Thought Piece #2

One of the biggest things I took away from these chapters is how much work actually needs to happen before you ever press record. I usually feel most confident once I’m already shooting, figuring things out as I go, but this reading made it really clear that good video doesn’t just happen in the moment. It starts with knowing what kind of video you’re making and what you’re trying to say. The section on genre, stood out to me because I don’t always think about it intentionally. I’ve definitely gone into projects with a vague idea with hopes it would come together later, but this made me realize that audiences expect certain things from certain types of videos. If the genre isn’t understood, it is easy to lose people fast.

The part about structure really changed how I think about storytelling. The Wizard of Oz example showed how the same footage can tell completely different stories depending on how its put together. Coming from a photojournalism background, I am used to thinking in moments and visuals, but not always in overall structure. This made me realize how important it is to think about perspective and order ahead of time, because structure is what actually gives the story meaning, not just the images itself.

The chapters on scripting and planning also hit close to home. I tend to rely on instinct and wing things, especially when shooting short videos in MCA 223, but this reading made it clear that winging it usually leads to weak results. If a project has dialogue, multiple locations, or involves other people’s time, it deserves a script or at least a solid plan. Even pitching an idea before shooting forces you to ask yourself if the story is worth telling the first place. The line about having nothing to say and need to shut up was forceful, but super accurate. It reminded me that just because I CAN make a video doesn’t mean I always SHOULD.

Shot lists and storyboarding also feel less intimidating after this reading. I used to think they would limit the creativity of the video or what’s being filmed, but now I kind of see them as a safety netting. Having a shot list helps makes sure you don’t miss anything important while still leaving room for unexpected moments. I also. Like the idea of using your camera as a storyboard, since that fits better with how I natural think and work.

Last but not least, the parts about talent and location connected with me a lot and my experience with working with real people. Making your subject look good isn’t about forcing them to be something they’re not but about understanding what they’re comfortable with and building the story around that. Same goes for location, where you shoot matters more than what you think, and even just changing the direction your point the camera can completely change the feel of a scene.

Overall, this reading made me realize that directing is really about making confidence choices and standing by them.  I sometimes second-guess my ideas, especially when working with others, but this reinforces that passion and preparation are what make a video work. All in all, I have gathered, that if I am excited about the story and have a clear plan, that energy shows in the final project.