Light Painter

Film Description:

Produced by the Ames Regional Economic Alliance and directed by Eric Smidt, Light Painter offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Ames photographer, Dan McClanahan, creates some of his most Epic images. As one of the nation’s best photographers, as recognized by his peers, portfolio, and accolades, Dan has represented the United States on Team USA at the World Photographic Cup several times and has reached the top of the photographic industry. For an artist and business owner who could live anywhere in the world, he has chosen to make Ames his home. The 38-minute film has already been accepted to one film festival, the first of what we hope is many to come.

Dan McClanahan is one of the nation’s best photographers, as recognized by his peers, portfolio, and accolades. When I approached him about this documentary project, he didn’t hesitate. He wasn’t seeking promotion or recognition for his work. He simply wanted to support the art of storytelling. He told me that he routinely asks clients to do things outside of their comfort zone during his photography sessions, so he wanted to do the same for himself with this project.

The short documentary film, Light Painter, is edited to appeal to both seasoned and novice photography lovers. Throughout the film, viewers are privy to a behind-the-scenes look at how a Master of Photography creates some of his most epic images.

Directed and Produced by Eric Smidt
Featuring: Dan McClanahan
Starring:

  • Dan Culhane
  • Kelly Klatt
  • Ryan Peterson
  • Ben Shirk
  • Bethany Sy
  • Nick Sy

Written and Edited by Eric Smidt
Executive Producer: Dan Culhane
Additional Cinematography by Karen Smidt
Photography by Dan McClanahan
Archival footage provided by Kelly Klatt and Bethany Sy
Original Music by Buckmiller Schwager Band, Foxpin, and Lady Revel
Music Curation by Chase Abner
Organizational Support

  • Ames Regional Economic Alliance
  • Professional Photographers of America
  • Iowa State University
Project Type: Documentary
Runtime: 38 minutes 13 seconds
Completion Date: August 30, 2024
Shooting Locations: Ames, Iowa; Louisville, Kentucky
Shooting Format: Digital
Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Film Color: Color
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