A&A MEDIA PRO

The Modern Drywaller
Series

High-Efficiency Finishing with Myron Ferguson

Project Role: Director, DOP, Lead Cinematographer, Editor (Video & Photo), and Cover Photographer

Client: Fine Homebuilding / USG Sheetrock® Brand

Production Type: 4-Part Digital Series + Print Feature (Issue #317)

Deliverables: Long-form Editorial, Social/Promotional Clips, and Magazine Cover Photography

Project Overview

"The Modern Drywaller" was a high-stakes, week-long field production designed to demystify professional drywall finishing. Featuring industry expert Myron Ferguson, the series compared three distinct methods for applying compound using USG Sheetrock® Brand products.

This was my first project as a Fine Homebuilding employee and arguably my most challenging. I was tasked with working solo on-location at a Habitat for Humanity remodel, where I served as the entire production crew. I was responsible for capturing all video content, managing technical sound bites for the sponsor, and shooting the still photography—one of which ultimately earned the Cover of Issue #317 (Aug/Sept 2023).

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Technical Production
& Series Breakdown

Editing technical construction content requires a deep understanding of the "critical path" of a build. I structured the edit to ensure Myron’s expertise was the focal point, using a mix of real-time instruction and high-impact b-roll.

Episode 1: Mechanical vs. Automatic Taping

Production Focus: This episode focused on the physical "heft" and speed of tools like the automatic taper and the drywall banjo. I captured the ergonomics of the tools, ensuring the consistency of the USG All-Purpose Joint Compound was visible to the viewer to emphasize proper prep.

Production Note: Managing audio solo while Myron operated a 30lb taper required strategic mic placement to capture clear instruction over the sound of the mechanical tools.

Episode 2: Corner Bead & Precision Layout

Production Focus: For this module I focused on the 45° cuts and the "staple-set" technique to provide a clear visual guide for viewers.

Production Note: This segment required high-resolution stills for the print article, focusing on the texture of the compound against the metal bead.

Episode 3: The Fill Coat & Flat Boxes

Production Focus: Production & Edit: To demonstrate the time-saving nature of the Flat Box, I used side-by-side pacing to show the coverage speed. I ensured the technical explanation of the USG Plus 3 compound was cut with enough "air" for the viewer to absorb the material science.

Episode 4: Final Coat & Sanding

Production & Edit: This episode focused on the "Level 5" finish. I edited the sequence to show the transition from raw compound to a paint-ready surface, emphasizing the importance of dust management and the final "beauty pass."

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From RAW to Print: The Cover of Issue #317

Managing the Photo Editing for this project was as critical as the video. Myron's "seamless results" needed to be visible on a high-gloss magazine cover. I retouched the selected field photos to ensure the lighting, texture, and branding were perfectly balanced for print.

Behind The Scenes: The Full-Cycle Workflow

Operating as a one-man crew means the "studio" travels with you. These clips show the transition from the dusty remodel site in New York to the final edit suite where the series was brought to life.