We used basic shot choices for this preliminary task, focusing on conventional shots such as close ups, extreme close ups, wide shots and mid shots, we did not include more technical shot choices that we used in our AS thriller such as tracking shots, panning shots and overhead (birds eye veiw) shots. We also did not use any particularly challenging camerawork techniques such as focus pulls or handheld shots, but instead tried to focus on well possitioned and visually interesting frames for our shots such as that in piture 3 (below). Through research as well as spending time with the band, it was clear that thier image was vintage and that they were attempting to portray themselves as a band who are entirely non-conventional in terms of where music has moved on to from the era of music which is clearly a huge inpiration behind this band. Subsiquently, minimalistic yet intersting camera work seemed to be the most effective way of conveying this and i believe that this has worked to great effect.
Our group took turns in different roles during the shooting of the video, moving between cameraman, director and music technician. This was a good experience for everyone due to the fact that we got an all round sense of the way in which different roles during the procces each contribute toward the overall composition of the music video. In particular i found the editing of the video highly interesting as it gave me a chance to experience the way in which shooting a music video differs from shooting a short film, for example cutting to the beat of the music which is essential. During the shooting proccess itself, i feel that i enjoyed the role of being the camera man the best because i am highly interested in the technical elements of creating media products, be it music, films, music videos or photography.
I feel that the way the day was structured (switching roles periodically and learning vicariously from watching one another in our assigned roles) helped my group to work really well as a team. We were pragmatic about any issues; such as framing all seven members of the band well within a shot, and worked patiently together during the editing process to create what i believe to be an impressive standard music video for our preliminary task.
I found the editing process particularly beneficial. As i mentioned, learning how to cut tightly to the beat of the music is a simple yet highly valuable skill which i will no doubt use well in my music video practical work this year. We gave the song a relatively fast pace of editing, partially because a seven piece band is alot of people to give appropriate screen time to within the space of one song but also because of the bands 'kooky' image and the upbeat nature of the song. The primary point of focus however, in terms of screen time was clearly the lead singer as she leads the song and the bands image, hence the name 'Jane Doe and the undesirables.'
I am very pleased with the result of the day. I feel as if we have succesfully matched the image of both the band and the track with the video, largely as a result of prior research into thier desired image. The musicians and singers are all well synced to the track in the video as a result of the fact that we were taught and succesfully picked up on how to do this during the editing process. However it must not be forgotten that the band themselves were highly professional on the day and that they made working with them an oveall pleasurable experience which did help greatly.
