|
Welcome to the LADY CAMERA GUY Newsletter! ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏ ͏
|
|
LADY CAMERA GUY celebrates the creativity, skills, and passion of remarkable women cinematographers around the globe. |
|
|
WELCOME TO THE INAUGURAL ISSUE OF THE LADY CAMERA GUY NEWSLETTER! As many of you know, my Instagram page, @ladycameraguy, has been a creative outlet for me since 2017, showcasing the incredible women who inspire me as a camera operator. From emerging student talent to Oscar-nominated cinematographers, these women span every genre—from documentary and narrative to sports, reality, and even the fascinating world of outdoor broadcasting and wildlife. Over the years, I’ve received countless questions from followers seeking advice on gear recommendations, and tips to fuel their passion and hone their skills for camera operating. To streamline these conversations, I developed my website, LadyCameraGuy.com, a comprehensive resource offering answers to the most common questions and sharing insights from my own journey. Now, I'm thrilled to expand the Lady Camera Guy community by introducing this newsletter! In each issue, you can expect to discover my favorite women in the industry, important organizations, must-have gear, essential reads, impactful films, and insightful podcasts tailored for camera operators. Plus, I’ll be hosting an, “Ask Me Anything” segment, where I’ll answer your burning questions. Don’t forget to send me your questions and share any information about upcoming events, opportunities, mentorships, or apprenticeships that our community should know about. Let’s embark on this exciting journey together! Keep Rockin’ The Glass ~ Gretchen aka “Lady Camera Guy”
|
|
Our featured LADY CAMERA GUY is New York-based cinematographer CHRIS WAIREGI, SOC. Chris is an award-winning cinematographer, working across film, television, documentary, commercial, branded content, and experimental projects. Her visual work spans narrative and nonfiction storytelling, from short-form digital campaigns to feature-length films for streaming platforms, broadcast television, and theatrical release. As a freelance director of photography, Chris brings a distinctive creative voice to every production. She is known for her skillful use of natural light, handheld camera movement, and intentional, emotional framing. Her dedication to both the art and craft of cinematography makes her a sought-after collaborator in the industry. Her work has screened at leading festivals such as Sundance, Tribeca, and SXSW, and her television credits include acclaimed series like Run the World, Flatbush Misdemeanors, and Survival of the Thickest. In 2022 Chris founded 600 BLACK WOMEN. What began as a person search for connection and community evolved into a collectives: a space where Black women, femmes, and gender-expansive professionals could be seen, heard, and celebrated. 600 Black Women is a 501c3 and growing collective of motion picture filmmakers, still photographers, and publicists - each of them Black, femme, women, or gender expansive members of IATSE Local 600.
|
|
|
WOMEN IN MEDIA began in 2010 as an informal networking group for filmmakers of all genders seeking to connect with and support more women in the industry. As the community grew, so did the demand for fair hiring practices. By 2016, it became clear that while many people wanted to hire equitably, they needed better tools to find and connect with qualified, vetted women. In 2017, WIM officially became a nonprofit, expanding its mission to include networking events, education, and industry initiatives. The WIM goal is to create a more respectful, inclusive, and balanced workplace—one where fairness is the norm, both behind the scenes and on screen. Today, Women In Media is a thriving membership-based organization with a strong presence at top-tier film festivals and conferences. They host professional development panels, screenings, and networking opportunities, all within a welcoming, no-troll environment designed to foster meaningful connections and career advancement. ___________________________ |
|
*** 2026 Altitude Awards***Award submissions open: Thursday, February 5th - Sunday, April 5th, 2026
|
|
|
|
The Altitude Awards celebrate exemplary women and gender non-conforming cinematographers, gaffers, and camera operators. Through this recognition, the awards not only honor outstanding craft and artistic excellence, but also spotlight established and emerging talent. Moreover, we are proud to have seen the careers of many past finalists accelerate after their wins. They have gained increased visibility, professional opportunities, and well-deserved acknowledgement across the field. Judges include high-level industry professionals. Submissions are open now. The Awards culminate in a ceremony and reception, bringing together industry peers. ALTITUDE AWARD SUBMISSION LINK |
|
|
*** WIM CREW LIST***The #WiMCrewList started as a simple open source Google spread sheet for those in a position to hire to find talented women for their crews. In a matter of months, the spreadsheet featured thousands of women, in 26 departments, all over the world. The crew list made it impossible to say there were no qualified women to hire. Due to the popularity of the Spread Sheet, and women getting hired from it, we transitioned from the original list to a searchable, online database that is an attractive and thorough way for studios, as well as indies, to #HireTheseWomen. In 2017, we launched the #WiMCrewList database helping thousands of women continue to get seen, hired, and heard above and below the line. SEARCH CREW LIST HERE
|
|
QUESTION: Still in school? Below are my top 10 pieces of advice for someone wanting to get into camera. Take business classes: This will benefit your future, whether you stay in freelance film/TV or establish yourself as an S-Corp or LLC. Financial strategies and self-establishment are crucial investments. Take an Intro to Psychology class: This will help you enhance teamwork and understand power dynamics on set. Take literature and writing classes to learn story structure. Take Film Studies from non-film departments to gain non-technical storytelling perspectives, such as those offered in history departments. Choose a school strategically: Opt for a location where you want to work post-graduation. Build connections through internships and local industry involvement. Utilize summers: Work in production to expand your network and enhance your resume. Work part-time at gear houses: Learn equipment and connect with industry professionals. Often, weekends may offer opportunities to work on local productions. Establish a rainy day fund: Aim to save 10-20% of income for production slowdowns or unexpected periods without work. The goal is to eventually have enough saved so that you can survive a year without work. Start saving for retirement early: Freelancers often lack employer-offered retirement plans like a 401K. Enjoy the journey! Stay open-minded, avoid taking things personally, and embrace unexpected experiences. Ask questions and learn from others along the way.
|
|
In this issue I want to highlight four pieces of my time tested, go-to gear for listening to cast dialogue, my director and communicating with the camera team.
|
|
THE SHOKZ JAWBONE The SHOKZ JAWBONE headset transmits audio through your jaw bones, providing unique benefits. Only you hear the audio, allowing for discreet adjustments. The open ear design enhances situational awareness and comfort with other earpieces. In loud environments, you can use earplugs while still hearing the director clearly. It pairs with any Bluetooth device, including the Bolero Comms system. |
|
|
|
RADIO SURVEILLANCE EARPIECE is my go-to for listening to cast audio, especially in the audio driven world of unscripted and documentary. Low profile, comfortable, with a 2-6’ long coil so I can sit the camera down and still listen while standing. It’s also really easy to switch out the earpieces for comfort. I don’t leave home without three of these in my bag. |
|
|
|
|
MOTOROLA WALKIE HEADSET Personally, I prefer to use my own walkie headset because I know the quality of the mic and earpiece are superior. Communication is incredibly important on set and I want to hear people clearly and have them hear me as well. Pay the money for a good headset and avoid a lot of frustration. |
|
|
|
The fourth piece of gear I sometimes use with my walkie and cast audio monitor is a pair of slimline hunting earmuffs. In loud environments where I need to hear my surveillance earpieces, these muffs block out noise without interfering with handheld operation. I also appreciate the built-in mic, allowing me to hear my surroundings without removing the headset. |
|
|
|
|
|
Five C's of Cinematography by Joseph V. Mascelli (1965) is a foundational, classic textbook on motion picture filming techniques, focusing on the essential “rules” of visual story telling.
|
|
|
|
Key Concepts: Camera Angles: Choosing the right camera position for maximum impact and proper storytelling. Continuity: Ensuring visual and narrative flow across shots to avoid jarring inconsistencies. Cutting: Techniques for editing shots together based on action, story, and emotion. Close-ups: The use of intimate, tight shots to highlight emotion and detail. Composition: Arranging elements within the frame for artistic and narrative purpose.
PURCHASE BOOK HERE |
|
|
|
|
No Ordinary Life (2021), directed by Heather O'Neill, is a fantastic documentary which profiles five pioneering CNN female photo and video journalists working on the front lines: Mary Rodgers, Cyndi Strand, Margaret Moth, Maria Fleet and Jane Evans. The film highlights their experiences capturing historic events from the fall of the Berlin Wall to the Arab Spring. Through the use of archival footage, including Tiananmen Square, the Gulf War, the Rwandan genocide, and the war in Sarajevo, combined with personal interviews of the journalists and their coleges, this film explores the dangers of war reporting, the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field, the blessing of the female gaze and the mental toll of witnessing trauma. VIEW FILM HERE |
|
|
|
|
|
Cinemapodgrapher shares stories, lessons and career advice for the film industry. Let's be honest, the film industry is a scary place to navigate on your own, but it doesn't have to be that way. Join LT as he interviews film crew from around the globe as they share their journey and give lessons to help emerging and established filmmakers. So if you're just about to start your career, looking to bump up the ladder or you just want to know about the crazy world of filmmaking, tune into this podcast. FEATURED WOMEN: Catherine Goldschmidt, BSC; Ashley Barron, ASC; Katie Milwright, ASC; Claire Clements, Sophie Darlington, Meg White, Caitlin Royse, Tanya Marar, Rachel Sieger, Gretchen Warthen, SOC. LISTEN TO CINEMPODGRAPHER HERE |
|
|
|
|
March 7: SOC Awards WATCH PARTIES: 3:30-7:30p PST Los Angeles Chapman/Leonard 12950 Raymer St, N 5-9p EST Atlanta Cinemoves Ranch, 171 County Line Rd, Fayetteville, GA 5-9p EST New York ARRI Rentals 47-27 36th St, Long Island City, NY REGISTER and WATCH: https://socawards.com _________
March 8: Girls Just Wanna Load Trucks hands-on workshop covering essential G&E skills
VSNY Films, Brooklyn, NY INFORMATION: @girlsjustwannaloadtrucks IG page _________
March 8: CSC Manitoba Member Meet-Up 2-3:30P CSC Manitoba Hub at Film Training Manitoba, 245 McDermott Ave, Winnipeg INFORMATION: https://csc.ca/calendar
_________ March 8: ASC Awards LIVE STREAM 7pm PST Livestream www.theasc.com _________ March 13: The International Cinematographers Guild Scholarship Fund DEADLINE INFORMATION and APPLICATION: https://www.icg600.com/member-portal/events/icg-scholarship-grant-deadline _________ March 12-18: SXSW Film Festival Austin, Texas https://sxsw.com _________ March 15: The Oscars Local 600 Young Workers Watch Party 6:30p EST Pig Beach, 35-37 36th St, Astoria NY 11106 REGISTER: https://form.jotform.com/260494286441057 _________ March 18th: DEADLINE Local 600 Emerging Cinematographer Awards-Submission INFORMATION and APPLICATION: https://www.icg600.com/member-portal/events/emerging-cinematographer-awards-submission-deadline _________
March 19: Atlanta Young Workers Coffee Meet-Up
11a EST Monday Night Brewing, 670 Trabert Ave NW _________
March 22 (Register by March 18th)
Local 600 General Membership Hybrid on-line and in person LA, NY, Chicago, Atlanta RSVP: https://form.jotform.com/260395252992061 _________ March 26-27 Los Angeles Deep Light Cinematography Lab with Bradford Young, ASC INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION: https://deep-light.com _________ March 28: CINEGEAR New York Industry City, 5-2-A 33 35th St, Brooklyn REGISTRATION and INFORMATION: https://www.cinegearexpo.com/ny-connect/ _________ April 3: Local 600 First Friday Get Together LA, Chicago, NY and Atlanta INFORMATION: https://www.icg600.com/member-portal/events/member-friday _________ April 5 DEADLINE: Women In Media Altitudes Awards submissions. https://womennmedia.com/event/altitude-awards-submissions-2026/ _________ June 5-6: CINEGEAR LA https://www.cinegearexpo.com/la-expo/registration/
|
|
Please visit www.ladycameraguy.com for additional resources, gear recommendations, trainings, workshops and more. Please follow us on INSTAGRAM at @ladycameraguy and learn about the amazing women cinematographers around the world. Thank you for being a part of our community!
|
|
|
|
