Narration

At the last meeting Frank Weedon spoke on the importance of narration and how to do it properly. Basically if you tell a story you narrate it.
The commentary should add information that is not in the film but it should carefully compliment what is in the film. Don't state the blindingly obvious.

It is important to rehearse and practice and alter the script to make it flow better. Underline the portions you wish to emphasize.
Try to be yourself as if you were speaking to someone else. Don't gable and stop where there are commas and fullstops.
The whole purpose is to convey what is not shown in the visual..

Thanks Frank, well done.

Back to Basics - Tips

On Monday night Nevill Smith and Andrew Wylie started their "Back to Basics" course. This will be carried on during the year. The following were some of the points covered.

• Charge your Batteries the night before use and recharge every month
• Keep your camera ready for use - you never know when you might want to use it
• That being said it is better not to store the batteries on the camera
• Release the tension in the tape by running it through the camera
• Clean the lens. An old used handkerchief (clean) is ideal
• Clean the filter on the front as well
• Note that sometimes the lens cap leaves a mark
• Take an umbrella and a plastic sheet in case of rain or sun.
• Use a tripod (and put your name and contact details on it)
• Better to use a tripod than to rely on the stabiliser.
• Have a light one for trips
• Vary the height of shots (lower for children)

Andrew also gave out 10 important points. As no one later could name more than a few a little bit of repetition may be in order!

Altogether a very interesting meeting.