Inner Circle Podcast - Steadicam Op George Billinger: From Firefighter to Steadicam Legend

This episode is proudly lit exclusively by Nanlux-Nanlite Lights and sponsored by B&H and Hollyland.In this episode of the Inner Circle Podcast, Shane Hurlbut, ASC and Lydia Hurlbut welcome a man of many talents, George Billinger, for an inspiring conversation. The legendary Steadicam operator and camera operator opens up about his unconventional journey from firefighting to becoming a sought-after filmmaker. Shane and George have worked together on multiple projects including Drumline, 11:14, and Terminator Salvation. The conversation dives deep into the realities of filmmaking, exploring the importance of mentorship, collaboration on Steadicam operations, and the constant pursuit of mastering the art of storytelling. Both Shane and George share personal stories that highlight the challenges faced by filmmakers in the industry, from managing the pressure of high-profile sets to coping with financial uncertainties and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. They delve into the importance of learning from mistakes and fostering open communication on set. A highlight of the episode is George’s recounting of his experience landing a job after an encounter with Steven Spielberg. The discussion also tackles the impact of the pandemic on mental health and the film industry as a whole. George offers valuable insights on overcoming creative roadblocks and adapting to new technologies while staying true to the core values of filmmaking. The podcast doesn't shy away from the demanding nature of the film industry. Lydia explores the challenges of finding work-life balance and the importance of self-care to help manage demanding schedules and stressful days. George shares his personal struggles with mental health during the pandemic and the impact of losing control over his work. The episode concludes with a hopeful message. Shane and George discuss the importance of staying up-to-date with technology while staying true to the art of storytelling. George Billinger is known for Oblivion, Prey, Twilight, and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.More from Shane Hurlbut, ASC for cinematographers and do-it-all filmmakers:-Cinematography: Virtual Location Scouting with the Insta360-Cinematography: The EL Zone System Exposure Guide-

Om Podcasten

Filmmakers Academy presents two of the film industry’s most unique and reliable podcasts for professionals who work behind the camera. We explore the latest trends, interview industry leaders, and offer leadership and lifestyle guidance tailored to fit the needs of filmmakers. Stop what you’re doing this very moment and subscribe to Filmmakers Academy to watch LIVE episodes for free on the FA Platform! While full audio episodes are available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, you can watch past episodes on the FA platform as a member of Filmmakers Academy. The Inner Circle Podcast is Filmmakers Academy’s flagship podcast hosted by Lydia and Shane Hurlbut, ASC. Together the duo chats with everyone from industry leaders in the film industry to health experts and beyond, spotlighting subjects useful to filmmakers pursuing successful and sustainable careers. *In addition to new episodes is a robust archive containing a wealth of knowledge. Finding the Frame is not so much an interview series as it is a lounge-sesh with your favorite filmmakers. Hosted by Brendan Sweeney, prominent filmmakers from ASC cinematographers to Oscar winners visit the studio to dish about their careers and approach to the craft. BAFTA Breakthrough Cinematographer Aaron Reid praises Filmmakers Academy as “a valuable learning resource for film craft” that “pushes learning film into the future.” Online Filmmaking Courses rates Filmmakers Academy 5/5 stars as the best-advanced filmmaking training platform! A trusted partner of Academy Gold Rising, British Cinematographer, RED Digital Cinema, and many other industry titans, visit FilmmakersAcademy.com to see how filmmakers like you are scaling successful careers in the film industry. We also keep past SIC episodes in our archive dedicated to cinematography, how to navigate your career, and leadership, hosted by Filmmakers Academy CEO Lydia Hurlbut and cinematographer Shane Hurlbut, ASC Filmmakers Academy is a subscription-based streaming platform developed to educate and inspire filmmakers to enrich their storytelling and technical skillset. Through on-demand lessons, podcasts, and courses across multiple disciplines, filmmakers at any level of experience will learn from our elite team of industry-leading professionals.