Scavenger Hunt

MEDP/FILMP 160 FALL 2018

Shot Scavenger Hunt - Camera Exercise

The goal of this exercise is to develop your camera skills by starting to look at the world in terms

of a cinematic vocabulary, in other words, seeing “shots.” You should work with your camera set

for manual focus, so that you are in control of the image. You will work in groups of two. In your

groups, go out (not too far!) and shoot the following:

1. Find a location and pick 3 shots that look “good” or interesting to you. Try to compose the image

to speak to what interests you in the frame. Decide what in the frame should be in focus.

Film each shot for 10 seconds. Try to stay steady. And try to think of varying the angle, in other

words, crouch, shoot from above, or what ever it takes to get the shot.

2. Find a subject that you can film with three focal lengths to change the angle of view or perspective

of the shot (you will have a wide shot, a medium shot, and a close up). Hint: Once you

set your focus for a specific object in the frame, you should not have to change it. You may have

to move closer or further away.

3. Get a shot where there is movement in the frame but the camera doesn’t move.

4. Film your partner walking (you should be on the widest focal length of your lens). They should

walk slowly. Walk alongside them, keeping the distance between you consistent so they remain

in focus. Figure out how to start and end the shot. (HINT: Do they walk into the frame? Leave it

or disappear in the crowd, etc.) Be careful not to bump into anything!

SOME TIPS:

- Plan your shots before pushing the record button. AVOID recording while figuring

out what you want to shoot next, also known as “visual hiccups.”

- Do your best to make sure that any camera movement is intentional - don’t walk

around with the camera searching for a shot.

- To steady your camera shots, use your body to brace your arms, bend your

knees, use a nearby wall or pillar to steady your shot. Or set your camera on a pack or

jacket.

Media 160 - Fall 2018