Production Diary Day 2

Date 20/11/16
Location Chris house, Alleyway
Scene(s) filmed Conversation between Alex and Sophie, kidnapping scene
On our second day of shooting, we filmed a large majority of our opening
sequence. By following our production schedule, we ensured that we had enough
time to set up equipment, film each scene and briefly review footage. The
equipment used included a camera, tripod, slider, soft box lighting, a microphone
and drone, all of which was provided by our team members.
Conversation Scene This scene was set inside Chris house, in which we
framed the characters using soft box lighting. We did, however, use the living
room rather than the bedroom, as planned. Within the location recce, we
discovered this to be a more suitable appearance in terms of its minimalistic
appearance, as well as practicality regarding set-up (i.e lighting/cameras). In
order to improve continuity and save time, we used two cameras to film this
scene. By following the 180 degree rule, we focused one camera on Alex and the
other on Sophie, allowing a shot reverse shot conversation to be filmed more
effectively. We also used a microphone which we placed centrally between the
two actors, allowing us to enhance audio and ensure better clarity of dialogue.
Kidnapping Scene - This scene took relatively longer to film, as it had more
complex and varied shots. We first used the drone to record an aerial shot, and
then used the camera and tripod to capture all other camera angles. Despite
occasional pauses in which we allowed people to walk past, we worked
effectively and quickly as a team, capturing a variety of shots (including some
which deviated from our planned shot list).
Evaluation Overall, I think that our second day of filming was highly
successful. We managed to record everything we needed, in addition to gaining
extra, unplanned footage which we felt would work. I think that we work well as a
team, collaborating in terms of creative and technical decisions. As director, I
oversaw all filming. This included acting (i.e delivery of lines/character
emotions), as well as technical aspects (i.e mise en scene/camera framing),
allowing me to ensure that our film was produced to the highest standard
possible.