I believe my preliminary task with Emma was appropriate and a success in most areas with some room for improvement. The use of a tripod ensured steady filming throughout the task. The tripod also helped with the framing and distance continuity as the camera was held still and steady in the same position for several takes.
We used long shots, medium shots and close ups to range our task. We also used the over the shoulder technique to go with the dialogue. The range of techniques and frames used made the editing tricky to keep the continuity. The main continuity issue was the closing of the door with each take. Quick cuts from long shot to close up ensured the smooth transition between the door being opened and the door being closed. As our preliminary task was a continuous conversation we decided to stick to simple cuts as transitions.
The first problem we encountered was mis-en-scene. The location became difficult, especially with sound, in the second half of filming. More sound was created in the background creating a continuity error; the sound had to be muted. Another issue was lighting. The camera was facing the door which was the natural light source for the room. As Emma had her back to the light her face became dark and silhouetted.
For my next task, opening of a fiction film, the main areas of improvement are lighting, sound and location. I will include a slug at the beginning of my work and experiment with titles to suit my work. I will ensure I improve further with the editing, framing and steadiness of the camera to create a successful, level 4 standard piece of work.
