, your technical questions about the Panasonic GH5, lenses, hard drives, and what audio mixer to hook up to your computer.

No Film School asked 43 filmmakers at this year’s SXSW film festival what cameras they shot with. (It’s mostly ARRI Alexas.) Plus, your technical questions about the Panasonic GH5, lenses, hard drives, and what audio mixer to hook up to your computer.

Episode 55: Cameras used by SXSW Filmmakers

The best podcasts on investing. For anyone interested in the stories in the investing industry, whether it's an interview with Ray Dalio or Ed Thorp to the writer of The Big Short. This topic includes the most fascinating stories from all the best investors. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best Investing Podcasts

The Best Multi-Part Documentaries, with documentaries on Obama, Federer vs Nadal, the making of Star Wars, Netflix vs Blockbuster and more. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!