Studio Lesson 2: Sequences and 180 degree rule

In our lesson today we were successfully taught about more concepts of individual camera work and we gained many more skills from completing this. For instance, we were firstly introduced to a technique involving the ‘180 degree rule’. This rule was educated to us as this is used as a guideline based on the relationship of the surroundings, objects and characters in the scene. There's an imaginary line called "The Axis" to keep the camera on the other side so the characters can connect on the other side. This rule helps to provide a clear understanding about the positions and layout out of the scene to achieve a successful shot without portraying careless skills. I notably accepted to not go beyond the ‘180 degree line’ as this directs us to seek disorientated aspects to members of the audience and similarly the characters will automatically look inaccurate. This sense of a consistent space is sustained by the use of techniques, for example, the eye line match or match on action.

 

Progressing from this, we were taught about key aspects of how to build successful sequences. For instance, we gained a stimulus of focusing on one particular object, my group chose a torch as it was easy to see and manageable to work with.  We primarily started out by discussing important, compulsory, relevant shots needed. Initially I processed the idea to start with a wide shot to allow the audience to become familiar with the location and the scene set. We produced a short sequence, starting with a wide, mid shot and smoothly transitioning to a close up shot of the characters faces to appreciate their facial reactions and apply a connection. Our aim was to produce an extreme close up shot of the main focus of the torch being placed in the hands. We included an extreme close up shot of the characters hands and feet to highlight the main subject and to create an original effective shot. Progressing, we also used an ‘over the shoulder shot’ to appreciate the facial reactions portrayed and to observe the scene from different perspectives.

Alongside filming the sequence, we were taught how to direct a scene by using a correct appropriate series of standard dialogue and language. This was established to give us a feel of directing a sequence and feeling confident within our shoot. However I was not the director or the camera operator but I carefully watched the way it worked and reassured myself I understood each process thoroughly. For example, the director shouted “Standby” meaning “attention and “quiet” on set, the command is normally given 15-30 seconds before “rolling tape” is called. Secondly, “Standby to Roll Tape” underlines the set to get ready to start the videotape. Closely behind “Roll tape” highlights the tape is being rolled. "Action" is shouted to allow the cast the shoot is about to begin. Finally “Cut” is used to let everyone know the shoot has stop. Fortunately if the ‘studio lingo’ works successfully and the directors are pleased with the outcome, “That’s a wrap” is quoted to allow the cast the day has finished.

After viewing the lesson, I enjoyed learning about new aspects of the camera and the process of filming. I will practice the directors dialogue and continue to research subjects we’ve learnt in more detail.