The weekend exercise gave us an opportunity to implement our method of working as individual filmmakers. The script I chose to film was the stairs scene which I didn’t get a chance to film during the semester.

I chose to use the stairs in my house as they have a nice curve to them, and I immediately had some thoughts on how to frame the actors in the space nicely. Using my tripod from home and a DSLR I borrowed from the techs, I began pre-producing with the camera and figuring out my framing. As I was pressed for time with the availability of my parents, I didn’t write down a shot list or storyboard. In hindsight, this was a downfall as I found that it was difficult to remember what shots I wanted to cover the scene, as well as the positioning of the camera in comparison to the actors. Therefore, for my future exercises, I will ensure that I allow myself to have enough time to transpose the pre-production done on camera onto the page; in the form of a shot list and floor plan.

The first challenge I faced was needing three actors for the scene and trying to get three people who were all available at the same time. I managed to convince my parents and my brother, but then at the last minute my brother had to work. Due to this, I had to step in and perform as one of the characters.This proved to be quite a challenge as I had to try and coordinate directing, operating the camera and performing.

This exercise really reinforced that I need to have a good crew, with a DOP that I can direct my framing to, a sound recordist to ensure good sound is recorded, and possibly a 1st AD to help me run the whole shoot. This exercise made it apparent that I can’t do everything on my own and I need the support of a whole team to help me.