Blog 14 - Shooting diary

15th Oct 2009

We met at Sussex Downs college, Lewes campus and headed for the music studio. We had to wait for a free period. We did some filming but the quality of the footage was poor on playback. It was necessary to repeat the shoot using artificial lights to enhance the footage. We filmed for about thirty minutes trying out different camera angles and movements. I pointed out to my partner that it would be a good idea to keep the camera moving to create a dynamic view. I had observed this technique during my research deconstructing other music videos. I recalled seeing this used effectively on the popular television programme, ER. The studios scene Mike, our classmate, Steve Brown and me.

29th Oct 2009

We assembled on the seafront early in the morning. Unfortunately, the weather conditions and lighting was poor so we decided to reconvene later in the day. Our original plan was to use friends to play the character roles allowing us to film and direct.

Unfortunately, the actor we were using as 'the bigger boy' was unable to finish filming due to other commitments. We therefore had to alter our arrangements mid stream.

I took over the role of the 'smaller boy' and Mike (my filming partner) assumed the role of p the 'bigger boy'. This meant we had to share the camera / acting roles making the task much harder to carry out. We have to set the shot up and then get into the scene. If we had reliable helpers then we could have adjusted the shot during filming.

12th November 2009

This shoot went reasonably well though space was confined. We had to redo some scene as we got in the way of each other ruining the footage. We regrouped and carefully planned the scene working out the movement and position of the actors and the camera operator. Mike’s girlfriend, Rachael assumed the role of the love interest. We had briefed her beforehand about the role and she arrived in suitable attire.

19th November 2009

We had to get permission to film outside the school gates in advance. We met the head teacher and outlined our project. He said that we could go ahead but asked us to film while the lessons were taking place. His primary concern was the health and safety of his students and staff.

We borrowed Mikes mum’s car, we arrived at 9.30am, set the scene up and started filming. It was immediately apparent that the road was too busy. This presented two problems. There were too many passer by on the pavement which interrupted filming and too much traffic which posed a health and safety risk.

We waited for another hour and got to work again this time with success.