Practice and Rehearsal! (Planning)

 Context

So, as stated in my previous blog... We had planned a small rehearsal and practice. The main goals were to read through the script, smooth out any awkward dialogue, make the actors feel more nautral and get in the "mindset" for filming day. 

Additionally, we also went over the more complicated shots, testing camera angles and timing so I could anticipate how to capture each moment. 

Reading the Script Outloud

Before filming, I had made sure to print out the script so it was easier for both of the actors to view it!

Above this a small clip of both of the actors doing a full run of the script.

It was awkward at first, but by pushing through that barrier and reading the script out loud multiple times, it allowed the actors to grow more comfortable, not only with each other, but with their dialogue and movements. Which also aided in making their performance feel more natural and confident. 

Repetition help remove any hesistation and improved/bettered the overall flow of the scene! It also made, not only me and my partner, but the actors more (mentally?) prepared for filming as they recieved a "sneak-peak" of it.

Practicing some Shots

Another portion of the rehearsal was spent doing over difficult shots or any areas of concerns (timing, angles, positons...) For example, in this shot from the storyboard, we realized it had to be changed/shifted since I did not account for my plants to be in the way at this time of the year, thus, not being able to position/set up the camera correctly. Instead, we resorted to moving the camera closer. 

Example from Storyboard

What we decided to do

Lessons and Notes!

First, I learned that hearing dialogue spoken by the actor changes how I planned framing since the pacing becomes different, of course, with different people. Furthermore, I realized rehearsals helps me predict actor's movement, which allows me to pre-plan camera placements accordingly with adjustments rather than blindly onset.