Split Screen Experimentation.

Last lesson we experimented with split screening. We started by filming multiple shots, using a variety of different camera angles, including a point of view shot as well as a simple mid shot. We then edited the footage, splitting the screen into 4 and 2. This helped us to get an idea of what the finished product will look like.


After watching the footage, we decided that following our characters footsteps with the camera rather than having them film themselves with a point of view shot will be more effective. This will also allow us to vary the distance of shots,and transitions between them.


We will upload the footage as soon as it is edited... 

Filming Dates.

We currently have 2 weeks left until the final deadline (March 9) for our Opening Sequence. Unfortunately, up until now we have been unable to film due to a shortage of equipment.
We plan to begin filming as soon as possible. When filming is complete we plan to use the remaining time to edit the footage. We estimate that filming should take no longer than 3 days, leaving us enough days to edit thoroughly. 

Sneakbo - The Wave (Remix)

Cameo - Candy (Remix)

Music Inspirations.

In order for our opening sequence to be effective and believable, our characters will have to contrast each other in as many ways as possible, e.g clothing. To ensure that we achieve this contrast, each character will have a different 'soundtrack' for their walk. Here are some of our music ideas...

Filming.

We plan to film 4 different boys in 4 different environments, ultimately arriving at the same destination. To achieve this we will have to find 4 separate locations to film in. These locations should all somehow differ in order to portray the characters personalities.  
To ensure that our opening sequence catches the attention of the audience we will have to film from multiple different angles. This could include a point of view shot and a high angle. 
Towards the end of the sequence we will include an establishing shot as the characters come together to show where the remainder of the story line would take place. 


We aim to film during the day as we feel this will give us the best lighting, and also give us time to make corrections if necessary. 

Reviewing Past Opening Sequences; Exemplar Work.

As the time draws nearer to begin filming, I took the time to look at some past AS opening sequences. I hoped that this would help me to gain an insight into what criteria the examiners will be marking our opening sequence against. 

After watching 3 different opening sequences, of 3 separate genres, it soon became apparent that the criteria is much stricter, and more detailed than first anticipated. Ability is marked as either showing:

-Minimal Evidence.
-Basic Ability.

-Proficient.

OR
-Excellent. 

Examiners review many aspects of opening sequence, including "using titles, sound with images, and editing appropriately" "controlled use of the camera" "variety of shot distance" and "making selective and appropriate use of shot transitions, and other effects". 

In light of this; acting as an examiner, I then watched each sequence, marking them each individually against the specification. This again, helped me to distinguish the "do's and don'ts" to consider when creating an opening sequence such as;
-If a zoom is to be successful, it must fulfill it's job, and not 'ponder' in between close-up and mid-shot.
-Varying shot length and distance is an important factor in determining whether or not the viewer engages with the sequence.
-Maintaining a continuous theme in terms of opening titles and credits is something which is very well received by examiners, and is worth spending a substantial (yet appropriate) amount of time 'perfecting.'
After reviewing the opening sequences I then graded them, taking into account the fact that technology has advanced since the time the videos were made (2009), and the specification determined.