Evaluation - Question 7

Question 7: Looking back at your preliminary task, what do you feel you have learnt in the progression from t to the full product?

What was the purpose of the preliminary task?

The purpose of the preliminary task was to learn how to operate the camera and get used to its functions in preparation for filming our opening thriller sequence. Within our preliminary task we were told to film a short conversation between two people in our group that we had been set in. The conversation could be based around any subject. The short conversation had to be around 1-2 minutes long so that we could incorporate many different camera techniques and angles, which was the purpose of the preliminary task. We had to practice around with the camera in order to learn how to use it properly. This included figuring out the settings and which angles worked best for different shots and how to film using different camera techniques. This helped prepare us for our main task this is because if we encountered any issues or problems we could find a resolution for the issue as quick and effectively as possible. Another reason for the preliminary task was to get used to using the tripod which is the equipment that holds the camera steady and can move in different angles and paces. This helped us to establish which person suited the role of the cameraman so that they could have this responsibility throughout the process of our opening sequence.

What did you learn from the preliminary task?

I found the preliminary task insightful and helpful. I mainly found that without the tripod, scenes look very unprofessional and raggedy. It is always best to have the camera on the tripod for a smooth shot. In addition to this I learnt it is best to use a wide variety of angles and shots to make the sequence more interesting. Not only this but it enables to give different portrayals of scenes and characters, for example, a low angle shot could illustrate dominance to the higher up character. Another thing that I learnt from the preliminary task was not to make do with certain shots, and to re film as many times until it was filmed the way the group were happy with the outcome, this way is more beneficial to the over result of the thriller opening.

What skills did you learn from the preliminary task that helped you with your thriller film?

I felt that the skills that I had learnt from the preliminary task were beneficial to myself and my group when it came to producing the final product. The main skills include how to set up the tripod and attach the camera safely to it. This helped in the long run as it then meant we did not waste time in setting this up every time we came to film, we could get the process done quickly. In addition to this we also learnt how to create many different camera angles and shots. This included mid shots, long shots and over the shoulder shots. To do this we secured the camera onto the tripod, and positioned the tripod in the position which would help us to achieve this shot. Furthermore, we learnt how to use the basic tools in the editing software which we would be using, Final Cut Pro X. In this we learnt how to upload our shots, edit them together, increase or decrease speed and add transitions and effects. I would say this was one of the two most beneficial aspects of the preliminary task as the saved us valued time when we came to the editing phase as we already had basic knowledge which could only be expanded upon when coming to edit.