Clubhouse Conversations — Frasier

In this episode, cinematographer Gary Baum, ASC is joined by interviewer John Simmons, ASC to discuss his work on Frasier — the contemporary revival of the renowned sitcom that ran from 1993 to 2004.

Frasier's new episodes find the titular protagonist, Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer), returning home to Boston in hopes of strengthening his relationship with his son, Frederick (Jack Cutmore-Scott), and to begin a professorship at his alma mater, Harvard University. Baum served as director of photography for the entirety of the revival's first season, and earned an Emmy Award nomination for his work on the season finale, "Reindeer Games."

In this interview, Baum discusses his approach to lighting sitcoms; his transition from shooting film to shooting digital; his experiences on single-cam and multi-cam productions; the unique energy that comes from shooting in front of a live audience, and more.

Gary Baum, ASC is a cinematographer whose credits include the series Will & Grace, How I Met Your Father, 2 Broke Girls, and Gary Unmarried. His work has garnered 15 total Emmy nominations — three of which led to wins in 2015 (Mike & Molly), 2018 (Will & Grace) and 2022 (How I Met Your Father).

John Simmons, ASC has had a prolific career that includes work on more than 25 television series, including Roseanne (2018), Family Reunion and many others. Simmons earned an Emmy Award for Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn and another two nominations for Pair of Kings. He is the co-founder and co-chair of the ASC’s Vision Committee.

You’ll find all episodes in our ASC Clubhouse Conversations discussion series here.