Thursday 13 December 2012
Diary log - 13/12/12
In today's lesson, we started to create the script for our one minute single camera technique. Although the task was not complete within the time, it is currently with one of the group members who will complete it before we come back in January (start production tasks). The script is on Microsoft Word.
Thursday 6 December 2012
Diary log - 6/12/12
In today's lesson, we completed loose ends on tasks that may have been incomplete by other members of the group and we created the shooting schedule and risk assessment for our one minute single camera product.
The shooting schedule is estimated as we are unsure of dates in which we will complete the tasks and it depends on the attendance of all group members. Also our shooting schedule will not work according to plan if we have not completed out pre-production tasks.
The risk assessment for our product is based during the production (filming). The risk assessment highlights the hazards that may occur in each location spot. We have also offered alternatives and options to help minimize risks.
The shooting schedule is estimated as we are unsure of dates in which we will complete the tasks and it depends on the attendance of all group members. Also our shooting schedule will not work according to plan if we have not completed out pre-production tasks.
The risk assessment for our product is based during the production (filming). The risk assessment highlights the hazards that may occur in each location spot. We have also offered alternatives and options to help minimize risks.
Risk assessment
Introduction
In this blog post, I will discuss and highlight the risks and health and safety issues for our one minute single camera production.
Risk assessment
1. identify the hazards
The hazards that might be involved within the production of our media product are just minor injuries like tripping over wires and injuring on appliances. But no major harm and hazards will be a threat.
2. decide who might be harmed
The people who may be harmed are the filming crew and the actors/actresses in the product.
3. Precautions and solutions
The precautions and solutions that we can do to ensure the safety of the people involved in the production of the film are making sure we follow safety procedures when handling goods, and putting up signs and informing people of any hazards available.
Bibliography
http://www.hse.gov.uk/risk/threesteps.htm (06/12/2012)
In this blog post, I will discuss and highlight the risks and health and safety issues for our one minute single camera production.
Risk assessment
1. identify the hazards
The hazards that might be involved within the production of our media product are just minor injuries like tripping over wires and injuring on appliances. But no major harm and hazards will be a threat.
- Park - uneven surfaces/flooring, animals (e.g. dogs and birds), young children and families, park activities/equipment e.g. slide, swings, etc and family accessories, e.g. pushchairs, balls, scooters/bikes.
- Bedroom/house/living room - uneven surfaces, tripping over props e.g. chairs, lifting heavy equipment.
- Restaurant - uneven surfaces, other members of public (disruption and can cause injuries), hot food and drink (burning harm), sharp utensils (knives, forks, etc).
2. decide who might be harmed
The people who may be harmed are the filming crew and the actors/actresses in the product.
3. Precautions and solutions
The precautions and solutions that we can do to ensure the safety of the people involved in the production of the film are making sure we follow safety procedures when handling goods, and putting up signs and informing people of any hazards available.
Bibliography
http://www.hse.gov.uk/risk/threesteps.htm (06/12/2012)
Shooting schedule & Equipment list
Introduction
This blog post will include the information and a estimated schedule on filming and the production of our one minute single camera production.
Equipment list
During filming, the items of equipment that we need are the Nikon HD Camera and Tripod. We have realised that we don't need no back or key lighting as we want to keep the scenes looking natural and we will use room lights or natural sunlight. We also need to take into consideration the sound effects for our product, so we may need to get microphones.
Schedule
13/12/12 - Ensure pre-production elements are completed.
20/12/12 - Ensure pre-production elements are complete and checked. (tasks that need to be researched or asked)
27/12/12 - 03/01/12 - Complete any outstanding tasks over the holiday, must share within the group. (tasks that need to be written or recorded)
10/01/13 - Start filming - only three weeks available (inc. out of lesson hours)
17/01/13 - Another week for filming (inc. out of lesson hours)
24/01/13 - Final week for filming (inc. out of lesson hours)
This blog post will include the information and a estimated schedule on filming and the production of our one minute single camera production.
Equipment list
During filming, the items of equipment that we need are the Nikon HD Camera and Tripod. We have realised that we don't need no back or key lighting as we want to keep the scenes looking natural and we will use room lights or natural sunlight. We also need to take into consideration the sound effects for our product, so we may need to get microphones.
Schedule
13/12/12 - Ensure pre-production elements are completed.
- find characters - IMPORTANT
- ask permission for locations - IMPORTANT
20/12/12 - Ensure pre-production elements are complete and checked. (tasks that need to be researched or asked)
- gather props (e.g. costumes, make-up, background props, etc.)
- gather equipment (camera, lighting, etc)
27/12/12 - 03/01/12 - Complete any outstanding tasks over the holiday, must share within the group. (tasks that need to be written or recorded)
- risk assessment
- shot list
- genre/mood/moral/equilibrium narrative
- short script
- record equipment list and location list
10/01/13 - Start filming - only three weeks available (inc. out of lesson hours)
- Film in the 2 houses/bedrooms/living room. Complete scenes 1,2 and 4 (refer to storyboard)
17/01/13 - Another week for filming (inc. out of lesson hours)
- Film in the park (split screen scene). Complete scenes 3 (refer to storyboard)
24/01/13 - Final week for filming (inc. out of lesson hours)
- Film in the restaurant. Complete scenes 5 and 6 (refer to storyboard)
Saturday 1 December 2012
Diary log - 29/11/2012
In today's lesson, we carried out a consolidation task on updating all of the members of our group on what tasks have been achieved and what tasks are left outstanding as some members were away on previous lessons. We updated wach other and provided information on what tasks they had missed out on.
Also we researched and gathered information on our budget proposal for our one minute single camera production. The areas that we looked at and included in our budget was;
Also we researched and gathered information on our budget proposal for our one minute single camera production. The areas that we looked at and included in our budget was;
- Personnel (members of the group in production of the film)
- suppliers/equipment (what equipment we need to create our film)
- Facilites (what facilities we have to help create our film - pre-production and post-production)
- Locations (where we are going to film)
- Props (what props and costumes we need for our film and characters)
- Logistical support (looking at vehicals to help us gather our equipment and move it around locations)
Thursday 29 November 2012
Estimated budget
Introduction
This blogpost will highlight the factors that we need to consider for our budget on our one minute single camera production. All of these costs are estimated according to research through primary and secondary research. This is not the finalized amount and it will be used to help budget my finances
Budget
Personnel:
TOTAL: £315
Suppliers/equipment:
(Some of the equipment prices have been estimated from Amazon.co.uk)
TOTAL: £965
Facilities:
TOTAL: £25
Locations:
Props:
* Use personal items, not rented or bought for the purpose of the production
Logistical support:
TOTAL: £800
This blogpost will highlight the factors that we need to consider for our budget on our one minute single camera production. All of these costs are estimated according to research through primary and secondary research. This is not the finalized amount and it will be used to help budget my finances
Budget
Personnel:
- producer (£50)
- director (£50)
- researcher (£45)
- script writer (£45)
- equipment operator (camera, lights, sound) (£20)
- editor (£50)
- per actor/actresses (£35)
- set/location designer (£20)
TOTAL: £315
Suppliers/equipment:
(Some of the equipment prices have been estimated from Amazon.co.uk)
- camera (£300)
- tri-pod (£20)
- microphone/audio recorder (£25)
- boompole (£35)
- dolly/tracker (£70)
- lighting (£15)
- editing software/hardware (Photoshop, computer basics (monitor, keyboard, hard drive, mouse) camera accesories, headphones/speakers) (£500)
TOTAL: £965
Facilities:
- Home (£20)
- Work environment (schools) Free
- Library (£5)
TOTAL: £25
Locations:
- A park (£0)
- 2 houses (£0)
- 2 Bedrooms (£0)
- A living room (£0)
- A restaurant/cafe/bar (£0)
Props:
* Use personal items, not rented or bought for the purpose of the production
- Make-up (£25)
- Costumes (£250)
- *Background fillers (e.g. chairs, tables, paperwork, etc) (£0)
- *computers/laptops (£0)
- *Mobiles (£0)
Logistical support:
- Compact Van rental - 1 week (£250)
- 15 seater minibus rental - 1 week (£ 550)
TOTAL: £800
FINAL TOTAL: £2180
FINAL BUDGET: £2200
Thursday 22 November 2012
Diary log - 22/11/2012
In today's lesson, we created a storyboard and carried our an analysis on our mise en scene elements for our one minute single camera production.
The storyboard was sketched on paper and posted onto our blogs. The mise en scene elements we discussed were;
The storyboard was sketched on paper and posted onto our blogs. The mise en scene elements we discussed were;
- props
- setting/location
- style/narrative structure
- costume/make-up
- characters.
Mise en scene elements
Introduction
In this blogpost, were going to discuss and write down our notes on the mise en scene elements which are going to be included in our one minute single camera production
mise en scene elements
Props:
Setting/locations: (Final locations have not been confirmed)
Style/narrative structures:
The disadvantages on the styles of our SC production is that the story may be predictable and the audience may find it repetitive as a similar story has been done before, but we will add techniques such as split screen and effects to make it original.
Costumes/make-up:
The disadvantages on the costumes and make-up is that we must research specialist make-up shops/products to help achieve the required effect for the female character.
Characters: (actors/actresses not selected yet). Our one minute production will only consist of two characters. The male and the female. Both characters will be in the ages of around 16-20 years old. The male will good looking with a good fashionable sense. The male will be more attractive, whereas the female will be unattractive, with bad dress sense.
The advantages on our choice of characters is that it will relate to the target audience and it is appropriate for the context/situation.
The disadvantages on our choice of characters is that it is a broad description, so it will be hard to get specific ideal characters.
In this blogpost, were going to discuss and write down our notes on the mise en scene elements which are going to be included in our one minute single camera production
mise en scene elements
Props:
- computer and accessories/laptop - to show the social networking websites (Facebook) so the audience can witness the conversations, pictures and profiles of the characters.
- ordinary props e.g. cups, files, folders, tables, chairs, etc - to set an ordinary realist setting of a typical teenage boy/girl's room and desk.
- hairbrush, make-up, hair dryer - to emphasize a point on how appearances can be deceiving and to help back up the moral of our story
- phones - to show faceless communication between the characters
The advantages of the props that are going to be used on our one minute camera production is that they help to set a natural and realistic mood/surrounding to the scenes, so the audience find the situation more relatable.
The disadvantages of our props are that it would be expensive to purchase some of these items (computer, laptop, phones) but we came up with a solution to use our personal items to resolve the problem.
Setting/locations: (Final locations have not been confirmed)
- 2 different houses - to set the scene/surroundings in a ordinary situation. We need two houses to show the differences in lifestyles of the boy and girl.
- 2 different bedrooms - to show the personal space of the characters. They are meeting for the first time, in secret. The bedroom shows the privacy of the situation.
- park - The park will be used to show when the boy is imagining how the girl will be. A park is used to show the open space/possibilities of thoughts as the girl's image is photo-shopped and edited to "perfection" (imagination on how the girl would be)
- restaurant/cafe/bar - The restaurant/cafe/bar will be used to set the "date area" between the boy and girl. A restaurant/cafe/bar because it is a typical meeting point for couples/friends/etc.
- living room - the living room will be used to show when the girl is imagining the boy. A living room is used to show the constrictions she has as the boy's picture is not edited/real.
The advantage of our settings/locations is that it has meanings behind the purpose and they are based in regular, reachable and cheap locations.
The disadvantages on some of our settings/locations is that some of the areas are public places (restaurant/cafe/bar), so we may struggle to get permission or interrupt other people.
Style/narrative structures:
- Romantic comedy (spoof/parody) - based on comedic romantic themes (because of attraction between the boy and girl, but comedy as it is not how they expect)
- linear, multi strand, realist narrative - it is a linear narrative because it will be in sequential/chronological order, it is multi-strand because it is the story is based on more than one characters and it is a realist structure because it will be based on real life situations.
The disadvantages on the styles of our SC production is that the story may be predictable and the audience may find it repetitive as a similar story has been done before, but we will add techniques such as split screen and effects to make it original.
Costumes/make-up:
- trendy clothes for the boy (such as chinos, aztec tops, knitwear, vans, blazer) - to make the boy look attractive, fashionable and in trend.
- geeky clothes for the girl (mismatched clothing items, neon/unfashionable colours), poor make-up techniques, special make-up for warts/spots/bad skin - to make her look unattractive and unfashionable
The disadvantages on the costumes and make-up is that we must research specialist make-up shops/products to help achieve the required effect for the female character.
Characters: (actors/actresses not selected yet). Our one minute production will only consist of two characters. The male and the female. Both characters will be in the ages of around 16-20 years old. The male will good looking with a good fashionable sense. The male will be more attractive, whereas the female will be unattractive, with bad dress sense.
The advantages on our choice of characters is that it will relate to the target audience and it is appropriate for the context/situation.
The disadvantages on our choice of characters is that it is a broad description, so it will be hard to get specific ideal characters.
Storyboard
Introduction
This blog post will show a image on our story board for our narrative. It includes sketches on our thoughts for scenes and a description on what is happening below.
This blog post will show a image on our story board for our narrative. It includes sketches on our thoughts for scenes and a description on what is happening below.
Friday 16 November 2012
Objective and equilibrium
Introduction
In this blogpost, I am going to discuss and highlight our objective for our one minute single camera production. This is being done to help us plan our tasks properly to help us finish in time for out deadlines. This blogpost will also include our equilibrium information for our production.
Objective
Our objective for our one minute single camera production is to create a romantic-comedy video on the effects of social network dating. Our deadline for our production are;
Equilibrium
In this blogpost, I am going to discuss and highlight our objective for our one minute single camera production. This is being done to help us plan our tasks properly to help us finish in time for out deadlines. This blogpost will also include our equilibrium information for our production.
Objective
Our objective for our one minute single camera production is to create a romantic-comedy video on the effects of social network dating. Our deadline for our production are;
- pre-production tasks is to be completed by the start of the school spring term (January).
- We will then carry out our production tasks (filming and editing) up until the start of February.
- That leaves us around two weeks to carry out out post production tasks like evaluation and receiving feedback) up until the start of half term February holidays.
Equilibrium
Thursday 15 November 2012
Diary log - 15/11/2012
In today's lesson we created a clear structure on all of the pre production tasks, that we need to complete to create our one minute single camera production. The tasks are highlighted in a previous blog post and will be updated weekly on what we have completed and what is still outstanding.
We also came up with a production team name and logo, which was "Equilibrium Prod." based on Torodov's narrative theory on equilibrium. The logo was then created on Adobe Photoshop.
We also completed some pre-production tasks today such as;
We also came up with a production team name and logo, which was "Equilibrium Prod." based on Torodov's narrative theory on equilibrium. The logo was then created on Adobe Photoshop.
We also completed some pre-production tasks today such as;
- identifying our audience
- determining our moral or message of our story
- creating a mood board on our single camera production ideas
- came up with a basic idea/structure on the story of our product
- and create a treatment/proposal, which was created on Prezi, and presented to the client.
Looking at some task 2 elements
Introduction
In the lesson today, we are looking at some of the elements we need to complete in part of our task 2. The factors we are going to look at are;
Beginning: Couple meeting through Facebook and arrange to meet up. They think that they are both what they want/expect.
Middle: (Split screen shot) The boy imagines how the girls is (the screen shows how the girl really is and how he imagines)
End: The couple meets up and the boy sees how the girl is in real life and runs away.
Identifying the audience
Our audience for our minute production are both male and female users from the ages of 16-30 who are regular users of Facebook or other social networking websites.
Determine what your trying to tell (moral)
The moral of our story is going to be "don't expect what you see" and "be prepared for the unexpected".
Come up with a proposal/treatment (prezi)
Moodboard
In the lesson today, we are looking at some of the elements we need to complete in part of our task 2. The factors we are going to look at are;
- identifying the audience
- determine what your trying to tell (moral)
- come up with a proposal/treatment (overall idea)
- moodboard
Beginning: Couple meeting through Facebook and arrange to meet up. They think that they are both what they want/expect.
Middle: (Split screen shot) The boy imagines how the girls is (the screen shows how the girl really is and how he imagines)
End: The couple meets up and the boy sees how the girl is in real life and runs away.
Identifying the audience
Our audience for our minute production are both male and female users from the ages of 16-30 who are regular users of Facebook or other social networking websites.
Determine what your trying to tell (moral)
The moral of our story is going to be "don't expect what you see" and "be prepared for the unexpected".
Come up with a proposal/treatment (prezi)
Moodboard
Production team name and logo
The name for our production team is called Equilibrium Productions, based on Torodov's media theory based on state of equilibrium in narrative
Pre-production task list
Introduction
This blog post will contain all of the guidelines we must follow to create a efficient one minute single camera production. This task list will be consistently edited, by highlighting the tasks completed in green. The tasks that are in motion will be highlighted purple.
Tasks to complete
This blog post will contain all of the guidelines we must follow to create a efficient one minute single camera production. This task list will be consistently edited, by highlighting the tasks completed in green. The tasks that are in motion will be highlighted purple.
Tasks to complete
- Production team name and logo
- Identify audience
- Determine what your trying to tell (Moral)
- The story needs to be imaginative and creative
- Clear objective
- Come up with a proposal/treatment (overall idea)
- Come up with a storyboard
- Script (only for the five minute production)
- Distinct beginning, middle and end (clear equilibrium)
- Think about genre/mood
- - Overall genre
- - Feeling it conveys
- - How will the acting be used to convey this?
- - Mood board
- Mise en scene (props, setting, style, costumes)
- Narrative structure (linear/non-linear/etc)
- Shot list (time and shot) - camera angles
- Location list (get permission)
- Shooting schedule (date, when, where)
- Equipment list (sound and lighting required)
- Risk assessment
- Budget (imagine it is a real film/estimate)
- Timeline (start today till competed product)
- KEEP A DIARY LOG - EVERY SINGLE LESSON!
Wednesday 14 November 2012
Friday 9 November 2012
Diary log - 8/11/2012
In today's lesson (8/11/2012), I learnt about the technical element included within the production of single camera productions. I learnt elements such as the influence of sound within a media product and camera techniques such as angles, movements, shots and equipment.
With this information, I created a two Prezis based on camera shots and angles and another on movements and equipment. The Prezis provided explanations and examples on the different elements within these two technical camera elements. These Prezis were then posted on my Blogger.
For the information that I found on the effects of sound in media products, I posted on my Blogger on all of the information I found and provided relevant examples.
We also started to look at the pre-production elements that need to be included and completed over the next few weeks (deadline is Christmas/start of January). The kinds of elements we need to produce and the questions we need to ask ourselves about our production consistently are;
We (my production team) briefly started to look at our 1 minute single camera production. We created a mind-map (which proof was also posted onto our bloggers) on some initial ideas that we may want to do for our production.
With this information, I created a two Prezis based on camera shots and angles and another on movements and equipment. The Prezis provided explanations and examples on the different elements within these two technical camera elements. These Prezis were then posted on my Blogger.
For the information that I found on the effects of sound in media products, I posted on my Blogger on all of the information I found and provided relevant examples.
We also started to look at the pre-production elements that need to be included and completed over the next few weeks (deadline is Christmas/start of January). The kinds of elements we need to produce and the questions we need to ask ourselves about our production consistently are;
- storyboard
- script (may not be necessarily needed for 1 minute production)
- characters (motivation, mood, character profile)
- plot (beginning, middle and end)
- content (overview on our story)
- stage directions (angles, shots, effects)
- setting (locations, risk assessments)
- what is the underline message?
- what is the moral of your story?
- starting point
- who are our actors/actresses?
- is the setting relevant to the plot/characters?
- what is happening in the characters heart/head/body, and how will you show it to the audience?
- climax? how will it get there? (use Torodov's theory of equilibrium)
- use of dialouge/music/sound/lighting?
- mise-en-scene elements)
We (my production team) briefly started to look at our 1 minute single camera production. We created a mind-map (which proof was also posted onto our bloggers) on some initial ideas that we may want to do for our production.
Thursday 8 November 2012
Influence and meaning of sound in a media product
Introduction
In this blog post, I am going to explain the influence of sound in media products and what generic meanings it portrays when used in the appropriate situations.
Where and how sound is being used in media products? (plus examples)
Sound is used continuously throughout media products to help explain the what is happening in the situation using auditory senses. some examples in where sound is used and how it is being portrayed are;
- Sound is based on the emotions being shown within the context. It enhances the audience's emotional experience as it provides focus on the emotions that is being shown by the characters. For example, in a sad and upsetting mood, the sound around the character(s) expressing that emotion will be quite dull, slow and depressing to help the audience realize it.
- Sound is used in contexts where there are unseen implications or to realise the unspoken thoughts of a character. This is called "underlining psychological refinements" which means that it provides information to the audience on matters which are not shown visually, but picked up mentally. For example sound jingles in adverts. Customers don't have to see the company product/service/logo, but by listening to the jingle, they may realize what it is if they are familiar to it.
- Sound also builds a sense on continuity. This means that when scenes are changing over or scenes are "bridging" (moving in and out), the music helps the audience to become familiar with the context in the next scenes/story.
- Finally sound underpins the theatrical build-up of a scene and rounds it of with a sense of finality. This means that when the media product is reaching a state of equilibrium or a action/dramatic scene, the music and sounds in the background tenses and becomes stronger to help the audience feel the tension. Also sound helps set a sense of finality, meaning that it rounds off the story by providing a auditory incentive of finishing to the audience,so they know the story is complete.
What meanings does the use of sound portray?
Sound can portray meaning to a element in a media product, for example to a character, setting, emotion, context, etc. so a few examples of how sound shows meaning to the audience to inform them on what they are seeing are;
- Character representation/identification; sound helps represent the persona of a character. e.g. a villain has evil and dramatic music, and a hero has strong and uplifting sounds.
- Setting the location; sound helps to set the location by using diegetic sounds to help set the scene. e.g. a farm, but a audience may not realise it is a farm, until they hear cows mooing or sheep baaing.
- Setting the period/time; sound helps to set the time era by providing music or ambient sounds which relate back to a period. E.g. in the time of the 60's, music such as swing and jive were very popular, and this can be used to set the era.
- Paralleling the action; Sound can "parallel the action" which means that sound can follow different contexts to help create more emotion or tension to help enhance the message to the audience.
- Creating a more convincing atmosphere of space and time; sound such as diegetic and ambient sounds can be used to help create a more realist view on the surroundings to help the audience feel involved using auditory sounds.
- Serving as a kind of neutral background filler; sound can just help fill in as a element to help ease awkward moments or moments where no speech is needed to help give the audience auditory relief.
Key sound terminology
Soundtrack - A soundtrack is recorded music or sounds to fit the scenes of a product.
Theme music/tune - Theme music is the signature tune made to represent the media product or character.
Sound effects - Sound effects are created and input/edited sounds to help enhance the noise of a action or voice.
Ambient sound - Ambient sounds are the surrounding sounds that help set the setting or environment.
Dialogue - Dialogue is the speech or script within a production.
Voice-over - Voice-over is when a voice is narrating the production and there is no visible body to match the sound.
Direct address - Direct address is when the characters talk 'directly' at the audience/camera.
Diegetic sound - Diegetic sound is natural sounds which fit the scene and are not artificially edited.
Non-diegetic sound - Non-diegetic sounds are sounds which have been edited and put into a scene, which does not fit there naturally (e.g. a sound track, or a dog mooing instead of barking).
Sound bridges - Sound bridges are when sound moves over scenes smoothly without interruptions and it helps the scenes change over easily through continuity.
Parallel sound - Parallel sound is music or sound tracks that match the mood of the scene. It helps set the correct emotion and tension to the appropriate scenes
Contrapuntal sound - The opposite to parallel sounds. The music does not fit in with the scene and does not complement the message trying to be portrayed.
Bibliography
http://www.slideshare.net/reigatemedia/sound-lesson (08/11/2012)
In this blog post, I am going to explain the influence of sound in media products and what generic meanings it portrays when used in the appropriate situations.
Where and how sound is being used in media products? (plus examples)
Sound is used continuously throughout media products to help explain the what is happening in the situation using auditory senses. some examples in where sound is used and how it is being portrayed are;
- Sound is based on the emotions being shown within the context. It enhances the audience's emotional experience as it provides focus on the emotions that is being shown by the characters. For example, in a sad and upsetting mood, the sound around the character(s) expressing that emotion will be quite dull, slow and depressing to help the audience realize it.
- Sound is used in contexts where there are unseen implications or to realise the unspoken thoughts of a character. This is called "underlining psychological refinements" which means that it provides information to the audience on matters which are not shown visually, but picked up mentally. For example sound jingles in adverts. Customers don't have to see the company product/service/logo, but by listening to the jingle, they may realize what it is if they are familiar to it.
- Sound also builds a sense on continuity. This means that when scenes are changing over or scenes are "bridging" (moving in and out), the music helps the audience to become familiar with the context in the next scenes/story.
- Finally sound underpins the theatrical build-up of a scene and rounds it of with a sense of finality. This means that when the media product is reaching a state of equilibrium or a action/dramatic scene, the music and sounds in the background tenses and becomes stronger to help the audience feel the tension. Also sound helps set a sense of finality, meaning that it rounds off the story by providing a auditory incentive of finishing to the audience,so they know the story is complete.
What meanings does the use of sound portray?
Sound can portray meaning to a element in a media product, for example to a character, setting, emotion, context, etc. so a few examples of how sound shows meaning to the audience to inform them on what they are seeing are;
- Character representation/identification; sound helps represent the persona of a character. e.g. a villain has evil and dramatic music, and a hero has strong and uplifting sounds.
- Setting the location; sound helps to set the location by using diegetic sounds to help set the scene. e.g. a farm, but a audience may not realise it is a farm, until they hear cows mooing or sheep baaing.
- Setting the period/time; sound helps to set the time era by providing music or ambient sounds which relate back to a period. E.g. in the time of the 60's, music such as swing and jive were very popular, and this can be used to set the era.
- Paralleling the action; Sound can "parallel the action" which means that sound can follow different contexts to help create more emotion or tension to help enhance the message to the audience.
- Creating a more convincing atmosphere of space and time; sound such as diegetic and ambient sounds can be used to help create a more realist view on the surroundings to help the audience feel involved using auditory sounds.
- Serving as a kind of neutral background filler; sound can just help fill in as a element to help ease awkward moments or moments where no speech is needed to help give the audience auditory relief.
Key sound terminology
Soundtrack - A soundtrack is recorded music or sounds to fit the scenes of a product.
Theme music/tune - Theme music is the signature tune made to represent the media product or character.
Sound effects - Sound effects are created and input/edited sounds to help enhance the noise of a action or voice.
Ambient sound - Ambient sounds are the surrounding sounds that help set the setting or environment.
Dialogue - Dialogue is the speech or script within a production.
Voice-over - Voice-over is when a voice is narrating the production and there is no visible body to match the sound.
Direct address - Direct address is when the characters talk 'directly' at the audience/camera.
Diegetic sound - Diegetic sound is natural sounds which fit the scene and are not artificially edited.
Non-diegetic sound - Non-diegetic sounds are sounds which have been edited and put into a scene, which does not fit there naturally (e.g. a sound track, or a dog mooing instead of barking).
Sound bridges - Sound bridges are when sound moves over scenes smoothly without interruptions and it helps the scenes change over easily through continuity.
Parallel sound - Parallel sound is music or sound tracks that match the mood of the scene. It helps set the correct emotion and tension to the appropriate scenes
Contrapuntal sound - The opposite to parallel sounds. The music does not fit in with the scene and does not complement the message trying to be portrayed.
Bibliography
http://www.slideshare.net/reigatemedia/sound-lesson (08/11/2012)
Prezi's on Camera shots, angles, equipment and movements
Introduction
These two prezis consist of explanations and examples on camera shots and angles, and the other contains information on camera equipment and movements.
Camera shots and angles:
Camera movements and equipment:
These two prezis consist of explanations and examples on camera shots and angles, and the other contains information on camera equipment and movements.
Camera shots and angles:
Camera movements and equipment:
Wednesday 24 October 2012
Torodov's Theory
Introduction
In this blogpost, I am going to research and explain who is Torodov and what was his theory. I will also present an example of a media product using Torodov's Theory.
What is Todorov's Narrative Theory?
Tzvetan Torodov was a Franco-Bulgarian structural linguistic philosopher who came up with a theory which helps set a definition or structure on stories and narratives.
Torodov in 1969 produced a theory which he believed to be able to be applied to any film. He believed that all films followed the same narrative patter. They all went through stages called the equilibrium, disequilibrium, acknowledgement, solving, and again equilibrium.
There are five stages the narrative can progress through:
An example of the theory in practise is the film of "Shrek".
At the start of the film, Shrek is happy and content in his swamp, carrying out his daily duties of scaring the local village and attacking mobs. This shows at the start of the film, Shrek living his normal life in his average habitat. (A state of equilibrium)
A disruption then occurs when lots of fairytale creatures invaded Shreks swamp, so to regain control and ownage of his land, he must go on a quest for Lord Farquaad (the villian) to find the charming princess, "Princess Fiona".
A recongition that the disorder has occured is when Shrek realizes he is in love with Princess Fiona, but she is to be married in the morning to Lord Farquaad. Shrek tries to ignore his feelings to get back his swamp, but he has fallen for her more than he thinks.
In attempt to repair the damage of the disruption, Shrek and his sidekick Donkey go out to rescue and declare his love for her before she is wed. He crashes the wedding, by invading and fighting with the guards and knights, while the whole city is watching. Fiona reveals her secret that she too is a ogre, and they fight for their love and succeed.
The film ends with a restoration of a new equilibrium, where Shrek and Fiona are happily married, within their swamp, and Shrek makes friends with Donkey and the fairytale creatures.
The film continues on with 3 prequels, which all continue on with the end result/equilibrium.
Bibliography
http://www.slideshare.net/Die-fast-live-pretty/todorovs-narrative-theory (18/10/2012)
http://www.mediaknowall.com/gcse/keyconceptsgcse/keycon.php?pageID=narrative (18/10/2012)
In this blogpost, I am going to research and explain who is Torodov and what was his theory. I will also present an example of a media product using Torodov's Theory.
What is Todorov's Narrative Theory?
Tzvetan Torodov was a Franco-Bulgarian structural linguistic philosopher who came up with a theory which helps set a definition or structure on stories and narratives.
Torodov in 1969 produced a theory which he believed to be able to be applied to any film. He believed that all films followed the same narrative patter. They all went through stages called the equilibrium, disequilibrium, acknowledgement, solving, and again equilibrium.
There are five stages the narrative can progress through:
- A state of equilibrium (All is as it should be.)
- A disruption of that order by an event.
- A recognition that the disorder has occured
- An attempt to repair the damage of the disruption
- A return or restoration of a NEW equilibrium.
An example of the theory in practise is the film of "Shrek".
At the start of the film, Shrek is happy and content in his swamp, carrying out his daily duties of scaring the local village and attacking mobs. This shows at the start of the film, Shrek living his normal life in his average habitat. (A state of equilibrium)
A disruption then occurs when lots of fairytale creatures invaded Shreks swamp, so to regain control and ownage of his land, he must go on a quest for Lord Farquaad (the villian) to find the charming princess, "Princess Fiona".
A recongition that the disorder has occured is when Shrek realizes he is in love with Princess Fiona, but she is to be married in the morning to Lord Farquaad. Shrek tries to ignore his feelings to get back his swamp, but he has fallen for her more than he thinks.
In attempt to repair the damage of the disruption, Shrek and his sidekick Donkey go out to rescue and declare his love for her before she is wed. He crashes the wedding, by invading and fighting with the guards and knights, while the whole city is watching. Fiona reveals her secret that she too is a ogre, and they fight for their love and succeed.
The film ends with a restoration of a new equilibrium, where Shrek and Fiona are happily married, within their swamp, and Shrek makes friends with Donkey and the fairytale creatures.
The film continues on with 3 prequels, which all continue on with the end result/equilibrium.
Bibliography
http://www.slideshare.net/Die-fast-live-pretty/todorovs-narrative-theory (18/10/2012)
http://www.mediaknowall.com/gcse/keyconceptsgcse/keycon.php?pageID=narrative (18/10/2012)
Monday 22 October 2012
Narrative structures
Introduction:
In this blog post, I am going to provide examples and explain;
Forms of narrative structures:
Linear (sequential): Linear or sequential narratives are when stories flow in a chronological order with a start, middle and end. The products include no flashbacks or dream sequences. Everything happens in present time order.
The advantages of a linear structure is that the audience understands what is going on and the plot is carried out in order. The disadvantages of a linear structure is that it is quiet boring and predictable on what is going to happen.
An example of a linear media product is Coronation Street. This is because it continues its plots in a chronological order.
Non-linear (non-sequential): A non-linear or non-sequential narrative structures are when stories do not follow a chronological order and the plot is distorted due to time (past, present and future). These kind of products usually include effects such as flash-backs and reverse narrative.
The advantages of a non-linear product is that it can take the audience to the past/future tense to help them understand the situation. The disadvantages of non-linear products is that it can confuse the audience if the story is not in chronological order.
An example of a non-linear narrative is the film Inception. This is because it uses a lot of flashbacks and dream sequences to make up the story of the film.
Single strand: Single strand narrative structures is when the plot is focused on one main protagonist and his story.
The advantages of a single strand narrative is that it helps the audience to focus on one character and his story. The disadvantages of a single strand narrative is that the story would be boring because other factors are not involved to the build up of the story.
A example of a single strand narrative is Spiderman. This is because the plot of the film is focused on one main protagonist.
Multi strand: Multi strand narrative structure is when several characters are involved to create one story. So the story is shown from various points of view.
The advantages of a multi strand narrative is that it allows the audience to see all sides of a story and get a better picture, but the disadvantages is that the views may be biased, and the audience may favour one view to another.
An example of a multi strand narrative is CSI: Miami. This is because it shows plots from different points of view with the people involved.
Types of narrative structures:
Flashback: Flashback dramas are products which included inserted scenes in the present tense, which have already occured in the past tense.
The advantages of a flashback scene is that the audience understands what has happened before, and how it will affect the story in the present tense. The diadvantages of flashback scenes are that it may confuse the audience as the story is not in sequencial order.
An example of a flashback drama is Family guy. This animation product shifts scenes back and forth in past and present tenses to complete the story.
Realist: Realist dramas are products which are based on real life plots or stories. These plots are made to be believable towards real situations.
The advantages of realist dramas are that the audience can relate to the plot as it is believable, but the disadvantages of realist dramas are that they can be boring and repetitive as the same stories are shown with no imagination.
An example of a realist drama is Eastenders. This is because the plot uses real life situations and products to create a story.
Anti-realist: Anti-realist dramas are media products which use surreal ideas or dreams to help create a story. These products use a lot of CGI (computer generated images) and special effects to create the product.
The advantages of a anti-realist drama is that it is more exciting and intreguing to the audience as it is more creative and contexts can happen which happen in the audience's wildest dreams. The disadvantages of a anti-realist drama is that it may not be believeable and can look fake/unneffective.
An example of a anti-realist drama is Doctor Who. This is because they use a lot of special effects and unrealistic scenes to create a plot.
Dramatic irony: " Dramatic Irony occurs when the reader or spectator knows more about the true state of affairs then the characters themselves." (1) Dramatic irony is when the audience knows what is happening, but the plot characters dont know.
The advantages of a dramatic irony drama is that the audience has a more indepth knowledge on the situation and will be interested in how the story will resolve itself back to the state of equilibrium. But the disadvantages of a dramatic irony drama is that it is frustrating for the audience in the sense that the characters are so naive in what is happening and the story is not completing.
An example of dramatic irony is Fresh Prince Of Bel Air. This product uses dramatic irony because the audience follows tha protagonist, sees what he gets up to behind his family's back and then shows how he resolves the situation.
Endings of narrative structures:
Cliffhanger: A cliffhanger drama is when a media product finishes, leaving the audience in suspense for a longer period of time. The types of products to use cliff hangers are films and games.
The advantages of a cliffhanger drama is that it keeps the audience engaged within the story till the end and keeps them talking and wondering what happened. The disadvantages is that the audience will never know what happened, which will frustrate them.
An example of a cliff hanger product is Harry Potter. This is because audiences have to wait a longer time for the next sequel to be released which leaves the audience in a more prolonged period of suspense.
Open ended: An open ended product is when the drama finishes with the audience guessing what will happen next. They leave the audience in suspense by cutting off the end of the story and leaving no clue on what will happen.
The advantages of a open ended drama is that it keeps the audience guessing and eager to watch the next episode. The disadvantages of an open ended drama is that the audience may get frustrated because they dont get a complete story.
An example of a open ended drama is Revenge. This drama is open ended because it contains episodes which continue the story on from where it lasts finishes.
Closed ended: A closed ended product is when the drama shows a complete and finished story. The product has a start, middle and end or uses Torodov's narrative theory of equilibrium to show a full story.
The advantages of a closed ended product is that it satisfies the audience by showing a full story and they dont have to wait for the next part. The disadvantages of a closed ended product is that the story does not continue over a period of time and it decreases tha amount of viewers if aired again because most of the audience knows what happens.
An example of a closed ended product is Evan Almighty. This is because the film shows a start, middle and ending to the story.
Bibliography:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cliffhanger (22/10/2012)
(1) http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_dramatic_irony (22/10/2012)
http://stramsbottom.edublogs.org/narrative-structures/ (22/10/2012)
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_a_single_strand_narrative (22/10/2012)
In this blog post, I am going to provide examples and explain;
- what are the different forms of narrative structures (linear, non-linear, single strand and multi strand)
- the different types of narrative structures (flashback, realist, anti-realistic and dramatic irony)
- the different endings of narrative structures (cliffhanger, open ended and closed ended).
- and I am also going to explain the advantages and disadvantages of these structures.
Forms of narrative structures:
Linear (sequential): Linear or sequential narratives are when stories flow in a chronological order with a start, middle and end. The products include no flashbacks or dream sequences. Everything happens in present time order.
The advantages of a linear structure is that the audience understands what is going on and the plot is carried out in order. The disadvantages of a linear structure is that it is quiet boring and predictable on what is going to happen.
An example of a linear media product is Coronation Street. This is because it continues its plots in a chronological order.
Non-linear (non-sequential): A non-linear or non-sequential narrative structures are when stories do not follow a chronological order and the plot is distorted due to time (past, present and future). These kind of products usually include effects such as flash-backs and reverse narrative.
The advantages of a non-linear product is that it can take the audience to the past/future tense to help them understand the situation. The disadvantages of non-linear products is that it can confuse the audience if the story is not in chronological order.
An example of a non-linear narrative is the film Inception. This is because it uses a lot of flashbacks and dream sequences to make up the story of the film.
Single strand: Single strand narrative structures is when the plot is focused on one main protagonist and his story.
The advantages of a single strand narrative is that it helps the audience to focus on one character and his story. The disadvantages of a single strand narrative is that the story would be boring because other factors are not involved to the build up of the story.
A example of a single strand narrative is Spiderman. This is because the plot of the film is focused on one main protagonist.
Multi strand: Multi strand narrative structure is when several characters are involved to create one story. So the story is shown from various points of view.
The advantages of a multi strand narrative is that it allows the audience to see all sides of a story and get a better picture, but the disadvantages is that the views may be biased, and the audience may favour one view to another.
An example of a multi strand narrative is CSI: Miami. This is because it shows plots from different points of view with the people involved.
Types of narrative structures:
Flashback: Flashback dramas are products which included inserted scenes in the present tense, which have already occured in the past tense.
The advantages of a flashback scene is that the audience understands what has happened before, and how it will affect the story in the present tense. The diadvantages of flashback scenes are that it may confuse the audience as the story is not in sequencial order.
An example of a flashback drama is Family guy. This animation product shifts scenes back and forth in past and present tenses to complete the story.
Realist: Realist dramas are products which are based on real life plots or stories. These plots are made to be believable towards real situations.
The advantages of realist dramas are that the audience can relate to the plot as it is believable, but the disadvantages of realist dramas are that they can be boring and repetitive as the same stories are shown with no imagination.
An example of a realist drama is Eastenders. This is because the plot uses real life situations and products to create a story.
Anti-realist: Anti-realist dramas are media products which use surreal ideas or dreams to help create a story. These products use a lot of CGI (computer generated images) and special effects to create the product.
The advantages of a anti-realist drama is that it is more exciting and intreguing to the audience as it is more creative and contexts can happen which happen in the audience's wildest dreams. The disadvantages of a anti-realist drama is that it may not be believeable and can look fake/unneffective.
An example of a anti-realist drama is Doctor Who. This is because they use a lot of special effects and unrealistic scenes to create a plot.
Dramatic irony: " Dramatic Irony occurs when the reader or spectator knows more about the true state of affairs then the characters themselves." (1) Dramatic irony is when the audience knows what is happening, but the plot characters dont know.
The advantages of a dramatic irony drama is that the audience has a more indepth knowledge on the situation and will be interested in how the story will resolve itself back to the state of equilibrium. But the disadvantages of a dramatic irony drama is that it is frustrating for the audience in the sense that the characters are so naive in what is happening and the story is not completing.
An example of dramatic irony is Fresh Prince Of Bel Air. This product uses dramatic irony because the audience follows tha protagonist, sees what he gets up to behind his family's back and then shows how he resolves the situation.
Endings of narrative structures:
Cliffhanger: A cliffhanger drama is when a media product finishes, leaving the audience in suspense for a longer period of time. The types of products to use cliff hangers are films and games.
The advantages of a cliffhanger drama is that it keeps the audience engaged within the story till the end and keeps them talking and wondering what happened. The disadvantages is that the audience will never know what happened, which will frustrate them.
An example of a cliff hanger product is Harry Potter. This is because audiences have to wait a longer time for the next sequel to be released which leaves the audience in a more prolonged period of suspense.
Open ended: An open ended product is when the drama finishes with the audience guessing what will happen next. They leave the audience in suspense by cutting off the end of the story and leaving no clue on what will happen.
The advantages of a open ended drama is that it keeps the audience guessing and eager to watch the next episode. The disadvantages of an open ended drama is that the audience may get frustrated because they dont get a complete story.
An example of a open ended drama is Revenge. This drama is open ended because it contains episodes which continue the story on from where it lasts finishes.
Closed ended: A closed ended product is when the drama shows a complete and finished story. The product has a start, middle and end or uses Torodov's narrative theory of equilibrium to show a full story.
The advantages of a closed ended product is that it satisfies the audience by showing a full story and they dont have to wait for the next part. The disadvantages of a closed ended product is that the story does not continue over a period of time and it decreases tha amount of viewers if aired again because most of the audience knows what happens.
An example of a closed ended product is Evan Almighty. This is because the film shows a start, middle and ending to the story.
Bibliography:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cliffhanger (22/10/2012)
(1) http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_dramatic_irony (22/10/2012)
http://stramsbottom.edublogs.org/narrative-structures/ (22/10/2012)
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_a_single_strand_narrative (22/10/2012)
Friday 19 October 2012
Genre and technical examples of single camera productions
Introduction:
In this blog post, I am going to provide examples of different drama genres which use single camera techniques and I am going to analyse the technical uses of sound, lighting and camera angles used within the media product.
Genre examples
Sci Fi - Doctor who (2)
Single camera techniques: Doctor Who has shown examples of single camera techniques used when The Doctor is having a conversation with his sidekick, Rose. This shows proof of the use of single camera techniques as there are edits of over the shoulder shots showing the conversation.
Sound: The sound includes lots of sound effects to help the scene match the sound (diegetic sounds), and there are use of sound tracks to emphasise emotions within the shot. E.g slow music for sad scenes and energetic music for fast/hyper scenes.
Lighting: The lighting included within Doctor Who were natural and background light for normal/outside frames to help set the scene, but in action scenes there is use of special lighting, such as coloured lights, filler, key and back lights.
Camera angles: The camera angles that were mostly used in a Sci Fi drama using single camera techniques are long shots and high angled shots. This is so the drama fills the scene and all of the effects and action is shown in the frames.
Comedy - Miranda (3)
Single camera techniques: Miranda shows use of single camera techniques because when the protagonist is making a joke, she talks directly at the audience to engage them in the program. To signify that she is talking to the audience, the camera angles shift to show that she is jumping out of the context she is in, to talk to the audience. This effect uses editing and single camera techniques.
Sound: The sound effects that are included within a comedy sitcom that uses single camera techniques are canned laughter when the protagonist does/says something funny. The other sound is regular voices that are included within the scene (diegetic).
Lighting: The lighting used are normal background and key lighting to let the audience know that they are with the characters in the program and the program is not staged.
Camera angles: Most of the camera angles included are mid shots, to capture the motion and emotion of the characters, so they can fully understand what is going to happen.
Crime - CSI: Miami (4)
Single camera techniques: CSI: Miami shows use of single camera techniques when it uses editing and takes in showing a surrounding environment in a crime scene. There are different camera angles and shots taken to show the surrounding of a scene and they are joined together using editing techniques to show the audience what is happening.
Sound: The sound used are natural diegetic sounds that are included within the scene and it included backing music tracks to create emphasis on the situation created. It includes dramatic music to build suspense and fast music to create excitment in action scenes.
Lighting: The lighting used is darker and mainly back and filler lights. This is because it will create tension and suspence, which is the type of emotion they wish to portray.
Camera angles: The camera angles used are close-ups and mid shots to show the emotion of the scene to the audience.
Period Drama - Downton Abbey (5)
Single camera techniques: Downton Abbey shows proof on the use of single camera techniques by taking repeated shots of a group conversation that a couple of characters have. The camera angles are individual mid shots of the group and the scene changes from each character as they are speaking.
Sound: There is regular diegetic sounds included within the scene as well as delicate and small sounds to help create the tension within the frame. It includes sound tracks like deep dramatic music and uplifting music for emotion.
Lighting: The lighting used are low dim tones to represent the era in which the program is representing (old, victorian times). This is because there was no electricity and the creators wanted the program feel authentic. There is use of filler lights to help make the scene a little clearer and to help the natural light surroundings.
Camera angles: The camera angles that are included mainly in period dramas are over the shoulder shots and mid shots, so it can capture the drama happening between two protagonists and capture the emotion being shown.
Teen dramas - Hollyoaks (6)
Single camera techniques: The use of single camera techniques are shown in a teen drama when they switch from different storylines. This is proof of single camera production because the camera uses editing to switch characters/settings/storylines.
Sound: There is use of diegetic sounds included within the frames to make the scene sound natural and they include use of music in the background which relates to the mood of the environment. e.g. slow music for emotional scenes.
Lighting: The lighting used are natural lighting to help the audience feel as if they are within the drama and scenes. This helps the audience get into the story and get the full emotion trying to be portrayed.
Camera angles: There are various camera angles used within teen dramas as they try to capture all the emotion and action happening in the scene. Some examples of angles used are over the shoulder shots, mid shots, long shots, panning and tracking, etc.
Thriller - Revenge (7)
Single camera techniques: Thriller dramas such as revenge shows proof on the use of single camera techniques by using a lot of editing and retakes when doing fast chase or suspense scenes. There is use of different camera angles and constant scene changes to create the build up of tension for the audience.
Sound: The sound used in the drama are diegetic sounds of people talking, machinery, animals, sea waves, etc. but it also included dramatic sound tracks to build suspense and an atmosphere within the scene.
Lighting: The lighting is very dark and dull to create a sense of mystery and tension within the scenes. it is mostly natural light and filler lights to help light up the scene, but to make sure it creates shadows.
Camera angles: The camera angles mostly used within this thriller genre drama are close up shots and over the shoulder shots. This is to create drama and tension, and to show the conversation between the protagonists.
Bibliography:
(2) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxXAY7LyjcM (18/10/2012)
(3) http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00wh2z7/Miranda_Series_2_Lets_Do_It/ (18/10/2012)
(4) http://www.cbs.com/shows/csi_miami/video/595417256/mia30-1119-promo (18/10/2012)
(5) http://www.itv.com/itvplayer/video/?Filter=326395 (18/10/2012)
(6) http://www.channel4.com/programmes/hollyoaks/4od (18/10/2012)
(7) http://www.channel4.com/programmes/revenge/4od (18/10/2012)
In this blog post, I am going to provide examples of different drama genres which use single camera techniques and I am going to analyse the technical uses of sound, lighting and camera angles used within the media product.
Genre examples
Sci Fi - Doctor who (2)
Single camera techniques: Doctor Who has shown examples of single camera techniques used when The Doctor is having a conversation with his sidekick, Rose. This shows proof of the use of single camera techniques as there are edits of over the shoulder shots showing the conversation.
Sound: The sound includes lots of sound effects to help the scene match the sound (diegetic sounds), and there are use of sound tracks to emphasise emotions within the shot. E.g slow music for sad scenes and energetic music for fast/hyper scenes.
Lighting: The lighting included within Doctor Who were natural and background light for normal/outside frames to help set the scene, but in action scenes there is use of special lighting, such as coloured lights, filler, key and back lights.
Camera angles: The camera angles that were mostly used in a Sci Fi drama using single camera techniques are long shots and high angled shots. This is so the drama fills the scene and all of the effects and action is shown in the frames.
Comedy - Miranda (3)
Single camera techniques: Miranda shows use of single camera techniques because when the protagonist is making a joke, she talks directly at the audience to engage them in the program. To signify that she is talking to the audience, the camera angles shift to show that she is jumping out of the context she is in, to talk to the audience. This effect uses editing and single camera techniques.
Sound: The sound effects that are included within a comedy sitcom that uses single camera techniques are canned laughter when the protagonist does/says something funny. The other sound is regular voices that are included within the scene (diegetic).
Lighting: The lighting used are normal background and key lighting to let the audience know that they are with the characters in the program and the program is not staged.
Camera angles: Most of the camera angles included are mid shots, to capture the motion and emotion of the characters, so they can fully understand what is going to happen.
Crime - CSI: Miami (4)
Single camera techniques: CSI: Miami shows use of single camera techniques when it uses editing and takes in showing a surrounding environment in a crime scene. There are different camera angles and shots taken to show the surrounding of a scene and they are joined together using editing techniques to show the audience what is happening.
Sound: The sound used are natural diegetic sounds that are included within the scene and it included backing music tracks to create emphasis on the situation created. It includes dramatic music to build suspense and fast music to create excitment in action scenes.
Lighting: The lighting used is darker and mainly back and filler lights. This is because it will create tension and suspence, which is the type of emotion they wish to portray.
Camera angles: The camera angles used are close-ups and mid shots to show the emotion of the scene to the audience.
Period Drama - Downton Abbey (5)
Single camera techniques: Downton Abbey shows proof on the use of single camera techniques by taking repeated shots of a group conversation that a couple of characters have. The camera angles are individual mid shots of the group and the scene changes from each character as they are speaking.
Sound: There is regular diegetic sounds included within the scene as well as delicate and small sounds to help create the tension within the frame. It includes sound tracks like deep dramatic music and uplifting music for emotion.
Lighting: The lighting used are low dim tones to represent the era in which the program is representing (old, victorian times). This is because there was no electricity and the creators wanted the program feel authentic. There is use of filler lights to help make the scene a little clearer and to help the natural light surroundings.
Camera angles: The camera angles that are included mainly in period dramas are over the shoulder shots and mid shots, so it can capture the drama happening between two protagonists and capture the emotion being shown.
Teen dramas - Hollyoaks (6)
Single camera techniques: The use of single camera techniques are shown in a teen drama when they switch from different storylines. This is proof of single camera production because the camera uses editing to switch characters/settings/storylines.
Sound: There is use of diegetic sounds included within the frames to make the scene sound natural and they include use of music in the background which relates to the mood of the environment. e.g. slow music for emotional scenes.
Lighting: The lighting used are natural lighting to help the audience feel as if they are within the drama and scenes. This helps the audience get into the story and get the full emotion trying to be portrayed.
Camera angles: There are various camera angles used within teen dramas as they try to capture all the emotion and action happening in the scene. Some examples of angles used are over the shoulder shots, mid shots, long shots, panning and tracking, etc.
Thriller - Revenge (7)
Single camera techniques: Thriller dramas such as revenge shows proof on the use of single camera techniques by using a lot of editing and retakes when doing fast chase or suspense scenes. There is use of different camera angles and constant scene changes to create the build up of tension for the audience.
Sound: The sound used in the drama are diegetic sounds of people talking, machinery, animals, sea waves, etc. but it also included dramatic sound tracks to build suspense and an atmosphere within the scene.
Lighting: The lighting is very dark and dull to create a sense of mystery and tension within the scenes. it is mostly natural light and filler lights to help light up the scene, but to make sure it creates shadows.
Camera angles: The camera angles mostly used within this thriller genre drama are close up shots and over the shoulder shots. This is to create drama and tension, and to show the conversation between the protagonists.
Bibliography:
(2) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxXAY7LyjcM (18/10/2012)
(3) http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00wh2z7/Miranda_Series_2_Lets_Do_It/ (18/10/2012)
(4) http://www.cbs.com/shows/csi_miami/video/595417256/mia30-1119-promo (18/10/2012)
(5) http://www.itv.com/itvplayer/video/?Filter=326395 (18/10/2012)
(6) http://www.channel4.com/programmes/hollyoaks/4od (18/10/2012)
(7) http://www.channel4.com/programmes/revenge/4od (18/10/2012)
Thursday 18 October 2012
What are single camera techniques? and examples
Introduction
In this blogpost, I am going to explain and highlight the advantages and disadvantages of single camera techniques and provide examples of different formats of media products which use single camera techniques.
What are single camera techniques?
Single camera production is a mode of production where one camera operates at a time and the shots are done in the most economically efficient order. Single camera productions are not live and include a lot of editing and takes.
"The single-camera setup, or single-camera mode of production, is a method of filmmaking and video production. A single camera—either motion picture camera or professional video camera—is employed on the set and each shot to make up a scene is taken individually.
As its name suggests, a production using the single-camera setup generally employs just one camera. Each of the various shots and camera angles is taken using the same camera, which is moved and reset to get each shot or new angle. The lighting setup is typically reconfigured for each camera setup." (1)
The advantages of single camera techniques are;
Different formats and examples:
Series: A Series is one that has a set number of episodes and gives during certain times of the year. Even though a series may have a definate end to it. The story might continue into series two.
A few examples of series dramas are, Skins, Desperate Housewives and Waterloo Road.
Serial: A serial is more like a soap, where stories are continuous and it doesn't run for a set amount of episodes, but continues all year round.
A few examples of serial dramas/soaps are, Neighbours, Eastenders, Coronation Street and Doctors.
Single drama: Single dramas are media products which run in one single time. These types of dramas have a start, middle and ending and dont continue through episodes.
A few examples of single dramas are, Appropriate Adult, The Road To Coronation Street and Toast.
Bibliography
(1) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Single-camera_setup (18/10/2012)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narrative_structure (18/10/2012)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serial_(radio_and_television (18/10/2012)
http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090222072616AA8ovhb (18/10/2012)
http://www.slideshare.net/jontowlson/tv-drama-formats (18/10/2012)
http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/about-us/awards/best-single-drama/5037377.article (18/10/2012)
In this blogpost, I am going to explain and highlight the advantages and disadvantages of single camera techniques and provide examples of different formats of media products which use single camera techniques.
What are single camera techniques?
Single camera production is a mode of production where one camera operates at a time and the shots are done in the most economically efficient order. Single camera productions are not live and include a lot of editing and takes.
"The single-camera setup, or single-camera mode of production, is a method of filmmaking and video production. A single camera—either motion picture camera or professional video camera—is employed on the set and each shot to make up a scene is taken individually.
As its name suggests, a production using the single-camera setup generally employs just one camera. Each of the various shots and camera angles is taken using the same camera, which is moved and reset to get each shot or new angle. The lighting setup is typically reconfigured for each camera setup." (1)
The advantages of single camera techniques are;
- the use of single camera techniques look like the creators used different cameras because of the different shots and with the techniques of editing.
- the cost of filming the media product would be cheaper, as many cameras and operators are not needed, so the budget would be cheaper.
- as there is use of only one camera, the director has more control of what is filmed and what happens in the scenes. This is an advantage because the director can choose what is selected and filmed within the scenes.
- the quality of the scenes would be the same, as only one camera is being used, so the quality would not be altered in sound and visual material.
- Also, with the use of only one camera, the mobility of the camera crew and resources is easier, as there not as many materials to carry around.
The disadvantages of single camera techniques are;
- the scenes have to be taken repeatedly, so there are more takes and clips to record
- the use of single camera techniques takes longer to edit, as there are more clips to gather and filter through.
- The camera must keep changing angles when shooting, so they can capture the full scene
- as there is only one camera, there are no back up shots to replace scenes that have gone wrong, so the crew must be more tentative to capture the correct shots.
Different formats and examples:
Series: A Series is one that has a set number of episodes and gives during certain times of the year. Even though a series may have a definate end to it. The story might continue into series two.
A few examples of series dramas are, Skins, Desperate Housewives and Waterloo Road.
Serial: A serial is more like a soap, where stories are continuous and it doesn't run for a set amount of episodes, but continues all year round.
A few examples of serial dramas/soaps are, Neighbours, Eastenders, Coronation Street and Doctors.
Single drama: Single dramas are media products which run in one single time. These types of dramas have a start, middle and ending and dont continue through episodes.
A few examples of single dramas are, Appropriate Adult, The Road To Coronation Street and Toast.
Bibliography
(1) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Single-camera_setup (18/10/2012)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narrative_structure (18/10/2012)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serial_(radio_and_television (18/10/2012)
http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090222072616AA8ovhb (18/10/2012)
http://www.slideshare.net/jontowlson/tv-drama-formats (18/10/2012)
http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/about-us/awards/best-single-drama/5037377.article (18/10/2012)
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