In todays class we filmed a 2 minute interview in groups, we had to put together all the knowledge we learnt so far into practice.
The important steps to remember include
- camera mounted
- powered
- card formatted
- check v/f diopter (pulled out)
- check colour bard or bright/contrast knobs
- peaking on v/f turned down
- check zebra %
- manual settings
- focus
- zoom
- exposure
- ful auto
- gain set or no set
- audio settings
An important lesson our group learnt was that the camera operator and boom operator must always be on board and ready. The camera operator must be constantly looking through the diopter ensuring that they can adapt the focus, zoom and exposure at any time depending on whatever changes occur. We discovered that our best footage was shot when it wasn’t as prepared, after our initial shoot we were having a general conversation about the same topic and a new presence arose. Not only was the subject more relaxed and genuine, but it was so much more interesting to watch because the use of body language and facial expressions increased dramatically because the awareness of being filmed was no longer there. I definitely loved this more casual and real form much more than previous interviews I have done before. So often we put on a persona or overthink the questions and this shows on camera. For my interview I will aim to really grasp candid shots, in a way that I hope to expose a true depiction of my subject.
Interviews and documentaries have always really intrigued me and lately I have been thinking this could be the avenue I most want to pursue. Watching shows like David Attenborough, Bear Grills, biographies on famous stars or bands and recently murder shows and interviews i find so intriguing. One that really inspired me was a documentary we watched last semester called “Grizzly Man” not only was it intriguing and sad but it was witty and humorous. The main subject was portrayed in such a raw way because we saw his ideas and opinions. We were shown his in between takes where he was prepping himself for a scene, the real form of who he was. “I laughed at Timothy’s bizarre and quirky personality and I cried when his friends reflected upon the man he was. I think what I love the most about this is just how raw and honest the whole thing was” I wrote a blog post last semester again summarising my thoughts on this documentary, which can be seen here.
I have also been maintaining my 2 observations a week and have noticed that I am beginning to become more aware of whats around me. I see a person, or a situation or an object and begin questioning and pondering about it. I think writing down my observations has really kickstarted the creative process within me. not only am I writing down what I see but Im really starting to imagine more, developing the ideas to potential stories. I do however feel that I really need to work on my writing skills, I want to learn how to be concise and write quality work. Currently I can’t quite put all my thoughts into a cohesive piece but I am practicing. I shall continue to develop my skills and I shall continue to observe the world I am in.
LOCARNO, SWITZERLAND – AUGUST 15: (EDITORS NOTE: This image was processed using digital filters) Director Werner Herzog attends a photocall during the 66th Locarno Film Festival on August 15, 2013 in Locarno, Switzerland. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images)