During the course of Film 3, there were multiple times where we worked in groups, collaborating on either group work or an individual work. For me, collaboration occurred mostly during the exercises we were given in our tutorials. In the first couple of weeks, since everyone was still learning how to use the equipment, the exercises were based more on practicing how to operate the camera and sound devices and I found my experience from The Scene helpful in these situations. For once I was useful.
After the technical things were dealt with, the focus moved onto framing, composition, focus, and ‘directing’. It was probably week 5 where we went off in groups to film something individually but in groups. This was when the communication skills were really put to use because we had to convey our ideas to one another and work out the best way to film it. At times we would review the footage and give each other feedback which is always helpful, and probably one of the best things about working with others.
When it came time to do our investigations/research I had to collaborate with strangers at the time – Nenad and Vivian. Both of them were willing to do what I asked of them, and understanding when technical difficulties occurred. Renee was also generous enough to help me with my audio. We would also communicate in the edit suites and help each other out with small, but potentially time-consuming, technical issues.
Actually, this semester I found myself collaborating with less people. It may be due to the nature of documentary or, at least the type I was going for, but I only worked with two other people at one time. Still, the shoots worked out quite well and I guess this is because it’s easier to co-ordinate and schedule a smaller group of people.
I think the bonuses of working with others are obvious – there are more heads thinking, we can exchange ideas, give feedback to each other, help each other with technical issues, work faster, give each other moral support – the list goes on. Pitfalls would just be scheduling and co-ordinating times, meeting places, equipment – the boring stuff.