Our Action Cinematography Workshop on April 1 was a stunning display of on-set action sequences and how to create them! After several weeks of rehearsal and planning, the Southern California Stunt Crew and action cinematographers Jessica Gallant and Angel Brophy were ready. Then, it was an afternoon at The Film Hub in Vista where about 80 members, non-members, guests and volunteers came together for an amazing demonstration of fight choreography, shot framing, actor and camera blocking, visual style, and stacking. 

Having stunt professionals jumping off staircases, stage hand-to-hand fight scenes and showcase the use of half-swords, and rapiers was remarkable. Jessica and Angel demonstrated safety and rehearsal practices, explained how to manage framing challenges and unfamiliar risks, and made it clear how having an experienced Director of Photography makes all the difference when it comes to filming action scenes. Later, Elias Acosta, Director and DP, joined in a panel discussion on the filming styles for action films and the differences when filming action sequences on location vs. a soundstage. 

Photo credit - Jane Hare