Continuity 1 - Analysis

Here is a link to the continuity piece that my group produced. Click Here.

Analysis

Holding a shot steady, where appropriate;

-Every shot we used was steady because of our use of the tripod, we didn't believe it was necessary to add shake to the shots for atmosphere/tension.

Framing a shot, including and excluding elements as appropriate;

-Regarding the shots set on the staircase we framed it so that Nina was as central as possible to show that she was alone, that she was doing something she wasn't meant to.

-During the conversation when shot reverse-shot was used we decided to frame in the shoulder in an attempt to engage the viewr in the conversation.

Using a variety of shot distances as appropriate;

-I believed we fufilled this very well by using closer shots when necessary (such as during the conversation) while you using more distant in other, for example while she is on her way to the room.

Shooting material appropriate to the task set;

-I believe that our shooting material such as our plans and the shots we actually used were appropriate because they helped us achieve a shot reverse-shot, follow the 180-degree rule and match on action.

Selecting mise-en-scène including colour, figure, lighting, objects and setting;

-Both Nina and Femi are both wearing heads to show that they are being rebelious or that they are rebelious characters.

-We had files and posters in the ackground to make it obvious that the scene had been shot in a school.

Editing so that meaning is apparent to the viewer;

-I believe that we as a group edited in the best way and that is where it is not obvious, the clip is smooth and the meaning and what is going on is clear for the viewer to understand.

Using varied shot transitions and other effects selectively and appropriately for the task set;

-We decided to keep the transitions to a minimum and basic level, this is because if too many were used the clip wouldn't flow as it should.

Using sound with images and editing appropriately for the task set;

-We didn't touch up the sound used which is one of the negatives of our continuity piece.

Using titles appropriately;

-I believe the titles were used efficiently but the end credits did remain on screen for longer than necessary.

On final analysis I would say that our continuity piece is a strong first attempt and from it we have learnt many lessons regarding the filming and planning aspects of making a film/shooting a scene. If I would do anything differently next time or when it comes to making the final 2-min clip I would plan a lot more and do a vast amount of research and learn from mistakes made by film-makers much more experienced than myself. I would also try to edit the sound properly to make sure that is level and use more mobile/moving shots because in my opinion the tripod was over-used and that results in the clip feeling very stationary.

- Nicholas Ajagbe