The first Episode of I Made This For Crew is live!

In the world of filmmaking, innovation often marries creativity with practicality, creating solutions that inspire and empower. In the debut episode of I Made This for Crew, hosted by Kane Katubig, listeners are introduced to the dynamic duo, Elizabeth and Ryan Schorman. As the founders of Wooden Camera and Mid49, their journey is filled with entrepreneurial grit, a strong sense of community, and an unwavering commitment to creativity.

Discovering Wooden Camera

The story of Wooden Camera began with a simple yet bold idea. Ryan, inspired by his love for filmmaking, created a wooden replica of a Sony Handycam for a skate video he produced in 2007. This experiment sparked the foundation of Wooden Camera, which officially began producing camera accessories in 2011. The company flourished, producing high-quality equipment and gaining a reputation as a staple in the filmmaking community.

The Birth of Innovation

From humble beginnings in a garage in Houston to a thriving business in Dallas, the Schormans faced numerous challenges. They innovatively managed manufacturing processes and tackled a lawsuit by RED, an industry giant. Such experiences fortified their path, equipping them with the resilience needed for future ventures.

A Dynamic Partnership

Elizabeth's background in finance played a critical role in the company’s early financial strategies, while Ryan’s engineering prowess fueled product innovation. Wooden Camera's success lay not only in their individual expertise but in their complementary partnership, fostering both the company’s growth and their personal relationship.

Transitioning to Mid49 and Finding New Purpose

In 2021, Elizabeth and Ryan transitioned from Wooden Camera to non-profit endeavors, founding Gratifilm. Their work with Gratifilm allowed them to support charitable causes by producing media content. However, the call of hardware design was irresistible, leading to the founding of Mid49 in 2023, a company focused on creating innovative accessories for the film and camera industry.

Community and Personal Growth

Throughout their journey, community involvement has been a cornerstone. The couple has stayed closely connected to the indie film scene in Dallas, hosting premieres and collaborating with fellow creatives. This engagement reflects their commitment to nurturing the filmmaking community and fostering local talent.

The Road Ahead

As Elizabeth and Ryan continue to innovate and inspire, their story underscores the blend of hard work and serendipity needed to succeed. Their ventures demonstrate how passion, perseverance, and a supportive partnership can drive success in competitive environments.

Conclusion

The journey of Wooden Camera and Mid49 is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration. Elizabeth and Ryan Schorman exemplify how passion for filmmaking and commitment to community can create enduring value. Their story continues to inspire creators and entrepreneurs alike, reminding us of the incredible potential of following one's passion and embracing challenges along the way.