Many 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 noticed by decision-makers in the industry.

Success 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 back, and why reconnecting with your core values is the key to long-term fulfillment.

Most 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.

In this inspiring episode, Marshal Chupa sits down with Alex Strohl—creative director, filmmaker, and photographer—to explore his journey of building a thriving creative career. Alex shares how he transitioned from photographing for freedom to creating multiple revenue streams, leading the influencer space, and navigating industry shifts like AI and social media changes. From actionable advice on building meaningful client relationships to insights on long-term success strategies, Alex opens up about the reps, mindset, and self-worth required to succeed.

In 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 career with motherhood and how prioritizing mental health has been a game-changer in her life.

This episode is packed with insights for anyone in the film industry—or any creative field—looking to grow both professionally and personally.

In 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.

In 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.

In 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.

In this episode, Marshal sits down with Heather Mosher, a seasoned documentary filmmaker who has produced and sold films internationally to major companies like the CDC, 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 sustaining a long-term career in the industry.

In 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.

In 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.

In 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.

In 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 succeed. Tune in to hear Israel's exciting stories about making a life and living behind the camera for more than 20 years.

In 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 us in this conversation with Taylor as he shares his humble and caring advice with the next generation of photographers.

In 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 established photographers. He shares the critical importance of building trust with clients, the evolution of his business model in today’s digital world, the strategies for introverted photographers to build meaningful industry relationships, and he also walks us through his project bidding process. Let’s dive into this insightful conversation with Blake, and hear about his impressive 25-year journey in the photography business!

In 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 active in creating personal works that you're truly passionate about to any up-and-coming photographer, videographer, or artist. Make sure to stay tuned until the end to know the exact formula Guy took to kickstart his career — let’s dive in.

In 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. The 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 balancing passion projects while handling a production company.

Don't miss out on this fun and fruitful conversation with Paul and Nick!

In 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 how and when to purchase or upgrade their gear, this episode is for you. Let’s dive in!

In this episode, Marshal speaks with the multi-faceted Matty Manhire. Matty is not only a director and photographer, but he is also an innovator and a strong advocate for the innovative XR (extended reality) wall technology.

In this conversation, Matty talks about his fascinating journey from installing mechanical dinosaurs to carving out a successful career as a director and photographer. He shares how his genuine curiosity about others and understanding of the business side of creativity have been key to their success in the creative industry, how the XR wall technology has made the creation of commercials more engaging and thrilling for him, and how establishing authentic relationships in the industry is very important.

So if you are curious about XR wall technology, or if you want to know more about how you can thrive in the creative industry through your authenticity, then this episode is definitely for you. Let’s dive in!

In this episode, Marshal speaks with photographer, Adam Blasberg. Adam walks us through the ins and outs of managing a thriving creative career while also being a devoted family man and what it takes to build a thriving career amongst all the challenges a freelance career offers.

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!

Join Marshal in this captivating episode as he sits down with the brilliant Christina Force, a consultant and mentor to photographers. Get ready to unlock the secrets that distinguish average photographers from the highly successful ones, as Christina shares invaluable insights on essential business practices and mindset shifts.

In 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, Byron has a lot of nuggets of wisdom for you —  let’s dive in.

In 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.

In 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 so excited to share our conversation with you. Let’s dive in!

As 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 personal life. I’m excited to share this conversation with you, so let's dive in!

In 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!

In 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 jump into this crazy but exciting career path, don't miss out on this conversation — let’s dive in.

In this episode, Marshal speaks with Jacob Crawford, a seasoned producer and executive producer with over a decade of experience in 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.

In 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 tune in until the end and gain insights for your freelance journey — let’s dive in.

In this episode, Marshal speaks with cinematographer and DP Jan Schuster about how he created other avenues of income with his camera truck, how he began building relationships and a solid foundation for his career, the mindset it takes to make it through the tough times when work inevitably slows down, and how his experience buying his first RED camera went and whether it was a good career choice when he was starting out on his journey. Let's dive in!