In today's lesson we extended our knowledge of cameras and specifically focused on specific and crucial filming techniques. Over the period of the lesson, we covered; the 180 degrees continuity technique, the rule of thirds, the order at which you shoot, the set lingo needed when filming, the use of blocking out scenes, and the ‘do’s and don'ts’ to on set etiquette.
To begin with, we learnt about the importance of the rule of thirds and how the different visual dynamics of depth of field and how the position of the focus point can emulate the shot. Using pictures to demonstrate the differences between where shots choose to place their focus points within the composition grids and what makes for a more visually pleasing dynamic between subjects.
We then went on to explore one of the most important concepts of film making: the 180 degrees continuity technique. The rule follows the continuity of spacing between the cameras subjects and where they are placed on screen; between the subjects (mostly two or more characters) there is the axis of action and 180 degrees semi circled around the line is where the camera is able to move, always making sure it does not cross over line which would ultimately move a subject's position from left to right or the other way around on the screen. We explored this using a more practical method when setting up our short sequences and visually marking the axis of action.
The order at which you set up to shoot was another process taught in today’s workshop; starting with levelling the camera and tripod to the same level as the subject's height, whilst also bubbling the spirit level to acknowledge the continuity of the shot. Next, we zoomed into the subject into an extreme close up, then using the dial to focus on the subject, then zoom back out to the optimum distance. When exploring the different shot types in order to make a sequence, we learnt the importance of continuity within the shots. So when setting up each shot types from the wide shot to the extreme close up we made sure we completed each of these steps. Shooting in wide first is also important as it poses possibilities of new angles and distances to arise when looking at the overall motion of the scene and its also fundamental to have the overall picture of the scene in order to essentially tell the story when it comes to editing the sequence.
Going over the dialogue needed to film was also a key element of today’s workshop as it taught me the on set etiquette needed when filming and directing actors in a scene and communicating with the other members on set. The first thing to say when you’re about to shoot is ‘stand by’ which essentially lets other departments get their roles ready and in place. Next thing to say is ‘roll camera’ which lets the camera operator know its time to film, where they will then say ‘rolling’ and finally the director can say ‘Action’! Its really important to continue filming after the action has taken place to allow future editorial decisions to be made with the sequence as it may offer new possibilities. After filming multiple takes with different camera positions, looking back of footage is another ‘no’ as it takes too much time which is extremely precise as it will be costing money . Any reason for not looking at footage on set is if an actor watches their scene back, this may disturb the continuity as they may do something different in the same scene on a separate take.
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