Interview: The Baristas Creator Justin Kownacki Shares Web Video How-To Tips

Ever wonder why we decided to create The Baristas in the first place?

In part 1 of this new 2-part interview on Web Video Chefs, Amani Channel interviews me (Justin Kownacki) about how and why I launched Something to Be Desired back in 2003, which was spun off as The Baristas in 2010. Could be useful for anyone who wants to start their own web video empire… er, show.

Look for Part 2 soon, in which I share some practical tips on how to get start creating serialized web video without going totally insane.

5 Tips on Casting for Skill, Sustainability and Sanity

Whether you’re producing a web series, a stage play, a movie or a bootstrapped startup, the most important decision you’ll ever make is this:

“Whom should I surround myself with?”

During production, your cast becomes your family. You’ll love them, you’ll hate them, you’ll argue with them and you’ll be forever in their debt — and, by the time you’re done, they’ll all feel the same way about you.

Since August, I’ve been producing The Baristas for a January 2011 release. And while a handful of actors are crossing over from their 6-year run on Something to Be Desired, the vast majority of the faces I’ve surrounded myself with are brand new. In essence, I’ve known some of these people for less than a week and I’ve already entrusted them with the future of both my creation and your viewing pleasure.

Am I crazy?

No. I just have gut instincts, common sense, and the unsettling ability to divorce myself emotionally from whatever’s in front of me at the time.

Here are 5 tips on how I used those traits to assemble a cast I believe in*.

Continue reading 5 Tips on Casting for Skill, Sustainability and Sanity