Tips and Tricks

Many of these are from NVSD Digital Expressions workbook

Teamwork

BC Green Games entries must be submitted by teams – but we know that doing a project in a group can be hard work!  Here are a few tips to make this process easier:

  • Establish clear roles and tasks for each role
  • Look for activities and projects that can be divided into specific tasks – for example, assign a “time manager” to keep the group on task
  • Have team members log successes and issues and develop strategies to improve communication and workflow
  • If you’re doing editing – do it as a team and share the computer, this makes sure everyone is providing input
  • Communicate!  Be respectful and make sure to listen to your team member’s thoughts and opinions.  Critique results, not people
  • Evaluate how well you are working together

Photoessay Tips

  • Use movie making software (such as iMovie or Movie Maker) to import photos to the clip tray by clicking File and Import. Once the pictures are all imported, students will need to decide on the order of their pictures and the duration of each on the screen. 
  • Add titles – try different titles styles to find the best one!

Photo Tips

  • Focus on Your Subject - Decide what you are really interested in and the reason for taking the photo. Centre your efforts on getting the best photo of this subject (an animal, a friend, family member, a mood or a place). Shoot at eye level.
  • Move in Close - Always have your subject fill the frame to help the viewer understand and appreciate your photo as the details will be more noticeable. Continue moving in closer or use the zoom if necessary until you are sure the photo will successfully represent your subject.
  • Work Quickly - If your subject moves or can be unpredictable, shoot the picture right away. Practice getting quicker and quicker so you can get the photo you really want.
  • Compose With Care - Keep your photo balanced and beautiful. Move about and explore different viewpoints, angles and compositions. Be a director and take charge. Strive to lead the eye along an interesting path through the photo, with the use of strong lines or patterns. Plain backgrounds work well. Move your subject away from the centre of the photo (remember the rule of thirds).
  • Look at the Lighting - Determine what kind of light are you working with and how the light is affecting your subject. If your subject is in the shade, use a flash outdoors. Indirect light can be used to make your subject soft and pretty.

Videography tips

  • Avoid being a “Hoser” –Don’t pan from side to side like a garden hose out of control
  • Avoid being a “Zoomer” – Don’t zoom in and out. Pick your shot and stick with it
  • Avoid “Seasickness” – A tripod allows your shots to be steady and consistent
  • Use close-up shots for emotional impact or to create drama – Focus your viewer’s attention on specific details

 

Go back to Resources for 8-12

 
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