Research- Blocking

4. Blocking 

Today we learnt about blocking in our practical, which is the process of working out the precise positioning of the actors in relation to the camera. I decided to watch another blocking video on Youtube to reinforce what we had learnt in the practical to ensure that I have grasped the concept.

Stages of blocking:

• Normally conducted with the director, director of photography and the actor, whilst the rest of the crew can go on break

1. Block the action- determine the actors movement and positioning, as well as the first camera position.

• During this process the scene is read through and the actor is informed about their movement within the scene in its entirety and practices it. 
• The blocking action should be pre-planned.
• Actors can occasionally bring their own suggestions for movement, whereby adjustments can be made, if agreed with the director. 
• Marks are positioned on the ground with tape of each point the character is required to move to. 
• Blocking rehearsals would be useful for a camera operator, for they might be thinking about whether a dolly would fit in an allocated space, whereas the director wouldn't be concerned about this. Therefore, blocking is essential for all members of the crew.

2. Light the set 

• As the cinematographer, when I know where the actors are going to be placed, it becomes easier to know how to arrange the lights. 

3. Rehearse 

• Rehearse with the camera and the actors for the first set-up. 

4. Adjustments 

• Make lighting and other adjustments. 

5. Shoot 

• Shoot the first scene, then repeat the process from different camera set-ups. 

These processes showed how film industry professionals work on set, giving me an insight into how we would conduct our own filming schedule on the day.