The hardest part of being a creator? The start.
Whether it’s writing a script, opening up your camera or shooting that first scene, it doesn’t get easier. Or at least not for me. I’ve been making videos for over 10 years, but when Uppbeat asked if I’d like to write this new series, I found myself right where I was a decade ago - a blank page, an idea and wondering where to begin.
If that sounds familiar, maybe this blog is for you.
The Monthly Cut aims to inspire you to kick the self doubt and get started. Each month I’ll be sharing five creators that I believe are really special. It could be their editing style I’m in love with, the way they talk to the camera or their drive to get better. Whatever it is, I’ll be pointing out what works in their content and how you can apply it to your own craft.
As this is the first in this series (an exciting new beginning!) it feels right to kick it off with someone who didn’t wait for the perfect set-up, or perfect moment, to start creating…
George Amerlaan: Capturing beauty on a phone
A major barrier to filming content is the (totally unfounded) belief that you need a perfect camera set up before you even get going. Amerlaan’s short film - shot exclusively on his phone - proves that you can make beautiful things using whatever you have.
The video → Amerlaan pairs captured footage from Rome with dialogue from the movie ‘Passengers’. The result is an inspiring short film on the beauty of living.
Why I love it → I’ve always been a bit of a cinematography nerd, and this video scratches that itch. Each shot is well considered, with depth and pacing you rarely see outside of the cinema.
Get inspired → Beauty is everywhere. Start by capturing it, and then think how you can line up your shots to create a visual narrative.
Ultra Sharp Films: The power of personality
Just starting out? Ultra Sharp Films has you covered. Founded by production duo Michael and Tom, this channel is equal parts inspiration, good information and stand-up comedy. Learn everything you need to know about film making and have a fun time doing it.
The video → A testament to good ideas, over expensive gear.
Why I love it → Professional edits, informational content and a really bad French accent. What’s not to love?
Get inspired → Don’t be afraid to let your personality show. At the end of the day, people follow people, not videos.
Anna Steffey: Telling stories through emotions
It’s not easy to capture emotion with a camera, and even harder to do so without dialogue, but Steffey does just that. Her video diaries are all named after a specific feeling (think, ‘Summers at the lake’ or ‘Mystery of love’) which she illustrates perfectly through film.
The video → Fresh strawberries, bike rides and tarmac roads… Steffey captures the first taste of summer in just a handful of shots.
Why I love it → I’m pretty sure Steffey has invented her own genre of filmmaking. Let’s call it ‘cinematic poetry’, because watching her videos feels like reading something special.
Get inspired → Think of an emotion, or a specific memory. What visuals do you associate with it? Now go out and capture them.
Luda: Paying attention to each detail
I started watching Luda for his desk set-ups, but stayed for the cinematography. From educational videos on camera gear, to dramatic scene cuts from his travels, Luda has film making down to a T.
The video → A short film on perfection and why it’s the ‘thief of joy’ for creators.
Why I love it → Beyond the inspiring message, Luda’s attention to detail makes even a shot of a piece of toast look like it belongs in the cinema.
Get inspired → Experiment with camera angles and perspectives. For example, close-up shots can create a feeling of intensity or intimacy, whilst long shots can create distance between you and your subject.
Rowen Mallare: Writing heartfelt narratives
The secret to great content is more than just slick editing, you need heart and soul too. Mallare has just that. His beautiful home-style videos will leave you thinking long after you’ve stopped watching.
The video → A love letter from a husband to his wife.
Why I love it → The writing of this video was so heartfelt and thoughtful, I couldn’t help but watch through to the end.
Get inspired → Have a story to tell, but don’t know how? Try writing a detailed script first. Once you have a strong narrative it’ll be easier to think about what shots will complement it.
Discover even more great content
I’ve shared five creators I think are really special, but there’s so much great content out there to be discovered. If you’re on the hunt for more, check out my Instagram, The Creator’s Cut, where I break down videos that catch my eye and have real, down to earth conversations with the people behind them.
By now you’re probably feeling inspired to film your own content. If so, Uppbeat has everything you need to put the final touches to your edits. Get free downloads of music, sound effects and motion graphics - all copyright safe to use in your content!
Refer and earn with Uppbeat!
Join Uppbeat partners like Kevin E and grow your channel with incredible music and sound effects 🤘
