The Video Issue | Stoke-Ness
All video, all day.
This month
It’s all(most) about video. I am sharing techniques from famous YouTubers and films I helped make.
Be stoked,
Isaac
New Work
New DOP work with @alexstrohl on his film SEATREKKING.
A film about artist and long distance swimmer @bernhardwache was incredible to be a part of. We camped out on a remote Croatian island and filmed his artistic process and sea treks.
Directed by @alexstrohl & @rjbruni
D.o.p @isaacsjohnston
Original soundtrack @thomasbarrandon
Underwater camera OP @paullavoine
Post production @inmist
Sound design & mastering @un.studios
Color @mikegamble
Motion design @julian_pircher
Gear and Tools
Sports Salts and Tissue Rejuvenator
I have been holding out on everyone, but not by intention. I honestly don’t think about fitness much but instead, find what works and then use it.
I have found two supplements that change my runs, hikes, workouts, and especially my hard enduro moto rides.
I was using a drink supplement called Noom to get electrolytes in my water so that I could run further while sweating and not cramp or bonk. It’s important stuff, but I found that I kept leaving it in my hydration pack and it was molding. Yuck.
I switched to these Salt Pills (with magnesium and potassium) 30 min before the activity and during the activity if needed. I only put water in my pack now and haven’t had mold since.
This stuff is essential for me. It reduces inflammation and helps reduce soreness after hard activities. I take it after every hard ride or run and it keeps me ready to go for the next one.
Photo/Video Technique
Mr. Beast Leaked Memo
I recently found this leaked internal memo from Mr Beast about how he wants his team to make YouTube videos. I am not a big fan of Mr Beasts’ videos, but you cannot deny his success and expertise.
The memo is a masterclass on how to make videos people want to watch and worth the read.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Zw14ukKSlkUiL1RlOUPInoHvln8T9dPR/view?pli=1
Who I am Following
Dave Trumphore
He is criminally underrated. I love his eye for highlights and framing in action sports.
Listen
Using AI as a thought partner
If you have used AI recently you are probably disappointed with how unreliable the answers or visuals are. Most of what comes out of the magic box is unusable at best. That was my experience until I listened to this podcast by Prof G.
Give it a listen if you want to be ahead of the AI curve.
Videos, Movies, and TV
Beau Miles on his Filmmaking
In keeping with the video theme on this issue, this episode of Digital Spaghetti interviews Beau Miles about his unique approach to making films on YouTube. Beau is my favorite filmmaker on YouTube and I learned so much from this deep dive into his process.
Reads
VAHNA Mag
I am recommending you get a print magazine this month. Specifically the newest issue of VAHNA magazine. It features stories and photos by my friends Alex Souza, Ben Guese, and Tyler Ravelle. It is the best one they have ever made and they make them good every time.
Parting Thought:
You can fake it until you make it, but you better be building the skills at the same time. “Making it” is something you have to prove every day, every project. If you achieve success with only luck, your luck can stop as fast as it arrives. When you build skills, you create an anchor to your success.
If you want to level up your skills as a creative freelancer, consider joining my mentorship program. My students will tell you it is a big step forward in the path to success. Send me a message at isaac@isaacjohnston.co
Be stoked and have a great month,
Isaac
This newsletter, my photography, and my videos are all free but not cheap. If you want to help me continue to make things you can buy my Pitch Deck Kit HERE or