Evaluation of the preliminary task

1. Preliminary task evaluation
Ada Dzamic, Nikoleta Wu and Darija Stojanovic

2.  In this preliminary task, our objective as a video group was to produce a
linear and narrative based photo story. The main purpose of this task was to
depict a simple story, in order to demonstrate our understanding of image
framing and moving image types of shots.
 This introductory task led us into completing the video continuity image
sequence, in which we were supposed to demonstrate and provide evidence
of the 3 main stages of production (pre-production, production and post-
production). Using our prior knowledge of image framing, composition and
types of shots, we had to produce it with a straight-forward story line, which
follows mainstream, cinema and compositional rules.

3.  The essence of this task was to produce a short video sequence using the
following 3 media techniques:
 1. 180-degree rule-a basic guideline regarding the relationship in space, on-
screen between 1 character and another character, or object in a scene
 2. Shot/reverse shot-a film technique where 1 character is shown looking at
another character, and then the other character is shown looking back at the
1st character
 3. Match on action-a film and video editing technique where the editor cuts
from 1 shot to another view that matches the 1st shot’s action

4.  Before we started filming the video continuity sequence, as a team we
carried out secondary research. This essential part of research involved
analyzing examples of video continuity sequences, that prior students have
completed. In order to further extend our knowledge, we viewed and
analyzed examples of video continuity from existing media texts. We have
realized that the 180-degree rule is used to indicate that there has been an
emotional shift in a scene. Shot/reverse shot is used in continuity editing,
creating a sense of continuous action for the audience, making it seem as if
they’re watching it in real time. Match on action is used in film as an editing
technique, where one shot cuts to another, revealing the action that is
present in the first shot.

5.  After completing the initial stage of the research, both my team and I have focused on the
pre-production stage. Initially, we have outlined possible video sequence ideas, and after a
discussion with the teacher and the other group members, we have decided to continue with
the production of the mysterious package.
 This idea fulfills the main task criteria regarding the visual, technical and creative
requirements.
 First, we had to invent a synopsis, script and rules, characters, a story line and action
 The follow up stage was to produce a storyboard, which we used in order to illustrate the
story and show all the changes of the scene. This storyboard was very useful, as we could
clearly see how the shots worked together and any potential problems that would not go
unnoticed. During this stage, we decided that all 3 members should work together, so that all
of us are equal in a technical and creative way.
 The next step was to plan the production. We had to make the cast, equipment, prop and
costume list, as well as do the location search.
Pre-Production

6.  This film took us only a few hours to shoot, which we filmed at a friend’s
house. In general, everything went very well, however we did have a few
camera problems. The camera didn’t want to turn on so instead, we used a
phone to film it and it turned out to work very well in the end.
Production

7. Post-production

8.  To do the post-production phase successfully, I have used the Vegas Pro video
editing program. I have started with footage import and export, image scaling
and color correction, specifically for importing raw footage and assembling
the initial video continuity sequence. Once I have placed the scenes in a
narrative structure, I have used the ‘mark in’ and ‘mark out’ tool in order to
show only specific shots. After achieving the rough edit, I’ve used
enhancement tools, such as color correction, speed and specific special
effects. Then, I moved onto sound editing and noise reduction to improve the
clarity of the dialogue, followed by some CGI caption and text design. Due to
time, I have decided to use templates at the final stage of video editing. I
have used free copyright music samples to boost the emotional impact and
viewing pleasure.