The filmmaking world is changing fast, budgets are tighter, crews are smaller, and adaptability has never mattered more. As a commercial cinematographer and YouTuber, Keaton Nye shares how staying booked in today’s market comes down to mindset, problem-solving, and understanding the business behind the craft. Alongside host Marshal Chupa, they break down the habits, strategies, and client relationships that keep filmmakers thriving when the industry shifts beneath them.
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Key Topics Discussed
The difference between skill and mindset, and why problem solvers stay booked
Navigating shrinking budgets and crew sizes while maintaining production quality
Balancing projects “one for the meal, one for the reel”
Building trust, simplifying business for clients, and thinking like a business owner
How to think like both an artist and a business owner to build a sustainable long-term career
Episode Highlights
00:25 – Why Problem Solvers Stay BookedReliability, curiosity, and initiative create more opportunity than technical skill alone.
00:27 – Adapting to a Changing IndustrySmaller crews and tighter budgets are reshaping production work and what clients expect.
00:36 – Craft Meets CommerceThinking in terms of ROI helps bridge the gap between artistry and business.
00:42 – One for the Meal, One for the ReelBalancing creative fulfillment with financial sustainability without burning out.
00:46 – The Money GapUnderstanding what separates lower-paid shooters from high-value professionals.
00:54 – Make Business Easy for ClientsClear communication and simple pricing structures lead to repeat bookings and trust.
00:57 – The Power of RelationshipsHigh-value work comes from genuine relationships, not cold outreach.
01:02 – Staying Top of MindPractical ideas for building outreach systems and keeping your network engaged.
🔗 CONNECT WITH KEATON NYE
📸 Instagram | @keatonnye
▶️ Youtube | www.youtube.com/keatonnye
🖥️ Website | www.keatonnye.com
🔗 CONNECT WITH MARSHAL
📸 Instagram | @marshalchupa
💻 Website | www.marshalchupa.com
🔗 LinkedIn | Marshal Chupa on LinkedIn
🟠 Substack | Substack Article
🎙 ABOUT THE PODCAST
This podcast is all about helping emerging cinematographers, photographers, and directors navigate the challenges of making a life and a living behind the lens. From workflow to personal growth, creative vision to marketing, finances to production—every episode is packed with a wide range of topics to support visual storytellers in their pursuit of building a business and growing a career they are proud of.
🎧 LISTEN
🟢| Spotify
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📱GET IN TOUCH
You can also drop me a DM instagram @marshalchupa or email marshal@marshalchupa.com