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Describe areas for development in your current knowledge, understanding and skills

1.1 What is your current knowledge and understanding of film? (For example: watching film, reviewing, photography, making your own films, Youtube channel, film or media course, work experience)

At the moment, I have not had much experience whether that be with the camera director or anything as the only short film I have made was in collage where we all had roles depending on the day of filming for example I helped with lighting one day, directing another day as well as camera operator. However this film was more a thrown in the middle of it and do our best we did not get taught how to do these things so being be able to explore and get taught about each role in film will bring me lots of experience and help me.

I like watching short films online (mostly YouTube), I enjoy breaking down films to interpretation their meanings and how different things like props and lighting have been used to set a scene. The only hands-on film experience I have is I did a 50 second group short film project for collage film class.

Do you have specific areas of interest or skills in filmmaking? Include links to film work, photos, music etc.

I like the cinematography part of film as i am able to bring ideas from a director into action and create a vision that all links, and doesn't look like it has been filmed at all different times. I also usually, at collage, take the role as director to make sure everything is running smoothly the way we pictured, and finding that fits best fir the film, especially camera angles but this also links to cinematography too. However, I am open to all aspects in film such as sound effects, props, SFX lighting. etc as they do also interest me and I feel I could learn more about them over all too. I have never had experience physically writing a script so I feel as though this will b one thing, I may enjoy that would be completely new to me.

What role(s) would you see yourself taking on your Academy film? What do you hope to gain from the BFI Film Academy?

I hope to have a general hands-on experience with everything that will go into producing a short film of all aspects. Hopefully it will bring a strong base of experience or future endeavours in collage but also in the film community or future works experience or jobs.

How would you like to improve your skills or knowledge of film? Give reasons. Do you have plans to further study and work in film?

I would like to know how to use/work lightings and how camera lens is useful and the types of lenses and how they can add depth to the film. And yes, I hope to attend university and study a film/media course as it I have a huge interest and eventually get works experience maybe an apprenticeship and then get into the film workplace.

1.2 Take a role in the production of a short film

What is your production role?

Drawing the storyboard, writing the shot list, and being on hand to help as assistant director and even camera operator.

What planning will you do?

Help create the setting of an office to see what would fit best on camera, and over coming any tasks that get in our way etc having to use another part of the room to fit our actors in perfect shot.

What will you do in pre-production, production and post-production? What specific skills do you need?

To make sure everything runs smoothly pre-production, production and post/production we need to have determination to not give up on our ideas, but to keep on going even if there are obstacles in the way.

What equipment will you use?

What documents will you use and how?
Will be using scrips to make sure the actors are saying the same correct things, A storyboard to map out our ideas tto be able to show others how we imagine it to work out. Need the shot list in order to know different scenes and shots will work for on the day.

What other resources are needed to make a film?

Include any planning and pre-production work you have been involved with.

What other resources are needed in your film production? (For example locations, actors and anything else you will need)

As our whole film is set indoors, its crucial to add extras to make the setting feel realistic as well as many props for product design to make the area looked dressed correctly as an office but that also fits each colleagues personality. Ie the prankster having a messy desk.

1.3 Gain feedback on how you performed your role and share the feedback

Ask tutors and/or other Academy participants the questions below, you can write your answers, film them or record the audio

Can you tell me what I did well?

My fellow BFI participant stated ‘When others in my group decided to focus on other tasks through the day/the pre production process you would take charge over things that’s unneeded to be finished that any to stick to a time schedule. When we had finished certain tasks and your group had done you would help us with what we were struggling with using what you helped with in your groups top ours like a shot list and call list.
Laura and James: 'Emily worked brilliantly in her team. She proved to be a good, creative all-rounder. She took a leadership role when storyboarding the film and confidently took on roles including camera operating and directing.
Emily has good ideas and a strong creative vision. She has the communication skills necessary to keep a group on task.'

What were the challenges and how did I deal with them? How did I work within my team?
Laura and James: 'The group has lots of shot ideas for their film and yet understood that there would not be time to film all of their ideas. Emily learned a lot from participating in the first shoot day and used this knowledge to plan effectively for her film shoot. She worked with her team to streamline script and storyboards to ensure that they could achieve a complete film.'

Do you have any advice or areas for my development?
Laura and James: 'We would encourage Emily to get as much production experience as possible and to develop her own short film ideas.'

1.4 Review own technical skills and use of equipment

What did you do in your role?

My production role was in pre-production to make the storyboard but also the shot list, and then on the production day, I switched from camera operator, clapper-boarder and lighting through the day.

How well do you think you carried out your role in production? What were your strengths and what were your challenges?

Personally, with the shot list and storyboard that i made , it helped through the day to keep everything on track and not complicated making it run smoothly to have an idea of how each scene was going to go. However, some of them when it came to filming we had to re-think how and even where they would be shot to make it look better to make it make more sense so we decided to move our long corridor scene from a dimly lit corridor downstairs to one upstairs that created mot space to work with, but also still being able to create a smaller atmosphere with the use of camera.

In what ways did your technical filmmaking skills develop over the course of film production?

That lighting can really elevate your scene if executed correctly, such as a touch of red when someone is in danger. Also, with the use of a good  camera, and understanding of different camera angles can elevate your scene from looking good, to looking cinematic.

How far has your knowledge and understanding of film production developed?

Having documents at he ready with a full plan that everyone agrees on and is explained to them in advance is very crucial, as many different ideas can be thought of with just one description and therefore the production of the films will be a different outcome to what you imagined so communication jus key when it comes to describing your ideas.

Give examples (consider your knowledge of: technical equipment, on-set processes, production documents, post-production)

I found out that having documents such as a storyboard and shot list enabled everyone to have a clear understanding of how the day would pan out, and is critical to help throughout the day. Mapping out each scene especially beforehand to have an idea of how the scene will look on the day, once the ‘office’ set is made up.

I also learnt how to operate a professional camera, and how to be able to balance and correctly hold one depending on the height and type of shoot. For example, when we shot scene one I held the camera at a low angle having to keep checking on the cameras monitor for a red line of which determined if I was holding the camera level or not. And for the scenes I shot where I was walking around the office set mapping out what the office looks like to set the scene, the camera was places on my shoulder, this meant it was at perfect level to shoot but also it wouldn’t be as shaky if I had to hold it to the perfect height.

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Understand professional development opportunities within the film industry

2.1 Explain the working culture of the film industry

What is it like working in the film industry?
(Consider hours, travel, freelance, working on set and budget. What are the pressures? What are the positives and negatives?)
When starting this course I didn't think about freelance in film , as I always expected people to be working in company’s no matter what, however that invite has changed as freelance is a very common path that is taken especially when fist staring out in the film industry, it allows you to make a short film how you want to with no restrictions (although budget may be a problem if you decide to work this way.) However there are many offering courses offered by bigger film businesses of which give these freelance film makers money to make a short film for them, or to just elf them have that experience. Personally, and I’m surer many would agree, but i have found out that there isn’t many film businesses in smaller local areas but only in cities such as London, makeing it harder for people who have a passion in film to attend events, shoot days, or career opportunities as it may be too far away from them and feel as though they cannot justify travelling that far, although many people do decide to move to more populated areas so they are able to have more opportunities in their passion of film. Many people overlook working on film sets as there is lot of the time a lot of waiting around and many many hours stood watching, retaking, re shooting which may stop them from exploring career in film, although thi may be the cs I believe being on a set full of kind people who are passionate about heir job whether it be a runner, Gaffer, or even director it is so rewarding to see the final product or just to know at the end of the day that you’re happy with the footage or the plans that you have made to help progress the film in the best way, being able to go home and think that was a day well spent and i believe we did the best we could.

What qualities do you need to work in the film industry? (E.g. Showing initiative, taking responsibility, good time management, knowing your specialism, having good communication skills)
Give reasons for your answers.

Having good communication skills is very efficient as during pre production, film day and post production communicating with your peers helps carry the day forward having little interruptions of things going wrong, so then we can have the best outcome for the film.

Also being flexible and open to change, this related to my group from the beginning as we had so many ideas that we wanted to incorporate but at the end of the day we chose to go with those ideas that were reachable for us but still held a challenge, and that we all agreed on. This even meant that on the day of filming we chose to film the corridor scene in a totally different place than we had imagined as it was what in conclusion fit best with the film, and also enough space for whomever was on camera operator to run besides/behind out actors.

The ability to organise time, whether it be across the day, or knowing how long we should spend on certain roles (of which was recorded on a call sheet, but also speaker about on the day)

What have you learned about the working culture of the industry from masterclasses and working on your own film production?
I have learnt that team work is truly key. As if no communication was being used throughout the production of the film it will make the process more stressful and it is easier to fail at what you’re trying to accomplish. Listening to each others ideas ad having your own input (of which is polite) you will not only great relationships which makes the filming process a whole lot better but also allows you to truly understand how the production days will pan out.

2.2 Describe a range of key job roles and responsibilities in the film industry.

Director: Bringing out best in team, directing everyone in correct way not just ‘telling them what to do’ and making visual ideas a reality. Have good communication with everyone on set, making decisions.

Assistant Director: Speaking to actors on how director wants the scene to go. They’re the voice on set to keeping things moving on time, overthinking every decision to see what’s best for everyone ie get it all filmed before the sun goes down.

DOP and camera operator: They will know what lenses will be used, the visual aspect of it, listening to director on how camera moves and shot types to be used, but also making comments on how to achieve the visual aspect. (Rodger D-1917)

1 st AC and 2 nd AC: 1st Focus puller, move (with right timing) the focus to one position to another.2nd The clapper boarder. They both chance lenses, laying down makers for actors and crew so everyone is hitting their marks.

Gaffer: Bring directors lighting visuals to life.

Key Grip: Putting things together, making final tweaks to lighting and set.

Hair and Makeup: Come into work early, make actors look perfect for on camera, looking out to make sure hair and makeup looks the same all the way though.

Research 5 different roles in the production department and summarise them. Explain how the roles work together.

Executive producer- Supervise the producer on behalf of the studio's finances and security.

Producer- Taking ideas for stories and turning them into profitable films. Pulling together the perfect cast and crew. Overseeing and responsible for all aspects of films production. they also work closely with the director.

Production coordinator- Running daily operation of the production office, producing new versions of the script, organising logistics of the film.

Location manager- Finding the perfect locations for the film and managing that location duding the shoot. Negotiating fees and acquiring permissions. Working closely with directors to ensure that the location matching their original vision.

Production manager- Managing the production budget and everyone listed above, overseeing day to day production to make sure it runs smoothly, they also call 'wrap' and end of the shoot production.

2.3 Outline the potential progression routes into the film industry and wider sector

What have you learned about potential progression routes into film and connected creative industries? Research the following routes:

Apprenticeships

Candle and Bell
Sea and Sky
Smoggie Productions
Wander Films
Superkrush
Twenty Six 03
Blast Furnace
Freya Films

Although, there are many apprenticeship courses online that you can sign up for, or just even do some research tot find ones fit for you that fits into your criteria and that are local enough to you.

Entry-level jobs

Floor running
Production running
Camera trainee
Extra/background artist work

Studying at university

BA (Hons) Film, Television & Theatre Production degree at The Northern School of Art
Also Acting, Model Making & Visual FX, Costume Design and
Production Design Courses.
Film and TV Production, BA (Hons), Teesside University

Online opportunities (e.g. entering competitions, sharing work, networking)

DepicT! Festival competition
Northern Exposure short film night
ARC filmmakers
FilmHubNorth.org.uk
NE Screen Crew Academy

Film festivals

Search Film Freeway
Women X Film Festival, Darlington
Tees Valley International Film Festival, Stockton-on-Tees.
Sunderland Shorts Film Festival
Aesthetica Film Festival, York
Edinburgh International Film Festival
Encounters Film Festival, Bristol (with a particular emphasis on DepicT!)
London Short Film Festival/BFI Film Academy progression (residential courses, BAFIA mentoring and Future Skills)
Leeds Young Film Festival
Watersprite – Cambridge Student Film Festival

BFI Film Academy progression (residential courses, BAFTA mentoring and Future Skills)Shadowing opportunities with crew met through the BFI Academy Programme

Scott Coulter, DoP
Kiri Nicholetts, Gaffer
Phil Quinton, Sound Recordist
John Noble, Production Designer
Maxy Bianco, Director

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3.1 Be able to develop effective working relationships with film production team members

What are the different teams in your production?

In our group we all have mixed roles of what we feel each of us will do on day of filming, such as:

Director, Assistant Director, Camera Operator, Producer, Actors, Sound/Foley, Script Writer, Extras and editing-post production.

How do they work together? For example, how did your team work together to prepare for the shoot? Also, during production and post-production?

For pre-production, our group decided to go through shot by shot of how the shoot day was going to go, I then created the story board to match these ideas. This helped us decided how each scene would be filmed. For example, the over shoulder tracking shot of our main actor we first decided to only have that shot of him being jump scared and only seeing his reaction through that shot, however when we planned it out, we decided it would work best if we cut from that scene when he is getting scared to another angle of him getting scared so we were able to see the fear and panic in the actors face.

Why is it important that production teams work well together?

It is important so that on shoot day everyone involved has a clear understanding on how he day will pan out, as filmmaking is a collaborative process and if everyone has different ideas on how the day will go then you will begin to face some difficulties. Nd ultimately, if the day run smoothly and the production team is strong and have strong ideas, the filmmaking experience will be more enjoyable and successful for all involved.

Give an example of when your production team/s worked well together.

We worked together in post production by writing the script together and talking through what is going to happen throughout and the story line basis ideas.

What can happen if there isn’t good teamwork?

As everyone is wanting the same outcome, for the production of the film to run smoothly and be a great finished product. There's sometimes quite a lot of stress behind camera so if everyone isn't working together, the whole process can then get dragged down and take much more time then needed, and mistakes might happen on or off camera that could've been avoided.

Was there an example of when teamwork could have been better on your film production? How did this affect the production process?

An example of this would've been when the script had been changed although not everyone had agreed or even been there to agree therefore that led to miss communication between a few people in our group however we overcame this by talking it through and adding reasons to why we for example needed to cut lines to help with the short snappy comedy element of the film rather than the original heartfelt feel to it.

3.2 Identify the qualities needed to work well with others

What are the most important qualities for working well as part of a film production team?

I believe that communication is the most important quality, leadership also links in its this as communicating to other members of the crew from a directors point of view allows them to gain respect from everyone even if plans begin to change.

Knowledge of Film and TV production therefore you have experience on what you are trying to archive and how to succeed in it as it would be tricky to throw yourself it to the deep end without any support or knowledge.

The attention to detail especially from a script secretary who has to write notes about every minor change that is happening to allow ease in post-production editing.

How did you show the following, give examples:

Good timekeeping

By getting tasks done such as safety sheet before out production day and not having to rush to make one on the morning or just last minute, the same with thr shot list and also call sheet.

Also arriving on time or even before on shoot days to allow extra time to perfect things like set design and getting everyone into costume without wasting valuable time.

Being reliable

When been given our own roles to do for pre production, I as an individual made a shot list and also storyboard therefore people in my group but also other groups were able to rely on me having those ready for when they were needed for shoot day but also there before shoot day if anyone wanted to look through them to be prepared in advance for the shoot day, having an understanding of what will happen.

Sharing ideas

As a group, we collectively added our own opinions of what the film should be about from the beginning, of which most of those ideas got merged together and with some feedback we were able to form a structured Short Film that we each agreed on.

Good communication

Being able to maintain good communication with my groups and the other groups meant that when it came to the shoot day and setting people in their roles they weren’t confused by what they had to do for example the background cast were informed of what to wear in advance of the day.

Safe working

As we worked in a small room most of the day for out film it meant that there was a lot of props and wires around that anyone could’ve tripped on so by asking members of the crew who did not have roles at that time to remain seated meant that there wasn’t any complications of tripping over or even nocking lights so fortunately the day ran smoothly.

3.3 Describe how you worked with others collaboratively on your film production

I worked well with others during the film production as I was able to send people the storyboard that I had made so they could have a clearer understanding of how each scene would act out. Therefore this also helped our actors to know how they were acting, and what their lines were and when, planning ahead of time is such a great quality to stick by. During the film day, we each tried different crew member roles teaching each other what we had just learnt about that skill for example, how to make notes as a script secretary so it is easier for them but also so we have no delay on timing of the shoot day, wasting unnecessary time.

How did you work with others in the crew?
Give an example of when you worked well with your team.

Following effective communication, collaboration, and respect for each other. On the shoot day, a member of our group decided they would take charge as director, although this was great as we had a solid person to describe what our visions were to those who came in to help on the shoot day, they did also describe a few scenes unlike how we all imagined them to go, so by talking it through with them re showing the storyboard this allowed them to get a clear understanding that everyone agreed on, rather than changing the scene choices on the day of shooting.

Were there any problems you needed to overcome? Give examples: How could you improve your ability to work with others?

By taking into considerations everyone’s ideas to piece into our final piece, this meant coming to a formal agreement on what we think will work best even if we have to sacrifice a moment or idea that we loved. For example, I thought it would be a good idea to add a few scenes that included a calendar that during each cut of the scenes, different dates would be crossed out to show the passing of time, but when we decided to make it more complex and go for the passing of time on a coach in the background, however we sacrificed both of those ideas as it would’ve added more stress on the film day of where to actually place the clock and still have it seamlessly be in frame and finding a way where we wouldn’t have to mount it on the wall without wrecking it, so we opted to how the passing of time through how the room gets darker in the office that will be added in during post-production editing.

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Understand film industry working practices and legislation

4.1 Demonstrate good health and safety practice when working on film productions

Why is health and safety important when working on film productions? What are some of the key safety issues relating to film production?

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W1UONwHZaQv6S6UbTyHuqfZmX4FgbNfz/mobilebasic

Its important so people specially actors on set don’t get injured, but also so people involved such as directors don’t get a full blame so having those safety rules involved can be very important and could also save lives. The Hazard is the thing that can hurt you, for example a table so the overall table can be the thing that hurts you, however the risk is how likely it is to hurt you and how badly it is.

How did you apply good health and safety practice when making your film? Include your risk assessment and explain why this is important.

To be able to know what risks may get in your way during filming day, for example when we made the corridor scene there is a shot where the main character is being chased and the camera operator will also have to run along with him. Therefore there is a risk of the actors falling but also the camera operator and he is holding a very expensive camera.

4.2 Explain why copyright is important in the film industry

What is Copyright?

Copyright protects the visual images and accompanying sounds of 'cinematographic films'. Cinematographic films includes feature films, TV programs, documentaries, short films, home videos, animated films and cartoons, television commercials, video podcasts and some multimedia products such as computer games.

Copyright is around as most of the time unless sponsored, actors wouldn’t be allowed to wear any form of branded clothing.

Why does copyright law exist?

Copy right laws exist to protect their creative works against thieft,  ensuring that creators have control over their work and be rewarded for what they have done not having to worry about it being copied and stolen.

So that people don’t abuse the fact of wearing other brands clothing.

What kind of work is covered by copyright?

Creative works like videos, films, short films, photographs, books, poems, paintings, songs, software etc..

What might happen if you were to use copyrighted material in your film? How can you make sure not to infringe copyright law in your film?

If you were to use copyrighted material in your film, most likely it would lead to legal consequences such as being sued. If you wanted to used copyrighted material in your film you would have to obtain proper licenses or permission for any copyrighted you want to use.

How has copyright law and other IP regulation affected your film production?

When in post production editing, if we needed any music we wouldn’t be able to use copyrighted music/sound therefore we will have to look for  un copyrighted  music/sound to add onto the background.

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Be able to review film productions

Review and critique at least one short film production

The short film I have decided to write about is named ‘Cautionary Tales’ it’s description is “A bizarre incident as a young boy left Aaron with an unusual, facial disfigurement that has plagued him all of his life. Isolated, and then vulnerable, Aaron seeks comfort in the friendship and understanding of an unexpected group of outcasts.”  I had been introduced to this film as while ago, however i was reintroduced to it by my film teacher at collage, and i knew this was the perfect film to review. The short Film ‘Cautionary Tales’ was made and shot and released in England in 2016. The directors for the film are Christopher Barrett and Luke Taylor who work together for the company ‘Us’ and have both directed Harry Styles’ famous ‘Kiwi’ music video. In this short film, we are immediately met with a man with an unusual face, following him on his journey to a group meeting of where we find out why this man 'Aaron' is so miserable and looks the way he does, seeking comfort in the group meeting as we begin see people similar to Aaron with their own story's even someone who is exactly like Aaron.
In this film, it portrays the different "cautionary tales" that parents tell their children to stop their children from doing those things, for example, Aaron's mouth is stretched as, as a kid he pulled it with his fingers even when his mother told him not to saying how the wind will change and your face will stay like that.

From the beginning of the film, it's set out so the audience can react with it in with an active manor, creating enigma codes of who this person is, why are they sad, why they look the way they do, where are they and also where are they going/travelling to. This also shows the effects of bullying making the victim regret their own life choices making them ultimately sad. This therefore entices the audience, especially with the use of slow paced editing keeping this melancholy mood of Aaron making his way to somewhere were disclosed with at that time.
Personally, I believe this short film was a heartfelt, dark-humoured comedy. The heartfelt element started from the very beginning, and was also more impactful then, as we are immediatly met with a wide angle shot, dropping us into the middle of the park seeing only the back of the main character, Aaron, sitting all alone on a bench, whilst melancholy music followed faintly in the background setting this isolated feel to the film. There was also foreshadowing used when the title of the film is shown, linking to the 'wind changing' reference, an early explanation of Aarons face. These long emotional scenes at the beginning set an atmosphere of sadness where you feel sorry for the character Aaron were most likely chosen by the director but could have also been the editor, instead of cutting these scenes and keeping them prolonged its like we are almost feeling Aarons sadness having him and us lingering with his thoughts (on the bus scene) However, as the film goes on and Aaron arrives at the group meeting the shots begin to feel more pacy and include lots more cuts, and the melancholy music fades, this is so the theme of comedy can be introduced before any actual dialogue is said. As the main focus is on Aaron and not location, our attention is not drawn towards the setting, however by having Aaron sitting in a big field of grass at the start truly implies his loneliness. Even again when he is on a semi full bus, we begin as an audience peace together that this is in the Uk due to the driver on the bus, the teens in school uniform and the layout of the bus, a very familiar setting to those living in the UK. This entices the audience bringing the sense of realism to this film for them to relate to. Sticking to the theme of comedy when we are introduced to each character they each say their names and by having a mid shot it allows us to not get distracted by the other characters and understand the speaking character more, and laugh at the comedic references, for example when Alice lies about her name then we can piece together why she is here at group meeting without being told (her big nose). After we go around the group, the character of Aaron has a short monologue there we learn a lot about Aaron, brining that heartfelt element back into the film as he talks about how his face ended up the way it is, wishing he listened to his mum, at that time, the melancholy music begins to fade back in allowing the audience to feel that pity for Aaron to know how he's feeling in that moment. Until the door opens and we are met with a woman who looks just like Aaron, so as soon as we see their similarities we then get a close up reaction shot of Aaron, showing how things have changed now for him, and how he may have a chance of finding that love that he is searching for, and grieving over (referenced earlier on the bus with the two teenagers).However, the only thing that I would've changed about this scene is when the lady who looks similar to Aaron walks in, we see a glance of her face before she turns her back on the camera and the people she is speaking to in the group (to put her coat up), then turning back around to to camera, as though she is ultimately revealing herself to the audience but also Aaron, then seeing that Aaron looks just like her. I felt as though if the camera was positioned either to the far right or left of her so we only saw the back of her head when she walks in the element of surprise would have been more impactful, as we would also be seeing this reveal with both of their characters, (the girl and Aaron) and how they both feel calm and 'accepted' in a way now.

I believe this film is aimed at adults as it opens up memory's of what their parents would to say to them or perhaps what they say to their own children. Also because the cast is mostly adults apart from 3 actors therefore that relates to adults more if they're seeing people their own age on screen, but the audience could just be anyone that isn't a child and who would understand the concept and the message that was being brought forward. And although i am not an adult I could relate with movie as it brought a sense of nostalgia to me as my mum would also say such tales to me as a young child.
I would definitely recommend this short film, and I already have. As I believe it carried elements that I believe truly fit a short film criteria, with good use in music, a general theme (emotional) having a reason or even plot to it that make it special. Although non-dialogue short films are some of my favourite, I do believe the dialogue is necessary in this especially as it adds that element of comedy that I think is needed to be extra enjoyable to watch and not just depressing all the way through as though it is an advert for bullying.

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Date: 18/11/23 - The Kite film
What did you do?
I was the script secretary for the beginning of the day, this meant taking notes of each take, keeping everything organised making sure props have not been moved since the last take.
Later on in the day, I also helped with set design clearing out the space, and also had control of remembering the scenes and takes we were on as I worked with the clapper board.
What have you learnt?
I learnt that it is better to film film the scenes not in order, especially with this film as the majority of filming was outside. Therefore that meant there was a risk that it would become very dark at any moment or even start raining so getting those scenes outside shot early in the morning was important so that it kept clear and bright outside every time an outdoor scene was shown.

How have you worked with others?
By being script secretary I had to stay close to the director of that scene as I needed to add notes of how they felt about that scene if they liked it or not so that when it came to editing, the editor was able to read those notes and know which shot was best.
What do you need to develop?
Maybe trying out being a sound operator, holding the mic

Date: 2/12/2023 -My groups short film 'Colleagues'
1. What did you do?
I took on various roles throughout the day, ensuring that I found myself swapping and getting to know/getting experience with different roles. This helped me further understand which roles I prefer more than others, for example I did not like script secretary all that much as I felt I wasn’t picking up on those small details that needed to be wrote down in the notes section if certain things had changed.

2. What have you learnt?
That working as a team and sharing our ideas helps massively especially when we only have a day to shoot everything. Also, that having an iPad to check on what was in frame or not in frame during filming to manage what was going on and moving that's  that are in the way, catching things you may not have if just sat back and watched it being filmed rather than what was being filmed.

3. How have you worked with others?
Through communication, discussing what we think would fit best in the out come of our film. Especially when coming up with the storyline of our short film, knowing what will make more sense in a 3 minute film and so it doesn’t seem like its missing anything major.

4. What do you need to develop?

Even if ideas were to use hand held to still shoot some scenes using a tripod

Date: 9/12/23 - All eyes in me
What did you do?
On this shoot day, I worked primarily on set design. Creating what looked like an office meting space into a friendly, noon-intimidating, therapy group circle, adding small props like a personal coffee table for the host/therapist along with a half filled cup of black coffee to show how they may have been sat awhile before the main character of the film got there..
However, on the morning on this shoot day, i made a quick call sheet, so that we knew how the scenes would go, who would be in them, and also know when we were having breaks during that day.
What have you learnt?
I have learnt that even things like putting SFX makeup on takes a decent amount of time, as well as set design, as adding small details are key so the send product looks good on camera.
How have you worked with others?
Communicating with others on opinions on such things like how bright the SFX makeup should be to keep that realistic feel but also be able to show up on camera, and finding a way around the makeup just looking the same on everyone.
What do you need to develop?
On this day, I believe I could’ve taken on more roles as I j most of the time helped with script secretary and watching the monitor and talking to the assisted director/directors on any notes that i had, for example if there was something like a chair in the back of the shot, saying how it looks out of place or should be moved o make it look better on camera, then moving it away.

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2.3 (Continued) Personal Progression Plan

What opportunities for your own progression have you found out about?

To not be scared to apply to lots of short courses, as there’s lots of online courses also and most of them are free so why not give it a shot. There’s places like Smoggy films, Newcastle film club and NE14. This can also include doing extras work and being a runner for these film company’s as it gives you a sense of what its like behind the scenes before you get involved directing, cinematographer etc, all experience helps no matter which way you get into the film industry.

What areas/ specialisms in creative media would you like to work in?

I would like to work closely to assistant director/director script recorder as they are the roles I believe I would fit to best as being able to fit you and your own style into your own work seems amazing, and having such a big impact on the film.

Would you like to further study film / creative media?

I would like to further study film and media in university, as I am doing 3 A levels at the moment, two of which are Film and media studies as I enjoy them both, being able to create a short film is something i feel very strongly about, being able to add your own creative taste into it for others or even yourself to enjoy. However, recently I have been researching Film apprenticeship to get into as it will give me that hands on experience, although without getting a qualification and I would have to know what part in a film crew I would primarily want to be apart so having that experience in university learning more about each role will get me knowing what I would like to do in the future.

What courses interest you? Give reasons

I have been researching a few Universities and their courses, and I have found some good courses such as film, photography and media, English and film studies, film studies, film and media; and film practices.

Which local media companies would you be interested in working with? Give reasons

A  company I have recently heard about is Smoggy films, who are very local to me, located in Teesside, they are created by four passionate Teesside University film graduates whose goal is to create studio quality videography, advertisements and online content! Duo to location this means it would be easier for me to access them as a collage student as at the moment I'm not able to travel far, and as they have smaller than most crew it means that I may be able to have a closer look and listen to all of the different roles to find which I like best for the future.

What are the options for making your own content

There is plenty of opportunities out there who are willing to work with young aspiring film makers so you could collaborate with others in groups. However, it is also easy if you have the time to do make your own content by yourself, as long as you have something to film on eg a phone and an app to edit with eg something like premier pro or even imovie (which is free to use), it really doesn't matter then you're good to go, you could even be your own actor and film yourself as it can give you experience's and you can do a few short films by yourself giving you experience to then finally do it with a bigger team.

What would you make and how?

I love making short and meaningful films, especially those with non-dialogue as you can focus more on enticing yourself into the film feeling the music, and actions that are happening. However I am going to venture mor into script writing and hopefully write some decent screen plays/ideas to then be filmed.

What are the options for funding and distribution? What networks will you join?

I am hopefully going to have a look into some short film company’s near me or even venture out and try to get experience with people like the BBC. However at the moment i will stick to very low budget short films that will be supplied by my own money.

What do you hope to gain from these networks? Are there other opportunities you are interested in? What are your next steps?

My next steps will be to do as best as i can in my A levels, to then get enough qualifications to get into a University of where I will then do Film.

What opportunities for your own progression have you found out about?

To not be scared to apply to lots of short courses, as there’s lots of online courses also and most of them are free so why not give it a shot. There’s places like Smoggy films,  Newcastle film club and NE14. This can also include doing extras work and being a runner for these film company’s as it gives you a sense of what its like behind the scenes before you get involved directing, cinematographer etc, all experience helps no matter which way you get into the film industry.

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Industry Speaker:

Laura:
is now a freelance filmmaker creating  documentaries and writing and making original short films with community groups.

How did they start working in film/media?
She did work experience in the research dept at Hart Ryan factual production company. She was a runner at Kudos Film and TV, then eventually got a position and salary there which led to many job experiences
What is their job? What does it involve?
She is a writer/director, this involves her writing scripts, watch films, put together mood/story boards, camera plans and communicating with members of pre production and crew on filming day.
What have they done in their career?
Have been a freelance reader at the BBC, development, been apart of lots of writer/director opportunities with funding, She has also been a director of music videos, funded by record labels.

James:
is now a a children’s author, actor and work-shopper.

How did they start working in film/media?
He went to university and studied model making, however wanted to work in special effects since 1996. And first started his journey with special effects with his friends when making short films as it was his first SFX gig.
What is their job? What does it involve?
What have they done in their career?
Made many short movies such as Curse of Jeff, Space Time Envelope and many more. Working with places like the BBC, ITV and Channel 4.

John Noble: Is a production designer

How did they start working in film/media?

He began making films when he was young, around 14/15 this allowed him to gain experience for him to work with others interested in film and carry his love for it. Then attending university specialising in Tv art, making realistic props.
What is their job? What does it involve?

He is a production designer, meaning he is responsible for creating the visual look that a director may have asked him to make. Hopefully capturing those visions.
What have they done in their career?

He has made props for many feature films, TV shows and even theatre props. An example of a film he has made props for is 'batman Begins'.

Lana:
How did they start working in film/media?
She herself, participated in a BFI film academy and BFI crafts skills course, this grew her love further for filmmaking. So afterwards. She began pursuing a career in film and TV production. Which involved going to networking events where’s he met local industry professionals and then began working with smoggie films on their short films and recent feature film as a runner and 2nd AC. Which kickstarted hr career in the industry building her experience
What is their job? What does it involve?
At the moment, Lana is a freelance film maker, she works with Smoggie Films, Film In Newcastle, In The Frame and Terabitha Pictures. Specialising in the role of production designer which involves sourcing props, dressing the set during filming and ensuring continuity.
What have they done in their career?
She has worked on a range of short films with Terabithia Pictures with different genres including romance, comedy and thriller which allowed range of experience in set design as each genre needed its own individual style. She also does BTS photography work. She has also done some work as a supporting artist as a way to gain experience on more established productions such as Vera and The Dumping Ground.

John Kirkbride:
How did they start working in film/media?
He started by asking local bands if they wanted music videos, as he would film and edit them for them. This then led to him being asked by other people asking him for different work whether it be editing or filming..
What is their job? What does it involve?
He is an editor, adding his own artistic expression into the films he has edited.
What have they done in their career?
He has worked with company’s like Paramount  had connections to asked him to come and help film behind the scenes, SUBPOP and the BBC, where he has edited a project that is yet to be fund and released.

Mark Harrison:
How did they start working in film/media?
He originally just started making film reviews for fun, whether they were detailed or not to get his experience up as he enjoyed talking about films that he watched, criticising or praising them, and also just enjoyed writing.
What is their job? What does it involve?
He writes reviews for films, whether or not he is commissioned and asked to write them or just writes them for fun.
What have they done in their career?
He wrote a review for a famous movie - Horrible Histories the Movie- and his comment is on the front cover of the dvd, it states “Maximus hilarious, it’s an absolute blast”.

What have you learnt about working in film/media?

When working in the film industry and you are always using your brain and its creative ideas having many different people coming ups with ideas it is hard to settle at a mid ground so everyone is incorporated into it however you find yourself taking more interest in other areas more so than others, such as script writing and/or lighting.

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Please include production photos, any behind the scenes footage, scripts, storyboards and other key production documents and a link to the finished film.

What was your role in pre-production and what did you do?

My role in pre-production was helping proofread the script, I also made a storyboard of the whole film whilst reading the script and mapping out how everything would look on our pre-production planning day before the shoot day.

What was your role on the shoot?

Lighting/gaffer, I took on this role at the beginning of the day where whe we decided to shoot  the’ corridor scene’ i helped hold and angle the reflector board of which made the actors face appear frightened with the use of using the black side of it giving him a show on his face, setting the mood of the scene/shot.

Set design, as i arrived to shoot day early, this meant that i was able to set a draft plan of how the office was to be set out, for example which way the desks would be facing to make it appear more office like, ad what would be easier and work well with out scenes on camera. I also brought some props in from home that were added to the set, making the space feel truly like an office with each desk having its own personality.

Camera, throughout the day, I shot a few handheld camera scenes following the storyboard structure and shot lit that i had previously t made meeting angles such as close ups, tracking shots and even wide angle shots, that we all had collectively decided on that we thought fit the scene best.

Script secretary

What equipment and skills did you need to apply to your role?

As I helped on lighting, it meant that I had to use things like reflective lighting boards.

When on camera operator, we used a hand held camera , that is made more for documentary style films/videos as it was small and less heavy then the other csmera used for the other films.

How well prepared do you feel we were for the shoot?

I feel as though we were prepared for the shoot as we has a few pre production lessons to perfect the script and our storyline so it kept short whilst still keeping meaning.

Also having those days allowed us to map out where would look best dressed as an office but then also how tables would be set to make it have that realism whilst not posing a challenge for the camera operator.

Explain. What changes had to be made and why?

Things that got changed was that we had to change corridor location as we felt the space area was better for the actors. Also,  the bin upstairs was in the way… so couldn’t re shoot without. Has to put wig on Sienna as well as Elliott as the hair colour wouldn’t have matched.

Did you have any feedback or advice from tutors / others on set? In what ways did you improve your own knowledge and skills?

I learnt that working with  the clapperboard is actually difficult as you have to ensure you have the correct take, scene information on the board so when it comes to editing it does not become confusing of which scene goes where, and so you can match it up with the script secularly notes. I also learnt that you must keep a clear loud voice when reading the clapperboard so in post-production it is easy to add the sound over the top of the scene. Also, when having an already focused close up shot of an actor when putting the clapperboard Nedra to their face to ensure you don’t shut it too loud near their face as its so close it could hurt their ears and/or even get them out of character.

Who did you work with on set? How do you feel you worked with others on set?

As specialists in specific areas of film came in, this helped me tot have a more better view on what field i would like to work in. Kiri, who helped us with lighting showed me how different equipment can change the look and feel of what we see on film, how with use of the reflection board can accentuate an actors face ie : with a lighter side can make them look happy or even overwhelmed however with the black side can instantly show their fear and set a gloomy atmosphere.

What did you learn about how a film crew work together on a shoot?

The main thing that I learnt was that communication is truly key, and that you should treat everyone on set with respect as everyone that is their, is there to help you get the best outcome of your film. Therefore working together in tight time spaces and literally tight spaces means that for things to run smoothly everyone needs to be n task as it helps everyone in the long run. It’s good having people ff at the side watching the small monitor being able to see what is on screen and having a script secretary making notes so its always nice if people are following along and actually helping the script secretary as they may not have noticed some key things such as a water bottle being faced a specific way but in the next shot it has been completely moved and hen by them helping this,. It means that they’re helping the editor, as people who are going to edit it wont have that stress of the two scenes that are gang to be put directly together look completely different.

for filmmaking? (Time management, health and safety, being reliable and coping with on set demands.)

With the use of a call sheet we were able to manage that we would shoot our longest scene first (the corridor scene) which once everything is set up would take us around 1hr 30mins of which it did leaving our lunch to be around 12/12:30 and then we were ready for the rest of our scenes in the other 3/ 3 1/2 hour time frame. As our film was shot primarily in one location - the office area-  this meant that we didn’t have to worry about moving equipment moving around and we didn’t have to worry about the sound being defaulted by the wind, if we were to film outside.

Overall – How do you feel the shoot went? What went well/ didn’t go well? What would you improve on?

day went brilliantly, as we didn't have disruptions like weather as it was all set indoors, no troubling background noise that would've ruined it. The set designed truly made you feel like you were in an office too which is amazing to not only feel it through the screen but also in real life.

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Me working with the clapper board - 3/12/23

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Me working as camera operator, shooting scene 1

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Looking over monitor, making notes as joint script secretary .

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BTS- ‘All eyes on me’ SFX makeup being done 

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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1P2YtffzfeaXHClkqdsPJyw6ecbI9yhHU/view?usp=drive_link