Movie Learning
// September 1st, 2009 // Entertainment, Filmmaking, Thoughts
Well I finished filming for my short film last night. I’ll start putting up clips and bits of the script this week. I wanted to know that I could finish before I started tossing things out there.
I’ve learned many lessons about filmography from this little endeavor. First and foremost, I’ve learned that I need to take a class for this if I’m going to continue to write and participate in the industry.
Lighting : Wow. It’s such a key element in film but such an art to compose a scene with correct lighting. I filmed some outside only to find out that the professionals light then stop down in post production. Indoors, I tried to add angled light sources as best I could but my budget is such ($0) that I had to use what was available, lamps and such. I have a lot to learn.
Camera : I’m using a cheap HD Sanyo handheld. I chose it because 1) It’s digital, 2) I can adjust white balance, aperture/exposure and a few other factors. However, it only autofocuses. I always heard this can be a problem but didn’t realize how much of one. Had to do some takes several times just to compensate for this. There will still be some focus issues in the final product too, thanks to my lack of lighting knowledge outdoors at night. Other than those things, the picture is fair. I’ll invest in a “real, film quality” camera when I am able to. I believe then I will be known as a “prosumer” instead of “consumer”.
Audio : Ugh. I need a directional microphone. Another cost issue. As it stands, I re-recorded most of the noises/lines and will do what I can to clean it all up.
Summary : I only scratched the surface of the things I need to learn but I’m glad I did this project. I have a great respect for all of the Indie film folks out there who produce such quality work.
Update soon!
