https://drive.google.com/a/rmit.edu.au/file/d/0B8bRxQPrNhZSTExXSjRfTE95LTA/view?usp=sharing

The first assessment of the Good Form studio saw us and create a lo-fi, scripted conversational scene. We shot it. We edited it. Now I’m reflecting on it.

As I only worked with one other person – Shannon – we opted to film a point-of-view, Peep Show-esque, conversation. This allowed for two characters to be present in the scene, and eliminated the need of our non-existing camera operator and third member to the group. Together we decided on shot types, lengths, and the pacing of the short scene, and further edited the piece with an agreeing direction.

A highlight of the video, and what seems to work well in this scene is the sudden change of shot type, the ‘selfie’ shots, towards the end of the video. I believe this adds a comedic element to the scene, and also possibly bends the rules of the average point-of-view shot. Comedically, it works to re-position the audience from the conversation and into the running joke of the overuse of the word ‘yeah’ in the script, but it extensionally just works to engage the audience who may be getting tired of the straight, point-of-view angle.

Ignoring our inability to remember the given lines, and possibly even our acting skills, there a moments in this scene that aren’t great. The two shots where we stay on a character for multiple lines don’t seem to feel quite right. This is most likely due the camera/iPhone holder simply just stating their own line while the recording is happening, rather than inserting the line in post-production. Although a lo-fi production, it still sounds pretty dodgy. Attempting to refrain from too many cuts these shots run longer than the rest, which may have upset the timing and pace of the conversation and scene.

Upon reflecting on this scene, I’ve realised what could have been done differently if I were to partake in this exercise again. Possibly more camera movement could have been included, and even more shots types (most likely close ups) too. But most forwardly, I would shoot single long-take shots, of both characters reciting all of their lines, from multiple angles and shot types. This could allow for more fluidity throughout the scene, and also keep continuity in the shot types and framing.