Introduction:

The goal for this week was to create a statement of intent that outlines my filming methodology for the visual portrait of the fictional character that I am looking to create.

 

Statement of Intent:

 

My fictional character is based on Keir Starmer and holds the same name. This version of Keir chose to remain a Lawyer instead of becoming a politician, he did this so that he could continue to focus on his family. As such it is my intent that the portrait itself to be shot in a style reminiscent of a legal or family drama.

Ideally, I would use my access to Sony FS7’s and FS5’s to shoot the portrait. Unfortunately using the FS7’s would likely see me needing to build set pieces in a studio. However, I would prefer to be able to use the FS7’s for as much of the filming as possible. The reason being twofold. First, the FS7’s are the closest to professional quality cameras that I have access to and I would like to tackle the challenge of shooting on them. Second, the FS7’s would produce camera movements, placement and visuals that fit the image I have in my head for the final piece. The only downside to choosing to shoot on an FS7 is the unwieldy nature of the camera. It is not meant to be used for covering shots and handheld stuff, the camera excels in studio type shooting conditions. That is not to say that I could not achieve a similar style on a FS5, DSLR or even a smartphone, however, every camera is unique and can be used in different ways and create a slightly different final product.

A smartphone would be the easiest but also the least appropriate for me in my opinion, smartphones are good for odd angles, short shots, and a more frenetic style of shooting, not the visual drama I am aiming for. A DSLR is a good cost-effective camera however I personally do not like recording audio with them and the camera quality is a step below that of Sony FS cameras. The FS5 is a good documentary and on the go camera that shoots good audio and visuals, however, the strengths of the FS5 lies in its ability to be used for handheld camera work. As such, I strongly believe that using the FS7 would best suit my needs for what I imagine the portrait will eventually look like. I am also highly likely to use the FS5 for certain elements if needed though it remains to be seen whether or not I would need it.

For sound, I would prefer to use Sennheiser shotgun and lapel microphones were appropriate for sync sound. I would also like to use appropriate foley when needed.

Regarding lighting, unless I end up completely constructing set pieces I will likely only use a couple of panel lights and reflectors and depend on natural and on-location lighting.

By using this combination of equipment I will create a visual portrait in a style reminiscent of a legal or family drama. The portrait will primarily be made up of static shots with pans where appropriate. I will do this deliberately to focus the audience’s attention on the actor and their performance which I feel is more important in this situation.

 

Conclusion:

Overall a pretty standard submission. A statement of intent. I am aware that my goals for shooting are rather high but I am looking to challenge myself so why not? This exercise was useful for helping develop my understanding of how I wanted to shoot the visual portrait and how it would look when finished.