JC: Preliminary Task Reflection

In our preliminary task, we included the following techniques of continuity editing:

- Maintaining the 180 degree rule
- Shot reverse shot
- Eyeline match
- Using matching cuts when doors are being opened


During filming we learnt that shots need to be shot at least twice in order to have enough footage to work with. Our best shots were the opening door, the reaction shots during dialogue, and the two shot of both characters either side of the door. Our main difficulty during filming was weather continuity, as we filmed over two days and the weather was changeable on both. However, we managed to shoot our outdoor scenes well to use in the final edit.

During editing we learnt how continuity makes a film seem extremely realistic also, consecutive cuts both need to start and end with motion in order to create verisimilitude. During post-production, we found that shots which contained a few seconds of action before the desired cut time were more malleable during editing, as they provided us with motion which improved the continuity. By adding a high-contrast effect and colour correction over the final edit, it made the film appear more cinematic and high-quality.

Strengths: Continuity, rhythms of intercutting, camera postioning and framing.
Weaknesses: Lack of flowing motion in a few shots.
Tips:
-Ensure that a few extra seconds of filming is on the start and end of each cut.