Beyond the Lens: Unexpected Lessons from the Hangar

Elwood Folse | Hell Cat Productions | Week 6

When I started my internship at Hell Cat Productions, I thought communications was all about photography, videography, editing, writing, and maybe the occasional voiceover delivered in a smooth, radio-ready tone. And for the most part, that’s true.

But over the past few weeks at the Hell Cat hangar, I’ve learned that production is more than just cameras and editing software—it’s also about engineering the perfect environment for storytelling.

Lighting the Hangar: A Masterclass in Natural and Synthetic Light

One of the most unexpected lessons came from David’s walkthrough of the hangar’s lighting design. I noticed portholes cut into the ceiling, and while they had removable covers for insulation or controlled lighting setups, their true purpose was far more strategic.

David explained how they were positioned at precise angles so that at certain times of the day, the sunlight would naturally illuminate specific production areas. This eliminates the need for artificial lighting during those windows, making shoots more efficient and giving footage a natural, cinematic look.

But when natural light wasn’t an option, I learned how to set up and control four monitors at once, syncing them to display a single, massive image across multiple screens. For even larger projects, we used a huge LED screen—like the ones you’d see at a football game or boxing match. This setup is key for:

• Displaying real-time feeds during live productions

• Creating dynamic digital backdrops without relying on green screens

• Scaling high-resolution images for an immersive effect

By adjusting resolution settings and carefully positioning cameras, I saw firsthand how these tools bring productions to life on a massive scale.

The 5 Essential Tools for Running a Podcast

Beyond video, I also got a crash course in podcast production. If you think a good podcast is just someone talking into a microphone, think again. David walked me through the five essential tools outside of a camera that help make a podcast sound professional:

1. A Dynamic or Condenser Microphone – The heart of the setup, capturing clean audio with minimal background noise.

2. An Audio Interface or Mixer – The bridge between the microphone and the computer, allowing sound adjustments and multiple inputs.

3. Pop Filter & Boom Arm – Reduces unwanted sounds like pops and breathing noises while keeping the mic positioned properly.

4. Headphones – Essential for monitoring sound levels and avoiding audio bleed during recordings.

5. Editing Software – Programs like Audacity, Adobe Audition, or GarageBand help refine the final product.

With these tools, a simple idea can turn into a professional-grade podcast, and knowing how to use them opens doors for independent media creation.

Soundproofing & Temperature Control: The Science Behind a Quiet Studio

Another unexpected but fascinating lesson was in soundproofing and insulation. When designing a production space, controlling sound and temperature is just as important as the cameras and microphones. Here are three common types of soundproofing materials and their benefits:

1. Acoustic Foam Panels – These absorb sound waves and prevent echo, creating cleaner audio recordings.

2. Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV) – A dense, flexible material used in walls and ceilings to block outside noise while keeping heat in.

3. Resilient Channel Systems – Metal bars that separate drywall from studs, reducing vibrations and sound transmission through walls.

Knowing how to create a controlled sound environment isn’t just useful for podcasters—it’s essential for any professional media space, whether it's for news broadcasting, music production, or film work.

Looking Ahead: Lessons for the Future

While these lessons might not seem directly tied to journalism, they’ve expanded my perspective as a creator. Whether I start my own news or production company one day or simply produce better content, understanding the technical side of media creation gives me a huge advantage.

It’s been an eventful few weeks, to say the least—and I can’t wait to see what’s next.