Preliminary Task Evaluation

Shot Quality:

All clips were filmed with a handheld camera, by hand. Although the majority of the footage is relatively steady there are moments of shakiness or times in which shots cut out the action of the clip slightly. We had to film the shot in which we see the interviewer walk into the room several times, as in our first few takes the footage was jolting and unsteady. I feel that to avoid this problem in future filming using a tri-pod to make sure that work is steady and smooth would be most effective.

Framing Quality:

Good, a variety of framing was used when appropriate, from close ups to long distance shots. I feel that we should have captured the footage from a few more angles in order to provide further variety when editing. Also in some shots the actors or action of the clip is cut slightly, it would have been beneficial to re-shoot or have more than one or two takes. The same example as above can be used here: as the interviewer walked into the room the camera was unsteady and did not follow his movement at the necessary speed, cutting him out half way through.

We re-shot this in order to get the desired footage. In future we need to ensure that all shots are framed well, capturing the necessary footage in future make sure that the camera man has a run through with actors and gains the approval and opinions of other team members before actually recording the material.

Quality of Shooting Material (appropriate to task set):

The content of our footage is appropriate to the task set. I feel that we met the requirements with our initial ideas and planning. When we came to shoot we followed our set plan and had all necessary clips, angles and shots needed when the time came to edit the clips together. We made sure to retake the majority of our clips from different angles so that when we came to edit we had a variety with which to experiment and work. We must continue to meet set goals and achieve the appropriate footage. Further research my chosen film genre and make notes on what requirements need to be met so that everything we film will be appropriate.

Quality of Mise-en-scene:

Mise en scene was problematic as we only had a refined space and small amount of time to work with. Appropriate props were used, for example the clipboard, desk and chairs. Some aspects of the mise en scene were less than satisfactory in my opinion, such as the costume of certain characters and the setting. For example the costume of the interviewer did not suit the character, as it was too casual: as you can see he is wearing a leather jacket and trainers.

Although I feel that the costume of the interviewee was more appropriate. The setting was found at the last minute, by chance and although was relatively fitting, I know that if we had been given the opportunity a better set would have been found. To avoid problems such as inappropriate costume or setting as a result of bad planning or lack of time, I think that we would benefit from planning all filming in advance, perhaps even creating a time table. Also allocate particular costumes to specific characters to make sure that their dress is suitable for the role they are playing. Finally, it may even be worthwhile to scout for locations in advance and gain any necessary permission to film there before we go to shoot.

Quality of Editing:

I feel that the editing was successful in portraying the meaning of our text to the audience. We were able to express that the two characters on screen were having a conversation as we cut from one to the other when dialogue became apparent. Character emotion was revealed to audiences by showing them what was happening privately off screen. For example we revealed to audiences that one of the characters was nervous by cutting away from other action and showing that he was tapping his feet uneasily and agitated. (Shot can be seen below)

We must maintain successful and relevant editing that indicates the desired meaning to audiences by taking into consideration what needs to be shown to audiences, when it will be relevant and what type of editing may be necessary. Also make sure that the footage flows smoothly and that no clips look odd.

Quality of using Sound:

No additional sound, such as music or sound effects was used in this piece, as they were unnecessary to the task. The dialogue is the only sound used in our footage; the advantage of this allows audiences to focus on what the characters are saying without distractions. It is important that we only involve additional sound when and if it is necessary to the text.

Quality of Group:

Despite meeting our target as a group, I feel that better organization and planning will be necessary in the future for a more successful piece as with this task we planned very little aside from the script and camera angles/shots. We would benefit more from ensuring that all plans are made and that each member of the group is aware of our targets in advance before we go to film. I also feel that I worked well with those in my group and we were compatible. Each person made efforts be involved with each task, even if they were not completing the task themselves they offered help, opinions and support. Work was divided evenly between those involved. I intend to continue to support the team members in my group accordingly and receive the same support in return, split the work loads evenly and be honest with one another while working.