Points to remember when planning filming

Story board in filming

Very useful for visualising rough diagrams of the shot order.

Strong opening shots

Capture your audience from the start!

Keep to the point

of the story or documentary.

Framing

Watch space above heads - keep to minimum. Have your main character looking into the frame from one side or t he other, left or right. Use the rule of thirds, although these rules can, at times, be broken according to your own judgement.

Close-ups and BCUs

These give an intimate and ‘live’ feel. In practice, the guide lines advise not to follow a BCU by a BCU.

But, there again, it is permissible to use your judgement. in some cases - say, a man and a woman in close conversation or two people talking furtively etc.

Cut Aways

These are of great value in the edit stage and will make the film more interesting. There is nothing more boring than static shots. Avoid too many gimmicky shots. They perhaps look good in still photography, but will distract from the story or subject.

Editing

Editing should flow and appear seamless to the viewer. Keep it short - discard shots not vital to the film. Allow a good run in and out when shooting, especially before and after panning, to help the editor!
END SHOTS These should be dramatic or poignant. We all find interesting an unexpected twist at the end.

Music or Sound Track

One has to think long and hard to find something that blends and is not overwhelming. It is most important to avoid using very well-known and dramatic classical music that stands on its own as an individual work of art. This diverts attention from the film’s subject. That is not to say you can never use classical music!

Titles and Captions

Allow time for slow readers (read them through twice, quickly, as a good guide). Don’t overwhelm your audience with such a Great: spectacular type of opening title that will only serve to give greater expectations than is justified.