Introduction to effective use of production skills in films.

1. EFFECTIVE PRODUCTION
SKILLS.
Research into effective and / or ineffective use of production skills in all
technical areas for filmmaking.

2. Camerawork
Composition
Ensure that the arrangement of the actors / artists are effectively frame meaning there is enough
headroom and / or not too much headroom.
Explore creative ways of positioning the artists / actors and the use of props and background actors
by experimenting with different angles, composition rules like, the rule of thirds, leading lines etc.
Have a range of different angles, shots, compositions and movement instead of just one continuous
shot type, angle, movement and composition used in a sequence.
Take many takes when filming of the same sequence, so when editing you can explore more
creative ways and make a decision on which one is most effective, and reduce the risk of having an
ineffective scenes / sequences.
When filming make sure you have adjusted the levels of exposure, and contrast, avoid sharp
sources of light such as direct sunlight which may affect the actors acting and audience appeal.
Ensure to use a tripod to gain control of the camera when moving and creating different shot types,
in order to produce a professional, and visually appealing scene.

3. Editing
Always pay attention to all sources in the background of the scene this
includes props, background actors, locations and ensure there is
justification of each positioning.
Avoid use of ineffective transitions such as zoom in’s as they seem to
appear very unprofessional.
Make sure the pacing of the series of transitions are suitable /
complementary for the narrative of the sequence and construct the
intended the representation / messages.

4. Sound
Ambient sound to be at a suitable level of volume in order for the
audience to hear the characters clearly and correctly / does not disrupt
communication.
Non-diegetic / background music / incidental sound to be suited for the
product (film / advert / trailer ) at high level of quality, be creative with
the selection of music i.e. for dramatic impact.
Dialogue to be heard clearly at a suitable level of volume for audience
to hear.

5. Mise-en scene
Always make sure the use of lighting is suitable for the scene and the audience’s
point of view, it is the correct level of exposure and brightness.
Be creative with the use of costume for characters and make-up make them
representative of who the character / artist is / and or their personality or their
subtext and signifying their feelings.
Use of props should have justification, be aware of what is in frame, be creative let
the props be representative of the social group that the character is in and / or
their characterisation, (blocking).
Be ware of location each scene, don’t use inappropriate scenery e.g. corridors of
schools, make sure they fit into the narrative of the sequence.