“Prepping the Vision” with Film/TV Director Patrick Cady ASC and Writer/Producer Tom Bernardo

Hosted by StudentFilmmakers.com and Student Filmmakers Magazine

Patrick Cady ASC—an Emmy-nominated cinematographer and director—is known for bringing soul and purpose to the projects he touches. From Insecure and Bosch: Legacy to Rectify and Interrogation, his approach to storytelling is informed by both compassion and craft. Tom Bernardo—a seasoned producer and writer whose credits include Bosch, Bosch: Legacy, and The Lincoln Lawyer—is widely respected for his mastery in narrative development and his ability to elevate stories through clear, insightful collaboration.

Who Will Benefit Most

This webinar is perfect for filmmakers, cinematographers, and creatives eager to master the art of visual storytelling by prepping their shoot with precision and insight. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker or a seasoned pro, you’ll gain fresh perspectives and practical strategies to streamline your prep process, avoid costly mistakes, and elevate your final product.

Students, teachers, educators, instructors, and schools will also find this session invaluable for deepening their knowledge and enriching their curriculum with real-world industry practices. No matter your level of experience, this webinar equips you with essential tools to create visually compelling stories with confidence and clarity.

What You Will Learn

• How to effectively prepare actors through clear, focused communication from early rehearsals to on-set moments.
• The balance between giving detailed notes and knowing when to minimize input to keep actors in the flow.
• Techniques for private, constructive feedback that respects actors’ creative process without disrupting performance.
• Ways to enhance collaboration between director and actors by understanding individual preferences for feedback.
• How thoughtful prep work and note-giving can elevate actor performance and the overall production quality.