The purpose of this preliminary task was to get used to and experiment with the equipment that we will be using for filming our opening sequence. The equipment that we were given to use was a tripod, which helps to hold and support the camera whilst filming the scenes, and to also keep the camera steady so the scenes do not look handheld and unprofessional. To help us get use to and experiment filming different shots and techniques with the camera, we were asked to film a short conversation between two members of our group.
I think this task helped with making my group familiar with the equipment that we will be using when we come to film our thriller opening sequence. This is because we had a complete run through of how to use the equipment which we had never used before. Not only this, but we got to experiment of filming different scenes with different techniques to see which worked well, and which did not work well. Also, we found that some techniques are much harder to record than other techniques. An example of this is panning shots, and over the shoulder shots which is also a point of view shot. This gave us the opportunity to take our time and see how the camera worked well in different angles, allowing us to work out how to film the certain technique.
Within the short conversation that we filmed we had to include several different techniques and camera angles. Firstly, Ella walked from the corridors into the kitchen. In this scene we used a panning shot, this is when the camera tracks and follows an object or character from one place to another as the camera is rotated horizontally. To do this we mounted the camera onto the tripod to keep it at the same level. We then used the leaver to rotate the camera horizontally, we did this motion slowly so it would give us a smooth transition as the camera followed the object.
The next technique we used was a mid shot, which is a medium shot. We used this technique when my character is speaking to Ella whilst cooking dinner. To create this shot, we mounted the camera onto the tripod so it was stable and at the certain height that we wanted it to be. Next we began to record and kept the camera i the same position so it remained at a constant level and did not move throughout. Mid shots help to show some part of the scene and subject in more detail, whilst still showing enough for the audience to feel as though they are still looking at the whole subject. This shot is not unrealistic as it is similar to if you were having a real life conversation, you would not pay attention to the lower half of the body therefore within this scene it is unimportant to include.I think that a mid shot is appropriate when the character is speaking without too much intense emotion or concentration. 
We also used a close up shot within the filmed conversation as it shows the emotion on the persons face clearly, which would be a good shot to use within my thriller opening sequence. To do this we positioned the tripod a distance away from Ella. We then fixed the camera onto the tripod so it would not fall during the process of filming. Next we then used the zoom button on the camera to zoom into the Ella's face to show her facial expressions and emotion.
Lastly, we used a long shot in our short conversation. This helps the audience to establish where the scene has taken place, and get an idea of what will happen next. For example, by using a long shot at the end of this conversation it was clear to the audience that we would then leave the room. To do this we positioned the tripod far away from the shot that we wanted to film. We then fixed the camera onto the tripod so it did not fall. We then recorded the scene straight away because we did not need to fix the lens into a certain position as we did not have to zoom in or out as the camera was already positioned.
Within filming I think that my group managed to use all the different techniques well and at appropriate times. However, one thing I do think my group struggled with is the techniques looked obvious, instead of flowing. For example the over the shoulder shot was evident and the close up shot was clearly purposely zoomed in. To improve this in my opening sequence, we can use different angles to not make the techniques used so obvious, not only this but we can use editing software to transition the different techniques.
In conclusion, by carrying out this task, it has helped me prepare for my opening thriller sequence. This is because it has helped me to learn and practice different camera techniques, which will help to add suspense and tension to my thriller opening. From this task, I have learnt it is important to use different camera angles, this is because it helps to not only set the scene of the opening, but can also help to express the characters emotion and what they are feeling at the time. To include in my thriller opening sequence I need to include the different camera angles used in the short conversation. However, I will use them at different points of the sequence, not continuously one after the other.
You have provided a minimal analysis of your preliminary task, briefly explaining what you had to do, the different camera techniques and equipment you had to use.
ReplyDeleteYou need to:
1) Make sure you explain what you struggled with and why, and what you will do differently next time
2) Explain when you used certain camera shots etc. and why (include screen shots to support work)
3) Include your URL link properly
4) Go into detail about what you found your group did well and what they struggled with and why how
5) Elaborate on how this has prepared you for filming your opening sequence, what have you learnt from this?
6) Double check spelling and grammar etc.
You have provided a basic analysis of your group's preliminary task, explaining clearly how you created each camera technique, as well as a very brief analysis of what you struggled with/did particularly well, and what you might do differently next time.
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