Journal #3: A tale of a two camera shoot

After gathering three out of the four main interviews for my video project, I feel like I’m moving in the right direction for my segment. I still need to gather almost all of the b-roll, but I’ve lined up events in April with BC Hillel and Campus Ministry is okay with me filming the student masses. I’ve also got BC’s Muslim Student Association’s permission to film their Jummah Prayers.

The toughest part this week was getting the interview with Fr. Jack and Fr. Tony all set. We ran into some technical issues including a missed plate from one of the Z-1 cameras. I need to make sure to fully check the equipment myself before leaving for the shoot. Luckily, Dan was able to stop by Campion on the way to Mayflower Road.
The second big issue was that after having everything laid down, Fr. Tony asked if we could reposition the chairs so that Fr. Tony and Fr. Jack could have more ease of interaction. The issue was that a huge wooden table in the middle of the room limited our options in the set up. Luckily, I was able to figure out another set up where Fr. Jack and Fr. Tony felt more comfortable. I was glad that I was able to calmly and quickly resolve the situation.

My big takeaway from the shoot was that I need to make sure I give myself enough time to set up. I had decided early that day to skip my twelve o clock class so I could set up before 1pm. I’m glad I did because I never would have had enough time to set up within the half hour period I allotted myself because of the room quirks and the fact that I was running a two camera shoot. I also enjoy having a partner when I can because it makes it possible for me to delegate and avoid mistakes by trying to do too much. Dan was incredibly helpful with getting everything done quickly. He also was able to quickly pick up on what I was doing and the shots I envisioned. I’d be happy to work with Dan again anytime.

Lastly, I am feeling a bit overwhelmed right now because I have several projects going on at the same time. I have two news packages in the mix along with this segment, my film is premiering this Sunday (and I had to work on finding a replacement panelist after a last minute cancellation), and I returned to a full course load this week. However, I think as long as I can stay on top of all my projects, I should be able to get through this glut. I did receive some excellent news yesterday that I have been selected as a Fulbright Grantee, and my next destination after BC will be Turkey. It was certainly a great morale boost, and I was glad to get it. Now, time to press on!