Evaluation Question 7

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

In our preliminary task we learnt the basic shots and use of a camera. We learnt shots such as shot reverse shot, match on action, 180 degree rule, over the shoulder shot, mid shot etc. Our preliminary task consisted of performing a small sequence with two other people, taking various shots to show the small conversation they shared. The main thing that was introduced to us was how to set up the tripod and camera and use its functions properly. In practicing with this task this gave us experience and knowledge to use the camera confidently when it came to our AS Film Opening 'I Can Explain'. We also learnt how to use the boom/microphone correctly, not getting it in the shot that was being taken and how far or near to hold it to the person to get the right sound needed.

Using the boom in our preliminary task was extremely helpful when coming to the main production, since quite alot of shots involving Jay and Lucy in particular were taken outside, the weather affected the sound so we had to use our own knowledge to try and get the best sound quality by experimenting with the boom before hand which we also did in our preliminary task. using the camera in the preliminary task made us all alot more confident using it in our film opening, i particularly enjoyed using the camera most to experiment with shots and positions etc. In the preliminary task we were show how to record, zoom, blanace the camera on the tripod and tilt it into different positions, this was brilliant first hand knowledge for our film opening so we all knew what we were doing and how to it best.

During the preliminary task the most easiest part was taking the shot itself once it was in position and pressing record and pause until the next shot was prepared. However getting in the right position so that the boom was not in the shot and that we weren't breaking any rules such as the 180 degree rule, this proved quite difficult as you have to think of several things before you actually take the shot itself. Getting your actors/actresses to speak clearly and loud enough throughout the production proved quite difficult so you could tell what they were saying, we then had to make awareness of this for the main production to make sure the sound was clear. Also in terms of shots we had to make sure we were applying the 180 degree rule to every shot we moved around with so that our production wouldn't lose marks for a negative shot.

In terms of the evaluation process, knowing about all the shots, functions, computer software etc. that we used throughout the preliminary task and our main production task it was very easy to explain exactly what we did and used after having used the software and equipment ourselves.
It was important that we all had a turn at using every bit of equipment involved in the production so that we all found a skill in each part of filming.

Developing some of these skills meant playing with the shots in using the camera, for instance in the shot of Lucy walking down the drive putting on lipstick, we walked with the camera to create the effect of being in a rush, this was developing a mid shot of what we had already learnt about and making it into a more fitting shot for our film opening. Other skills I learnt over the process from doing our preliminary task to finalising our main production werehow to edit effectively on the computer software, I first learnt the basics during our preliminary task and my confidence and knowledge grew throughout doing the editing for our main production piece. For example using music, lighting, foley sound, production logos, titles....these were all skills our group progressed with in doing our main production piece.

The process and progression from our preliminary task to the final piece we have created for our film opening has been successful and our group as a whole have become more confident in using the equipment and technologies that are essential for making a film/movie/clip.