We began media studies by defining; 'focus', 'depth', 'framing' and 'composition'. We defined depth as the distance between the lense and object/ subject. Framing is what you choose to include in the shot, this links to focus, which is the focal point in a shot. This is usually determined by sharpening the main subject within a scene. We also defined composition what is placed where in a shot.
Re-creating famous film shots
To help us fully understand the key terminology we went in groups to re-create famous film shots. Our famous film shots were from 'Taxi Driver' and 'Pulp Fiction'.
Analysing camera shots
In this shot we recognised the person as being the focal point of the shot as he is sharp and the wall behind him is soft. This creates a sense of depth to the shot.
The second shot that we recreated, was from the film Pulp Fiction. We made the two people centre of the frame and both in focus to draw the attention toward them. The camera angle was a mid angle shot.
Creating meaning
We also looked at creating 'meaning'. We understand this as being the underlying message or value of a representation or narrative which can be implicit or explicit.
Task using BB8
We then used BB8 (toy figure) to create different meaning. First we created power, this is known as the possession of control over others authority; ascendency. To create this shot we used a 70mm lense, so BB8 would fit the whole frame and a low angle shot looking up on BB8, to make him seem bigger than he actually is. We also made BB8 sharp and the background soft to draw attention towards BB8. We then created isolation by using a wider lense to make BB8 seem smaller in the frame. We also made BB8 soft so he was not in focus to make hm seem less important.
Understanding requirements of the main task
The ultimate goal is to create a 2 minute opening to a film.
