September 5 with Markus Förderer ASC BVK

Markus Förderer ASC BVK takes us behind the scenes of September 5, an independent feature where he crafted an authentic 1970s broadcast aesthetic while pushing the boundaries of digital cinematography. He shares how he transformed the RED V-Raptor to look like film, lit the set for 360-degree shooting, and operated in a raw, documentary style without rehearsals.

Markus also discusses the challenges of building a set that felt true to the era, working with vintage-inspired lighting, and his unconventional decision to pull apart and detune his own zoom lenses to create a messier, more organic look. Along the way, he reflects on his journey to Los Angeles and how his early work, including his debut feature Hell with director Tim Fehlbaum, shaped his approach to cinematography.

Markus credits his early experimentation with photography as a child for helping him develop an instinct to break the rules and embrace unconventional techniques. This mindset has played a key role in his distinctive style, allowing him to challenge norms and create visually striking work. He also shares his passion for sharing knowledge through his website, Cineflares, which he founded to help fellow filmmakers explore the creative possibilities of lighting and cinematography.

From embracing imperfections to rethinking the way digital cameras capture texture and movement, Markus offers a fascinating look at the creative choices that define his work. This episode is proudly sponsored by Red.