We filmed this video to become more familiar with how to use a DSLR and to practice a variety of different shot types that we could possibly include in our music video. This gave us an opportunity to experiment with what DSLRs can do and to discover what would work well with the tone and message behind our music video. Editing this video also allowed up to become familiar with the process of colour grading as we investigated how the colours within a shot could alter the message it connotes.
The colour grading of some of our shots, for example, the 'Tell a Story' shot, was quite successful. It helped to add another layer of meaning to our shots as the colours conveyed a variety of different emotions. This will be useful when we edit our music video because it will make our shots more impactful and help us to illustrate the feelings expressed in the lyrics of the song.
However, there are several issues with the shots themselves. Several of our shots were out of focus, meaning that the effect we hoped to convey was lost because the image was unclear to the viewer. It is important that we made this mistake now instead of in our actual music video because it means we will be more vigilant in checking the focus of the camera and ensuring it is appropriate for the shot we are filming.
Additionally, the framing of several of our shots could be improved. Shots such as the 'Close Up' and 'Diagonals' lost their desired effect because the framing wasn't accurate. When we film our music video we could resolve this issue by regularly uploading the footage onto a laptop so we can see it on a larger screen and evaulate whether the framing is appropriate for the shot instead of relying on the small screen of the camera.
When we film our music video, we might include a handheld tracking shot because the movement can make the shots more engaging to the audience while the unsteadiness conveys a sense of fragility and instability. This will work well with the tone of the song we are using as well as the plot we wish to explore.
Overall, this has been a valuable experience because it has not only taught us how to use a DSLR but also what mistakes to avoid when we film our music video. By completing this task, we will be more prepared for producing our final production.
