In this episode of Set Talks, host Nick Fiorella sits down with Denver-based gaffer Tyler Kaschke, widely known as the Colorado Gaffer. Tyler has worked in the production industry since 2010 and is a member of the International Cinema Lighting Society, collaborating with ASC cinematographers and award-winning crews on national commercials, brand content, and feature documentaries.

Tyler shares how he built a career in the lighting department, his philosophy on cinematic lighting, and what a gaffer actually does on a professional film set. We also dive into practical lighting techniques, working relationships between gaffers and cinematographers, and how freelancers can build meaningful connections in the film industry.

If you’re a filmmaker, cinematographer, or aspiring crewmember looking to work in film production, this conversation is packed with insights about film lighting, networking, and building a career in the Colorado film industry.

🎬 Topics in this episode:
• What a gaffer does on a film set
• Lighting philosophy and working with cinematographers
• Building a career in the film industry
• Networking and finding work in production
• The state of the Colorado film industry

Follow Tyler Kaschke:
🌐https://coloradogaffer.com
📸Instagram: @colorado_gaffer

Set Talks is a podcast exploring the Colorado filmindustry and the creatives shaping it.

Hosted by filmmaker Nick Fiorella, each episodefeatures conversations with filmmakers, actors, producers, crew, and industry leaders about storytelling, career strategy, and the future of film and television in Colorado.

Follow Set Talks for more conversations with the creativesshaping the industry.

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00:00 Introduction

01:35 Tyler Kasche – Becoming a Gaffer

04:51 The Colorado Gaffer

06:09 What does a Gaffer do on set?

09:49 Gaffers working well with DPs

12:05 Success on Set

14:19 Planning with Previz

15:43 How to Light a Scene

21:44 Special Lighting

23:25 Preferred Lighting Brands

25:56 Using Only One light source

27:47 Back Light Importance

29:20 Interview Lighting

31:59 Lighting Tricks

35:52 Outdoor Lighting

38:13 Advice for being a Successful Gaffer

41:22 The Importance of Networking

49:19 Advice for Directors

54:07 Working in Colorado

59:40 Follow Tyler’s Work