SHOTLIST

Creative producer and coach Chris Whitten joins Marshal Chupa to share a refreshing approach to outreach, networking, and relationship building that feels authentic instead of salesy. After years working inside agencies, production companies, and global brands, Chris explains what decision makers actually look for when hiring filmmakers and why most outreach fails before it even begins. Want Indus...

Most creatives dream of building a sustainable career behind the lens, but few understand what it actually takes to turn talent into a real business. As a filmmaker, production company founder, and creator of Financially Free Filmmaker, Timothy Fare-Matthews shares how to move beyond trading time for money and start building systems that create retention, profitability, and long term freedom. Alon...

The filmmaking world is changing fast, budgets are tighter, crews are smaller, and adaptability has never mattered more. As a commercial cinematographer and YouTuber, Keaton Nye shares how staying booked in today’s market comes down to mindset, problem-solving, and understanding the business behind the craft. Alongside host Marshal Chupa , they break down the habits, strategies, and client relatio...

Most creatives dream of filming in remote places, working with global brands, and living a life of freedom behind the lens, but few understand the risks and protections that come with it. As Associate Vice President at Front Row Insurance, David McLeish shares how filmmakers and photographers can protect their gear, their business, and their livelihood when unexpected events happen. Alongside host...

Most creatives dream of filming in remote places, working with global brands, and living a life of freedom behind the lens, but few understand the discipline and long game it actually takes to get there. As a director and aerial cinematographer, Zac Moxley shares how his mindset, work ethic, and willingness to take risks helped him turn passion into a career. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Zach bre...

What does it actually look like to build a thriving photography and directing career, not just on paper, but in practice? Hubert Kang has steadily built a respected presence in the industry, known for his soulful personal work, big-hearted leadership style, and high-level commercial campaigns. 🎙️ Episode Sponsor: Lorne Lapham Sales & Rentals ⚡️ 20% Off Rentals at Lorne Lapham - llsr.com/shotl...

Most creatives struggle to find the balance between doing work they love and building a business that lasts. In this episode, Darren shares the story of how a devastating snowboarding injury launched his career behind the lens and how he went on to build Magnifier, a creative studio producing high-level content for top outdoor brands. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Darren breaks down his go-to syst...

Many creatives dream of working with iconic brands — but few understand what it actually takes to get there. As a creative director with decades of experience at companies like Roxy, DC Shoes, Hollister, and Eddie Bauer, Chris Vestal shares what makes a portfolio stand out, how to navigate the politics of big-budget shoots, and why the energy you bring to set matters just as much as the work you c...

Success in filmmaking isn’t just about the next big gig—it’s about finding fulfillment beyond the hustle. In this episode of Shotlist, I sit down with Jon Bregel, a filmmaker and creative coach who went from directing a Nike commercial with Spike Lee to walking away from his production company in search of something deeper. Jon’s story is a powerful reminder that chasing external success without i...

Most creatives struggle with building momentum and finding consistent work. As an executive producer and business mentor, Lisa shares a simple yet powerful three-step strategy to help you stay in demand and take control of your career. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Lisa dives into essential topics like setting measurable goals, creating systems to predict revenue, and confidently pricing your serv...

In this episode of Shotlist, host Marshal Chupa sits down with creative director, photographer, and filmmaker Alex Strohl. With over a decade of experience, Alex shares his journey from his first photography sale to Microsoft, to building a multifaceted career with over 10 revenue streams, including 2 million Instagram followers, online education, and more. They discuss the reps and mindset needed...

In this episode of the Shotlist Podcast , Marshal sits down with world class cinematographer Anka Malatynska, whose journey behind the lens has spanned over 20 years. From her scrappy beginnings shooting whatever she could get her hands on, to working on acclaimed shows like Monsterland , NCIS , and Rescue: Hi-Surf , Anka shares how perseverance, emotional intelligence, and inner work have shaped...

In this episode, Marshal interviews photographer, filmmaker, and author Sean Tucker, exploring creative blocks, authenticity, and balancing commercial work with personal passion. Sean shares insights on building discipline, staying true to your vision, and finding direction in the creative journey. They discuss practical ways to handle introversion in a career that often requires extroverted skill...

In this episode, Marshal chats with filmmaker and entrepreneur Jakob Owens about building a seven-figure brand / business and transforming his career from day-rate gigs to multiple income streams. Jakob shares insights on the importance of a solid business partner, balancing life and work, and creating a thriving creative career. Tune in for his advice on overcoming challenges and tips for aspirin...

In this episode, Marshal sits down with renowned photographer and author David duChemin to explore the art of productivity and focus. Together, they unpack the importance of identifying your "big rocks"—the essential priorities that drive your creative life—and how to use your calendar as a powerful tool for achieving your dream goals. David also shares insights on navigating distractions and stay...

In this episode, Marshal sits down with Heather Mosher, a seasoned documentary filmmaker who has produced and sold films internationally to major companies like the CBC, Red Bull TV, and Air Canada. Heather delves into her unique experiences, including filming Olympic rock climbers, offering listeners an exclusive peek into her creative process. They explore the critical role of a compelling logli...

In this episode, Marshal speaks with Tucker Anderson, Cinematographer and Founder of Element Filters. Tucker shares his journey from humble beginnings in a small ski town to building a successful film career working in Vancouver and L.A. He reveals his unique approach to networking and landing clients, offers tips for building a portfolio from scratch, and how the pandemic and his search for bette...

In this episode, Marshal interviews filmmaker Ian Coll, who shares his journey to breaking the six-figure mark and the significant changes he made in his lead generation process. Ian discusses his approach to discovery calls, follow-up methods, and client proposal strategies, along with handling price objections by understanding the true reasons behind them. He emphasizes the importance of being a...

In this episode, Marshal interviews Bryan Sheffield, an Executive Producer at Wonderful Machine with a successful background in photography. Bryan specializes in guiding photographers, both new and seasoned, through complex pricing situations with clients. They explore valuable tips for creating quotes, common pitfalls in contract writing, and how Bryan and Wonderful Machine can assist photographe...

In this episode, Marshal speaks with Israel Rivera, a photographer, director, and DOP with a rich career spanning back to the film days of the 70s. We'll explore how his love for photography shaped his life, as well as the highs and lows he experienced on his journey, including the struggles of leaving his conventional life and family business behind. This episode is packed with valuable insights...

In this episode of the Shotlist Podcast, we explore the world of Taylor Burk, an Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Photographer who has over a decade of dedicated experience in the Photography Industry. We explore his unique path, from being a blue-collar worker to becoming a professional photographer, and how Instagram played an important role in shaping the career of his dreams, now having a multi-six...

In this episode of the Shotlist Podcast, we dive into the world of a seasoned professional, Blake, a Photographer, Director, and Producer. Starting his photography journey in the pre-digital age, Blake recounts his early days of breaking into the industry by getting his first image published in Powder Magazine at just 19. His initial success was just the beginning, setting off a career dedicated t...

In this episode, Marshal speaks with Active Lifestyle and Action Sports Photographer Guy Fattal. Guy's lifelong dream was to become a Photographer, and this aspiration led him to win an action sports photography competition despite joining at the eleventh hour and being the youngest contestant. However, Guy's journey hasn't been without challenges as he shares the sacrifices he made to finance his...

In this episode, Marshal speaks with director duo Paul Reid and Nick Taylor, owners of Taylor Reid Creative. This dynamic pair boasts an impressive portfolio, having collaborated with renowned brands such as Ford, Subaru, and Air Canada, among others. This conversation caters to individuals aspiring to enter the film industry and those considering a collaborative business partner. Then Paul and Ni...

In this episode, host and cinematographer Marshal Chupa discusses the process of making logical decisions when buying camera equipment for your creative business. Marshal shares some practical advice on understanding logical costs, opportunity costs, and creative costs when buying equipment and discusses different purchasing methods like cash versus leasing. He also talks about his personal experi...