In this exercise students are required to “define a space or location” through visually controlled and
expressive shooting.
Begin by choosing a location either on campus or close by.
Before shooting anything, observe the space for a while. What is happening there? What details exist
that can tell a story about the space (signs, activities, objects, etc.)?
Now, make a mental “shopping list” of shots. Think about what camera position, shot size and
composition will work best for each shot. Try not to move the camera unless your move has a clear
beginning and end. Remember that a still frame with movement going on in the frame can be more
powerful than a moving shot.
Each team member will conceive of and shoot 10 shots and then all the shots will be pooled for editing.
Think carefully about what you wish to convey. It could be an emotional tone you feel in the location
(claustrophobia, fear, energy); or it could be that you are interested in the quality of light in the space;
or perhaps what intrigues you is what goes on there; or maybe you like the architectural details, or the
colors; you could also contrast interior with exterior, light and dark, movement and stillness ... it’s up to
you! You don’t need to make a huge statement, but you must find some specific angle on the space and
reveal that visually.
Also consider how your shots might eventually come together in the editing. Do you want your images
to lead us into the space from the outside? Or do you want to create a question as to where we are
before you reveal the larger space? There are many different ways to approach this.
Each student will then edit their own short film using the team’s material. Although the material should
be silent (no natural sound) footage can be cut to an appropriate music track.
THIS IS A GROUP PROJECT. You must both agree on the location and the concept. Each person can
design their own shots or you can agree together on each shot. Everyone must handle the camera and
shoot.
HAVE FUN WITH THIS!
