Today in class we did a test, which initially I didn’t really understand like, the point of it, but after this class I definitely see why it’s important, and honestly gave me a fresh perspective about exposure/aesthetics and a lot more. After completing this exercise I really understand the difference that the aperture makes to a shot and how it can be utilised to create a specific look on camera. The importance of running a test shot is for I guess in this case, a film maker to distinguish what aperture they want to film in to help them achieve the look they want for the film/shot/scene – whatever they’re filming. After seeing the difference that can be made by moving a half stop either above or below the original aperture of 5.6, it’s really opened my eyes to incredible range you have available to you within a camera.

 

 

Before completing this exercise I never really understood why people would want to shoot at a specific aperture, even if it didn’t give a ‘correct’ exposure. I’ve always assumed that you’d go into a shoot and would try and shoot the best shot you can within the conditions and modify the camera and lighting to achieve that. But if you’re looking to achieve a certain look with a colour, or a grade, completing a test like this is super beneficial to a film maker and the overall shot. This is definitely learned and will take into future projects especially if I want to achieve a specific look or aesthetic and am a Director or camera operator.

 

By setting a fixed aperture it sets a limitation but also a challenge, I think this is another thing that I came out of this class understanding. Having the challenge makes it more difficult but I guess it would give a bigger pay off when the shots come out exactly how you envision them. And even if they don’t it’s a lesson learnt, and something to be wary of next time.