The truth about filmmakers on YouTube

[@JustinPhillip]

for all of those who allowed yourselves to go temporarily deaf: this is the only response all of you deserve: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nKi5f6l7YsyFi6c - especially a Cam Mackey, someone who blocked me everywhere on social media just so he could feel safe and then drag me for a week on threads. i let him run a muck on this comment thread, meanwhile he erases my one laugh emoji comment.

[@PrisonJunkie]

Promoting a film is one thing. Filming a promo is something else.

[@JustinPhillip]

This is elevated

[@robertdouble559]

Hit the nail on the head yet again Justin. My advice to anyone who'll listen for a few years has been "if your mentor's main goal is to sell you a terrible, technically incorrect LUT pack, it's time to find a new mentor"

[@JustinPhillip]

🤣👏🏼👏🏼

[@occulusrexmedia]

I appreciate the honesty and candor. As someone who used KZbin as film school, and realized the hard(expensive) way that all the gear being pitched doesn't make anyone a cinematographer, this is a really good message. It's not honest to say that gear doesn't matter. It does. You can't do the job without the right gear, and some gear is absolutely gamechanging, but after building a slick handheld rig, I realized how rarely I actually take it off of sticks or a dolly. I realized that a variable ND and the lens hood that came with the lens is just as effective as a fancy matte box(albeit not nearly as cool looking). These days, as much as I like guys like Cam, I wind up spending a lot more time watching your videos, and Camera Conspiracy, and technical guys like Gerald Undone. I still press buy it now on Amazon way more often than I should, but these days I want to know more about technique, not about equipment.

[@JustinPhillip]

Amen! 👏🏼👏🏼

[@petersonfilms-1]

I've kind of stopped watching KZbinrs like Cam or Kofi due to the same things. As a senior college film student, there's very little that Cam or KZbinrs like him can teach me about filmmaking. Instead I watch either more technical people like Gerald, Spencer Sakurai, or Lewis Potts. I also enjoy Mark Bone and especially Luc Forsyth for their pro doc advice. And if I want amazing cinematography advice I go with WanderingDP. And sometimes I like Gian Carlo Stigliano's bts stuff.

[@occulusrexmedia]

@ wandering DP is one of my new faves.

[@ThomasTulak]

if I may... the statement "gear doesn't matter" is less suggesting you could shoot a feature film with an iphone, and expect it to stream on Netflix, because gear doesn't matter... and more talking about the camera you use doesn't matter unless you know what you're doing. because there is so much more that goes into making a great image than just the camera, and once you hit a certain quality benchmark then the difference in output from camera to camera is minimal. If you know what you're doing, you know how to light and block a scene then you can get a great image with a cheap camera, if you don't then it would be hard to get a great image even with a top of the line camera. Gear obviously does matter, but only to a certain point. I wouldn't shoot a feature on a consumer grade DSLR, but you could spend tens of thousands on a high end cinema camera, and if you don't know what you're doing with it you wont necessarily get better results. gear matters, but skill and experience matter more. the other half of this conversation is for the person who is just starting out, wants to make a movie, but only has access to a consumer grade DSLR. That person should not look at gear as a road block. they should use what ever camera they have access to and make their film, and accept that their film isnt going to stream on Netflix, and probly wont even be good as first-films really never are, but thats not the point; the point is to learn, grow, and develop your skills... and to make the film! The difference between 1 and 2 is half the distance than between 0 and 1, because 0 is stagnate and 1 has begun.

[@MockManor]

Holy hell….i had no idea that Shane Hurlbut was the dude being scolded by Christian Bale. That’s crazy 😆

[@KaceyBakerFilms]

To be politely honest, I didn’t know you weren’t a KZbinr until watching you telling me that you weren’t, on KZbin.

[@JustinPhillip]

😂

[@o.n.e.wayhunting]

I applaud this video and your perspective. I find it far more truthful and honest than ranting or hateful. I think it's fair to say that once one gets a "sponsor" whether it be a sound effects company, a camera or lens company, a backpack company, insert whatever company is giving you gear or paying you here for a place on your videos, you become an employee and not a creator. Once you cross that line, you have gone over to the schill side of this platform. Consumers like myself, whether of information, entertainment, or goods on this space then raise the eyebrow of, you can't be honestly trusted as you're just a mouthpiece regardless of how genuine you try to come across. I get the ads prior and during a youtube video. But free gear, free trips, and money changing hands makes a youtube video nothing more than a commercial on the internet.

[@JustinPhillip]

💯

[@kevinmasundire]

I don’t think artists are humble, they are just never satisfied with what they make, because they always know what it could’ve been. We learn something new everyday thank you for opening my eyes on this

[@JustinPhillip]

lovely

[@botbot3698]

I think Patrick's initial post was just a joke right? "look at this sick edit" which is clearly him. His tag is right there. I don't think it's that deep, it's just for engagement.

[@JustinPhillip]

Thats fair. As i said i dont watch his stuff regularly

[@TyroneLT]

Yeah I saw that same post and knew right away he was poking fun and joking around. He does that a lot. And honestly I can see why. People take things TOO seriously on these platforms.

[@Soul_Visuals_Photography]

Agreed. seemed satire to me. all in good fun.

[@nsmithcine]

Hang on - what’s the difference between using your talent on a big set to sell soap or clothes, and using your talent in your bedroom to sell products for a sponsor? The “art” is happening in both instances, and you’re a hired gun hawking someone else’s product either way. Isn’t it better to be the CEO of your own advertising company, controlling the art from top to bottom, in this case?

[@JustinPhillip]

Maybe, but not everyones goal is to be a commerical filmmaker. Some people like myself, mainly only do narrative work or documentary work. Which is definitely not for thr big bucks 😂

[@SHVWNCOOPER]

the difference is no one is lining up to give Justin any brand deals because frankly, he's not marketable himself.

[@the180degreerule3]

there are 100's of differences and neither of them count as filmmaking lol

[@danielvilliers612]

In one case the saop is the product, and the other it is the youtuber. I think the main problem is that "cinematographers" are not really cinematographers/moviemakers, that is doing movies or documentaries, but youtubers selling their or associated products and are not really clear about this.

[@iamalexchua]

I think you have too much energy that you felt to call out some people here. Im 39. So 1 year younger than you. I am a videographer and an aspiring DP. I don’t make millions or I have a long IMDB rap sheet but with my 39 years, I learned that people find happiness with what they want to do. Owens wants to make money and feed his family a comfortable 3 meals a day. Cam found happiness in making branded content and reap the monetary gains and you enjoying your art. To make this short, let people be. Let them be happy in their own spaces. Focus on your own craft and find your own success instead of raining hellfire on someone else.

[@JustinPhillip]

Raining hellfire? Thats a stretch. Literallly just making observations. Everyone in hollywood deserves criticism, youtubers are not immune from that.

[@iamalexchua]

@ criticism is critical to growth but there is a line that separates criticism from something else. I don’t want to say it but most people have already pointed it out. My bottom line is to just be happy for other people and if you can’t, just live in your own space.

[@alexn1184]

@@iamalexchua I agree.

[@danielvilliers612]

@iamalexchua I don't know why people have to defend other grown up man like that as if he insulted their wife. I mean he said nothing mean, expressing your opinion is not a crime and he has some good point. The main problem now is that we are literally at the stage where some are at the salesman level but not disclaiming it enough. I have no problem for people to sell things or be affiliated to some brands, but just be clear about that.

[@iamalexchua]

@@danielvilliers612 he did say mean things and he made sure to point out that his way is the way. Im not defending anyone. All im saying is instead of calling out people, focus on your own craft. Be happy for others or if thats impossible, just live in your own life because if you open your mouth, you need to be prepared for people opening their mouths towards you. We are adults here. To address the salesman bit, we can determine what is real and whats not. If you fall for the advertisement without doing your own research, thats on you.

[@Photomeike]

Ironically enough a threads post bought me here. But for the most part. I understand where you are coming from. Quite a few people in the comments are being dismissive and calling you a hater or whatever. But here needs to be a difference of opinion out there because a lot of people feel this way. They are just afraid to say it. Shout out to you for this take.

[@SidneyDiongzon]

Funny how people in the 1950s thought the same when the medium popularity shifted from radio shows to television.

[@JustinPhillip]

🤷🏼‍♂️

[@Wildridefilms]

I understand your points Justin, but I don't think that Patrick Tomasso thing was that deep. There was a quote tweet of a photographer photo that just said "this photo is insane" and it garnered like 300k likes, about 20× as much as the original photo. That started a meme where photographers were quoting their own tweets and threads with stuff like "wow that's insane"and "epic photo" etc. So I think Patrick was just memeing (if that's a word).

[@JustinPhillip]

Makes sense.

[@corymayo]

Id just like say Justin, Jacob and Cammackey have brought me personally a ton of value and education on the KZbin platform as well as others. Thank You ALL!

[@JustinPhillip]

👏🏼👏🏼🙌🏼

[@cammackey]

We look up to the same people. We’re both on the platform. The only difference between you and I, is I really don’t care what people call me. I’m doing what I love and I’m just getting started. You clearly have your ego wrapped up with being a 40 year old filmmaker vs a KZbinr. This is our film school now. There’s multiple Hollywood directors and writers who started on KZbin and I plan to do so as well. I see this video being more about yourself than “KZbinrs”. I’ve had some of the biggest commercial directors and DPs have private conversations with me on how to do this. I am not trying to suck off brands to make money. I am trying to work brands that I want to work and want to partner up to do the stuff I want to do. I’ve been given lenses from atlas, DZO and Blazar. I genuinely love what Blazar is doing because they’re offer classic anamorphic looks for cheap.. is it perfect? No way. But I like them was more than the other budget options. I really don’t understand what the issue is. I make around $1,000 a month off ad sense and get around 250k views a month.. it’s not about grecent views as you conveniently only thought to show. Not enough to live off. This just inspired to open hells gates to the truth. From bruised egos to you misleading our audiences when you don’t understand how this works. I’ve watched you for a while and you’re constantly attacking other KZbinr and their opinions as you clearly trying to grow your channel. My advice to you.. get off KZbin. Go do “real” filmmaking. Time to quit and show the “KZbinrs” how it’s done. In my professional commercial career I was making $150k a year. I got sick of it and didn’t have time to practice filmmaking. Which is why I transitioned cause now I can pay my bills while practicing filmmaking. Meanwhile you’re going to get a dopamine high from all the views you get on this videos about trying to get the audience to distrust growing KZbinrs and making them think they can only trust you. While you probably even used my name in the tags lol. You are a true KZbinr my friend. I don’t say this in a demeaning way. If you ever met me you would regret saying these things cause you would realize I’m just like you. But instead, you make assumptions and then publicly make a video about it without ever having a conversation with me. If this was the “real” filmmaking world.. you would have lost all respect for this. But, we’re on KZbin talking about fake drama lol. Ridiculous. Imma go back to chasing my dreams. The only people questioning me are people like you and that’s okay with me. The rest of us are staying moving forward. Lots to come ;) No one’s gatekeeping you my friends, you’re only gatekeeping yourself. And hey, this might be one of your best performing videos! Good job filmmaker. As you post a pinned comment asking for people to subscribe 😂

[@nsmithcine]

Justin definitely coming off as a salty KZbinr in this attempted takedown. The reality is we live in an attention economy, and clearly by Justin’s view/sub counts, he’s having a hard time “keeping it real” while also capturing the level of attention he wants.

[@cammackey]

@@nsmithcineenvy is a poison that will make you think you’re the anti hero. In reality, the envy just makes you confidently bitter. It’ll get you trying to repaint the picture for others to see sunshine and roses.. while the side facing back at you is just sludge. This new era on KZbin will be called the era of confidently unself-aware.

[@KarlWeinreich]

You both make some solid points here, and I get where both sides are coming from. Sponsored content can definitely feel repetitive at times (mine included, if I’m being honest), but it’s part of the balancing act of doing what we love while trying to sustain it. I wish every video I made could be pure creativity and experimentation, but the reality is those videos don’t always bring the views or income to keep things going. AdSense and brand deals are how we make it work. That said, I think it’s clear from both this video and your response that you both care deeply about how you’re perceived and the impact you have on your audiences. It’s a tough space to navigate, and I really believe we should be lifting each other up in this niche. This industry is small, and succeeding in it takes grit, passion, and a willingness to keep learning from each other. At the end of the day, we’re all trying to make our way-whether that’s growing on KZbin, pursuing filmmaking, or both. And honestly, I think there’s room for all of us to chase our dreams while inspiring each other along the way.

[@cammackey]

@@KarlWeinreich agreed! Tho I just lost all respect for Justin. Imagine being a filmmaker and writing an article about how this other filmmaker can’t be trusted.. just sad. Insecure behavior dragging others into their own lack of self awareness. A lot of these guys blame their lack of growth on others and algorithms. Never take accountability. And then try to act like growth doesn’t matter to them.. clearly it does. Well the rest of us are just trying to do what we love without all the BS.

[@cammackey]

@@nsmithcineenvy dressed up as virtue signaling. Think a lot of these guys could use some therapy honestly. And I don’t mean that in a crass way.

[@4sightfilmsLLC]

I love and appreciate your unfiltered honesty here. And I agree with you. And dude you are awesome, keep being your true self. ❤️✊🏽

[@JustinPhillip]

Thank you 🙌🏼🙏🏼

[@4sightfilmsLLC]

@ And I’ve learned alot from you on Cinematography before I knew you were on IMDB. 😄

[@MattyBeavs]

As someone who has gotten a undergraduate degree and masters degree in film production I can’t help but agree with all your points. I wrestle with this idea all the time as well as someone who is a Director of Photography and someone who has made videos on KZbin since 2008 I hate associating myself as a “content creator” or “KZbinr” now a days but it’s true I am both one in the same but I love what you said, we the viewer need to be a able to identify the pedigree of these KZbinrs.

[@Yusaku_VCP]

sheesh, such a realistic talk. thanks for this vid, Justin. helps alot for young filmmakers/youtubers.

[@thesavagefilmmaker]

I'm eager for the Algorithm to boost this slice of transparency and honesty; 100% agree on anything you touched on. As a filmmaker first and KZbinr second, it's strange to watch good videos full of helpful advice and value on how to be an actual filmmaker tank, while talking about some lens you shot on blow up. It's just a very weird paradox in this filmmaking/youtube space. And like you, I'm a hypocrite too because I'm part of the problem. I do have to say, going back to the algorithm, that, the way it now works is the biggest problem because it doesn't reward originality, art, different tastes and perspectives, normally quite the opposite. Hell it doesn't even show your subscribers your work half the time. So I think KZbin needs to shift this entirely for a return to more balanced 'filmmaking' space here.

[@JustinPhillip]

Yes. 100% i think the alogirthms on most platforms need to be adjusted.

[@cammackey]

Soo you guys are mad at growing KZbinrs? Or the KZbin algorithm? But also lack the self awareness that maybe the audience on here doesn’t want to watch your stuff? What about Danny Gerverts? Everyone watched him.. you think he sold out? What transparency here? You guys are talking about other channels that you have never spoke to and have zero clue how we operate… so you guys are being transparent over your assumptions… and the algorithm is the fault yet your excited for it to push this video? Make it make sense guys. Instead of being frustrated at growing channels, maybe try reaching out. This is depressing to see our community start attacking eachother and trying to get the audience to question us. Where’s the self awareness? Here’s some advice.. KZbin isn’t about you. You guys have huge egos whether you want to admit it or not. You see growing channels and think.. there’s no way people like them more than me.. I’m way better.. they must be selling out. That’s ego. You have to find your audience and give them what they want while also have self respect for your own standards. I went full time this year and had to double down. No, not on sponsored ships. You guys seem to not respect some of my work I put on here that I’m very passionate about that also got a lot of traction. I treated this like my full time passion project and that’s how my channel grew. Now I’m being invited tomorrow help write for big productions and get offered DP jobs.. not because of my KZbin audience.. we all know no one I. The industry gives to shuts about that.. but because I was able to go full time and produce more personal projects. I turn down a lot of those jobs for now because I don’t want to DP and I’m not confident enough to enter those writing rooms. I’m working on it. I’ve won awards for a feature doc that I did that I never shared on my channel. I’ve worked with top brands that I’ve never shared on my channel. But instead of talking or reaching out, your guys egos and insecurities take over and look at us now. Real filmmakers will look at this video and be like wtf is this silly drama. And the petty people will eat it up.. while the rest of us will continue moving on. You guys are playing victim to the algorithm and larger channels and instead of having the self awareness to think how you can better connect with an audience. And if you say you don’t care about growing on yohtube.. then why are you on the platform? You may be able to fool some people on here but let’s not fool ourselves.

[@nVuFilms]

I disagree with the IMBD thing. TO ME, it's like giving more credibility to a person giving you workout advice that goes to an expensive gym vs a guy going to Planet Fitness. I'm 40 also... And I don't care who is on IMBD... people can make some shitty films and still be on IMDB. I think we can't judge someone's credibility on where, how, what they filmed but what the end product is (wherever the end product ends up being seen). The beauty of KZbin "filmmakers" is that you can see their work right on there channel to measure their credibility. I also see future sets are going to slowly shrink with camera technology, lighting tech, audio... See "The Creator" movie for an example of a shrinking camera crew. IMO, we gotta evolve with the times. You don't have to work in part of a crew or set to be a "filmmaker". Much respect, regardless.

[@JustinPhillip]

Hmmm interesting take… but i wouldnt compare a movie with an $80million budget to youtube budget. The bulk of the crew on the creator was in post production. So pick and choose. But dont get it twisted, they had an immense crew & resources. But i do agree, a crappy credit is a crappy credit. But my point was more in about the real job that being a real D.o.P entails does go way beyond just making a decent imeage.

[@IanSnape]

I would sign up for an nVu KZbin doucher course!

[@stephenf3838]

To get IMDB credits the film needs to screen at a festival or be distributed. It’s a filter. Yet I love a lot of KZbin only stuff but it’s not a standard uet

[@petersonfilms-1]

@nVuFilms IMDB imo is a finicky thing that really only applies to mid/upper limits of the film community (sets with $ 100,000+ budget). You're right that anyone can have IMDB credit and have crap stuff on there. However, I see it as more of a hiring thing. Like if you want to get on a production with a 250,000 budget and have worked on a crappy film that was 75,000 yet had IMDB cred, then the line producer on this next production can pull up your IMDB and see who you worked for and under what studio. Even if it's a studio that hasn't made good films, the line producer may recognize the gaffer, somebody on Hair and Makeup, the Key Set PA, or a stunt coordinator. And then they may hire you because they know and trust the level of experience and work of the person you worked alongside on that former set. Because people in that business know crappy films doesn't mean crappy crew/set work. You can say the same thing about Letterboxd credits. Anyone can be on one, but it's more impressive if you were on a set with a big name TV or Hollywood actor, even if the film actually sucked. Now KZbin does have some beautiful work and I enjoy a lot of the short films and series on here. But in the higher levels of filmmaking, there's still a stigma around "KZbinrs" chasing trends, promoting sponsors, doing goofy skits, etc. Most people who work on union sets don't have the time or desire to run a KZbin channel (which is actually unfortunate because I'd like to see more of their takes on things). They've already made it in their career by working on multiple features and commercials. Why promote themselves to a KZbin community that probably isn't going to hire them to get on the next 100,000+ production? Just my 2 cents from what I've gathered working under some industry pros on a few higher budget sets.

[@petersonfilms-1]

@nVuFilms Also, I agree that anyone can be a filmmaker. But I have a few caveats for that. Firstly, what are they calling themselves a filmmaker for? Is it vlogs, travel "films", or gear reviews? Or is it short films, documentaries, etc.? Both areas are still storytelling. And maybe gear reviews are just a means for the filmmaker to get money for his next short film. So, there is crossover. But I struggle to call a KZbinr who only does vlogs a filmmaker. But if the KZbinr's channel is based on the films he has done and is still doing, then I can't really not call him a filmmaker. Maybe I don't like his films or think he is going about it the wrong way in a few areas, but I can't deny him/her the title. However, "filmmaker" really is too broad a term. Is the person a DP? Then what have they shot? Or are they calling themselves a DP because that is what they are aspiring to do? Is the person a director? Then what have they directed? Are they a gaffer? The list goes on and on. The more specific your title is, the more a person will respect your title unless you prove you don't know what you're doing in that department on set. Everyone on a Hollywood movie set is a filmmaker, but they will probably refer to themselves as being one or two job roles because those are their areas of expertise. And I think that's what the terminology comes down to, what is their expertise? What do they actually do for work in the filmmaking sphere? Or are they a hobby filmmaker (which is OK really, but it's not seen on the same level as large productions). Secondly, anyone can make a film. Teenagers have been making crappy films on iphones for a while now. But it takes a lot of experience and work to make a good one. It will also require having several professional and experienced crew members alongside you and challenging you to make the best film possible. Experience and intentionality set the difference. KZbin films are still developing, but they still have the stigma of teenage iPhone movies. Also, yes, camera and lighting equipment will shrink in size and price, but the expertise and skill behind using them is still going to separate how the things are used. Sure, the Creator was shot on a FX3. I don't really care because that film had a crap ton of CGI on top of the Prores RAW they recorded externally. Also, they still had a big budget for lighting, cast, and crew. What comes down to it is the intentionality behind the equipments' use. For example, I worked on a doc shoot this past fall as a grip/PA. We had a 1 ton grip truck of gear and mainly only used LED tubes (Asteras), Aputure lights, and one HoboLite LED. The tools themselves are used on KZbin all the time. However, for just 1 talking head interview, we spent 4 hours prelighting the night before the interviews. We ran out of c-stands because we used 9 or 10 lights doing very nuanced and modified lighting to craft the space as the DP and Director wanted. Most KZbinrs are going to just use a key light and maybe a kicker. But those two lights aren't going to create what 10 lights and expert intentionality can.

[@sitebstudios]

I 100% agree with Justin on this. Thanks dude! Keep doing what you do!

[@JuanMoralesCreative]

So much for supporting fellow artists eh? I don't care whether you identify as A or B - you're cut from the same cloth & create visual art... we should be uplifting each other and supporting each other... not taking uncalled for potshots. I don't know you & I don't like making snap judgements about people I haven't met, but this comes across as very pretentious and petty towards people you may have never met. Why can't we just all be supportive of one another without causing high school grade drama?

[@JustinPhillip]

So no conversations about the reality of the situation?

[@JuanMoralesCreative]

@@JustinPhillip you can have conversations without trying to bring people down, can you not? 🤷‍♂️

[@theevilelite]

small dick energy at its finest

[@mr.continuity]

@@JuanMoralesCreative he did. He actually big upped folks he mentioned

[@chrisbrockhurst]

Haters gunna hate.

[@artofmichel]

Hey Justin, I appreciate you making this video. You bring up a lot of valid points. It’s an argument and perspective that isn’t brought up enough. I think people can be too sensitive these days so it stunts debate. What you said was neither disrespectful or pompous. It feels genuine from someone grappling with the changing landscape of the film industry and it’s various platforms. Filmmaking is an art form and the film industry is a business. KZbin is a place that hosts both without distinction. I also come from the studies and a career in filmmaking prior to the advent of the KZbinr. Hence I’ve always been hesitant to go full force into it becoming a job. Like you said, you can be both a Filmmaker and a KZbinr. However intersectional those two can be they are still distinct. I think the biggest difference is that folks who are full-time KZbinrs tend to be pushing or promoting products while giving some educational info. Whereas professional filmmakers are more focused on telling stories through their craft full-time. Even if it’s making commercials or music videos, that’s their primary hustle and focus. Then KZbin might be a place where they share their experiences on the field. In the end wherever we get info from we should assess their value and credibility.

[@JustinPhillip]

That’s it. 💯🙏🏼

[@artofmichel]

​@@JustinPhillip Some great channels that feature active professional filmmakers (especially cinematographers) that use KZbin more as an educational platform, and less about pushing a product: @TenfoldProduction, @wanderingdp, @ANDBERY, @TomBolles, @spensersakurai, @MojiWilson, @creativegappodcast, @carlostigs, @CookeOptics, @panavision, @ARRIChannel, @ZEISSCinematography, and of course @teamdeakinsReal

[@thecritic2822]

I don't see what is so controversial about what Justin said. It was simply his personal opinion. He also gave respect to the talents of those who he cited as examples out here. I see Cam chirping in the comments about how little he cares but the guy is replying endlessly and even when mends was attempted to be made, Cam slaps Justin's proverbial hand that was extended. Sure you don't care Cam, clearly you do, very much. Also sorry to hear about your dog that sucks, but your replies here make it appear that YOU (CAM) need therapy. Stop telling Justin he needs it (in the comments). I simply can't believe the people who got called out here even care, let alone their lemming audiences. Justin you said your point, you bashed yourself just has hard if not harder than you critiqued the example youtubers. Clearly ego is at the forefront here, call out the game and these guys lose their minds. Those guys are all part of some creatr advertising marketing agency run by Armando anyway so it's totally fine to call out their advertising bias. Just the same as those youtubers can use youtube to shill products endlessly, doesn't mean they can't be called out for it. Ads aren't cool....don't care how much you cover that up with "production value" .

[@anneboyer6359]

Camera mickey has one of the most fragile egos. He went and made a video response to this video. And all other youtube "filmmakers" joined him in comments. I guess truth stings. Look at all those wannabe filmmakers who really in their minds believe themselves to be scorsese.

[@thecritic2822]

@@anneboyer6359 I also noticed he deleted his comment on here. Cam is part of that youtuber ad agency thing run by Armando "Creatr" or whatever so you can be your ass they're going to comment on his video in support. They all randomly comment on each others videos because they're "friends" (with benefits). None of what they do is authentic and that's fine, just don't be so butt hurt when you get called out for it.

[@anneboyer6359]

@@thecritic2822 I had no idea of the fact that all these are connected by Armando's agency and that's where the 'money' is. As they say, follow the money. These are all pathetic people. I hope someone with a bigger following than these clowns addresses and exposes this cause I bet most people do not know this. It's important to know this. And cam's main comment is still in here, I can see it. Unless you're referring to another comment from him.

[@thecritic2822]

​@@anneboyer6359 Hmm I didn't see it, but i'll check again. There are a number of them who are connected through Armando's agency. Armando's youtube camera space biggest used car salesmen outside of Peter McKinnon. I actually have no issue with what they do or what Cam does. Matter of fact I've always thought Cam's videos hit a really strong balance and he demonstrates a heavy understanding in the craft. What I object to is him lashing out the way he did on this video, which IMHO said nothing wrong. I mean if your ego is that frail to be triggered so hard on what Justin said than well my respect is lost. Just on principle Cam has a bigger channel, don't punch down...he didn't have to validate anything and Justin barely took shots. I peeped over at Cam's latest video and while the intro was clever, the whole concept fell apart after the first 90 seconds. Kofi and Armando are of course over there commenting (agency connection). I just can't believe he spent all that time (with a sick dog) making a stupid video responding to a guy he doesn't even remotely respect. Calling out the agency thing is pointless, anyone who does will just take shit and have to deal with the fanboys who come to defend them. It's the game as Justin said, anybody who's making real money on this platform is having to "sell out". I don't have any issue with that, the term "filmmaker" means little to me in the modern sense and I'm about as old school "filmmaker" as it gets. I would tell Justin to not even pay any attention to those guys, don't let them trigger you, just focus on your work. That group is part of a collective. You can't take on an army single handed. Last thing i'll say is people are catching on to the endless advertising youtubers do these days. The insta 360 and Lumix fiasco's are examples of that.

[@Malick333]

Honestly I think “wedding films” are what screwed up all of this. Once it was acceptable for a person to identify as a “wedding filmmaker” then any other video content was up for grabs. But no, unless you’ve made a short film or feature, you are not a filmmaker and never will be until you do. You can’t be a pilot and never flown a plane. And just because you’ve made a short or feature, doesn’t mean everything else you make is a film. They are videos. That’s it. They are ads. That’s it. And that’s ok.

[@JustinPhillip]

💯

[@Malick333]

@@JustinPhillip and no shade to "wedding filmmakers" ... from a business standpoint, I think this was a brilliant move for wedding videographers to create a new differentiated premium product/service: a wedding film .... matching the cultural shift of storytelling for weddings. It makes sense for that industry ... but these are not really films. But, in the wedding marketing world, it really is probably the best label for them.... and then as "wedding filmmakers" worked in other video industries, why would they be quick to drop the "filmmaker" part of their identity? Or if others making ads/videos are seeing "wedding filmmakers" getting to call themselves filmmakers, why wouldn't they be able to also embrace that label? So I get it. But in the actual filmmaking industry, even if it's indie filmmaking -- terms matter.

[@MarkStCyr]

Spike Lee went to film school to access expensive film equipment. Not for the “education.” There are young filmmakers who understand the format of storytelling that serves their generation. All with an iPhone. You are right that working in the filmmaking and commercial world is different than being a KZbinr or creator. Purely from the collaborative aspect. Your point that KZbin is watched more than Netflix is a salient one. While many of us wish for cinema to return to popularity and prestige, that ship may have sailed in exchange for the democratization of filmmaking equipment being inside phones.

[@JustinPhillip]

The comment about netflix was not invented by me, that was a true statistic

[@Holtenstein]

You're 100% right. I made a KZbin video today and it kinda sucks. I do it but I don't enjoy it. I think you come across as very honest. Be it for better or for worse. Probably why I enjoy this channel.

[@JustinPhillip]

Keep grinding. Its not a bad thing to be a KZbinr.

[@myhat175]

I don’t understand why people are thinking this is a diss to anyone ? Can someone explain. Like where the KZbin vs film makers beef is coming from because this video doesn’t say anything bad about anyone it just shares facts and the points are valid…. He’s not saying people on KZbin can’t be film makers and he’s not saying film makers can’t be KZbinrs and he’s not saying they can’t be both he’s just saying it’s different things which is correct… I don’t get it…. Make it make sense why people are so butt hurt about this video… anyone Buller?

[@Pl0ttw1sted]

Exactly. This drama makes zero sense. If deep insecurities didn’t already exist on this topic, no one would be pitching such a massive fit.

[@Malick333]

There’s two parts … the people he used as examples and/or their fanbase groupies didn’t like it … and the other part is some people are very unhappy when they aren’t allowed to identify as whatever they want to pretend to be (this case filmmakers who’ve never made a short or feature film) when these are technical and objective terms. As someone said, a filmmaker actually makes films. Mixed in all this is the cultish KZbin “film” community who appears highly threatened by anyone challenging the status quo of their toxic positivity. Like if you question the system that pays the bills then you’ll get excommunicated. That’s why there’s not much intelligent debate, instead everyone handing out gold stars giving lip service to their audiences to again keep feeding the beast. Which is fine, lots of people are happy in cults as long as they don’t think too much for themselves and keep repeating the mantras in sync with the others. Unfortunately the people who are actual story telling geniuses are too busy telling stories to descend down to the middle school playground we are standing in. Or maybe it’s something else. I don’t know. 😂

[@anneboyer6359]

Because those people took offence at what he said. Because they all have channels that have big subscriber numbers and usually do brand deals a lot more than he does.

[@BryceDocherty]

I'm glad you made this. I've been thinking this for 2 months now. Almost all YT filmmaking channels are designed to get audience members to want to be just like the youtuber they watch, buy the gear, become the youtuber they watch, to sell more gear to audience members who want to be the new person. It's just a capitalist cycle. No one creates art just to create it anymore. For meaning. They think, oh I can make this film for Canons new camera launch, or I can rave about the Pysis and shoot this short with it. It is driving me away from watching filmmakers on KZbin at all. There is only like 5 I watch that aren't just salesmen. The ones that are the salesman never make anything meaningful anyway. Thanks for reading.

[@JustinPhillip]

Thanks for sharing. 🙌🏼

[@ChrisFlores22]

Dude…. Thank you. I’m soooo tired of KZbin. Everyone is trying to push sales and no longer teaching. If they are teaching, they sell a course lol at this point, when something drops, I watch Gerald’s review just to learn the specs and then not watch anyone else. It’s funny how so many post their reviews but no work. I’m a working professional so yeah. I gave up on YT a long time ago. I watch you because you’re raw and I do learn from you and you’re in the industry. Thanks dude. YT is just boring sales pitch now.

[@JustinPhillip]

I appreciate ya 🙌🏼

[@SHVWNCOOPER]

then gtfo it no one forces you to watch youtube lol

[@ChrisFlores22]

@@SHVWNCOOPER you’re a sheep 🐑

[@mainmain5303]

You are tired of YT? Have you deleted the app yet?

[@ChrisFlores22]

@ idk how to delete apps.

[@mmc5261]

I agree with you bro, none professionals giving reviews on gear

[@RavikantRai21490]

This is something that has been sort of obvious to many of us (viewers) for quite a while now. But Justin, you have gained a LOT of respect in my view for saying what you did about matter of fact things in this space. And anyway, to me, you always were a 'working filmmaker'. In fact, the suggestion of "head on to imdb and type in the name of these youtubers" for a reality check is something I did several years ago when I first started getting into the rabbit hole of filmmaking. And my view too is that I need someone to be a working professional, not a youtuber alone for the most part.

[@JustinPhillip]

Thank you

[@RavikantRai21490]

@@JustinPhillip And please do not call yourself washed up, failed, etc (even though I know you were saying what VIEWERS may think). You are great, and being 40 doesn't mean jack sh.. If all filmmakers thought this way, we'd have missed out on a ton of stuff.

[@BrionneOlsen]

This topic is really interesting: Pushing products for financial gain. I think firstly, there isn’t a thing that exists today that never underwent some sort of paid marketing. The fact independent creators can use their platforms to market, promote and leverage from it is a step forward. I am all for that. Secondly I see KZbin as a foot in the door for a lot aspiring filmmakers that would otherwise not get an opportunity to show off their work the traditional way. Having access to these platforms, having access to affordable film gear and having access to information online on how to utilize that gear is invaluable, especially to a 42 year old like myself who couldn’t afford film school. I look up to every filmmaker you mentioned but I also value Creators like Cam who puts in the work either online or on set. What’s vital for all of us is to uplift each other because if this platform thrives, we all have the opportunity to make a business out of this. It’s the ultimate job to be able to work for yourself and earn a living. I still work a 9-5 in the radio space and my goal is to be my own man and hopefully create jobs for others. I hear what you’re saying and I feel a proper discourse on this is needed where the outcome is to the benefit of the creative industry as a whole.

[@petersonfilms-1]

Appreciate your opinion on this topic. I've had plenty of rants on this topic in the past. I've honestly gotten tired of talking about. I really appreciate your perspective. KZbinr/videographers calling themselves filmmakers but not even having any narrative, commercial, or documentary creds has always irked me. Videography is great and sometimes is doc-like, especially on higher end video productions like corporate shoots, but I see filmmaking about films which is very much story focused and usually involves a full crew to bring the story to life. Now, one person can film a documentary or a short film, but those are the exceptions usually. As a film student about to graduate in the summer (and having worked on a narrative feature as a PA, a documentary shoot, and shot several of my own short films as well as a documentary I'm editing rn), I've narrowed down to only a handful of KZbinrs that I see and respect as actual filmmakers (WanderingDP, Mark Bone, Luc Forsyth, Gian Carlo Stigliano, Lewis Potts, Cine Dailies, Spenser Sakurai, etc.). I see you in the group that I respect. KZbin for filmmakers is a means to end or a means to educate. Once ego, gear reviews, chasing catchy trends, and the money gets involved, the filmmaker takes a back seat because story and genuine art are often left behind. Also, I feel like KZbinrs like Cam, Kofi, or Brady Bassette often are showing their BTS on set videos as a way to validate themselves as filmmakers when really they're using that on set experience to grow their KZbin channels.

[@JustinPhillip]

yeah its a tough one. Spenser is an OG, he's been around a very long time. And Patrick O'Sullivan well i've given him LOTS of money as i was on his patreon for 6 years. and lewis potts is an uncut gem. There's plenty of solid work out there

[@-austinsmith]

I'm at an interesting point in my filmmaking journey. I never went to film school, and all my education has come from KZbin, research, books, and good ol' fashioned trial and error. I'm now having to weed through what KZbinrs tell me about filmmaking vs. actual filmmaking channels/ advice. I feel like I've outgrown famous KZbinrs who teach filmmaking and now I'm gradually coming across really helpful filmmaking advice. A lot of filmmaking KZbin videos are just fronts for showcasing a new light or lens, nothing wrong with that except as a viewer and learner, I need to know what they're saying is sound advice and not just advice for the sake of showing off a light.

[@MBWvideos]

There’s a lot of nuance on what you’re talking about with filmmaking and KZbin, right down to what your “role” is in filmmaking while you are a KZbinr…..are you a DP, Director, Writer, Editor, Actor, any of the various other departments. That can influence the content you make as a KZbinr and when it comes to gear videos, most if not all the KZbinr are Aspiring DP’s or Videographers,…..Patrick Tomasso Id say is a hybrid DP/Director type, which has led him to start with gear and work in video essays……Chris Stuckman is a director who reviewed movies and now officially a professional filmmaker with his feature being acquired…….he’s paved a path for someone to take that route or shown it’s possible, so what does filmmaker mean to you? Someone who makes narrative films? Very few actually do that, is that due to lack of talent or because they’re scared? For the bigger guys that’s a reasonable assumption, that and getting consumed with your day job which you’re right as a big gear KZbinr, you are KZbinr first filmmaker second or maybe not at all, if you haven’t been making narrative works, then are you a filmmaker? Like I said what exactly does that mean, I’d say KZbin is a badass day job, the trick is to find a niche that makes you happy to make content for and like any day job try not to get lost in it so you can make and do what you really wanna do but to really be successful you need to chase the algorithm which can make that hard if not impossible to balance, im certainly trying to do that as a professional videographer and someone who is trying to build a channel while being a filmmaker, at my level though it’s easy to not get lost because I’m not even monetized lol I’m just doing it for fun and because I found a niche I enjoy and try to differentiate, when I wanna make a film though, that takes priority, turns out when you’re not scared or take your work so preciously, you get a lot more done, I’ve watched a number of your videos over the years, you’ve worked with people I went to film school with and I find it interesting you DP’d “The Chair” short that went viral, I watched those guys explode too, this is the first time I’ve commented, a testament to the thought provoking thing you shared and started, I don’t find anything wrong with your struggle from a filmmakers prospective, I used to look down on it until I realized that was dumb and it’s an incredible platform to release your creative juice lol and if you’re lucky an instant distribution platform to millions of people that you don’t need to rely on Hollywood gatekeepers for

[@JoeHartzlerTV]

I do chuckle when the KZbin filmmakers get huge sponsorship deals with access to massive budgets, sets, props, lighting, cameras, and gear all to make these beautiful fake clips from fake movies like, "See? This looks like a real shot from a real movie!" all because no one can write a story.

[@gofilmyourself7919]

I’m glad someone with your platform is saying something. Honestly I came in learning from KZbinrs and being sold snake oil equipment and lessons. Only until I got on real tv and movie sets did I learn that people in the industry have a lot of disdain for filmmaking KZbinrs because the majority of the things they talk and focus on are demonstrably wrong. I mean just watch how they demonstrate lights and you’ll have all the info you need.

[@JustinPhillip]

Except for our gaffer friends, most of them are solid

[@BrittneyJanae]

IMDB isn’t the say all be all!

[@JustinPhillip]

That is true

[@robertsinclair8360]

How are the KZbin Promotions Subs coming Brittney? If you don't think people notice.... many do. Yes they are legal to do and yes they are also fake subs that when brands find out there will be a huge cancel culture in the video space with all the creators who have engaged in this practice in order to get brand deals.

[@redoniproductions]

I have to admit, I came into this video with different expectations based off the “controversy” that’s being presented on Threads. Honestly, Justin took a Katt Williams approach and raises some uncomfortable but great points. Film and KZbin are two completely different audiences and whether we like it or not, there is a difference between filmmaking and being a KZbinr. It doesn’t mean that one is better than the other because there’s talented people on both sides of the line but there is definitely a difference

[@wade2351]

KZbin camera space is full of gearheads. But if there was one gear that differentiates cinematographer and wannabe, that would be Lightmeter. Well, if they have a color spectrometer as well, it's easy to tell how serious they are. Agree?

[@JustinPhillip]

I own both 😄

[@wade2351]

@@JustinPhillip Yes, i'm fully aware of that, our trusty guy☺

[@TomislavMoze]

Light meters are so rarely seen non sets these days, cameras have some amazing metering tools and most of DPs don’t use them anymore.

[@JustinPhillip]

@@TomislavMozehe’s also talking about color meters, which are essential tools that “fix it in post” people will just simply never appreciate

[@danielduanetv]

As someone who has Masters of Fine Arts in Film and IMDB credits, but has also made youtube content, I can say from my experience the youtube game is completely different than being a true filmmaker. Ultimately it's a different business. Most of the "youtube filmmakers" are not what we consider real filmmakers (someone who works in film). But the general public probably doesn't see the difference. I think it is easy for people to be led astray by youtubers and we (including myself) need to be transparent to our viewers. I appreciate you speaking up about this.

[@Malick333]

@danielduantetv I wish every KZbinr would make a video (not a film) on "Am I a Filmmaker?"

[@IreneRudnyk]

This comment just screams pretentious art snob

[@ETFootprints]

As an artist in game industry for a decade, I always look up to AAA directors/principle artists. Every time I watch youtube "guru", holy moly they're inexperience and misleading. I agree that we should be inspired by people that work in the industry with proven track record. Never compare yourself to your equal peers, you'll be shackled and never outgrow them.

[@lucapasturini4229]

That’s why I watch and learn from THE WANDERING DP channel , he is authentic

[@JustinPhillip]

yupp, i was on Patrick's patreon for 6 years, solid stuff, but dont get it twisted, he knows what he's doing 😉

[@ThomasTulak]

Also, not for nothing, but both "filmmaking" and "youtubing" take time. The more time you spend doing one, the less time you have to do the other. I used to upload regularly, a new video every week, i know how much time and effort it takes to do that. After 6 years of that I stopped because I wanted to focus more on filmmaking. Since then I just haven't had time to make youtube videos. This is why I have a lot of filmmaking work to show, but have only uploaded a handful of youtube videos in the past couple years... something to think about.

[@ReubenHerzl]

I always love the refreshing thoughts, Justin. Old school for sure! It’s funny, I just realized I wasn’t subscribed. Probably because you haven’t asked. Not ironic. Intentional. Subscription earned.

[@gabrielsauceda_]

My personal goal is to use KZbin to get work as a filmmaker or videographer. I need the work. I also use IG but not much has come of it. Granted I am still new and an amateur. As well, I really think that Tommy Beal, LensofJared, etc are providing a lot of value to up and coming videographers.

[@JustinPhillip]

Oh there is loads of good knowledge on youtube, even from the people i mention in the video. Everyone still has knowledge & experience to share.

[@gabrielsauceda_]

@ absolutely, that’s the benefit of YT. The sponsorships and brand deals side of YT taints the content, as you laid out.

[@videopromike]

You’re “camera KZbin’s” 50 Cent. You are now the filmmaker KZbin “Bad Guy”. Who want beef? Drop the next dis track!

[@JustinPhillip]

😂 i think thats the greatest compliment anyone ever game me

[@videopromike]

@@JustinPhillip I thought you might like that. But for the next diss track, you gotta bring out the FX6 voice “Little boys, making their little KZbin videos” 😆

[@marib1697]

🤣goals!

[@malibrary7053]

Thanks for this. People are constantly blurring the lines for their own self-promotion

[@Behnam_Moghaddam]

Regardless of the perspective on this, the topic needs to be reflekted on. Chapeau for doing so as honest as possible. So to me it's important to "find" a healthy reality with wisdom in this reality-mudded sea of thruth. Trying to differentiate trough the own worldview will not bridge the gap :) Monetization off Art will always be a two bladed sword

[@JustinPhillip]

Its true

[@H2o3G2a]

I'm not a professional, I have ideas but never took a step forward. So, as someone with very limited knowledge, nothing makes me click off a video more than a video titled "cinematic" where everything looks like a music video/ad, not a film. I don't think it's the grading, I'm 99% sure than apart from the lighting, it's because they are fucking shoot everything wide open. The crazy thing is I've seen some huge filmmaker youtubers do this, shoot wide open, some bullshit dehancer grade and 2k+ lenses only for the video to look... not cinematic hahaha but then title video " secrets to netflix quality film". I hate the KZbin filmmaker look. I just bought a zv-e1 and a budget ttartisan "cinema" lens. Your video is making me want to go out and prove that point. Once you reach a certain threshold, gear doesn't matter in terms of quality and becomes about useability.

[@JustinPhillip]

100% not about the gear. As fun as gear is, it will not change the skill of the image maker

[@JustinPorterMedia]

“He’s identifying me as one of them” 😂😂 bruh I’m here for the comments. 💀

[@JustinPhillip]

🤷🏼‍♂️

[@sittingnow]

One of the big questions is what do we define as a filmmaker. Like yourself, I too delineate a filmmaker as ‘someone that makes films’ (crazy huh), and I find the whole KZbinr ‘every moving image is a film; ergo, i am a filmmaker’ as utter nonsense. I like to see KZbin as an evolution of TV. When I say TV, I don’t mean the Wire, I mean ‘a host of a show with a topic’, podcasts are like chat shows, and you get the odd artsy show or review show etc. The common denominator is advertising. TV is synonymous with ads, “we’ll continue …after the break” etc, and KZbin has become TV. Sure, just like TV you get the odd arty guy putting out something interesting, but the big hitters on tube are the ones that pander to the advertisers. I mean it’s right there in the name right? You’Tube’ (tube being old slang for TV). I remember it being a shocker when Lance Henrikson did Chris Carters X Files adjacent show Millennium. He doesn’t do TV, he’s a ‘proper film actor’. Variety and the like were running ‘we’re shocked’ pieces left right and centre, but he made it work, and went right back to doing Alien 15 on the big screen after. I think maybe YT is going to be a bit like that, if you’re a filmmaker like us, that’s your ‘day job’, your passion, and KZbin is your ‘one for them’ project, it’s fun still, but it’s like doing a corporate shoot, it looks like a film shoot, but it doesn’t smell like one …if that makes any sense at all?

[@sittingnow]

Oh, and I totally get what you mean about the ‘us’ cringe part. As someone that runs a similarly sized camera channel to you (i’m in disguise as my other channel right now), I often have to look in the mirror and question my reality as well. Totally with you there.

[@JustinPhillip]

Damn, you said it all right there 🙏🏼

[@die_dunkelheit]

It actually makes it hard to do research on legit lenses and equipment. Looking for a 2x anamorphics of specific focal lengths... and I get inundated by blazar BS. It is extremely frustrating

[@wade2351]

I can relate so much. What we want on KZbin are getting buried in a bunch of BS videos. It's good that Blazar has civilized budget anamorphic but at the same time KZbin /Instagram is full of poorly used anamorphic footages; I feel like they try hard to rub whatever anamorphic characters in my face, and i think to myself 'does it help tell your story?"

[@ZvilgantisKailis]

I agree. Filmmaker is a film maker. Not a an on-line show maker where he is a host of that show. Anyway there are still plenty of channels dedicated to short and full feature films but they don't upload two times in a week.

[@2kirabo]

great video haha. currently experiencing this contrast as I have been doing video my whole life, but recently started a full time job as a youtuber for a clothing store. so far i love it, but trying to please viewers and the algorithm is so tiring. the biggest things for me has been trying to stay consistent, as previously i would work exclusively on "creative outbursts" . wouldnt trade it for anything though!

[@Mushu8495]

Justin just wanted to send some love your way. Your channel has got my career off the ground. Your authenticity and personality is a needle in a haystack for this platform. I agree with all your points in this video. Im all for artists making money on youtube, but covert commercialism disguised as art leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

[@JustinPhillip]

Thank you & congrats!

[@optimumfilms]

Business owner/ filmmakers are the only filmmakers who can legit claim they create by any means possible. Everyone else is looking for a patron.

[@JustinPhillip]

😳

[@dathofilms]

Very interesting take and a good topic for discussion. I would completely disagree with your points about "IMDB" filmmakers being more non comercilized and more of artists and real "professionals". Do not forget that Film industry is commercialised too. And trust me "IMDB Filmmakers" do play that game too. As much as you want to call Roger Dickens more special then any "KZbinr", it still comes down to how he played the commercial business. Making deals with Blazer or making deals with Universal Studios to sell their films and promote them to be on Netflix, is not that different from eachother. I think what you really wanted to say with this video is that, there are Artists and there are Businessmen. Sure, but do not mix this with KZbin VS Hollywood. As you mentioned this is your show, you are the producer, DP, actor, etc and your medium is KZbin, and for those "IMDB" people it is exact same but their end delivery is Netflix. That is all. Stop letting your ego to protect yourself and trying to differentiate yourself from others, it does sound like that.

[@JustinPhillip]

Well surprise surprise i say that in the video. All youtubers have an ego. 😂

[@dathofilms]

@@JustinPhillip Surely, but they dont try to bring fellow KZbinrs down because of their Ego :)

[@corerage]

Respect your honesty Phillip, There's a clear difference between an artist with a message and a marketing youtuber. For marketing youtubers: I would suggest putting things into perspective by utilizing more comparisons. Instead of saying "This is the best lenses set ever", compare it to other lenses sets that fall in the same category. And being on IMDB doesn't necessarily make you a filmmaker. I think a filmmaker is someone who positively participates with people around him in his own way to tell a story or deliver a message that he believes in that hopefully touches the audience hearts and positively impacts their life experience.

[@IanSnape]

As a commercial/documentary DP who does KZbin for some kind of fun and trying to share info behind gear I buy and use and sometimes if a company reaches out with something that looks useful I’ll review and use on work. But I agree a lot of KZbinrs/Instagram is full of people giving product recommendations and they never leave the bedroom. Bring back story and long form! Haha 😂

[@theycallmecotton]

Jakob owens was the first person I aspired to be like. Dude is an incredible filmmaker, KZbinr, business man.

[@JustinPhillip]

100% he’s a self made man.

[@theycallmecotton]

@JustinPhillip you're pretty rad yourself. Keep up the great work

[@BrittneyJanae]

Use to be a fan till he became a narcissist

[@theycallmecotton]

@@BrittneyJanae you do amazing work as a cinematographer. Keep it up

[@raredreamfootage]

I did not know that about Christian Bale and Shane Hurlbut. I never knew that was apart of infamous history!

[@JustinPhillip]

😅

[@HassanHamid]

Does it matter though? People can have passions about different things - KZbin doesn’t have rules if somebody wants to merge filmmaking and content creation together, let them.

[@JustinPhillip]

👌🏼 this video was more of a self realization, but who watches entire videos anymore am i right?!

[@thecritic2822]

@@JustinPhillip I did, this guy didn't clearly.

[@whatisagent5629]

Every KZbinr collecting cameras and lenses wants to make an actual feature film. On the journey to making that film they can get caught up in the KZbin content creator thing. Making a movie is a long process that takes money, time and dedication. KZbinrs can just point a camera at their face and talk with no real budget. Both have their place. Enjoy each thing for what it is.

[@JustinPhillip]

👌🏼

[@mr.haanya]

Oh man this is interesting Justin. I always like when people shake things up, and give a different perspective. I think a honest discourse about this topic is much needed in this community. I personally don’t have the ego to be a KZbinr. It’s just not me. Now being a Filmmaker, that doesn’t care about curating an aesthetic for the algorithm or being locked in with gear brands. A filmmaker who actually cares about his craft and wants to make art? That’s something I can get behind, because not everyone is built to be a content creator.

[@JustinPhillip]

💯

[@steve_arcenio]

Filmmaker gets thrown around a lot. To me if you haven’t actually filmed a full feature you’re not a filmmaker 🤷🏽‍♂️. Everyone is a videographer to me. But I do agree you with you.

[@JustinPhillip]

That is true. You learn a lot on a feature.

[@JarredCordova]

Unless whatever they made is actually on film… then yes you’re a filmmaker lol. I agree I’m just being technical video is a digital signal film is an analog capture of light on silver crystals.

[@steve_arcenio]

@@JarredCordova Lol. Well yes. 90% of youtubers are not filmmakers, just glorified videographers. Most of them never been to an actual film set of sets period. No knock, but its true.

[@steve_arcenio]

@@JustinPhillip Yup. That's how I learned. Learned so much from key grips/gaffers how to build incredible lighting setups :)

[@DreKahmeyer]

To you, Ryan Coogler wasn’t a filmmaker after graduating USC and only having 3 short films under his belt? Then got to direct fruitvale station, Creed, and Black Panther. Weird they’re giving directing roles to non-filmmakers. Here’s an even better one. Look up David Sandberg. He made a 1 minute horror short and got to direct the feature version of it, produced by James Wan.

[@lukasvanderlende]

Nice 22 minute yap sesh, maybe stay off threads

[@JustinPhillip]

😂😂

[@SammySuperStar]

I agree with you completely, I'm a cinematographer that is studying film right now at University and your right about everything.

[@JustinPhillip]

Congrats!

[@KenOja]

Everybody talking about storytelling, but I havent seen any good ones. Most films nowdays are in the style of visual storytelling. Basically compilations of nice shots. I havent been on Vimeo lately, but I remember in the beginning of KZbin there were more amateur narrative short films. After Casey Neistat blew up, KZbin became more like a tv-show.

[@JustinPhillip]

Yupp. Sad thing is you definitely can not be a full time youtuber just off of short films. meaning you couldnt only post movies on youtube and make a living, i mean, unless you were making banger after banger. But really even then i think it comes down to the attention spans of everyone has drastically dwindled down to a pea

[@CoreyEmbring]

Been a subscriber for a few years, first comment on one of your videos. You nailed it.

[@JustinPhillip]

awesome! 🙏🏼

[@ReachFilms]

I saw your comment on Patrick’s threads and I laughed so hard

[@JustinPhillip]

🤭

[@DirectedByEvan]

Huge ego post, lost me when you got mad about pat liking his own work, if you don’t like the ads, don’t watch

[@DylanBlackburn]

Yeah this guy is pretentious AF

[@JustinPhillip]

😂😂 i literally say that about myself, but thanks for not watching. Its not for you.

[@DirectedByEvan]

@ nah brother I watched the whole thing, you make some valid points, but this all started because pat gassing himself up annoyed you? Like cmon, everyone takes everything too serious, you’re punching up at people that love what they do

[@TyroneLT]

And Patrick was clearly joking. I don't understand why this guy got so triggered that he had to make a video about it. Some of y'all be letting these other creators live too rent free on your heads. 🤦‍♂️

[@gaarax0x]

​@@TyroneLTsmall man syndrome. Thats why 😉

[@paperstacksfilms]

I learned from KZbin and some cinematography courses online but I went on sets and made multiple short films that helped me learn even more. I've landed a few imbd credits in my career so far, working on getting more. Definitely see what you're saying

[@ZaoStrength]

Jacob became a landlord too 😂

[@JustinPhillip]

Bossed up

[@ZaoStrength]

@ 😂😂 once someone becomes a landlord in this industry, you know they are just looking for an exit strategy to get “passive income” read : exploit the labor of the working class so they can buy more property and expand inevitably

[@cinematools]

Filmmaking on KZbin is basically infomercials, but that's what people choose to watch. "Real art" and "real filmmaking" exist on Vimeo staff picks, which have a fraction of views compared to YT but that's fine because true art is not for the masses.

[@shadowcultur]

I appreciate your perspective. Creativity got hijacked by capitalism the moment we started putting iPhones and the internet inside everyone’s pocket. I’m so tired of getting online to get inspired and getting fed nothing but ads from “creators” or “artists” None of my friends make a living creating beautiful things yet I’ve seen so many of them fall victim to the creator mentality that’s pushed on us all the time: if you fall in line and follow the trends like everyone else, you’ll go viral and “make it” And so many people think that equates to financial success or a fulfilling life. SMH Social media has made us all slaves to our creativity by selling a lie, while trying to sell us cheap glass and plug ins along the way. If Sony or DZO makes you an offer and you accept, you’re a salesman not an artist.

[@JustinPhillip]

Amen

[@scott_stevenson]

Man I love your channel. Thanks for keeping it real. I would love to Gaff for you some day on a project if you need a hand. I could bring an EGO CAM if you want lol.

[@JustinPhillip]

😂😂 Double win! 🙏🏼

[@CabralCreates]

Great video! KZbin has became a the most watched platform surpassing even Netflix, so if they post films on KZbin it’s not filmmaking but on Netflix it’s filmmaking? Where exactly is the line? People have to accept things are changing and it’s not 2008 anymore.

[@JustinPhillip]

Pretty sure i gave my explanation on this

[@CabralCreates]

My problem with the camera community is that it’s way too toxic, people be calling people out and throwing shade way too much… just like you might think other creators are out there to make money pushing products people can also think that you’re calling creators out for clicks or jealousy. I’m a subscriber to both you and Cam and it’s very disappointing to see creators do this in their communities, it’s super toxic and low.

[@JustinPhillip]

Is it tho? By holding the mirror up? So confused

[@CabralCreates]

@ I’m not the one making a video implying some creators aren’t honest about their thoughts over gear. I wouldn’t waste my time making a video calling out names.

[@Travis-Grant]

Wait what why you ragging on the guy saying his work is fire. The way I look at it that guy is just trying to promote his stuff same as big Hollywood does they run trailers and adds to promote their stuff that one creator that said his stuff is fire I look at it as he was just doing what Hollywood dose but on a smaller scale are they not why are you even mad at that or am I missing the point of it. How else is a smaller creator on KZbin supposed to promote their channel and content and hype them selfs up its fire man

[@JustinPhillip]

Pretty sure i explained

[@EndangeredMrmot]

You popped into my algorithm when you were below 2k subs. Never subbed but watched some videos. Appreciate the purity at 40k. If you were not earning money as a filmmaker in LA, would you fall back to plan B ( youtube $$) , probably and that's okay. Keep up the good work mate.

[@The_Daliban]

7:19 not necessarily a contradiction. If we assume his position to be: i want the consumers mentality to change but want to make money of them as long as it isn’t. That‘s fine. That’s not a contradiction. It would be a contradiction if he wrote:"let‘s ditch flashy fx" And later writes: "We should use flashy fx"

[@JustinPhillip]

Its a contradiction in filmmaker mentality tho IMO. Because only commercial filmmakers care about catering to the clients & making money. Real filmmakers making deep personal indie projects, those guys all lose money in the beginning, Duplass brothers, Coen brothers, Wes Anderson, etc because they care more about the craft than paycheck.

[@The_Daliban]

@ i agree. If that is his perspective as well, it still wouldn’t be a contradiction but we could definitely question his conviction in calling himself a filmmaker. I don’t know if that’s his position or not. I get your point tho. It’s a practice what you preach kinda thing for you. And i absolutely agree that the best advice doesn’t come from a salesman trying to convince you that his product ist the best and how he definitely isn’t biased at all.

[@shanefoleymedia]

Age old problem of one generation fixated on gatekeeping vs younger people living in a different time talking a different way…. Yet you’re caught in between on KZbin interacting with it all. Tribalism at its finest; let’s piss on others lawns, commentate, then make a video on it. You’re also a KZbinr and part of a larger community. There is literally no need to make enemies of people interacting with the same platform engaging audiences differently from you, assuming their intentions. And the irony of you commenting on Patrick’s thread is that I am watching this because you self promoted it from Facebook saying the video won’t get the views it deserves 😅 ironic?

[@JustinPhillip]

Its always easy to spot the ones that either dont watch the whole video or who arent actively listening. Also, why the hell are you on my facebook? How did that happen? Thats only for my family members and people i know in real life, not trolls. Just being real

[@thejakobowens]

Hey Justin, Would you want to do a remote podcast with me to discuss /debate some of these things you bring up here?

[@JustinPhillip]

Of course

[@CritterElectronics]

Hey the big stand behind you. So what are those called? I’m assuming it’s nice and big, sturdy, heavy duty enough, but it’s not a c stand. It’s basically a big industrial version of a standard regular ole light stand. What do I need to type in to a search to find those?

[@JustinPhillip]

well they have a few different names depending on who you talk to. but i call them beefy babies: bhpho.to/4fO30dv

[@CritterElectronics]

@@JustinPhillip thank you so much! But that helps but also doesn’t help. Coz I still don’t have a keyword for a search for other manufacturers. However, now I do know the dimensions. I’ve been tryin to figure this out for a while. So I can compare to other stands I find. Is there just not a name for them? Because “heavy duty light stand” is what everyone calls even the flimsiest ones for deceptive marketing.

[@benjhaisch]

Maybe spend more time on threads for some context next time. This is a wild take.

[@JustinPhillip]

👀

[@thecritic2822]

Did you watch the whole thing? I don't think you did. But of course you're going to defend your "friends".

[@benjhaisch]

@ I actually did though.

[@rumijarl]

Cool Man, good topic. I'm 51, and don't see myself as old. You are 40 and call yourself washed up and old, just reflect on that for a moment. Not old by a long shot. I think I came across your channel when you we're talking about some camera a while back and liked your take. This is an interesting topic you bring up. In my earlier day's I when to NY film academy in like 1994, I know it's not like going to NYU for film, but at least I got to work with 16 mm film on arriflex cameras and cut on Steinbeck editing tables listen to lectures in Robert Deniro's private screening room. I remember one of the instructors talking about there's this new thing coming called digital and I had no idea what he was talking about, this was 1994. Times have changed since then. I work primarily as 1st AC, and I have seen the transition to where we are today. It has happened quite quickly in the grand scheme of things. I remember working on a tv show talking to one of the extras and something struck me in that conversation that I will never forget, he said that he didn't want to become an actor he wanted to become a KZbinr. I found that quite funny, but I understand the lure of you doing your own thing when you want to. I think at the end of the day, you do what you wanna do, and if you're good enough at it, and work hard for it, you will be recognized for your vision your passion and your result. Interesting times we are going through. And thank you for your effort in making these videos as you do.

[@JustinPhillip]

Thank you sharing. It is wild indeed. They did a poll and the majority of kids graduating wanted to be KZbinrs, i forget what state it was in, but that was eye opening for sure

[@RafalGendarz]

You are very authentic and vulnerable, it requires balls 😅

[@gkochanowsky]

Lots to think about in your video essay.

[@JustinPhillip]

💯🙏🏼

[@TheJanaRina]

I wonder where you would fit Kariza from Life of Riza in this or even Natalie Lynn. They are both filmmakers on KZbin with massive followings and I don't think what you said applies to them. For example Natalie Lynn gets demonetized on some of her videos because she refuses to not use copyrighted music, to not comprimise her art. Personally, I have never heard of either of the youtubers you have mentioned. Maybe looking in the right corner of KZbin might show you talent and a fresh way to apply filmmaking skills. Happy to learn otherwise tho.

[@ryanjosephdp]

I gotta say. I work with Shane and he’s the real deal. He’s the same dude on and off camera and lemme tell ya There’s some big projects coming up that are a lot cooler than just “Netflix movies” Keep an eye out! (Agree with this videos message tho 💯💯💯)

[@JustinPhillip]

Oh im a big fan of Shane! No shade, ive taken a couple of his workshops. (Online)

[@this_time_imperfect]

I call them “B-roll Bros” yeah they have cool cameras and film cool looking shots, but they are not filmmakers by the standard definition.

[@JustinPhillip]

😅😅😅 the Rogan crew for the camera crowd

[@paperstacksfilms]

To respond to your comment about no one wants to go into the minutae things about being on set, you're right with the exception of studio binder they fill that gap pretty well other than them and a few other channels like in depth cine you don't get those lessons on KZbin.

[@JustinPhillip]

Studio Binder is solid or Deakins podcast 100%

[@paperstacksfilms]

@JustinPhillip i gotta check out his podcast cause he's my favorite dop besides hoytema

[@fredr.]

🍿🍿🍿 I am here just for the drama 🤜💥🤛 .

[@JustinPhillip]

😂😂 🤜🏼

[@Chase-Video]

Here for the ☕️ 🫖

[@CornOffTheCobb]

I'd argue that the really big artists/directors are that big largely because they know how/what to sell audiences. Spielberg and Lucas being the original kings of this.

[@JustinPhillip]

🤷🏼‍♂️ i never was a fan of either so i guess that explains that

[@rayriggz16]

sounds like you are gate keeping

[@JustinPhillip]

😂 you need to learn what that means

[@Wynn85040]

Holy FUCK! This comment section is GOLDEN 😂😂😂. So many Cameos from amazing KZbinrs, DP's, content creators, or whatever they wanna call themselves. I'm more entertained by the comments rather the video itself. Justin, record the diss track bro, IT'S TIME lol

[@JustinPhillip]

😂