Shows
SHOTLIST38. What Gets You Hired (and Remembered): A Creative Director’s Take on Building the Portfolio, Presence, and Energy That Stands OutMany 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 create.Alongside host Marshal Chupa, Chris breaks down the unspoken tiers of creative talent, the importance of self-awareness in your growth journey, and the practical ways to get no...2025-04-241h 12
SHOTLIST37. Beyond the Hustle: Filmmaking with Purpose, Balance & Inner FulfillmentSuccess 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 internal alignment leads to burnout. We dive into what it really means to build a sustainable creative career, how to recognize when it's time to step bac...2025-03-121h 11
SHOTLIST36. What They Didn’t Teach You in Film & Photography School: Building a Thriving Career Behind the LensMost 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 services.With her extensive experience as a photographer, producer, and executive producer, Lisa knows firsthand the challenges creatives face—and she delivers practical solutions to stand out in a competitive industry....2025-02-191h 15
SHOTLIST35. Alex Strohl’s Business Blueprint: 10+ Revenue Streams, 2 Million Followers, and the Value of Knowing Your WorthIn 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 to succeed, navigating shifts in the creative industry, the power of self-worth in pricing your work, and how to future-proof your creative business in the age of AI. Alex also provides actionable advice for photographers and filmmakers looking...2025-02-141h 22
SHOTLIST34. Cinematography: Balancing Art, Ego, and Emotional Intelligence | Anka MalatynskaIn 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 her career.They explore the challenges of navigating set politics, how to stay grounded in the chaos of production, and the power of letting go of ego. Anka also opens up about balancing her creative...2024-12-121h 03
SHOTLIST33. Breaking Creative Blocks and Staying True to Yourself | Sean Tucker Photographer, Filmmaker, AuthorIn 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 skills, as well as strategies for dealing with perfectionism, social media validation, and envy.Episode Highlights03:41 Beginnings in Photography06:22 Transitioning into a Creative Career09:38 Finding Your Creative Direction11:22 Balancing Passion with Profession2024-11-061h 00
SHOTLIST33. Breaking Creative Blocks and Staying True to Yourself | Sean Tucker Photographer, Filmmaker, AuthorIn 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 skills, as well as strategies for dealing with perfectionism, social media validation, and envy.2024-11-0659 min
SHOTLIST32. Jakob Owens | Director / Entrepreneur | Building a Personal Brand and Multiple Income Streams as a FilmmakerIn 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 aspiring filmmakers.Episode Highlights6:26 How Jakob got started in filmmaking12:47 Building an audience22:22 Jakob’s multiple income streams25:06 Breaking out of the day rate mindset34:56 Managing multiple businesses38:34 Creating systems and processes45:40 Se...2024-10-091h 20
SHOTLIST31. David duChemin | Photographer / Author | Getting Sh*t Done and Creating a Career you LoveIn 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 staying on track when life throws inevitable curveballs. This conversation is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to get more done and stay aligned with their purpose.Episode Highlights3:31 Find...2024-09-161h 21
SHOTLIST30. Heather Mosher | Documentary FilmmakerIn 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 logline in securing funding and discuss why prioritizing mental health is crucial for filmmakers—so much so that Heather even suggests budgeting for a therapist. With heartfelt vulnerability and a deep passion for her craft, Heather provides invaluable insights on...2024-08-261h 25
SHOTLIST29. Tucker Anderson | DP | Founder of Element FiltersIn 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 better ND filters inspired him to create his own company, Element Filters.Episode Highlights2:11 How Tucker Started9:54 Building a Portfolio from Scratch12:34 Key Business...2024-08-0453 min
SHOTLIST28. Ian Coll | Filmmaker / Photographer | The Art of SalesIn 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 problem solver who genuinely cares about clients' issues to stand out in the creative industry, offering valuable tips and strategies to elevate your sales game.Episode Highlights:3:39 Ian's Humble Beginnings5:57 Getting Drawn into Videography9:03 Ian’s...2024-07-141h 21
SHOTLIST27. Bryan Sheffield | The Art of Pricing & Negotiation | Executive ProducerIn 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 photographers with pricing and negotiation on their next project. If you're eager to master the art of pricing and negotiation, this episode is a must-listen.Episode Highlights:2:40 Bryan's Story6:04 What Does an EP's Day-to-Day Look Like?8:41 Pricing in...2024-06-231h 08
SHOTLIST26. Israel Rivera | Director / Photographer / DOPIn 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 as Israel shares advice on how to start building good relationships, how to deal with feast-or-famine periods in the industry, and the essential skills photographers need to...2024-06-051h 03
SHOTLIST25. Taylor Burk | Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle PhotographerIn 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-figure following.In the podcast, Taylor also shares how he shifted from using Instagram solely to expanding his services which include Commercial Photography, Directing, and Social Media Promotion, among others. Join...2024-05-121h 06
SHOTLIST24. Blake Jorgenson | Photographer / Director / ProducerIn 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 to creating still and motion work for many of North America’s leading outdoor, active, and automotive brands.Throughout the podcast, Blake offers a wealth of advice for both new and es...2024-04-211h 02
SHOTLIST23. Guy Fattal | Active Lifestyle and Action Sports PhotographerIn 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 passion, including working various odd jobs. He also discusses the winning formula on how you can start and build connections as a newcomer. Ultimately, he stresses how important it is to be...2024-03-241h 19
SHOTLIST22. TAYLOR REID | Director DuoIn 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 Nick provided invaluable insights into their journey, detailing their initial steps, collaborative strategies, and effective networking approaches. Moreover, they shed light on challenges filmmakers face, such as uncertain income streams, and offer advice on...2024-03-031h 05
SHOTLIST21. Considering a $50K Camera Purchase? 3 Factors to Think AboutIn 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 experiences about purchasing equipment and how factors like perceived value, professional level, and equipment availability can play an essential role in these decisions.So if you’re a photographer, cinematographer, or a videographer who is looking to figure out ho...2024-02-1330 min
SHOTLIST20. Matty Manhire | Director / Photographer / XR Wall / InnovatorIn this episode, Marshal speakers with the multi-faceted MattyManhire. Matty is not only a director and photographer, but he is also aninnovator and a strong advocate for the innovative XR (extended reality) wall technology.In this conversation, Matty talks about his fascinating journeyfrom installing mechanical dinosaurs to carving out a successful career as adirector and photographer. He shares how his genuine curiosity about others andunderstanding of the business side of creativity have been key to their successin the creative industry, how the XR wall technology has made the creation ofcommercials more engaging and thrilling for him, and...2024-01-2257 min
SHOTLIST19. Adam Blasberg | PhotographerIn this episode, Marshal speaks with photographer, Adam Blasberg. Throughout this conversation, Adam generously shares his tips on building an impressive portfolio, nurturing client relationships, and discovering one's unique style. He also emphasizes the importance of personal projects, highlighting why they hold as much weight as the paid projects, and revealing how he successfully juggles his career with family commitments.So, if you are struggling to balance your career, passion, and family, then you will definitely gain valuable insights from this conversation. Let’s dive in!Episode Hi...2024-01-011h 00
SHOTLIST18. Christina Force | Mentor and Consultant to PhotographersIn this episode, Marshal speaks with Christina Force, a consultant and mentor to photographers, about the business practices and mindset that sets apart average photographers from successful ones. She shares about the importance of discovering your why and emphasizes that one’s best work is who they really are. Christina walks Marshal through the process of discovering one's why by sharing the guide questions and prompts she asks the photographers she works with. Lastly, they also took a deep dive into money mindsets that beginner photographers must employ to grow as creatives. If you’re on the journey of tryi...2023-09-111h 12
SHOTLIST17. Byron Kopman | DPIn this episode DP Byron Kopman discusses the importance of building relationships, the benefits and drawbacks of having an agent, and the best equipment that makes a return on your investment while. Byron opens up to Marshal about the process of obtaining his US Visa, recounting the frustrating experience and the steps he took to obtaining and renew it. He emphasizes the value of shorthand in the industry and his appreciation for crew members who share his strong work ethic. If you’re looking to build your portfolio, invest in gear, and grow your network as a freelance creative, By...2023-08-211h 09
SHOTLIST16. Evan Bourcier | FilmmakerIn this episode, Marshal speaks with Filmmaker, Evan Bourcier on topics such as how he found his way into making a living with a camera, learning from other people in the industry by watching them work, the importance of being emotionally intelligent to thrive in this industry, knowing how to connect to your work, and learning to manage the fluctuating income that comes with being a freelance creative. If you’re an aspiring filmmaker, listen in and learn from his journey — let’s dive in. Episode Highlights(4:15) Get to know Ev...2023-07-311h 14
SHOTLIST15. Christian Tisdale | Photographer / DirectorIn this episode, Marshal speaks with Photographer and Director, Christian Tisdale about his journey to making it in the industry as a commercial photographer. Being in an increasingly saturated market, Christian shares his experience on how he is able to set himself apart. He also talks about the importance of having personal projects, the differences between photographers at different price points, and a 3-step system to create and keep momentum with his work and clients. You’ll find so much inspiration from Christian’s story, and I’m excited to share our conversation with you. Let’s dive in!2023-07-101h 03
SHOTLIST14. RJ Sauer | Director / WriterAs a director, RJ's ability to hold the end vision in mind while navigating all the challenges of the filmmaking process is a true testament to his talent. In this episode, Marshal speaks with director and writer, RJ Sauer about the creative process and the responsibility of creating a film. RJ talks about the key aspects of his workflow, his journey in building relationships and finding work, as well as navigating the ups and downs of the freelance creative world. Most importantly, he shares about his story and how it shapes not only his work life but also his...2023-06-191h 16
SHOTLIST13. Chris Orwig | Photographer / Author / Educator / Intuitive HealerIn this episode, Marshal speaks with photographer, author, educator, and intuitive healer, Chris Orwig. Chris talks about the creative process behind his book, The Creative Fight, which offers guidance on creating meaningful work that aligns with your values and lifestyle. He also shares about the importance of intention in building a successful career, advice on developing an impactful portfolio and building strong relationships, and what success means and how it should shape our career paths. If you want to go deep, then this episode's for you. Let's dive in!Episode Highlights02:12...2023-05-291h 07
SHOTLIST12. Garth Collins | Executive Producer and PartnerIn this episode, Marshal speaks with executive producer and partner at Dear Friend, Garth Collins as they delve into the dynamic world of executive producing. Garth provides valuable insights into the significance of communication and relationship-building in the creative industry, emphasizing how these elements can serve as seeds that grow into long-term value and opportunities. He also provides an inside look into his role in balancing business with creativity, in dealing with the highs and lows of a creative career, and reveals his team's main processes and systems that drive their work forward. If you're a creative looking to...2023-05-081h 03
SHOTLIST11. Jacob Crawford | Producer / Executive ProducerIn this episode, Marshal speaks with Jacob Crawford, a young and hungry producer / executive producer making a name for himself and company inside the film industry. Jacob talks about how a fateful drone crash sparked his interest in filmmaking, his three-step system for building meaningful relationships, and how he built and leads his team of eight internal employees while working on 50 - 100 person set productions. Whether you're just starting out in the industry or looking to take your career to the next level, Jacob's insights and experiences are sure to inspire and inform — let’s dive in.2023-04-171h 17
SHOTLIST10. Mark Milburn | Director / ProducerIn this episode, Marshal speaks with director and producer Mark Milburn exploring his unique journey into commercial directing and producing. Formerly an athlete and business owner, Mark shares how he began building relationships and finding ways to add value to his clients' lives. We also discuss the delicate balance of being a director and producer simultaneously and explore what an OTT platform is, and how it could change the game for creators. Mark's passion for helping others succeed shines through in this conversation, making it a must-listen for both newcomers and veterans in the creative industry. Be sure to...2023-03-2751 min
SHOTLIST9. Jan Schuster | DP / CinematographerIn this episode, Marshal speaks with cinematographer and DP Jan Schuster about his experience buying his first red camera and whether it was a good career choice when he was starting out on his journey. They also discuss how he created other avenues of income with his camera truck, how he began building relationships and a solid foundation for his career, and the mindset it takes to make it through the tough times when work inevitably slows down. Let's dive in!IG Accounts:@gorillacameratruck@janschu2023-03-071h 02
SHOTLIST8. Shaunoh Wilson | Film DirectorIn this episode, Marshal speaks with creative film director Shaunoh Wilson about his process of creating work and keeping things personal, how he goes about coming up with ideas and the added challenge of collaborating with a team to get his vision across. He speaks to how to deal with rejection, and staying positive in this wild freelance career, as well as his core values and lifestyle that come along with the journey. You’re going to love this episode — let’s dive in.2023-02-1635 min
SHOTLIST7. Corwin Hiebert | Creative ConsultantIn this episode, Marshal speaks with creative consulting and business expert, Corwin Hiebert about how to get started with your creative career. Corwin speaks to some important tips on what it takes to launch your career as a creative, how to actually start making money from your craft, and how to generate demand for your services. He shares tips guaranteed to set you up for success, including some bad business practices to avoid in the beginning. You’re going to love this episode — let’s dive in.2023-01-2448 min
SHOTLIST6. Callum Snape | PhotographerIn this episode, Marshal Chupa talks with commercial, tourism and outdoor photographer Callum Snape about how to make a life and a living behind the lens. Callum is a renowned Instagram photographer with over 800k followers and in this deep-dive conversation he walks you through how to build a compelling and focused portfolio, how to get noticed by destination and tourism boards, how to develop relationships with your dream clients and ultimately how to build a winning proposal. You’re going to love this episode—let’s jump in!2023-01-0349 min
SHOTLIST5. David duChemin | Photographer / AuthorIn this episode, Marshal Chupa talks with photographer and best-selling author David DuChemin about how to earn a living from your craft and creativity. This is a spirited and insightful conversation about the importance of honing your creative vision, when to quit your day job and go all-in, and how to price your talent and your work. David is a renowned public speaker and a deeply passionate educator, you’re going to love this episode—now let’s jump in!2022-12-101h 06
SHOTLIST4. Andrea Wing | Commercial DirectorIn this episode, Marshal Chupa talks with commercial director Andrea Wing about how she’s made a life and a living in the production world. During this energetic discussion Andrea shares her journey story, outlines her creative process to getting a new project off the ground, details her approach to building-out her directors’ treatments, and giving some insider tips on the unconventional skills that have made her career so successful. You’re going to love this episode—now let’s jump in!2022-11-2151 min
SHOTLIST3. Noah Fallis | Photographer / DPIn this episode, Marshal Chupa chats with photographer and DP Noah Fallis about how he got started and how he’s crafted for himself a freelance career he’s really proud of. The discussion tackles how he’s found success in working with ad agencies, how to turn smaller opportunities into bigger career-changing breaks, and how to push past the struggles in order to do your best work. Noah’s unique journey offers emerging photographers and cinematographers an inside track on how making a life and living from your passion can be done through persistence, setting high standards, making smart decision...2022-10-3145 min
SHOTLIST2. Darcy Wittenburg | Director / Producer at Anthill FilmsIn this episode, Marshal Chupa chats with director and producer Darcy Wittenburg about his creative and vocational journey behind the lens. As a mountain bike filmmaker, Darcy has had to be a serial collaborator and a dedicated team leader, pushing himself and his crew to share and deliver on new ideas and work together under pressure—they jump right into the good stuff so you’re going to wanna pay attention. The discussion also covers topics like finding and working with sponsors and funding partners for bigger projects. This conversation packed with insights and practical tips for anyone looking to make...2022-10-0144 min
SHOTLIST1. Aaron Nathanson | Cinematographer / DirectorIn this inaugural episode of SHOTLIST Marshal Chupa talks with cinematographer and director Aaron Nathanson. The conversation covers Aaron's freelance journey, how he began to build his portfolio while overseas (with very few resources), and how he made a name for himself in a new town where he knew no one. Aaron also gives some really great tips about how to create meaningful work and even when to buy your next camera.2022-09-151h 08