Evaluation Activity 7-Looking back at your preliminary task, what do you feel you have learnt in the progression from it to full product?

We had to do a preliminary task for our coursework, we were told that it we not awarded any extra marks for this but it was compulsory and it must be completed by two weeks. The preliminary task had to consist of three different camera shots
•    180 Degree Rule
•    Match on action
•    Shot/Reverse Shot
The preliminary task had to also include a door opening, this influenced us and we also included this idea in our thriller opening. I think that this is our biggest evidence on how it helped us, to not only use what we learnt but continue and progress in a vast way.
This task had many positives and allowed us to learn the basics, it was a Great introduction. It also gave us an impression as to what is required to have a successful film.
At the same time as learning and using these camera shots we also included other camera shots that we felt would help us for instance close ups and panning. I think this positive approach that we all had helped us a lot and it also boosted our relationship as a group. I also believe that because we did the preliminary task in the same group, it built a level of stability and we all became familiar with each other’s strengths. We also became a lot more comfortable with each others presence and I think that all of us were able to add more input rather than anyone being shy or embarrassed to add input. This helped our communication a lot.
The biggest strong point of the task was definitely in the technology side. We learnt how to use new software’s such as Final cut express. This was very significant and it helped us a lot in our thriller opening. At first I was not as confident but I think this task helped my confidence and abilities in using Final cut express.
 I also became a lot better at using Camera’s, we were given a tutorial on how to use it and using our knowledge of different camera shots and angles inspired me to film our thriller opening. Our preliminary task did not go as great as I first predicted, this was actually a good thing and it made all of us aware of what we needed to do to improve. We all became more focused on learning from our mistakes.
The reason why our preliminary task did not go as expected and it was not a success is because we did not spend enough attention on planning or editing. I think overall it was rushed and our main priority was using the three camera shots.
We also learnt about sound and lighting. For instance not filming opposite the sun and having the microphone as near as possible. I think these vital factors helped us a lot in our thriller opening
Another big improvment we had was the location, our location for the preliminary task was not good enough and at the time it was our only option. However for our thriller opening we chose much better locations and it is clearly shown.
Overall I must admit that I was unaware at first of how much the preliminary task would help us. I think it was a great task and the pressure of not being graded was incredible and it got more out of us. I believe it helped us a lot and it definitely impacted our thriller opening.