Preliminary Task Evaluation

In my preliminary task I was partners with Esma we both came up with a number of ideas which we felt were short and easy to produce, because we were thinking a like we managed to come up with similar ideas. Although we came up with good ideas I had trouble keeping it short rather than sticking to the time we were given. We both put in a lot off effort and worked well rather than splitting the tasks. We were unable to meet up on the weekends so we decided to dedicate out time on periods we had off which limited how much we could’ve put in because we only had a few hours and our timetables were different so it was harder to find days that benefited both of us. If I could change anything I would put more time into my task so that I am completely satisfied with the end result. Another weakness I had was I should have used more action reaction, over shoulder etc I feel that if I used more of these our production may have come out more to how we wanted. A strength we had was we worked well as a group no arguments minor frustration but beyond that there was good team effort there.

We planned our sequence according to what we felt will be easier, so some of our scenes were shot in one scene and the other’s in another this way it prevents time wasting and when it comes to editing we can just put our scenes into order. We both did our storyboards together came up with camera angles etc this was strength because when it came to shooting we knew exactly what was happening in each shot.


To complete our task we used a canon xh-a1 we both set up the camera from how we previously learnt how to set up a camera. I made sure the tripods were at a level which we could use, and then we set up the camera b putting it on automatic making sure we placed in our battery and tape. We also made sure the camera was on steady and the bubble was in the circle. Lastly we had to make sure all parts of our camera were steady like the handle and the tripods. From using the camera I learnt camera movement zooming in and out and other camera techniques. I also learnt that the camera picks up a lot of sounds so we had to be very precise.

The factors we took into account was knowing that where our location was a lot of people will be walking pass so we had to do it at a reasonable time where we are not affected by this. Another factor was continuity we had to make sure the props costume and weather was the same at all the times.

The most successful part of our sequence was that we were able to get in all our shots and finish on time; I and my partner were satisfied with the shots. A downfall for our shot is that we didn’t add enough continuity or showing inferior and superior shots, I would have liked more camera effects. Another lowlight was that one of the casts did not put enough enthusiasm into her character. Overall we achieved what we could and manage to keep record of our shots.
From completing this task I have learnt that filming is a very long and frustrating process. Another area which I should improve is showing lack of interest when I am feeling frustrated, another factor is preparing the cast before filming so that we avoid time wasting. Our organization skills were god we had prepared before hand with whose shooting taking notes etc. We all get along so group work went well no arguments surprisingly enough. Lastly our technical skills were good because we all helped each other out if we were lost or confused, we had no problems because we all supported each other.

Editing was very time consuming because firstly it was it was our first time editing so it took quite some time to pick up on editing. Secondly we had problems with sound we couldn't hear what was going on, however we overcame this as we did a few adjustments with the volume on our computers and we used headphones. Another problem we had was that one of our shots had an missing part which we couldn't go back and re record, and we found it was an disadvantage moreover we couldn't change this dilemma but we managed to make it less noticeable we definately learnt from this that you should follow your story boards at all times

5min filming

Evaluation for task 2
This task was set to see how well cope with the time set for us, we were given 10 minutes to show a person looking at a another cast member. We also had to find a location and discuss who was filming and who will fill in the continuity sheet.We were instructed to get into groups and follow through the pre production and production process, Our first instruction was to get into a group of three, and it has to be with different people, I found that we all had similar ideas so as a group it helped because we were able to work at a fast pace. We shared similar qualities like knowing how to set up a camera and tripod so we were able to get this out the way. We all agreed on the type of shots we would like to use like long shots, two shot etc. We all contributed to the task very well because we were able to share out the different roles.Our task went well we were able to get all our elements, although we had minimum time and minimum shots we fitted all our shot. Overall I would say it was successful because there was great team work we connected well and managed not to argue.However it was very disorganised because there were other groups, they were in they way of our shots and because we had little time we were all over the place.we all ended up having to take turns in filming our shots, we had to stand and watch, and wait, so every time a group filmed, two other groups loose out in terms of time, and caused us to waste time and delay.Other problems we faced were that when it came to shooting in a certain areas we had to wait a long time because most of the class were using our spot. Other problems we faced were background noises and a lot of people walking pass because we were in a public place where a lot of students and teachers pass by. Another problem we came across was that because we were in a rush to get in all our shots there was not enough time to fill in the continuity sheet, so at the end of shoot we filled it in. This was a big mistake because you don’t remember how many you took etc.If I was to do this task again I would ask members of my class where they are shooting so we don’t clash, and also do our shoot in a less public place to avoid background noises and people walking pass. I will also organise our group so we have a cmaera person , someone filling the continuity sheet and the other helping with the props etc. I am extremely pleased because with the time we had we learnt alot and can definatley learn from my mistakes.

Film Maker

Film Making
Film making is such a huge process especially from an independent film maker here i will give details as to how all of this is possible and how some of the excellent films are produced.

It all starts with the production where the independent film maker must have a good idea, this helps with the concept for a film. After going through these stages the writer will create story boards and scripts and drafts etc. Since the introduction of DV technology, the means of production have become more democratized. Filmmakers can conceivably shoot and edit a film, create and edit the sound and music, and mix the final cut on a home computer. However, while the means of production may be democratized, financing, distribution, and marketing remain difficult to accomplish outside the traditional system. Most independent filmmakers rely on film festivals to get their films noticed and sold for distribution. However, the Internet has allowed for relatively inexpensive distribution of independent films; many filmmakers post their films online for critique and recognition. Although there is little profitability in this, a filmmaker can still gain exposure via the web.

This process doesn’t finish there they still have to go through film screening where the displaying of a motion picture or film. Sometimes the term refers to a special showing as part of a film's production and release cycle, but it is also used for a routine event open to the public. To show the film to best advantage an independent film maker would probably use people from their website where they’ve published or friends and family. There are a number of screenings that a film maker may use:

Test screening
For early edits of a film, informal test screenings are shown to small target audiences to judge if a film will require editing, reshooting or rewriting. At this stage the film may be incomplete, with missing or unfinished special effects shots or sound effects, or dialogue not yet rerecorded. Audience responses are usually recorded informally. Test audiences may be required not to discuss the film. A film may go through several test screenings.
Focus group screening
Focus group screenings are formal test screenings of a film in what is hoped to be its final form, with very detailed documentation of audience responses. Target audience members answer survey questionnaires and are usually interviewed, sometimes on video. Focus audiences may be required not to discuss the film
Critic screenings
Critic screenings are held for national and major market critics well in advance of print and television production-cycle deadlines, and are usually by invitation only.
Private screenings
Private screenings are provided for investors, marketing and distribution representatives, and VIP media figures.
Preview screenings
Preview screenings are for the public, sometimes at boutique theaters (which may not be scheduled as a release theater). These may serve as final test screenings used to adjust marketing strategy (radio & TV promotion, etc.) or the film itself.
Sneak preview
A sneak preview is a film screening before formal release, with the usual charge for admission. The purpose of sneak previews is to gain additional publicity and word-of-mouth exposure for the movie.
General release
After all the above, the film goes on general release if taken up by a film distributor.

Before the film maker goes through preview screening, sneak preview and general release those are some of the different types of screening they may go through to see how they can improve their film.
So the film maker has publicised their film all over the net to friends etc but how are they able to win the big companies without having to lift a finger simple! The more popular your film becomes the more a big company is interested this way an independent film maker does not have to go out a find a company they come them. From here once the company has spotted their work they then go on and start producing the film and publicising it from music videos to adverts. Both the company and the film maker gain money if the public are drawn to this. A downfall for this is that because the company are putting money towards it they may change and new things. Not all independent film makers rely on companies some make it through without them and produce good films that you and i watch today. Lastly is the distribution of the film where the film is finally at theaters, and for home viewing (DVD, Video-On-Demand, Download, Television etc).

Film making process is made easier if its an independent one where its your own ideas you decide where to publish it etc compared to a big production because all they are interested in is the money they will re shape change and you may not have that much of a say because they have the money. Many independent film makers mainly relied on big companies but because film making has become democratized anything is possible.

Here is an example on YouTube showing an independent film maker where people can view his film and criticise and give views about what they thought.

Canon XH-A1 Research

Canon XH-A1


The canon xh-a1 is an excellent camcorder, it is said that the camcorder works well in all types of lighting from low to ambient. The camcorder is a easy handheld shooting you have full control over image variables. The canon xh-a1 is easy to maintain, and use for someone who hasn’t used a camcorder before will not find it extremely difficult to use. The camera has forms of video recording good use of of play back zoom and exposure changes and white balance adjustments. These settings and features will allow for good quality recording and allow me to experiment with shot techniques in different environments.

The camera is affordable so its very useful for independent film makers. The camera can be handheld so it can be used which ever is comfortable for us.
Overall the camcorder gives excellent video quality and most people that have purchased this item are satisfied with their item.