Reading

  • Getting Started -- Composition: A Work of Video Art
  • Camera Work -- Shots and Scenes
  • Crafting Skillful Interviews
 Questions from Composition:  A Work of Video Art
  1. What (according to this author) is the most difficult skill for a videographer to master  AND HOW can you make sure that you succeed?
  2. What is the Golden Rule of Thirds or the Golden Mean?
  3. Where should you place KEY elements of your shot?
  4. List 3 types of elements that might be Key to your shot.
  5. What is meant by "adding depth to the shot" and list 2 ways in which it is achieved?

Questions from Camera Work -- Shots and Scenes

  1. Name 4 things that can be achieved by changing the camera angle.
  2. Name the 3 different types of angles and explain them.
  3. What is the most universal function of angle changing and WHY?
  4. List 2 ways to achieve an unobtrusive cut?
  5. What is meant by the "right camera angle?
  6. List 3 ways you can save time during production while changing angles (even though it costs more time in post production)?
  7. What is a "shock" cut?  AND when should they be used?
  8. Explain what a wide-shot is intended to do.
  9. Explain the following:
  • Jump Cut
  • Good Cut
  • Classic Hollywood Cut
  • Contemporary Cut

10.  How do you control the rhythm and pacing of each scene?

11. To ensure a big enough change in image for an unobtrusive cut, you should always do what?

12.  What are the three final conclusions from the author about how to practice good movie making theory?

Questions from Crafting Skillful Interviews

  1. Explain a post production technique that can "save" a bad interview.
  2. Describe the two basic types of interviews and what importance to they place on the participants?
  3. What technique is used to smooth out an interview?
  4. What are the weaknesses of the one-person interview?
  5. How tight should the shot be for an interview AND what are the restrictions on a tight shot?
  6. In a one person interview, how should the interviewer be positioned?
  7. Explain techniques that can be used in a two-person interview.
  8. What microphone considerations have to be made?
  9. What lighting considerations need to be made?
  10. What background considerations need to be made?
  11. What are some keys to success that are suggested by the author during production (video taping) and post production (editing)?