Long-time friends and colleagues, Christopher Ross and Sam McCurdy, are two of the cinematographers of FX’s mini-series, Shōgun. Filming this series was an incredible experience full of lessons in Japanese culture, lenses, and shooting with cranes.

In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins and special guest, cinematographer Ryan Thomas, speak with DPs Christopher Ross and Sam McCurdy to discuss:

How Chris and Sam met
The type of friendships you hold onto in the industry
What it was like working with an international cast and crew on Shōgun
The singular perspectives that ran throughout the larger storyline
What it was like working with other DPs
The lenses they chose to use in this project
Letting the camera find special moments without much interference
What an ASC masterclass is
What gave the show its atmospheric texture
Bringing truth and honesty to every episode
Why making mistakes is so valuable

Memorable Quotes

“From the start of your career to the end of your career, you’re still on some form of learning curve.” [8:47]
“Being true to what you’re shooting and being true to the script and the story is the still most important tool we bring to any job.” [50:33]
“Be brave and stupid in equal measure. Get smarter every time you shoot.” [54:00]
“Don’t necessarily listen to everyone else. Go and figure it out yourself.” [55:01]

Mentioned:

Shōgun

Original 1980 Shogun series

ASC Masterclass

Connect with Ryan on IG

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