Four, Five Seconds-Production Evaluation

We continued to work as a whole group to film our video; the first shots we filmed were of the male performers as there were less of those to film. To allow for the music video to look as effective as possible we also did some rehearsals during which we set up the camera for the shots. We used a Panasonic HC-V700 camera to film all of the footage. During filming we really focussed on the lighting as this was a key element to the professional music video, to create the correct lighting we used studio lights and a light box. The light box proved to be really effective in creating the silhouette shadow effect that we wanted and for the rest of the shots we positioned the studio lights in different areas.

We used both the zoom on the camera and physically moved the camera to achieve the range of shots (mid, close up and extreme close up), during this time having the story board was very useful and helpful to understand the shots needed. Later on within in the two weeks we filmed the female performer shots as this took up most of the video. For the role of Rhianna, we also placed more focus on the costume, hair and make-up to make our video as closely similar as possible to the professional version.

During this part of the process I learnt and developed my knowledge and skills within lighting. Due to the lighting used in the video and the importance/empathise having the correct lighting was vital to creating an authentic video. To do this we used the light box and studio lights in different areas; from this I was able to learn how to create silhouettes, shading and shadows. These skills still need practice and improving however from this preliminary task I have begun to learn the base work needed. 

Throughout this section of the process we followed music video conventions as tried to mimic the professional video as much as possible. The shots and clips we filmed were effective as we managed to create the lighting we wanted and the performers did very well in their roles. This combination worked well to create an effective looking music video, and from this I also learnt the importance of using performers who were completely at ease in front of a camera and I will take this knowledge forward. 

If I was to do this task again I would try to allow more time for filming as this took slightly longer than expected. I am pleased that we spent so long filming as we shot good clips however I would allow more time to do this, as I have learnt that setting up and practices can take time.