March 3rd, 2014

We started off the day with a trip to the famous CBS Studios to view the live taping of The Talk. The process leading up to the show was what I found most interesting. The ability of guys like Bill to get the audience pumped up and interested in the show is truly remarkable. Virtually everyone who watches the show from their home is completely unaware of what is going on around the hosts, in between commercials, and before and after the taping itself. It really opened up my eyes to the wide array of production details that I had no idea existed until today. There is so much that goes into making a successful episode look and feel professional.I have a tremendous amount of respect for shows in this type of format now. 

I couldn't help myself from peeking behind my shoulder to look at the camera operators. As an aspiring DP/Camera Op, I was fascinated at two things primarily: how many cameras there were, and how precise their shots were. The framing of each shot was excellent, as well as the lighting in general. Everything looked pristine and well thought out when it came to the visuals of the show. I don't really see myself ever wanting to work on live television. I don't really like the hurried nature of it all. I prefer to plan things out in advance and take my time on stories and characters. Thats what drew me into my love for films. Then again, who knows where I'll end up finding work. One thing is for sure, I would not say no to a job offer from a live talk show. While its not necessarily what I really want to end up doing, there is countless knowledge waiting to be learned on any production. I really enjoyed the entire experience of The Talk. 

CBS Studios Lot

After our splendid lunch at the California Pizza Kitchen (I absolutely devoured a pizza in like 12 seconds), we headed over to YouTube Space. I never thought a place like this existed. For those of you reading this, its essentially a hub for successful "YouTubers". Once you hit 10k subscribers, you are able to use this facility to produce new content. The entire place seems like it runs so smoothly. Everything looks so advanced and high tech. I swear I felt like I walked through a time machine when I came through the front door. I think its really awesome that there is a place like this for young aspiring filmmakers who are using the internet as a voice for their work. I could absolutely be discovered on YouTube. Anybody can, and the fact there is a place literally dedicated to those who use this specific platform is to me, essential. YouTube Space had some really great sounds studios and green screen rooms. I would love to work out of there at some point in my life. Everything seems so collaborative and team-related there and thats definitely an experience I would love. The fact that there is a growing market for young, independent filmmakers is refreshing. While I am out in LA looking for large production jobs, I still want to explore the independent filmmaker within me by seeing what opportunities arise out of places such as YouTube Space. 

YouTube Space