Author: Brian Pilgrim
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Natural Light vs. Studio Light: When and Why to Use Each
Lighting isn’t just about visibility. It’s about mood, authenticity, and the story you want to tell. Over more than 30 years in production, I’ve come to a simple belief: photography belongs to natural light, and video belongs to shaped light. It’s not a hard rule, and it’s certainly not the answer for every situation, but it’s…
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Capturing Life Through a Lens: Why Natural Moments Matter Most
When I pick up a camera, I’m not just looking to take a picture—I’m looking to capture a moment. The kind of moment that feels real, unplanned, and true to the person or scene in front of me. There’s a big difference between a staged photo and a genuine one. A staged photo can look…
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How ChatGPT Helped Me Become a More Confident Video Producer
I’ve lived most of my life with what I now realize are undiagnosed ADHD and autism traits. It shows up in how I process ideas, how long I hold onto thoughts, and even how hard it is for me to get words out fast enough through typing. My brain often moves quicker than my hands,…
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Why Movement Matters: Guiding the Eye in Video Storytelling
Movement in video isn’t just decoration—it’s direction. Every pan, slide, or pop-in is a cue telling your audience where to look and when to look there. If you use it with intention, movement becomes one of the strongest tools for keeping people engaged and making sure your message lands exactly where you want it to.…
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The Right Way to Do Free Creative Work (and Still Protect Yourself)
I’m a big believer that there’s a time and place for doing free work—especially when it can help someone you believe in, give you a chance to try something new, or add something great to your portfolio. But here’s the thing: free work should still be on your terms. If you’re giving your time, your equipment,…
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Event Shoots
Packing for an Event Video Job: My Go-To Gear List for Highlights, Interviews, and Sizzles When you’re hired to cover a live event—whether it’s a conference, expo, or corporate gathering—preparation is everything. You often get one shot at capturing the moment, so your gear needs to be reliable, flexible, and fast to set up. Over…
Brian Pilgrim 