Contextualising Statement
For this task I, along with a small team of collaborators, created an interview in line with a brief given to us by a specific client. We had to conduct research on a subject, create questions based on the information that we needed to include, and film then edit a one-minute long interview for a candidate in the York St John Student Union elections. Another key aspect of this task was the use of the three-point lighting system, used to ensure that the subject of the interview was lit correctly in the on camera.
Before the production of this particular artefact could begin, research had to be carried out on the subject that we were to interview, Anna Gunby. ‘Production research is the process of finding elements from which a production is made up – primarily information’ (Chater, 2002). As there was only a short time to prepare for this task, my team had to work collaboratively to ensure that we carried out the relevant research in time, gathering enough information to formulate good questions for Anna. To do this, we all focused on information regarding certain questions that we had to include. For example, one person researched the roles that Anna had had before so that potential questions could be formulated around this topic. As a result of pooling this research together, the whole production team was fully aware of the subject and the questions that would be asked.
Another way in which the production team had to work collaboratively was in setting up the three-point lighting system (Willett, 2013). This involves the key light (the main source which creates shadows), the filler light (used to light the part of the subject that the key light can’t reach) and the backlight (which helps the subject stand out from the background). It was very difficult at first to correctly set up these three lights so that they complimented each other, creating the right balance of light for the interview. However, working together as a team allowed us to tweak the lighting and test new ways of setting this system up before Anna actually arrived. It was also important that we all collaborated with Anna to ensure that the lights were not too bright for her and that she felt comfortable throughout the interview.
Health and safety must be accounted for in every production. For this particular task there were not many hazards to identify but one major concern was the lighting kits used. The bulbs could get extremely hot and they had the potential to be too bright for people’s eyes. Therefore, it was important that everyone used the thick gloves when handling them and ‘striking’ was announced whenever they were turned on. This was important so as to avoid any burns or harm to the eyes on set. Another possible hazard was the use of cables which could result in trips and falls. In order to minimise the risk of this, the cables were kept tidy at all times and everyone was aware of where they were set up.
Reference List
Chater, K. (2002) Research for Media Production. Oxford, Focal Press. p. 14.
Willett, A. (2013) Media Production: A Practical Guide to Radio and TV. Oxon, Routledge. p. 117
