Preliminary Exercise Evaluation

For my preliminary exercise, I worked with my fellow classmate: Mohamed. We were asked to create a thirty second clip showing our understanding of three filming techniques: Match-on-action shot; Shot-reverse-shot and the 180 degree rule. The clip focuses on two individuals (Viraj and Mohamed) exchanging two-three lines of dialogue sitting at a table opposite each other. The clip ends with Viraj slamming his hands on the table as he stands up to deliver his suspenseful, final line. This is returned with an evenly dramatic line, then a fade out. This creates suspense and also, this helps to end a cliff-hanger.

WWW:

Even though the editing took place with my partner, this was my first time editing a media production. I personally think that I got to grips with the software very quickly (with some help from Mr. Halsey, of course) and that my level of understanding of editing is shown throughout the clip. Firstly, the match-on-action sequence was executed well. This was when Mohamed opens the door and walks across to his seat to sit down. We filmed the shot-reverse-shot over Viraj's left shoulder and Mohamed's right shoulder. I think this was very well framed. We also didn't break the 180 degree rule in this part of the clip. The dialogue was suspenseful, but also intrigued the audience. The pace of the clip was kept to a medium/fast pace. This added to the drama and kept the audience watching. We used a wide range of shots: A pan shot in the corridor; a close-up on the door handle for the match-on-action; another pan shot from the door to the table; and establishing shot from a high angle and the normal type off shots used for conversations. Also, a shot where Viraj is looking directly into the camera. Lastly, the sound produced for the clip was very clear and at an appropriate level. This is very important as the sound can ‘make’ or ‘break’ the production.

EBI:

I think that id filming was better planned out, then we would have filmed more efficiently. This would have saved time in filming, light and more time for editing. The establishing shot could be deemed as breaking the 180 degree rule, but I think this may be a matter of opinion. When asked for feedback, Mr Baboo said that the match-on-action sequence may have been edited to be too quick. This allows me to improve my editing skills for my final production. Also, I think that such elements as lighting and mise-en-scene are very important. This made me realise to plan accordingly for the final production.

Overall, this was a very good experience for me and I had a lot of fun. I have also found that I have a lot more to learn, so I hope to carry on making productions to a high level.