shoot them. Always be ready for the unexpected. Many times things that you had not
planned on will happen. So be prepared to shoot these unexpected happenings.
(7) Scene 7, showing the departure of the Chief of Staff, is practically a
reversal of the first scene. The stationary camera can be used again for a medium shot
showing the farewell, also the Chief of Staff and his party boarding the plane. The two
handheld cameras should be used for the closeups during this time. As the helicopter
starts up, the stationary camera should follow it until it is out of sight.
c. At this time you might ask, "Why so many different camera angles for each
scene?" Remember, you are following the action, scene by scene, as it happens, and there
are bound to be breaks in continuity. The reason for different camera angles, whether
they be long, medium, or closeup scenes, is to give the film editor ample footage to
provide overlapping or matching action between scenes. This creates more audience
interest, particularly when you move from a long or medium shot to a closeup. The long
shot allows the audience to gather the full scope of the proceedings, and in the
closeups, it sees exactly what is taking place at the point of interest. The fact that
you will shoot cutins and cutaways goes without saying.
d. You can see that the shooting outline not only serves as a program for planning
the sequence of coverage, but it also provides a basis for determining equipment,
supplies, and personnel requirements, as well as, planning camera placement, movement,
and shot framing. It also provides the time and date and where to report.
4.
Prepare equipment.
a. After you have written the outline, you must get your equipment together.
b. After analyzing your outline you realize that you will need more than one camera
and cameraman. This is when you must go to your NCOIC and present your outline. The
NCOIC may modify it to use less equipment or personnel, but if you prepared a good
outline, it should be justification for this effort.
c. In addition to equipment, you will need film, or tape, batteries, and a few
extra items for backup.
d. Depending on which position you will be assigned on the mission, you must select
your camera and equipment.
(1) Will you be shooting from a stationary position with a tripodmounted camera
or be mobile with a handheld camera? If tripodmounted, you will need large magazine or
tape capacity, a tripod, and extra loaded magazines or tape.
9
Previous Page
