Many believe that creating a compelling video requires high-end cameras, meticulously planned shoots, and expensive production. However, the truth is much simpler. All you really need are some great skate spots, a solid crew, a case of drinks, and someone willing to capture the action – even an iPhone can do the trick! The key is capturing the genuine atmosphere and translating that energy in the edit, which is the real challenge.
New York-based filmer Justin Helmkamp, known on Instagram as @bert.c0bain, has truly mastered this spontaneous video style. Following his 2019 release, Berts Vid, featuring the Bronze crew and their friends, he’s back with Berts Vid 2, showcasing a similar group and even more fisheye scratches. Both of these videos highlight the beauty of unplanned moments, emphasizing that some of the best times happen organically.
Q&A with Justin Helmkamp
Do you think NYC is played out as a skate spot? Is it possible for it to become overdone?
Absolutely not. It sounds cliché, but New York City is constantly evolving. Every day brings something different, offering unique experiences to different people. It’s amazing how vibrant the city is now that things are getting back to normal. I believe there’s always more to capture about what makes this place so special. The potential is truly endless.
What’s your go-to pizza slice in New York and in New Jersey?
Joe’s Pizza in New York City is a classic choice, but if you’re out in that area, Spumoni Gardens is the place to go. In New Jersey, I’d recommend Arturo’s in Maplewood for a whole pie and Santillo’s in Elizabeth for a single slice. These are some of the best pizza options around, no doubt about it.
Does Chicago pizza even stand a chance against a New York slice? Should they just give up?
You’re trying to get me to throw some shade [laughs]. I wouldn’t say give up, but maybe they should just call it something else. True pizza only exists in the tri-state area. I think the Italians just made it to Jersey and decided that was far enough.
A looping animation of a skater performing a trick
When was Berts Vid 2 filmed and how did you decide who to include?
I released the first video in February 2019 and then immediately went on a trip to Barcelona the following day. All of the footage from Barcelona was from that trip. The rest of Berts Vid 2 was filmed over the past two and a half years with the skaters I ride with on a regular basis. It’s really just about capturing the daily sessions and the people who are part of them.
What’s the story behind the name “Bert”? And why not call this one “Ernie?”
Bert is actually my alias. I got the nickname from some of my friends years ago and it just stuck. We always joked and called the TRV900 “Bert Cam”, so “Bert’s Vid” felt like a natural title. It’s a fun and casual way to represent the vibe of the videos.
What is the most challenging aspect of creating a skate video that people may overlook?
I think these videos are more about capturing the good times and the in-between moments, not necessarily the big, polished projects. It’s about giving a place for all those times to live and be remembered.
That being said, the hardest part is probably just the time it takes to gather the footage and to truly show what a place is all about and the people that are there. “Remember when” might be considered the lowest form of conversation, but on video, it’s actually pretty awesome. It’s all about the vibe and the memories.
A looping animation of a skater performing a trick
Do you have a day job, or is it just skate videos all the time?
I mostly do freelance production assistant work, like many other skaters in New York. Sometimes it’s really busy, but it allows me to have a flexible schedule, which makes these skate videos possible. Having that balance is key to making it all work.
Which pays better, skateboarding or panhandling?
Definitely panhandling.
Is there anything else that you want people to know about the video?
It’s best enjoyed with a Heineken. Grab a cold one and get into the vibe. It adds a little something extra to the experience.
What’s your advice for up and coming skate videographers?
Don’t take care of your fisheye. Let the chips fall where they may. Wrap your camera in a sweatshirt and throw it in your backpack. You never know what’s going to happen. Embrace the unexpected and let the authentic moments come through.
Video by: Justin Helmkamp (@bert.c0bain)
Q&A by: Ian Michna
