Behind the Scenes With a Newark Cinematographer on Set
Award-winning cinematographer Ishell Vaughan shares real set insights, gear choices, and the Newark-to-NYC workflow behind music videos and films.
The Newark Advantage for Production
Newark’s proximity to New York City gives cinematographers like me access to top-tier talent and resources without the Manhattan price tag. A typical day might start at a warehouse in the Ironbound district, where we can secure industrial or gritty backdrops for less than half the cost of a Brooklyn soundstage. Crew rates here are competitive, and the city’s diverse architecture—from historic brownstones to post-industrial spaces—offers versatility for visual storytelling.
The Port Authority’s PATH system means we can transport gear and crew between Newark and NYC in under 30 minutes. For a recent music video shoot, we used a Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K to capture 8K raw footage with minimal lighting adjustments, leveraging Newark’s natural light in the late afternoon. The city’s golden hour is underrated, especially near the Passaic River.
Gear That Holds Up on Location
Music videos and indie films demand equipment that’s both high-performance and portable. My go-to setup often includes a Sony FX9 for its dual ISO and autofocus reliability, paired with a set of Rokinon Cine DS primes for sharp, cinematic images on a budget. For gimbals, the DJI RS 3 Pro is a workhorse, handling payloads up to 10 lbs without breaking a sweat—critical when we’re moving between Newark’s tight alleys and open parks.
Lighting is where Newark’s industrial spaces shine. I frequently use Aputure 300D II units for their output and color accuracy, but in a pinch, a well-placed bounce board or a discarded factory window can create dramatic, naturalistic effects. Budget-wise, a mid-tier music video here might run $15K–$30K, with a significant portion allocated to locations and permits.
The Reality of Shooting in Newark
Permitting in Newark is straightforward compared to NYC, but it’s not without its quirks. The city’s film office is responsive, but street closures require coordination with local businesses and residents. For a project last year, we collaborated with the Newark Police Department to secure a block for a chase sequence—something that would’ve been a logistical nightmare in Manhattan.
The city’s music scene is another asset. Artists like Cory Henry and Fetty Wap have roots here, and local venues like NJPAC or the Wellmont Theater often serve as backdrops. For a recent hip-hop video, we shot at a repurposed church in the South Ward, using its stained glass and vaulted ceilings to add production value without expensive set design. For context on how music videos are evolving, Billboard often covers trends in visual storytelling tied to the industry’s biggest releases.
Collaboration and the Director’s Vision
As a cinematographer, my role is to translate the director’s vision into visual language. In Newark, that often means adapting to last-minute changes—whether it’s a sudden rainstorm or a location falling through. Flexibility is key, and that’s why I always pack a backup camera body and extra batteries. For a director like Ishell Vaughan, the process is collaborative from the start, with mood boards and shot lists finalized weeks in advance.
One challenge unique to Newark is the city’s sound. Traffic, sirens, and even the hum of the airport can interfere with audio. We often use a Sennheiser MKH 416 shotgun mic paired with a Zoom F6 recorder to capture clean dialogue or voiceovers, and ADR is always an option in post. For insights on how cinematographers adapt to urban environments, ASC Clubhouse Conversations is a great resource for real-world examples.
Why Clients Choose Newark
Producers are increasingly looking beyond NYC for shoot locations, and Newark’s affordability and authenticity make it a compelling choice. The city’s tax incentives, while not as aggressive as Georgia’s, still offer savings that can be reinvested into production value. For a project with a $50K budget, shooting in Newark might free up an additional $5K–$10K compared to NYC.
The talent pool here is deep. Local crews are accustomed to working efficiently, and the city’s arts community—from Rutgers-Newark’s film program to the Newark Museum—fosters a creative energy that’s hard to replicate. For a recent commercial, we cast local actors through a Facebook group for Newark filmmakers, and the authenticity they brought to the project was invaluable.
If you’re planning a shoot and want to explore Newark’s potential, reach out via my contact page. I’m happy to share more about the city’s hidden gems and how we can bring your vision to life.