Camera Lesson 2

In our 2nd camera lesson, we developed more knowledge on how to use the cameras. We focused on how to film a short sequence.

 

The 180 Degree Rule

The first thing that we learnt was the 180 degree rule. This rule is extremely important when filming any kind of sequence. The rule says that when a scene is being filmed, there should be an imaginary line. The camera should then stay the same side of that imaginary line when filming. The camera can move around the line but cannot cross it. This ensures that that action in the shot stays on the same side of the screen for the audience, meaning that they won't get confused.

 

 

Filming The Sequence

We then went on to put this rue into practice and filmed a sequence ourselves. I took on the role of camera operator. Along with the director, I had to ensure the camera was zoomed in and focused. I had to adjust the height of the tripod depending on what sort of shot the director asked for. When moving te camera, I had to make sure that it stayed within the imaginary line so I didn't break the 180 degree rule.

We chose to do a simple sequence of a girl taking her phone out of her pocket and checking it. We did a variety of shots. We started with a long shot to make sure that the sequence was clear and then we went on to do a mid long shot, a mid shot and then an extreme close up of the phone.