Read in Dotson’s book pages 55 thru 71. Then:
1.
What do you find most interesting about what he says on these pages?
What stands out as particularly useful to you as a storyteller? (75
words)
Something that I find useful is to not cut off dramatic events. Leave silence for a dramatic effect and don't cut off shots just to string the facts together. Another thing that is useful is less is more. Like the example in Dotson's book, "Jesus wept" is more powerful than "Jesus, a carpenter of Nazareth, age 30, was executed in pre-dawn darkness..." I find it interesting how you should end your story with an unforgettable visual. I believe this is very hard to do and doesn't happen much in news stories.
To answer the rest, you must visit the site for Boyd Huppert’s Land of 10,000 Stories (http://www.kare11.com/news/investigative/extras/stories.aspx).
Pick two that look interesting. Watch them. Then, pick one of those and
answer the following prompts about it, please:
2. What is the name of the story, and on what date did it first air?
89-year-old librarian spreads passion for books. 6:25 PM March 4th 2013.
3. List and describe four instances of natural sound.
- Librarian banging on and unlocking the door to get inside
- Librarian laughing at the water bottle saying "It's ice"
- Librarian walking on the snow
- Librarian in her library surrounded by books saying "I mean look at 'em. Just look"
4. List and describe (including the type and what they are showing) four camera shots that you find interesting.
- The low angled shot of the books in the shelf
- The wide shot of the town hall that is on the right side of the thirds
-The tight shot of the Byron Town Hall sign
-The wide shot of a dirt road covered in snow with trees and electric poles surrounding it
5. Write a possible focus statement for the story (strong verbs; no “-ing” words)
"Librarian's Passion for Books"
6. How does this story utilize Dotson’s “Building Blocks” (from Page 68)? Discuss a few of them, please. (100 words)
Huppert has a good way of using soundbites. They are all short but informative, just how Dotson wants them to be. The librarian is constantly brought up in the story, and only one sentence is said every time she is in the shot. Huppert's story also utilizes pictures. From 1:14-1:23 there are a variety of different books and genres being shot. There are many different shots of the books, the library, and the environment surrounding the library. Words is a building block Huppert uses a lot. He constantly talks through out the story, informing viewers of details they need to add to the story.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Interviewing Notes
1. Show up early, set-up and put mic on chair
2. Run Mic Up shirt
3. Reporter should distract and make a connection
4. Photographer is listening in headphones
5. Frame up shot: Eyes on Third, Talking Space/Nose Room, Cam Eye Level,
6. Photographer gives signal: Clears Throat... to signal he/she is ready for the interview to start
7. 1st Question is always State your name and spell it...
8. Open Ended Questions
9. Last Question is always "Is there anything else you want to say"
10. Shoot Cut Aways of Hands or Reporter
11. Avoid verbal responses to interview
12. Let them fill in the silence
13. Start with a casual conversation, let them feel comfortable with you
Run and Gun Interviews:
1. What is a "Run and Gun" interview? When can we use a "Run and Gun" interview?
Going around shooting casual interviews consisting of only one or two questions.
2. What is the first thing you should do BEFORE starting off for the interview?
Have a casual conversation with the interviewee while the camera man is adjusting everything.
3. Why do you think we should ask for permission?
There are some legal aspects in interviewing and you need their permission to credit them.
4. Why should we always ask the interviewee to state and spell their names?
So we can have it said and spelt right when we show them on T.V.
5. Where should we place the microphone?
A "hang loose" distance from your mouth.
6. Should we hand the mic to the interviewee?
7. The photographer is responsible for the sound levels. What are two things the photog should be aware of?
Sound meters and background noise.
8. COMPOSITION: How we should frame our interview shot:
a. Eyes on ___third________
b. 2 Eyes One ___one ear_______
c. Camera should be Higher, Even, or Lower than subject? Even
d. Talking space or __nose______ Room
BACKGROUNDS:
9. Avoid shooting in front of __a window__________.
10. Why should we keep signs out of the background?
They are distracting.
11. If we were doing an interview about the high cost of parking at EVHS where would a good place to interview be?
Out in the parking lot.
12. What is a demonstration interview and what are the benefits?
You put on a wireless mic, and the interviewee is demonstrating something to you. It's beneficial because it's more interesting to watch than just someone sitting there talking.
2. Run Mic Up shirt
3. Reporter should distract and make a connection
4. Photographer is listening in headphones
5. Frame up shot: Eyes on Third, Talking Space/Nose Room, Cam Eye Level,
6. Photographer gives signal: Clears Throat... to signal he/she is ready for the interview to start
7. 1st Question is always State your name and spell it...
8. Open Ended Questions
9. Last Question is always "Is there anything else you want to say"
10. Shoot Cut Aways of Hands or Reporter
11. Avoid verbal responses to interview
12. Let them fill in the silence
13. Start with a casual conversation, let them feel comfortable with you
Run and Gun Interviews:
1. What is a "Run and Gun" interview? When can we use a "Run and Gun" interview?
Going around shooting casual interviews consisting of only one or two questions.
2. What is the first thing you should do BEFORE starting off for the interview?
Have a casual conversation with the interviewee while the camera man is adjusting everything.
3. Why do you think we should ask for permission?
There are some legal aspects in interviewing and you need their permission to credit them.
4. Why should we always ask the interviewee to state and spell their names?
So we can have it said and spelt right when we show them on T.V.
5. Where should we place the microphone?
A "hang loose" distance from your mouth.
6. Should we hand the mic to the interviewee?
7. The photographer is responsible for the sound levels. What are two things the photog should be aware of?
Sound meters and background noise.
8. COMPOSITION: How we should frame our interview shot:
a. Eyes on ___third________
b. 2 Eyes One ___one ear_______
c. Camera should be Higher, Even, or Lower than subject? Even
d. Talking space or __nose______ Room
BACKGROUNDS:
9. Avoid shooting in front of __a window__________.
10. Why should we keep signs out of the background?
They are distracting.
11. If we were doing an interview about the high cost of parking at EVHS where would a good place to interview be?
Out in the parking lot.
12. What is a demonstration interview and what are the benefits?
You put on a wireless mic, and the interviewee is demonstrating something to you. It's beneficial because it's more interesting to watch than just someone sitting there talking.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Mudhouse Video Script- Sound Bites and Stand Ups
[Reporter]
“Everybody knows to come downtown to
the Mudhouse for a great cup of coffee, but
nobody wants coffee when it’s a hundred
and five degrees.”
[Customer]
the Mudhouse for a great cup of coffee, but
nobody wants coffee when it’s a hundred
and five degrees.”
[Customer]
“Um I think we come I probably come in here
2 or 3 times a week. Well pretty typically I like
a nice hot cup of coffee, but in the summer it’s
really nice to come in and get a cool drink.”
2 or 3 times a week. Well pretty typically I like
a nice hot cup of coffee, but in the summer it’s
really nice to come in and get a cool drink.”
[Reporter]
“For coffee shops like the Mudhouse, there is
one way to beat the heat, and that’s to offer
refreshing cold drinks.”
one way to beat the heat, and that’s to offer
refreshing cold drinks.”
[Worker]
“You know during the summer months, we ice
most of our drinks. A lot of our customers still
need their caffeine fixed so you know if they
usually get a latte, they’ll come in and get an
iced latte instead.”
most of our drinks. A lot of our customers still
need their caffeine fixed so you know if they
usually get a latte, they’ll come in and get an
iced latte instead.”
[Worker]
“I read a lot of medical books and herb books
and they said drinking coffee can actually cool
you down, than drinking cold sodas and stuff. It
just takes you, does something to you to reduce
the heat of your body, and it seems to do ok.”
and they said drinking coffee can actually cool
you down, than drinking cold sodas and stuff. It
just takes you, does something to you to reduce
the heat of your body, and it seems to do ok.”
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Mudhouse Video Script- B-Roll
CHALKBOARD
CUSTOMERS IN
LINE
WORKER
MAKING SMOOTHIE
CUSTOMER SPEAKING
CUSTOMER SPEAKING
WORKER
MAKING COFFEE
BLENDER
NATURAL SOUND
REPORTER
SPEAKING
WOMAN WORKER
SPEAKING
MENU OF COLD
COFFEE DRINKS
CUSTOMER
DRINKING COLD DRINK
OLDER WOMAN WORKER
SPEAKING
GROUND UP
COFFEE
COFFEE BEING
POURED INTO CUP
All Soundbites, B Roll, Standups
Sound Bites
1.
“You know during the summer months, we ice most
of our drinks. A lot of our customers still need their caffeine fixed so you
know if they usually get a latte, they’ll come in and get an iced latte instead.”
2.
“Um I think we come I probably come in here 2 or
3 times a week, usually, maybe less but max 3 times a week.”
3.
“Well pretty typically I like a nice hot cup of
coffee, but in the summer it’s really nice to come in and get a cool drink.”
4.
“Uh well I have got the iced muddle puddle,
right here, one of their classics. It’s got vanilla and let’s see, and mocha, a
little bit of chocolate mixed in there and mix it all up with some ice and it’s
a good good drink. A little whipped cream and it tops it right off.”
5.
“I read a lot of medical books and herb books
and they said drinking coffee can actually cool you down, than drinking cold
sodas and stuff. It just takes you, does something to you to reduce the heat of
your body, and it seems to do ok.”
B roll
11.
WS of customer sitting with computer at Mudhouse
22.
MS of customer sitting with computer at Mudhouse
33.
WS of customers in line
44.
TS of chalkboard
55.
CU of “Hot” on chalkboard
66.
TS of Mudhouse bag of coffee beans
77
MS of fan spinning
88.
Tracking shot of worker carrying a basket of cream
99.
MS of working grabbing smoothing, then tracks to
the sign “Pick up drinks here”
--10.Tracks worker pouring coffee, tighter shot
111.TS of “Lift my lid” on trash can
112.
MS of toilet seat on wall and lady opening it.
Zooms in
113
TS of chalkboard cold coffee drinks menu
114.
TS of chalkboard smoothies menu
115. Medium depth shot, containers in front, workers
in back
116.Shakey shot of table and chair
117.
MS of green marble on wall
118. TS of opening another toilet lid on wall, zooms
in to painting
119.
TS of customer drinking cold drink
220. Tracking TS of another customer with a cold
drink sitting down, zooms in on her drink
221.
Tracking TS of worker putting coffee into scoop,
and dumping it in a machine that will pour out the coffee
222. TS of coffee being poured into cup, zooms out to
worker and coffee. Camera swings around to a more opposite shot. Tracks her
scooping peanut butter, pouring milk, scooping powder, and scooping ice. Puts
container on blender, TS of blending.
223. CU of blender “End of program ready” Zooms out
to worker grabbing container and pouring drink into cup. Carries drink to
counter
224.
MS of worker at counter shouting “Double peanut
butter puddle” Tracks customer grabbing it and walking out
Stand ups
1.
“Everybody knows to come downtown to the
Mudhouse for a great cup of coffee, but nobody wants coffee when it’s a hundred
and five degrees.”
2.
“For coffee shops like the Mudhouse, there is
one way to beat the heat, and that’s to offer refreshing cold drinks.”
3.
“Another great thing about the Mudhouse is that
once you get your drink and sit down, there’s a lot of great artwork.”
Friday, May 17, 2013
Friday Shot by Shot Assignment
Disappearing jobs: Video store closes up
2:58
1. CU of video verite sign
2. WS of inside of store
3. MS of Marc reaching for DVD
4. CU of Marc in interview
5. WS of outside of store, little depth with a rail in the front
6. MS of customers looking and walking through store
7. TS of customer looking through DVDs
8. CU of movie cover "City for Conquest"
9. CU of movie cover "The Beloved Rogue" and "The Oyster Princess"
10. CU of light up "DVD Rental" sign
11. Tracking a customer looking at the DVD shelves
12. TS of customer's hand reaching for a DVD
13. CU of Marc in interview
14. Angled tight shot of "Open" sign
15. TS of Marc at the computer going through DVD's, shows off a little depth in the store
16. MS of customer looking at the shelf for a movie
17. Opposite MS of the customer looking at the shelf for a movie, also rule of thirds
18. CU of "Suggestions, comments" box
19. CU of Marc in interview
20. WS of customer scanning through the shelves for a movie
21. MS of the customer now looking at a movie, he walks out of the shot
22. TS of dog
23. MS of customer grabbing DVD's then walking out of the shot
24. TS of customer looking for a movie
25. CU of Julie in interview
26. MS of Julie looking at the shelves for a movie, rule of thirds
27. WS of Julie at the check out desk
28. CU of Julie in interview
29. TS of Julie holding a movie, rule of thirds, also some natural sound in that shot
30. Depth WS focusing on shelves with Julie and rest of the store in the back
31. MS of inside of store looking outside through the window
32. Angled TS of "Most DVD's $2.50!"
33. CU of Marc thinking, rule of thirds
34. TS of Marc grabbing a DVD
35. CU of Marc in interview
36. TS of the candy sign, a little depth with Marc in the background
37. MS of Marc holding a DVD
38. TS of Marc's hand grabbing a DVD
39. CU of Marc's face while going through DVD's
40. WS from the back of the store
41. CU of Marc in interview
42. MS of worker putting DVD's in box, other worker stacking them
43. MS of worker handing DVD's to a customer
44. Low MS of receipt printer and customer waiting for their receipt
45. TS of worker filing DVD's in black drawer
46. TS of 2 workers filing DVD's in black drawer
47. CU of Marc in interview
48. WS of outside looking in the store and Marc turning light off and walking out
What I noticed about this video is that there are a lot of unusual shots that you wouldn't see in a normal news story. It seemed a lot more free handed and not focusing too much on the rules. There were a lot of close ups of faces and the shot they had for Marc and Julie getting interviewed was interesting. It was centered and close up, which I liked because it wasn't a usual shot during an interview. Some more variety they brought to this story was some angled shots and some low shots. There were a few times where you would get 3 or 4 tight shots in a row. Some shots seem a little random at times, but there were some good sequences.
2:58
1. CU of video verite sign
2. WS of inside of store
3. MS of Marc reaching for DVD
4. CU of Marc in interview
5. WS of outside of store, little depth with a rail in the front
6. MS of customers looking and walking through store
7. TS of customer looking through DVDs
8. CU of movie cover "City for Conquest"
9. CU of movie cover "The Beloved Rogue" and "The Oyster Princess"
10. CU of light up "DVD Rental" sign
11. Tracking a customer looking at the DVD shelves
12. TS of customer's hand reaching for a DVD
13. CU of Marc in interview
14. Angled tight shot of "Open" sign
15. TS of Marc at the computer going through DVD's, shows off a little depth in the store
16. MS of customer looking at the shelf for a movie
17. Opposite MS of the customer looking at the shelf for a movie, also rule of thirds
18. CU of "Suggestions, comments" box
19. CU of Marc in interview
20. WS of customer scanning through the shelves for a movie
21. MS of the customer now looking at a movie, he walks out of the shot
22. TS of dog
23. MS of customer grabbing DVD's then walking out of the shot
24. TS of customer looking for a movie
25. CU of Julie in interview
26. MS of Julie looking at the shelves for a movie, rule of thirds
27. WS of Julie at the check out desk
28. CU of Julie in interview
29. TS of Julie holding a movie, rule of thirds, also some natural sound in that shot
30. Depth WS focusing on shelves with Julie and rest of the store in the back
31. MS of inside of store looking outside through the window
32. Angled TS of "Most DVD's $2.50!"
33. CU of Marc thinking, rule of thirds
34. TS of Marc grabbing a DVD
35. CU of Marc in interview
36. TS of the candy sign, a little depth with Marc in the background
37. MS of Marc holding a DVD
38. TS of Marc's hand grabbing a DVD
39. CU of Marc's face while going through DVD's
40. WS from the back of the store
41. CU of Marc in interview
42. MS of worker putting DVD's in box, other worker stacking them
43. MS of worker handing DVD's to a customer
44. Low MS of receipt printer and customer waiting for their receipt
45. TS of worker filing DVD's in black drawer
46. TS of 2 workers filing DVD's in black drawer
47. CU of Marc in interview
48. WS of outside looking in the store and Marc turning light off and walking out
What I noticed about this video is that there are a lot of unusual shots that you wouldn't see in a normal news story. It seemed a lot more free handed and not focusing too much on the rules. There were a lot of close ups of faces and the shot they had for Marc and Julie getting interviewed was interesting. It was centered and close up, which I liked because it wasn't a usual shot during an interview. Some more variety they brought to this story was some angled shots and some low shots. There were a few times where you would get 3 or 4 tight shots in a row. Some shots seem a little random at times, but there were some good sequences.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Components of a Broadcast Story
1. Topic:
Cross Country and Homecoming Game.
2. Focus Statement:
Cross Country Team Runs Football to Homecoming Game.
3. Sound Bites:
"Our cross country team holds traditions very dear to us"
4. B-Roll:
The over head shot of the team running.
5. Reporter Stand Up:
When one group of runners passes the ball to the next group and the reporter is there talking about how they almost forgot the football.
6. Voice Over:
When he talks about how long the run is.
Cross Country and Homecoming Game.
2. Focus Statement:
Cross Country Team Runs Football to Homecoming Game.
3. Sound Bites:
"Our cross country team holds traditions very dear to us"
4. B-Roll:
The over head shot of the team running.
5. Reporter Stand Up:
When one group of runners passes the ball to the next group and the reporter is there talking about how they almost forgot the football.
6. Voice Over:
When he talks about how long the run is.
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Make It Memorable- Bob Dotson Part 2
Read, in Dotson’s book, pages 43 thru 55. Respond to what you read, and
use these questions if you get stuck: What strikes you as interesting?
In what ways do you agree or disagree with him? How does this fit where
you are as a writer, and how will it help you become a better one?
(100 words minimum)
I thought it was interesting how he compared storytelling to onions. I like that comparison because the story needs to have layers to make it more interesting. While someone is telling the tale, a series of strong images and sounds are being projected. I agree that this is how it must be done if you want the viewer to feel like part of the story. I'm glad Dotson talked about not making your stories into movies, because I feel like I try to make my stories longer with more detail when really the public doesn't have much time to watch a long story. It has to be to the point, yet captivating. I also really liked how he mentioned to write to express, not to impress. It's not about how good you sound, it's about what emotions and reactions you get out of your viewers.
So, Dotson highlights the following:
- How to defeat the TV remote control
- Be conversational
- Gobbledygook and clichés
- Active voice
- Write in threes
- Surprises
Read this story and watch this one (a bit of a sports theme this week). Write two paragraphs (one about each) that explains how the story uses/handles at least three of these aspects. Give specific examples (100 words in each paragraph, so at least 200 total words).
I think the story of Nate Smith had some Gobbledygook in it. When the story was talking about how Nate did sign the sheet, but signed his brother's name instead, the phrase "that's a lot of soybeans to eat" was said. It may be a cliche, but I'm not sure because I've never heard that saying before. Either way, it's not needed and as a viewer I shouldn't be confused about what the writer is saying. Another aspect this story had was write in threes. "Righteousness has its own rewards" is a good example in this story. Lastly, it was conversational. The whole format of the story was very casual, nothing too complicated or fancy. This is how the writer would talk in person.
In the 12-son football dynasty video, it showcased the aspect of surprises. After talking about all sons being in football, and being on a more sad note, a pleasant humorous surprise was brought up to the viewers. Steve Hartman: "Cursing like true Minnesotans." Mom: "Oh sugar!" was a funny surprise broughten up in the story. Another aspect was the active voice. Steve Hartman speaks very confident, with no passiveness. The story itself isn't too interesting (it's unusual, but not interesting), but Hartman made it more interesting with an active voice. Lastly, this story defeat the TV remote control. Hartman wrote to express the relationship between the family and football, not to impress.
(100 words minimum)
I thought it was interesting how he compared storytelling to onions. I like that comparison because the story needs to have layers to make it more interesting. While someone is telling the tale, a series of strong images and sounds are being projected. I agree that this is how it must be done if you want the viewer to feel like part of the story. I'm glad Dotson talked about not making your stories into movies, because I feel like I try to make my stories longer with more detail when really the public doesn't have much time to watch a long story. It has to be to the point, yet captivating. I also really liked how he mentioned to write to express, not to impress. It's not about how good you sound, it's about what emotions and reactions you get out of your viewers.
So, Dotson highlights the following:
- How to defeat the TV remote control
- Be conversational
- Gobbledygook and clichés
- Active voice
- Write in threes
- Surprises
Read this story and watch this one (a bit of a sports theme this week). Write two paragraphs (one about each) that explains how the story uses/handles at least three of these aspects. Give specific examples (100 words in each paragraph, so at least 200 total words).
I think the story of Nate Smith had some Gobbledygook in it. When the story was talking about how Nate did sign the sheet, but signed his brother's name instead, the phrase "that's a lot of soybeans to eat" was said. It may be a cliche, but I'm not sure because I've never heard that saying before. Either way, it's not needed and as a viewer I shouldn't be confused about what the writer is saying. Another aspect this story had was write in threes. "Righteousness has its own rewards" is a good example in this story. Lastly, it was conversational. The whole format of the story was very casual, nothing too complicated or fancy. This is how the writer would talk in person.
In the 12-son football dynasty video, it showcased the aspect of surprises. After talking about all sons being in football, and being on a more sad note, a pleasant humorous surprise was brought up to the viewers. Steve Hartman: "Cursing like true Minnesotans." Mom: "Oh sugar!" was a funny surprise broughten up in the story. Another aspect was the active voice. Steve Hartman speaks very confident, with no passiveness. The story itself isn't too interesting (it's unusual, but not interesting), but Hartman made it more interesting with an active voice. Lastly, this story defeat the TV remote control. Hartman wrote to express the relationship between the family and football, not to impress.
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Break In Story
1. What is the lead in this story? Does it intrigue you to keep watching?
"It's hard to imagine something like this could happen in a quiet neighborhood." It intrigues me to keep watching because I want to know what happened in this neighborhood.
2. What are the 5W's of this story: Who, What, Where, When, Why
Who: Heather Berg
What: Someone broke into her house
Where: In her neighborhood
When: In the fall
Why: The thief came in through the doggy door
3. Give an example of the reporters Voice over or seque (Write it down word for word)
When they are shooting footage around the house, he talks about what the thieves stole.
4. When do we see the reporter's stand-up? Beginning, Middle, or End?
Middle.
5. What is the purpose of this reporter's stand-up?
To take us to a whole different setting and show us where another break in happened.
-Move Story Forward
-Reporter becomes B-Roll
-Take me to the scene
-Use props
-Be creative and surprise
"It's hard to imagine something like this could happen in a quiet neighborhood." It intrigues me to keep watching because I want to know what happened in this neighborhood.
2. What are the 5W's of this story: Who, What, Where, When, Why
Who: Heather Berg
What: Someone broke into her house
Where: In her neighborhood
When: In the fall
Why: The thief came in through the doggy door
3. Give an example of the reporters Voice over or seque (Write it down word for word)
When they are shooting footage around the house, he talks about what the thieves stole.
4. When do we see the reporter's stand-up? Beginning, Middle, or End?
Middle.
5. What is the purpose of this reporter's stand-up?
To take us to a whole different setting and show us where another break in happened.
-Move Story Forward
-Reporter becomes B-Roll
-Take me to the scene
-Use props
-Be creative and surprise
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Classmate Story
Focus Sentence: Sabrina has faced many challenges because of her move
from Africa to America, but she has overcome these challenges to become
the great person she is today.
Sabrina Epou is not your normal Eastview High School student. She has had many experiences that most of us may never face, but still fits in great with the Eastview community. Sabrina is involved with the school theater and played a sorority girl in the play, "Good News." She enjoys playing soccer in the summer and taking contemporary dance classes. She sounds like your typical active high school student, but what makes her so unique is what happened in her past.
Sabrina was born and raised in Africa. She lived in Lome, Togo with her family and her father worked with the government. When she was 7, her family had to leave Africa because the government was becoming corrupt. This meant she had to leave her Aunt, Grandma, and close friends behind. Leaving the ones she loved behind was tough, but now she had to focus on learning English to survive in America.
When Sabrina moved to Minnesota, she was placed in the 3rd grade. Along with public school, she also had to attend a school to learn English. While talking about this challenge with Sabrina, she stated "learning English took seven years to master." Now Sabrina is very fluent in the language and has no problem understanding others. Although, learning English wasn't the only challenge she had to overcome. Her Grandma's death was another tough time in her life, especially since she rarely got to see her after the move to America.
Sabrina may have had a difficult past, but that doesn't stop her from her ambitions. She says she "hopes to go to college in New York to study performing arts or journalism." I hope to see her make it big in New York as well; she works hard for everything and deserves it.
Sabrina Epou is not your normal Eastview High School student. She has had many experiences that most of us may never face, but still fits in great with the Eastview community. Sabrina is involved with the school theater and played a sorority girl in the play, "Good News." She enjoys playing soccer in the summer and taking contemporary dance classes. She sounds like your typical active high school student, but what makes her so unique is what happened in her past.
Sabrina was born and raised in Africa. She lived in Lome, Togo with her family and her father worked with the government. When she was 7, her family had to leave Africa because the government was becoming corrupt. This meant she had to leave her Aunt, Grandma, and close friends behind. Leaving the ones she loved behind was tough, but now she had to focus on learning English to survive in America.
When Sabrina moved to Minnesota, she was placed in the 3rd grade. Along with public school, she also had to attend a school to learn English. While talking about this challenge with Sabrina, she stated "learning English took seven years to master." Now Sabrina is very fluent in the language and has no problem understanding others. Although, learning English wasn't the only challenge she had to overcome. Her Grandma's death was another tough time in her life, especially since she rarely got to see her after the move to America.
Sabrina may have had a difficult past, but that doesn't stop her from her ambitions. She says she "hopes to go to college in New York to study performing arts or journalism." I hope to see her make it big in New York as well; she works hard for everything and deserves it.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Make It Memorable- Bob Dotson
o What do you notice about the way he writes? Use specific examples, please. (75 words)
The way he writes is very smooth and simple. When he explains filling the silence, he explains it in a very casual, but truthful way. It's easy to understand, yet it tells me everything I need to know. Datson also likes to tell stories. In the beginning of section one, he explains his career through a story of his grandmother disapproving his job. He tells some personal stories, and some stories of other people. He uses those stories to help us understand; another reason why his writings are easy to understand. At times I didn't think he was that professional, (telling stories doesn't seem professional to me) but overall his work is very professional. He knows what he is talking about and if sharing his knowledge means explaining it through story, then he is still a very professional writer.
o What did you learn from reading pages 9 to 27? (75 words)
I learned three different ways to make my stories better. The rules of threes, filling the silence, and the non- question/question. The rules of threes are when who you are interviewing will answer the question the way you want to hear it at first, then they will explain their answer, and last they blurt out a sound bite. Filling the silence is letting the silence grow after they answer a question, this will put their thoughts into sharp focus. The non-question/question is asking them more personal questions and leading that into more questions about the actual situation. I also learned to write your story fast, you write the middle first, then the opening line, and lastly jot down your thoughts.
o With the scripts: What do suppose is described in each column? Why would it be split like that? What else is interesting about the scripts? (50 words)
In the scripts, there are 2 different columns. The descriptions of the different shots appearing during the news story are in the left column. What is being said during that shot is in the right column. I believe it's split like that because that keeps it organized and in order. It makes the filming and editing process easier. What else is interesting about the scripts is whenever someone being interviewed is talking, it is typed in all capitals on the script.
o On Page 34 (and to the end of the section), Dotson writes about a long-form feature. Find one of these (a story at least 4 minutes long) on a TV news magazine such as Rock Center, 20/20 or 60 Minutes. Then, give and explain examples of how the storyteller uses the five bulleted traits Dotson gives on Page 34. (200 words)
"Linsanity" is the video I watched about New York Knicks, Jeremy Lin. They show the setting of basketball by showing wide shots of Jeremy in action. In his interview, there are basketballs behind him, giving us even more shots of the setting. There are lots of natural sounds during basketball clips, home videos, and the roar of fans when returning to Asia. Jeremy foreshadows when they show highlights of his playing. For example, he said "I've never heard an auditorium so loud when I made that 3 pointer." Jeremy Lin faced a few conflicts. First, living in the Asian culture, sports aren't a priority. Education is the priority, but this was resolved by his parents being abnormally supportive towards Lin's basketball. Another conflict he faced was receiving scholarships for basketball. He was clearly good enough for Division 1, yet he was not offered one single scholarship most likely because he's Asian-American. Along with being an Asian-American basketball player, he had to put up with all the stereotypical comments as well. He ended up going to Harvard, where they did offer him a spot on the team. Sadly, the conflict of the name calling wasn't resolved. It actually got worse, but Jeremy claims, "it made me a stronger person." This whole experience has made Lin stronger, and more confident now knowing he has more fans out there.
The way he writes is very smooth and simple. When he explains filling the silence, he explains it in a very casual, but truthful way. It's easy to understand, yet it tells me everything I need to know. Datson also likes to tell stories. In the beginning of section one, he explains his career through a story of his grandmother disapproving his job. He tells some personal stories, and some stories of other people. He uses those stories to help us understand; another reason why his writings are easy to understand. At times I didn't think he was that professional, (telling stories doesn't seem professional to me) but overall his work is very professional. He knows what he is talking about and if sharing his knowledge means explaining it through story, then he is still a very professional writer.
o What did you learn from reading pages 9 to 27? (75 words)
I learned three different ways to make my stories better. The rules of threes, filling the silence, and the non- question/question. The rules of threes are when who you are interviewing will answer the question the way you want to hear it at first, then they will explain their answer, and last they blurt out a sound bite. Filling the silence is letting the silence grow after they answer a question, this will put their thoughts into sharp focus. The non-question/question is asking them more personal questions and leading that into more questions about the actual situation. I also learned to write your story fast, you write the middle first, then the opening line, and lastly jot down your thoughts.
o With the scripts: What do suppose is described in each column? Why would it be split like that? What else is interesting about the scripts? (50 words)
In the scripts, there are 2 different columns. The descriptions of the different shots appearing during the news story are in the left column. What is being said during that shot is in the right column. I believe it's split like that because that keeps it organized and in order. It makes the filming and editing process easier. What else is interesting about the scripts is whenever someone being interviewed is talking, it is typed in all capitals on the script.
o On Page 34 (and to the end of the section), Dotson writes about a long-form feature. Find one of these (a story at least 4 minutes long) on a TV news magazine such as Rock Center, 20/20 or 60 Minutes. Then, give and explain examples of how the storyteller uses the five bulleted traits Dotson gives on Page 34. (200 words)
"Linsanity" is the video I watched about New York Knicks, Jeremy Lin. They show the setting of basketball by showing wide shots of Jeremy in action. In his interview, there are basketballs behind him, giving us even more shots of the setting. There are lots of natural sounds during basketball clips, home videos, and the roar of fans when returning to Asia. Jeremy foreshadows when they show highlights of his playing. For example, he said "I've never heard an auditorium so loud when I made that 3 pointer." Jeremy Lin faced a few conflicts. First, living in the Asian culture, sports aren't a priority. Education is the priority, but this was resolved by his parents being abnormally supportive towards Lin's basketball. Another conflict he faced was receiving scholarships for basketball. He was clearly good enough for Division 1, yet he was not offered one single scholarship most likely because he's Asian-American. Along with being an Asian-American basketball player, he had to put up with all the stereotypical comments as well. He ended up going to Harvard, where they did offer him a spot on the team. Sadly, the conflict of the name calling wasn't resolved. It actually got worse, but Jeremy claims, "it made me a stronger person." This whole experience has made Lin stronger, and more confident now knowing he has more fans out there.
Changing Identities
1. Identify and explain as many WALLDO shots as you can.
Wide-to get an idea of the setting. Ex: shot of him and dog going down stairs.
Angled- gives the shot a different feel and look. Ex: shot of spreading jam on toast.
Low- get down. Ex: also shot of spreading jam on toast.
Linking- linking two different shots together. Ex: shot of wind chime, then tilts down to Noah.
Depth- gives it a 3D feel. Object closer to camera is blurry while object farther away is in focus. Ex: shot of toaster popping and Noah behind it.
Opposite- shooting at the opposite side of what you usually would, also action/reaction. Ex: shot of Noah taking toast out of toaster.
2. What is Natural Sound?
The sounds going on in the environment. Example, bouncing basketballs and squeaking shoes during a basketball game.
3. Identify several examples of Natural Sound in this story?
Noah playing the piano, dog barking, wind/cars driving by, toaster popping, knife in jam jar, wind chimes, leaves crunching.
4. How does Natural Sound enhance the story?
You get every detail of the story. It gives you a feeling that you're actually in the story.
Wide-to get an idea of the setting. Ex: shot of him and dog going down stairs.
Angled- gives the shot a different feel and look. Ex: shot of spreading jam on toast.
Low- get down. Ex: also shot of spreading jam on toast.
Linking- linking two different shots together. Ex: shot of wind chime, then tilts down to Noah.
Depth- gives it a 3D feel. Object closer to camera is blurry while object farther away is in focus. Ex: shot of toaster popping and Noah behind it.
Opposite- shooting at the opposite side of what you usually would, also action/reaction. Ex: shot of Noah taking toast out of toaster.
2. What is Natural Sound?
The sounds going on in the environment. Example, bouncing basketballs and squeaking shoes during a basketball game.
3. Identify several examples of Natural Sound in this story?
Noah playing the piano, dog barking, wind/cars driving by, toaster popping, knife in jam jar, wind chimes, leaves crunching.
4. How does Natural Sound enhance the story?
You get every detail of the story. It gives you a feeling that you're actually in the story.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Walldo
Wide- to get an idea of the setting.
Angled- gives the shot a different feel and look.
Low- get down.
Linking- linking two different shots together.
Depth- gives it a 3D feel. Object closer to camera is blurry while object farther away is in focus.
Opposite- shooting at the opposite side of what you usually would, also action/reaction.
Angled- gives the shot a different feel and look.
Low- get down.
Linking- linking two different shots together.
Depth- gives it a 3D feel. Object closer to camera is blurry while object farther away is in focus.
Opposite- shooting at the opposite side of what you usually would, also action/reaction.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Madison Story
Madison has a disabled arm, but she doesn't let that stop her. I liked this story because it really seems like Madison doesn't find her arm to a disadvantage. She does things people with two arms can do, like volleyball, and is very positive about life. I admire Madison and I thought it was a good story. Here are some thoughts of the camera work...
-Interviews have talking space, eyes on thirds
-While she was at her desk, there was a wide, medium, and tight shot. Even a few cut offs
-Good sequences
-Volleyball could have been shot a little better, her face was cut off in an action shot.
-The backgrounds for the interviews are interesting, show off different settings in the school.
A-Roll: Anything in the story you can hear... Ex. Interviews, reporter voice overs, natural sounds.
B-Roll: The video footage that compliments the story.
-Interviews have talking space, eyes on thirds
-While she was at her desk, there was a wide, medium, and tight shot. Even a few cut offs
-Good sequences
-Volleyball could have been shot a little better, her face was cut off in an action shot.
-The backgrounds for the interviews are interesting, show off different settings in the school.
A-Roll: Anything in the story you can hear... Ex. Interviews, reporter voice overs, natural sounds.
B-Roll: The video footage that compliments the story.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Energy Efficient Publisher
1. What is the focus statement of this story?
A Publisher's Passion Fueled by the Sun.
2. Give examples of W-M-T sequences
Wide- When he was driving down the road, showed the area he was driving in.
Medium- Zoomed in a little closer to show the detail.
Tight- Got a different angle of him at the wheel, tight shot of him and the inside of his car. More detail.
3. Give examples of The Rule of Thirds
The reflection of the publisher in the side view mirror of his car.
4. Give examples of Eyes on Third
Besides shot of him at the wheel, his eyes are always on the top horizontal line on the left or right side of the picture.
5. Give examples of Talking Space
While the publisher was talking about watching the meters in his power box, he was to the right and the rest was space to show the box and talking space.
6. What did you like about story?
I like how passionate he is to be energy efficient.
A Publisher's Passion Fueled by the Sun.
2. Give examples of W-M-T sequences
Wide- When he was driving down the road, showed the area he was driving in.
Medium- Zoomed in a little closer to show the detail.
Tight- Got a different angle of him at the wheel, tight shot of him and the inside of his car. More detail.
3. Give examples of The Rule of Thirds
The reflection of the publisher in the side view mirror of his car.
4. Give examples of Eyes on Third
Besides shot of him at the wheel, his eyes are always on the top horizontal line on the left or right side of the picture.
5. Give examples of Talking Space
While the publisher was talking about watching the meters in his power box, he was to the right and the rest was space to show the box and talking space.
6. What did you like about story?
I like how passionate he is to be energy efficient.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Camera Video Questions
CAMERA NOTES
1. What is a Focus Statement? Define
A statement that is the main idea of your story.
2. Why do we need a Focus Statement?
So we know what we are going to write our story about.
3. Give an example of a Focus Statement sentence.
"Homecoming nominees have unusual talents"
4. Give an example of a Focus Statement in 3 words: (Subject-Verb-Object)
Instead of "Some girls are making their homecoming dresses this year," the focus statement would be "Girls Make Dresses."
5. What are the 6 Essential Equipment items you need with you when shooting an interview?
- camera
- tripod
- microphone
- headphones
- batteries
- media
6. Why is a tripod important?
It keeps the shot still, not shaky if you were holding it.
7. The Tripod is my ___________
Friend.
8. Define: Pan
Moving the tripod horizontally.
9. Define: Tilt
Moving the tripod vertically.
10. Why are headphones important?
You can't fix bad audio, so you can be checking if your sound is good through headphones.
11. Why is it important to TEST YOUR EQUIPMENT BEFORE YOU GO ON SHOOT!
If something isn't working- for example the batteries aren't fully charged- and you didn't check before the shoot, then the whole shot is ruined.
Show setting and surroundings. Establish a location.
13. Why do we need a wide shot?
In order for the audience to get an idea of the setting.
14. Define Medium shot:
Little less setting, and more detail focus on a specific area.
15. Why do we need a medium shot?
Gives you a closer look of what's happening.
16. Define a tight shot.
Lots of detail.
17. Why do we need a tight shot?
To show the detail, interesting to watch.
18. What is a sequence?
When you edit a series of connected shots together.
19. Why do we need a sequence?
First you get a feel for the room as a whole, then you can zoom in more on what your focus is, finally, you focus their attention on the main focus and see more detail.
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