Preliminary Task 1

This short video is our AS Media preliminary task, where we have attempted to show every camera-shooting technique that we've learned throughout our first few weeks of lessons. These include simple techniques such as shot-reverse shot, match-on-action etc. whilst keeping in mind the 180 degree rule.

The task required us to create a short, simple conversation between two characters who were sat on chairs, with one person entering the room, the other already sat down. 

During the opening few shots I feel like the transitioning between shots has been edited to look very smooth, giving the illusion to the viewer that the sequences happen seamlessly. There is little-to-no jump-cutting, which is a significant improvement over our first creative task. We used the camera techniques to great effect, especially when picking up the bag nearing the end, where 3 different shots have been edited to flow neatly together.

However, there were also a few continuity issues during our video. For example, when the shot-reverse-shot sequence of the conversation takes place, there are a couple of moments where my head is at a different angle to the previous shot. There was also a shot where the lighting significantly changes to gloomy, whereas the rest of the shots were quite bright.

Lastly, the sound needs to be improved, as sometimes the characters alter their volume by accident when speaking, which also isn't helped by issues such as wind and poor sound recording in general by the iPhone.

Learning Comment

In this task I have learned the importance of continuity between numerous shots. This helps with the authenticity of the short film and overall flow. The match on action shots make films more interesting than only a single shot, however are harder to pull off and edit it to transition seamlessly. I have also realised the need to emphasise words when acting, so the audio is clearer and much nicer to listen to. Finally, next time editing I must play the 'finished' film several times with loud volume, to be completely sure that I have cut every individual mistake.