The Filming with Josh Podcast

Ep. 116 – How I'm Using AI in My Video Production Business

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan takes a practical look at how he's using artificial intelligence to run and grow his video production business. Rather than focusing on AI replacing filmmakers, Josh shares how it's become one of the most valuable tools in his workflow by helping him work faster, stay organized, and deliver a better experience for his clients.

From project pricing and proposal writing to script development, production planning, interview transcriptions, creating rough cuts, SEO, and marketing, Josh walks through the real-world ways AI is saving time without replacing creativity. He also explains why experience, storytelling, and human decision-making remain at the center of every successful production.

If you're a filmmaker, photographer, content creator, or creative business owner wondering how AI can actually improve your workflow or business, this podcast is for you!

 

Ep. 115 - Enhancing the Customer Experience

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan discusses why creating great work is only part of building a successful production company. From responsive communication and fast turnaround times to behind-the-scenes photos, wireless client monitoring, and other thoughtful touches, Josh shares how focusing on the customer experience has helped his business succeed in one of the most competitive video production markets in the country.

Drawing from real-world experiences running Rustic River Media, Josh explains how small details can leave a lasting impression, create stronger client relationships, generate repeat business, and encourage referrals. He also shares practical ways filmmakers, photographers, and other creative professionals can improve the experience they provide without necessarily spending thousands of dollars on new gear.

Learn how investing in the customer experience can become one of the most valuable ways to grow your business, strengthen client relationships, and earn more repeat business.

If you're a filmmaker, DP, photographer, or creative business owner looking to stand out beyond your camera, lenses, or editing style, this podcast is for you!

Ep. 114 - Why I've Sold Nearly Every Lens I Own

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan discusses why he's sold nearly every lens he owns and the thought process behind moving from a large collection of primes and zooms to a much simpler lens kit. Josh breaks down the gear he's used for years, what he's replacing it with, and how recent client projects helped shape his decision. 

From Sony's relatively new 28-70mm f/2 and 50-150mm f/2 zooms and how they compare to traditional primes, to the realities of balancing image quality, efficiency, and workflow on professional productions, Josh shares why he's rethinking the way he approaches video production and photography. He also discusses the specialty glass he's replaced, what made the cut, and how this new setup is helping him work faster while still delivering the look his clients expect.

If you're a filmmaker, DP, photographer, or content creator trying to decide between primes and zooms, looking to simplify your kit, or wondering whether modern f/2 zoom lenses can replace a bag full of glass, this podcast is for you!

Ep. 113 - Big Shifts in My Media Business

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan returns after a year-long break to share the biggest changes happening at Rustic River Media. From overhauling his pricing strategy and rolling out new service packages, to updating his website and building SEO into his marketing, Josh breaks down how he’s evolving the business.

He also dives into some of the gear he’s recently added (including new lighting, cameras, and support equipment), how he’s using his Production Truck as a differentiator, and even briefly mentions how AI is helping him work on his website.

If you’re a filmmaker, DP, or small production company owner looking for ways to grow, streamline, and stay competitive, this podcast is for you!

Ep. 112 - A Bunch of Random Video Talk

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan discusses a broad range of topics. The Rustic River DP kicks off the podcast by talking about what he’s been up to in his video business before then diving into projects he’s been working on recently, new retainer clients, how he’s been doing more work with contractors, and why he’s been fishing so much. Josh also briefly talks about some new Sony camera firmware updates as well as a new camera he’s recently purchased. There’s a lot to talk about in this episode, so if you are in the video industry and have been following us over the years, this podcast is for you!

Ep. 111 - Seven New Clauses I’ve Added to My Video Contracts

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan discusses seven new clauses he’s recently added to his video contracts. Josh has previously made episodes about his contracts (see Ep. 16 for video contacts and Ep. 64 for video rights) and has also featured his attorney on the podcast where they talked all about contracts for video(see Ep. 67). But, in this new episode the Rustic River DP talks about his most recent additions to his contracts, why he added these new terms, and how they will help him moving forward. If you are in the video industry and are wanting additional tips for beefing up your contracts, this podcast is for you!

Ep. 110 - The Current State of the Video Industry

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan gives his take on the current state of the video industry. Josh talks about how budgets and crew sizes are changing, along client expectations. The Rustic River DP also discusses how the barrier of entry for video has effected the industry as a whole before then giving his thoughts on the surge of AI. Josh then wraps up the podcast by discussing what you can do to survive this ever evolving industry if you’re panning to stay in it for the long haul. Whether you’re new to video or are just starting out, this podcast is for you!

Ep. 109 - A Case Against Image Stabilization

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan talks all about image stabilization. Image stabilization comes in several forms, such as IBIS or lens IS, and it can be useful to a certain degree. But, in this episode Josh breaks down why image stabilization should be avoided whenever possible and how learning to shoot without it will help you not only grow as a shooter, but will also help you to capture more natural or organic looking footage. Whether you’re new to video or are a seasoned professional, this podcast is for you!

Ep. 108 - Nikon Acquires RED

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan dives into the shocking news that Nikon has officially acquired RED. Josh starts the podcast off by giving his thoughts on RED as a company before diving into why Nikon may have purchased RED, what this means for both companies, and what this could do to the camera industry as a whole. This podcast is largely pure speculation, but does bring up some interesting thoughts on what could happen next. Whether you’re a RED owner, a Nikon owner, or just someone who’s interested in what’s going on in the world of cinema cameras, this podcast is for you!

Ep. 107 - Interview with Josh Haygood

On this episode of The Filming with Josh Podcast, host Joshua Milligan welcomes Josh Haygood from Bandito Films. Josh is a multi-time Emmy award winning producer and cinematographer from New York who has been in the video business for 20 years. Josh currently works as an Executive Producer with Bandito Films and has an extensive background working with MTV amongst various other television shows, commercial video projects, professional photography and more. In this podcast, the two Josh’s discuss Haygood’s start to his career as a photographer for the UN before then diving into his time working at MTV. Josh then talks about current work before wrapping up with what camera equipment he runs today. Whether you’re in the video business or are just someone who’s interested in learning more about the industry, this podcast is for you!