If you want to see how to produce a great short DSLR video then watch “The Last 3 Minutes” from Shane Hurlbut – Director of Photography on Terminator: Salvation.
The Last 3 Minutes from Shane Hurlbut, ASC on Vimeo.
Shot on a Canon 5D DSLR camera with a professional crew, I’m linking to this short film not for the entertainment value or the production value or the work flow used in production.Here are a few excerpts from the excellent post on planet5d.com
“All of the elements in this film: casting, music, wardrobe style and color, make up (the lipstick color on the actress), hairstyle and color, set dress pieces and the texture of those pieces to the look of the crystal. Everything was carefully planned and considered to make sure every element worked in concert with the story, together in harmony.” - Po Chan – Director
“Our shoot encompassed 17 different location over 4 1/2 days. The project was a labor of love from theHurlbut Visuals Elite Team Members and all the production staff from Bandito Brothers. This would never have been possible without their time, expertise, willingness to donate gear and take on whatever roles the project demanded. Jacob Rosenberg and his post production Elite Team fromBandito Brothers knocked it out of the park!! For specific post questions, please email Jacob [email protected] A big thank you to Andrew Huebscher for his amazing color correction and Brett Novak for his beautiful crystal transitions. The biggest thank you goes to my wife and collaborator. She was the glue that held this little short together with countless hours on the phone connecting people, arranging the deal, coordinating the finances, working with the parents to schedule all of the children and watching over the kids on the set which was a daunting task.” Shane Hurlbut, ASC
“My team and I knew that we had the task of making this project go off without a hitch. Our job is to anticipate potential problems so we can avoid them to stay on time and within the budget. I location scouted with Po and asked many favors from equipment vendors and the special effects team members from “Act of Valor.” Greg Haggert – Producer
“Po asked me cut “The Last 3 Minutes” and then brought me super-detailed storyboards and the script that proceeded to act out every shot, angle and transition. What I realized right away was this was to be no ordinary short film. Once I received the footage, I had confirmation. As an editor, I have seen the best and worst shot footage from every camera. What Shane can do with the 5D mkii will make your jaw drop.” Vashi Nedomansky – Editor
Now watch the film again but this time only watch the credits and see how many people it took to create this five minute short film.
The job of the producer is to get the project completed on time, on budget and delivering the creative ideal that drove the team to make the film in the first place.
I think it’s the best job in the world.



