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Welcome, this creative journal will be done in stages and will outline the process that goes into making a short film.

I will update week to week with the progress I have made, thus far I have completed week 1 by setting up a journal, drafting a production schedule and writing a synopsis for my short film.

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proposed draft production schedule.

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A nameless traveller known by a few as vagabond, sets out to atone for his sins. As he fights himself and the path he has now chosen, dangers from the past and present shadow him. Will he change on the passage to come? Or suffer the same fate as his enemies.

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The image control quiz covered basic camera control and knowledge, which helped me understand more about the equipment I will be using on the course. I had trouble with lenses and how they function for example; the macro lens, shallow depth of field and how to create one as this is completely new to me.

After watching the videos I have become more interested in filming, because light and focus are key factors for sharp quality images. I believe trial and error will help me as I have no experience with filming, this course will be a perfect foundation for me to build on.

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I have decided to use a Nikon D3100 DSLR camera for my video production.
My other options; Samsung S8 and the JVC Everio GZ-MG275. I felt some features could affect my film in post production but having limited time I thought it would be my best option. After deciding to use the Nikon D3100 I knew audio/sound would be an issue, so I'll be using a Blue Yeti Studio mic in conjunction with filming. Also I have purchased a cheap gimbal and will be using a tripod for filming. after some test shots I realised the importance of stability as walking is extremely choppy in film.

Nikon D3100
With the ability to record in full HD this entry level DSLR camera has an edge on its previous model the D3000. with an outdated 10 megapixel sensor and no video capture, this impressive upgrade makes the D3100 a contender. Built with a 14.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, and live view option, recording in 1920x1080p for the first time. Unfortunately like all DSLR cameras it is limited due to the 4GB file size and can only take 10 minute videos.

The body of the camera has slightly been changed to support these new features but heavily resembles the D40, which is another model by Nikon. with subtle differences physically the internal components have changed significantly. Being released in mid 2010 this DSLR might be dated now in "2018" but at the time of the review it was an impressive model.

Westlake, A, Butler, R 2010, Nikon D3100 Review, Digital Photography Review, Viewed 8 April 2018
<https://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond3100>

Blue Yeti Studio Mic
The blue yeti is a quality microphone that has a USB connection, unlike other high-end recording devices. Excellent for voiceovers and music, it was the first microphone THX certified. Practical, affordable and studio quality microphone rich in sound, the only cons are physical ones and maybe picking up to much noise.

Peter, 2015, Blue Microphones Yeti USB Microphone Review, Microphone Geeks, Viewed 8 April 2018

<http://microphonegeeks.com/blue-microphones-yeti-usb-microphone-review/>

After reading reviews about the equipment I've chosen for this project, it has highlighted some weaknesses. The DSLR can only film up to 4GB files (short Videos) and the microphone I've chosen might pick up more background noise. These are a few issues I will have to look at in pre-production before I start filming.

Testing my equipment beforehand in some situations will give me a better idea of what I can achieve with the skills I currently have. The strengths thus far would be full HD video. The small files might help in the editing phase and the different options on the DSLR might be helpful in filming with poor light.

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Below is this weeks video exercise, due to Padlet and their file size restrictions I have uploaded a lower quality version.

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Journal of A Vagabond

ACT #1

The wind blows harshly over the scared land, while the sun above burns the ground. Nothing of value grows here, this unforgiving place known as the Deadzone holds many secrets, one just beyond the horizon. A great forest remains forgotten but never lost. An empty field stretching deep into the tree line reveals how dense the forest has become. This sets the tone for the weary traveller who stands in front unthreatened by the dangers before him, as if he’s inviting death to challenge him. The traveller only known as Vagabond moves forward. Noticing the light fading in the distance, he pushes further into the forest and away from any path that might have been there. Alone with night falling Vagabond is unaware of what’s to come, stumbling from the debris on the ground he encounters a strange man who offers him a place to rest. Deciding to take the offer, Vagabond rests by the fire setting in motion the Bandit’s plan.

ACT #2

With the temperature dropping rapidly and the animals of the night coming out, Vagabond takes rest beside the fire. Unphased by the Bandit’s intentions sitting across from him, he settles in for the night. The strange man begins to talk, building tension between the two. He offers Vagabond food as a gesture of faith to ease any doubt in Vagabond’s mind. Even though his plan had already begun when Vagabond accepted the tainted meat, he unknowingly became his next victim. The Bandit distracts Vagabond by telling stories until the poison took effect. Vagabond suddenly coughs up blood, he knew he had made a mistake. The Bandit admits his plan to kill him and challenges Vagabond, thinking he has the upper hand. But the Bandit ultimately fails by the sword and Vagabond’s deadly skills wielding it. Collapsing after the duel vagabond falls into a fever like dream. “Fever Dream” Where he remembers his wife being murdered, sending him on this quest to save himself from his inner demons.

ACT #3

Sunlight flickering through the tree tops, down onto Vagabond’s face. The morning sun blinding him, a refreshing feeling after the night he had. Taking a moment to reflect he moves onward as if learning a lesson. Beyond the forest he reaches his destination. Where his wife’s grave lays and he can finally rest after traveling for so long.

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Below is this weeks video exercise, due to Padlet and their file size restrictions I have uploaded a lower quality version.

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The script below is the fifth edit and most recent, after passing it amongst friends I have taken and added suggestions to get this final piece. I hope you enjoy the read.

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Below is this weeks video exercise, due to Padlet and their file size restrictions I have uploaded a lower quality version.

I found the audio difficult in this task, only using the inbuilt option on the camera. This just highlights having a second audio source is better than having one.

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The shot list I found extremely difficult to do, with limited film terminology I still have areas I need to work on. This Shot List below will be my blue print for my project. With sections I can add to such as props, gear and crew personnel, this will help me stay on track and have direction to follow but still having room to change if I need to.

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Using the Shot List I found the storyboard process easier. I chose key scenes to draw from as I found this task very time consuming, I roughly drew shapes then went back over the sketch detailing the image to give a better perspective and direction.

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Location - The two locations I have looked at thus far are Kuitpo Forest and outskirts of northern Adelaide. Kuitpo Forest will take up the majority of filming due to the story and setting of the film, I have found several locations within Kuitpo forest that will be essential. The night scenes require an open fire which suits this location, I have looked into fire bands and luckily, they have ended. Since majority of my filming will take place outside I won’t have to change the space to suit my short film. Also, minimal set dressings will be required as the natural surroundings will be the set, due to its location crowds and people won’t be a problem when shooting. My only concern will be OH&S on the days/nights when filming as I consider the set remote and not easily accessible.

Lighting -  I will need to invest time into some test shots before I make a final decision, but natural light won’t be a problem. I’ll have to compensate shooting in dusk for my night scene as I won’t have the option to bring my own lighting into Kuipto forest. Space won’t be an issue just power and the fact I don’t own lighting, I have looked into some work arounds due to this problem and I hope my shots don’t suffer for it.

Sound -The environment I’ll be shooting in will be quiet, and away from traffic and noise. I will have to be conscious of myself and surroundings to keep it as naturalas possible. I will relay heavily on two forms of audio recording, the D3100 camera itself and the Blue yeti studio microphone. The sound will be important in most scenes so I will need to do tests before hand to make sure I don’t waste time on the day/night of filming.

Support – The campsite facilities at Kuipto forest will be the centre point, I have decided to use this space as my base of operation due to location and moveability. Spending more time onsite I will be able to get the best possible shots with the limited time I have, thus giving me more room to move in other areas of filming. Since I will be camping I have to bring food, water and power with me so I can charge equipment and edit each day of filming.

Other – Since Kuitpo Forest is open to the public I won’t need to secure permission to film on site, there will also be free parking that is easily accessible. Security is minimal as the campsite is open 24/7 but due to location it won’t be a problem. Rehearsal and props will also be fine due to the remoteness of site.

OH&S - Mobiles will be on hand encase of any emergency throughout the filming process

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This equipment and props list covers the items needed for filming in Kuitpo Forest, I will use this when writing up my shooting schedule as it offers a good reference and lists all items.

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Vagabond - (28)
Born in the year of Hebi (Snake) - people born in the year of the snake are thinkers, speak very little and possess tremendous wisdom. They are fortunate in money matters and will always be able to obtain it. They are determined in what they do and hate to fail.

Vagabond is a wanderer. He Is now reflecting on his life as a undefeated master swordsman and hired assassin, a life he has now left behind him. After coming home to the brutal scene of his beautiful, innocent wife Kira and two eunuchs being killed and robbed, he is affected profoundly and this set him off on his journey to right wrongs and keep his unspoken promise to Kira, his wife. Vagabond is constantly moving, never staying in one place for very long and never going back. Vagabond's wiry build belies his strength and deadly purpose.

He has unkempt hair and beard. His outfit draws heavily from Jubilee - Ninja Scroll. With that infamous straw hat, you'll see resemblances. Vagabond has a strong moral code and is very loyal. He is a man of few words, preferring to keep a journal recording all his encounters. This short film is just a moment captured from his pages.

Bandit - (30)
Born in the year of Tatsu (Dragon) - People born in the year of the dragon are healthy. energetic, excitable, short-tempered and stubborn. However, they are honest, sensitive, brave and can inspire trust in most anyone. They are the most peculiar of the 12 signs of the Zodiac cycle.

Bandit is an assassin, he has similar professional life to Vagabond with their stories being more interconnected than you think. However, the Bandit has no moral compass and is driven by his desire to kill. You could say he is the enforcer for the other side, a killer and a thief. he has no loyalty except to himself. He's a professional for hire and his next job will connect him to his first.

Bandit is brawny and shorter than Vagabond. The Bandit uses tactics like deception and poison to gain the advantage in his encounters to make up for his lack of speed. His look is cleaner than of Vagabond, he has strong features, piercing eyes and a full beard. He is the villain of this story and ultimately pushes Vagabond to his next chapter of life.

KIRA (Wife) - (22)
Born in the year of Hitsuji (Sheep) - People born in the year of the sheep are elegant, highly accomplished in the arts, passionate about nature. At first glance, they seem to be better off then the people born in other years. They are deeply religious and passionate in whatever they do and believe in.

Kira was Vagabond's wife. She was of noble birth to the house of Dragons. Kira was young and beautiful with an hourglass figure. She had long hair and large innocent hazel eyes. Kira was brought up with traditional values and continued to live by these values. Kira loved Vagabond passionately and unconditionally, she never judged him for his past. She was a subservient wife and stayed home to tend to his every need. Her greatest joy was being a wife and she hoped to be a mother one day soon.

Their home was modest and comfortable. She spent her spare time painting and playing the flute. While Vagabond was away working he left her with trusted eunuchs to protect and help her. One night while preparing for Vagabond's return an intruder broke into their home and with the skill of a trained assassin brutally killed Kira and her servants. Kira was wearing a silk night kimono.

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Cast and Crew are Meeting Monday 14/05/18 at Kuitpo Forest Chookarloo campsite at 10:00am. We will use this day to set up the campsite for the 15th and 16th for filming. Over the day we will go over each scene and prepare the props, gear and makeup if needed to make sure things run smoothly. I will remain on site that night and the following two to make sure we capture the required shots.