2. After analysing the functions on a DSLR camera, I have
devised a small guide highlighting them, and outlining
the importance of these particular functions in our
project.
ISO
White Balance
Shutter Speed
Aperture
3. The ISO generally refers to the brightness of a shot, the
range usually being 100 – 6400.
It is clear that an ISO of 6400 should never be
used, since having such a high brightness effects the
quality of the video, making it grainy.
Considering our project, the script requires a majority of
shots with very little visible light on set, and since turning
up the ISO is not an option we may need some
additional lights. To find a way to subtly lighten the
subject of a shot with keeping the scene realistic enough
to be interpreted as a shot at night, (or in a dark
situation).
4. The white balance refers to the colours in a
shot, however the default option in a camera may be
slightly lacking, de-saturating the colours. I have
discovered that the way to solve this is to take a picture
of a white sheet of paper, and set it as a custom white
balance, this makes the colours seem more
vibrant, which could give us an easier time in the colour
grading step of post production, since horror requires a
heavy grade, and these extra colours allows us to
manipulate them more.
5. Shutter speed refers to the amount of movement in a
frame that will be captured.
Since it is most likely that we are going to record in 60fps
instead of the industry standard which is 24fps
(increased fps for slow motion) it is likely that we are
going to need a higher shutter speed, since more
movement information will be needed.
I discovered that the shutter speed should usually be
double the fps, which is 60, so therefore it is sensible to
set it to 120 for a sharper and more stable resolution.
6. Aperture refers to the amount of light the camera lets in.
Since increasing the ISO as a source of light is of
limits, it is a sensible idea to use an aperture method.
This is where the aperture is set to the lowest setting
possible, letting in as much light as possible. Also using
a manual light to control the brightness of the shot. This
will be the best option for us, allowing us to gain a high
quality, well-lit video.
This low aperture setting will also contribute to the depth
of field, making the focal length very short, giving the
shot a professional, and cinematic look.
7. After considering the
response we received from
the preliminary task, we
discovered that sound, was
one of the main elements
that we needed to improve.
We used the ‘Guerilla Film
Makers’ book to find some
helpful tips we should
consider for our project.
