At NAB 2025, Haeleigh Royall spoke with XLCS Designs founder Will Montaghan about how his CNC-machined camera cages empower filmmakers with limited resources. With user-driven features and rugged, lightweight design, XLCS is redefining durable, accessible gear for indie creators.
Filmmaker Will von Tagen shares his journey from small-town Idaho to professional sets, highlighting lessons on storytelling, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. He now empowers emerging filmmakers to maximize their tools and embrace constraints as a path to innovation.
At NAB 2025, CFA hosted a panel with André Dantzler (SociallyU) and Sean von Tagen (Pro Cyc) on the evolving tools of virtual production—from green screen agility to LED immersion—offering lighting tips, hybrid workflow insights, and real-world lessons for modern filmmakers.
At NAB 2025, Bianca Halpern of B-Cine shared her journey from running a rental house to building a collaborative creative space in Inglewood. Her story of resilience, motherhood, and community echoes CFA’s mission to uplift underrepresented voices in film.
Explore the creation of "For Sale," a short film by Sarah Nixon and Evan Rashby, highlighting their collaborative process, challenges faced, and key filmmaking tips.
Jonathan Davis shares insights from his experience creating "Falling In" in just 72 hours, revealing tips and challenges for emerging filmmakers.
Discover how Grace Garrett navigated the challenges of a 72-hour film challenge and the importance of collaboration in creating impactful films.
Renowned Director of Photography (DP) Timur Sivan shared invaluable insights on lighting techniques for product photography during the recent NAB Show 2025.
Cinematographer Leo Gallagher talks about the art of the One Shot Music Video, featuring his work with New York based band Lawrence.
Filmmaking is never a solo journey. In this reflection, writer-director Caroline Guo shares the lessons, missteps, and moments that shaped her path—from the power of preparation to the importance of finding your creative village.
At SDCC 2024, Francesca Escarraga shared how storytelling can spark social change. From championing emerging filmmakers at NFMLA to crafting films about grief and identity, she blends art with advocacy—proving that cinema can be both personal and powerful.
At SDCC 2024, action designer Derron Ross shared how he brings cinematic fights to life in games like Destiny 2 and Star Wars Jedi. From motion capture to “stunt viz,” his work turns choreography and tech into unforgettable storytelling moments.
At SDCC 2024, award-winning creator Shanna Germain shared how mystery fuels her design of Old Gods of Appalachia, crafting eldritch horror into immersive gameplay. From Appalachian folklore to "unsafe safe" choices, her Comic Convos spotlighted the power of storytelling in games.
At SDCC 2024, Deborah M. Pratt—co-creator of Quantum Leap and creator of Warrior One—shared her bold vision for sci-fi storytelling. From championing diversity to exploring AI’s role in the future, she proves that imagination and representation can reshape the world.
At SDCC 2024, filmmaker and comic creator Ricardo Martinez shared his journey from fan to founder of LatinXorcists. With Bloodstone heading to TV and new indie horror comics on the way, he’s championing Latino voices and building community through bold, genre-bending storytelling.
