Reflection of Week 1

   This week was a huge step forward for my video and organizational skills, as I jumped right into things with Ethney. From day one she had me doing her job and using the camera full time. This was a great chance for me to learn being the man behind the camera and also a great chance for me to make mistakes, but I learned from those mistakes. I learned all about Ethney’s camera and the technical usage of high end pro cameras. This is great for me because going on in life these will be the types of cameras I use and they are far beyond the technologies of a consumer or even a prosumer level camera. Also, towards the end of the week I got a refresher course on the more complex parts of Final Cut Pro. I have used Final Cut before, but Ethney is much more familiar with it and quickly got me up to speed. I have noticed an increases of productivity on my own projects as well as the work on my senior class video at home.
  
   Ethney has asked me to do everything she would normally do if she was on her own, which is great. I was asked to do things like filming, editing, importing, interviews, formal e-mails, and setting up dates to meet.  This is exactly what I would have to do if I ran a business or if I was working for any company. All these skills are great to have and I am so grateful Ethney has thrown me into it like she has. I was a little shocked at this however. I expected a more gradual dip into it instead of day one being behind her camera filming and asking the questions but now that I am into it I would not want it any other way, it is truly awesome. This week has made me a more skilled videographer all around. I am more conscious of my framing, when I am recording, and pay close attention to what is and is not in my shot. It has helped speed up my time in Final Cut by knowing more short cuts and being more familiar with the interface. Also my audio skills, which were almost none before, have increased a great amount. I am comfortable at setting audio levels and putting a microphone on a interviewee. Also my post production audio skills have increased. Overall, this week has helped me in every way with all of my skills in video. I am more conscious, aware, and careful about everything while shooting now because of the havoc it can cause in post production.

       Truly, this week has been trial by fire and I came out slightly browned, but not burned. However, I have learned so much from this week. Mistakes while shooting are extremely obvious while editing the next day. After seeing these mistakes I take extra care to not make them again next time I am filming.  I am quickly picking up Ethney’s mental checklist for shooting. With more practice next week, I think I will have it down pat. I am amazed by the amount that needs to be thought about while shooting. There is a lot more than goes into a good shot than decent lighting and a beautiful subject.