Blog
Notes from
behind the camera
Lighting breakdowns, honest takes on the industry, AI, analogue, and how the films actually got made.
Shooting Debt Ridden: A Proof-of-Concept Short Film in Birmingham
How I shot Debt Ridden, a proof-of-concept short film for a Birmingham working-class crime drama, directing, shooting and lighting a sizzle scene on favours.
What camera are you shooting with?
A 2016 Panasonic G80, bought second-hand for £350. Lightweight, frictionless, run-and-gun. Here's why this little camera is still one of my favourites, and why emerging DPs need to stop obsessing over kit.
Why I Sat On A Finished Film For 8 Years
Birmingham cinematographer Lou Murrall on why he sat on a finished film for eight years, and what perfectionism actually costs creative people.
Shooting We Go Again: A Birmingham Cinematographer's Approach to Doing More With Less
Behind the scenes of We Go Again, a short film shot on location in Birmingham by DOP Louis Murrall. Lighting breakdowns, the Mercian Films ethos, and why limits make better films.
How to Hire a Director of Photography in Birmingham
Looking to hire a Director of Photography in Birmingham? Here’s what actually matters when choosing the right DOP for your commercial, branded film, documentary, or business video.
FILMMAKERS: We’re Cooked (No We’re Not)
AI will disrupt film, but it won’t kill cinema. Filmmaking is people, taste, pressure, and collaboration. Here’s my take and the video.
For The Love Of Analogue
Why 35mm film photography is making a comeback in 2026. Shooting on a Canon T70 helped me rediscover patience, nostalgia and the beauty of analogue.
Narrative Brand Video - Small Budget, Big Results - Case Study
A powerful narrative brand film for Staffordshire Women’s Aid, shot on Sony Venice with a 3-person crew. Cinematic storytelling on a small scale.
AI Is Here. What Are We Going To Do About It?
AI is replacing filmmakers faster than anyone predicted. Why your story still matters and how to survive the AI wave. Read this before it is too late.
Why This Charity Video Still Means So Much to Me
This charity video was filmed for free with a tiny crew and real heart. Discover how authentic charity videos create genuine impact beyond marketing.
Using the Sun as Your Key Light
Learn how to plan and shoot cinematic golden hour footage using the sun as your key light. Real-world advice, tools like SunCalc and Google Earth, plus practical tips from cinematographer Louis Murrall.
Make Films Stoic Again: Why Cinema Needs Its Spine Back
Modern films have lost their backbone. Here's why cinema needs stoic, purpose-driven characters again. A cinematographer’s honest take.