Surrey Border Film & Video Makers
Woolmer's wisdom - Where shall we shoot the film?
When an idea has been scripted and the cast etc has been decided upon, locations have to he
considered.
The choice of photogenic or unusual locations as a backdrop to a drama or comedy can enhance
the film. Give the cameraman something to get his teeth into, or should I say eye!
A changing scene
throughout a story makes for visual excitement. It is well worth spending some time finding suitable
surroundings.
If permission has to be obtained, don’t be shy to ask. Most people are very eager to
cooperate when you say the magic phrase: “I’m making a film”. Remember to say “Amateur”, or they might expect a
hefty fee
On one occasion, I filmed in Wormwood Scrubs while making a documentary with members of a
previous Cine Club. Saville Row Police Station also gave permission to film during a weekend.
If a church
is required, approach the verger, and remember to
offer a donation. A convent allowed us in to film one scene, we were even treated to afternoon tea by the
Mother Superior!
If using pub interior locations, no need to build one in your back garden! We have
experienced friendly
co-operation from landlords, who allowed us to film in the bar during closing hours. If
you time it right, you can do the last take just before opening time, filming seems to be thirsty work. (Though,
these days it might be difficult to find a pub that closes during the afternoon since the relaxing of opening
hours!)
When deciding to do a street scene, always notify the police and choose a location in a side
street that is not too busy. Shop keepers will often help during closing hours, even to the extent of altering
their window display. If stills are taken during the shoot, send the owners copies, they will appreciate this
gesture.
A short time spent exploring for locations will pay off, making the resulting film more
interesting.
Jon
John and his wife Joan joined Surrey Borders circa 1991, bringing a strong new talent and expertise to the club that resulted in an enthusiasm for making club films and entering competitions as never before. John was a great writer and his stories became great films, winning Gold awards for The Gold Medallion and Paula, and others. John was energetic, painting for art exhibitions, making props for the next project, writing his book and gleaning data to eventually finalise the book of his family tree, and last but not least, operating the “confounded” computer that held it all together. He was a very talented fun loving man, who will always be remembered by the club and his family.
Who are we in this film/movie/video club? We make films, videos and movies and meet on the first Friday of the month to answer members questions and to discuss ongoing club projects. Well known film makers, judges and film professionals are often our speakers for the evening. We welcome visitors and new members interested in film and video, and there is no need to own digital cameras or camcorders and no need for previous experience, as we happily provide mentors for beginners. Surrey Border meetings start at 7:45pm and end just after 10:00pm with a refreshment break at around 9:00pm. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed to the monthly meetings which are on the first Friday of each month (and the first visit is free). Our meetings are held in our new contemporary hall in St Joan's Centre which is in the grounds of St Joan's church in Tilford Road, near the station in Farnham. The hall has a large car park and is within easy reach of Guildford, Farnborough, Fleet, Bordon etc. In Surrey and Hampshire. Read more about us here.
Our interests We have a good mix of interests amongst members include script writing, acting, directing, technical and artistic and all agree that ideas and skills are more important than equipment as shown by there being fewer cameras and camcorders than members. Some get more enjoyment in viewing and discussing the films produced by others and just being part of the community. There are those who wouldn't wish to ever hold a camera or camcorder while some like to help in filming but don't own their own camcorder. Of course there are always those with the latest high definition wizz bang up to date cameras, camcorders, microphones and gadgets and the lovely thing is that they are always happy to demonstrate both equipment and techniques to others. For anyone thinking of buying a camera or camcorder advice is always on hand. We have almost equal numbers of members with PC and Mac computers. We regularly put on courses, tutorials and training sessions in the light of the current interests and needs of members. Individuals with particular problems typically have one to one help.
Site updated 03 September 2010 . To comment on this website email: