On the 4th February, we filmed the preliminary task. Due to some changes in the group, we were unable to complete the task to the best of our ability. This is shown in the sequence as some of the dialogue and shots do not match up.

On the 9th February we edited the shots and compiled the video using final cut pro, which is industry standard editing software.

01. What did you learn about the cameras and editing software during the preliminary task?

We learnt how to operate the camera and how to use final cut pro. Although our preliminary task was not completed to the standard of which we hoped it would be, we have learnt from our mistakes. This includes some of the ways of editing that we did not expect were possible before now.

We also found that filming for a motion picture was not as easy as we first thought it would have been as you have to plan all of your shots before filming, as it is far easier to edit when you have your production fully planned out before filming and editing. What we have learned from learning final cut pro is that you have the advantage of being able to easily change what you have edited if what you have made did not flow properly, or if it did not make sense.

The advantage that we have gained from completing the preliminary task is that we know know how to use a video camcorder, and also how to use final cut pro, which is industry standard editing software and will allow is to create a professional looking start to a film production.

02. In the filming and editing of your project, what worked well and what could have been improved?

As a group we worked well together, and this has let all members of the group have an equal input as to what has been done to the video during both the filming, and the editing stages of our preliminary task. We found that although our preliminary task was far from perfect; we adapted well to time constraints and changing circumstances. Some of our shots that worked well were the shot reverse shot, however the dialogue did not match properly and this made our scene makes less sense. We did not however break the 180* rule so this conforms with the way in which one would expect to edit any type of media text. Our continuity editing could have been improved, as one of our protagonists was holding a pen in one shot, and then in the next he was not.

03. Give a detailed, specific example of how you used shot/ reverse shot combination in your film.

In the preliminary task we used a shot reverse shot when the two characters were talking, this was used as it makes the conversation more realistic and can capture the attention of a more avid viewer. The use of the shot reverse shot also helps the user establish who is talking to who.

04. How did you make sure you did not break the 180 degree rule? If you did what did you learn from this?

To avoid breaking the 180 degree rule, we made sure we positioned the camera correctly, so we didn't cross the line on either side of the characters, and kept it on the left hand side of the table. If we were to cross the camera to the other side, it would not make sense.