R+P Post 33: Reflections on my role and contribution during Research and Planning

I feel that all three of us contributed well to the research and planning of our project and we each played to our strengths.  Below I have summarised my personal contribution.

Storyboarding

As I enjoy art, we felt that I’d be good at drawing out the shots for our storyboard. In order to be as organised as possible I made sure to write down in a checklist all of our key shots before drawing them to ensure that I didn’t forget any. I also made sure to organise our narrative shots in order so that we could see if it made sense.

Drawing our storyboard shots

Drawing the promo shots and flat plans for the website and digipak cover

In addition to storyboarding, I also drew and annotated our promo shots and flat plans so that we had a clear visual reference for when it comes to making them.

Drawing the digipak flat plan

Drawing the website flat plan

Filming and directing sections of the shoot

As I am performing the least in our video, most of the directing and some of the filming will be my responsibility. During our test shoot I filmed some of Laith’s lip-sync scenes such as the flicker lighting and also the scenes with both Sian and Laith. I also acted as a performance director when Sian was filming the hand held scenes in order to help Laith act and convey emotion.

Filming one of Laith's lip syncs

Performing in the video

My performance in the video was dancing. Myself and Sian had a blue lighting set-up which made us appear as silhouettes. As we both have a dance background these roles were very well suited to us and it meant we could perform to a high standard.

Filming one of my dance sections

Helping to teach choreography and organising rehearsals

Alongside Sian, I helped to teach the group of boys the choreography that we decided on as well as organising the rehearsals and ensuring the boys knew when and where they were being held. 

R+P Post 32: Test shoot and rough edit

The test shoot was an important part of our research and planning as it helped us to see what works well and what we need to change before our main shoot in order to create an effective music video. Below is our Test Shoot schedule for the week – I am in group 1 (our times are written in blue).

Edit Schedule

One of the key things we have done in our test shoot was creating lighting set-ups and saving them so that they are quick and easy to access for the main shoot. We were able to test out a range of different set-ups and see what worked well. For example one of our dance lighting set-ups is a strong blue light and so we could experiment with different shades of blue.

The blue lighting we decided on

The lighting set up I am particularly happy with is the group back lit lighting as it is exactly how we envisioned it.

Below is our rough cut from the test shoot. As we didn’t film any location and narrative shots during the test week we have left these sections blank.

The test shoot and rough edit have been very useful as they have helped us to realise what doesn’t work well. From talking to our teachers and together as a group below is a list of changes we plan to make before our main shoot.

Looking forward I think that we are in a good position for our main shoot as we are now familiar with the set-ups and equipment. We also know what takes the most time and can plan our shoot schedule accordingly. I think that once we implement the changes we have planned on and also added the location and narrative shots we could make an effective music video. 

R+P Post 31: My call sheet

For each of our shoot days we have made a call sheet so that our cast and crew know what time they need to be on set in order for our shoot to run on schedule. We have made sure to give each member of the cast and crew a call sheet for the days they are required so they have all the information they need.

Call Sheet for Monday

The call sheet not only includes the time that cast and crew need to meet but also other aspects of the shoot such as detailed health and safety information and locations of different preparation sections within the studio. In addition to this each member of the crews specific roles for the day are mentioned.

I think that having a call sheet will be very useful as it will help our group ensure the shoot runs efficiently.

R+P Post 30: My Shootboard

We have created a shootboard in order to help our shoot days run smoothly and to make sure that we don't forget to film any of our key shots. We have made a different shootboard for each day to keep things clear and organised.

Below is a sample of one of our location shootboards.

Saturday Location Shoot - Page 1

Saturday Location Shoot - Page 2

Saturday Location Shoot - Page 3

The shootboard contains visuals from our key shot storyboard which act as visual reference point and helps us to see the framing of the shot and the positioning of the camera. It also tells us who is filming, directing and acting so we all know what we are doing and also to ensure we can all contribute. We have put rough timings in for each shot, factoring in time for setting up lights and getting into character, and hope that we run on schedule so that we don't have to rush any of our scenes. 

So that our shoot days are organised and that we are efficient with timing, we have grouped together similar shots so that we don't have to continuously change set up locations and lighting. 

R+P Post 29: Rehearsals

In order to prepare for the test shoot and the main shoot we have had many different rehearsals. Below is our weekly rehearsal schedule.

Each rehearsal focuses on a different aspect of the music video. As dance is a big part of the video and we want it to look as effective as possible, Mondays and Fridays are dance rehearsals in which we work with our extra dancers and make sure they know the choreography. Sian and I also spend Tuesday's deciding on the choreography. 

Dance Rehearsal

As part of Laith's rehearsals we made a screen test in which Laith practiced his lip-sync. This helped us to realise that we needed to work more on conveying the emotion of the song through Laith's performance. In order to achieve a realistic lip-sync, we worked with our friend Tyra who is a Drama student and can help Laith to really convey the emotion of the song. We also work on his dancing and gestures for performance as well.

We have stuck to this timetable so far and hope to continue up until the main shoot. These rehearsals have been really productive so far and we hope that we will continue making progress. 

R+P Post 28: My kit list

For our shoot we will need two kit lists. One will be for location shoots that will take place on weekends and the other for the studio shots. 

On Location

• Canon Legria HFG30 Camera
• Libec TH-650HD Tripod
• Canon DM-100 Microphone
• Headphones
• Three Point Lighting Kit
• 64 GB SD card
• Two batteries
• Clapperboard
• Whiteboard Pen + Wipe

Libec TH-650HD Tripod

Canon Legria HFG30 Camera

Studio

The kit we are using in the studio is the same as the location kit in addition to the following.

• Studio Lights and lighting desk
• Sound desk
• Cyclorama
• Additional floor light
• A monitor
• A tripod dolly
• Shoulder support rig for hand held shots

The equipment in the Studio helps to give a more professional look to our shots. For example the lights can be changed so that we have coloured lighting as well as shaped and positioned to create spotlights or flood lighting. The cyclorama will help us to achieve an infinite background so no gaps are seen. The shoulder support will be useful for hand held shots as it will mean the camera shakes less ensuring smoother movements. 

R+P Post 27: Casting

Our video will have one main lead (AJ), a female narrative lead, a supporting male narrative character and a selection of dance performers. When considering casting we had to decide on who would fit best in the roles and who would be reliable given the amount of time required for shooting and rehearsals.

Below is a table which summarises all of our cast, complete with photos of each member and an explanation as to why they have been cast. 

Casting List

R+P Post 26: Set design, locations and props

For our video we have many different locations to film in. We plan to film a large part on location including a narrative section. Below is a table that we put together summarising some locations with an image and a photo of a reference point from existing music videos.

Location table

Extra locations we are going to film in include the Studio in school and my neighbour's living room. We plan on the day to make sure that each location has been dressed appropriately, for example making sure there is no clutter or photographs of other people in shot. 

In addition to this we will make sure to have any props that we need. As majority of the performance shots don't require props, our key props only include phones, mugs and other dinnerware.

R+P Post 25: Costumes, props and make up

As we have a mix between narrative, location and studio we have a range of costumes in our video. 

Below are the narrative costumes that Laith will be wearing as AJ. We have more than one narrative costume in order to represent different days and show how time is passing. The clothing is very casual as it is set in a house. Our extra actor Adam will be wearing similar, casual clothing with the addition of a baseball cap in order to distinguish him from Laith clearly. When filming the location scenes there will also be an outdoor black coat. 

His performance clothing consists of skinny black jeans, a white t-shirt and a black shirt with the sleeves rolled up. Additionally we have a red top that can be used as well in order to add variety. This is still casual but is slightly more fashionable and cool.

For the dance breaks Laith, along with the other four guys, will be wearing a white t-shirt and black skinny trousers as seen below. Even though they will be silhouettes it is important the all are wearing the same thing in order for the clothing shapes to be the same. 

Below are the costumes that Sian will be wearing. There are a variety of options here for the same reason as Laith, so that we can show time is passing. They are casual but still stylish and modern. 

The costumes that Sian and I will be wearing whilst dancing can be seen below. We decided on a crop top and leggings. 

In terms of props we will need a pair of fake glasses in order to help portray AJ as the lovable geek. In addition to this we will have a shark tooth necklace similar to the one below that will be AJ's statement item.

Make-up will not be needed for any of the boys. Sian's make-up will be mainly natural but will have some fancy eye make-up such as winged eye liner or metallic/shimmering eye shadow. However it will not be over the top. My make up will be very basic as my face will not be seen very clearly. 

Make Up mood board of Natural but Glam make up

Basic Face make up

R+P Post 24: Planning my digipak panels

When planning our digipak panels we looked at a range of different album covers and then decided on the conventions we wanted to include. Our aim is to make sure that the cover is eye-catching and promotes the artist well.

Below is the flat plan for the front and back covers.

Front and Back panels

Front Cover

We plan to have a MCU of AJ in the centre of the cover, positioned at a diagonal to the camera looking directly at the camera, similar to an R Kelly album cover. The title 'Disclosure' will be in a white font and in block capitals. AJ will be written in a slightly curved font, similar to a signature, and position in the top right corner. This font and colour will be consistent across all ancillary texts. The background will be plain and grey with a slightly rough feel to it, similar to Amy Winehouse's album. 

Front Cover inspiration

Similar to our website, we spoke to some of our target audience members to get their thoughts on the panels so far. Both panels were liked, in particular the direct address that we planned on the front cover. In addition to this our back cover was said to be creative and different, helping it to stand out.

Back Cover

The focal image will be a LS of AJ on the right hand side that will be edited as a layered photo of AJ running his hand through his hair. We decided to edit a photo in a creative way in order to make our album unique. We were inspired by The Script and Raleigh Ritchie who both have edited photos which makes the album cover more creative. The song titles will run down the left hand side in the same font as the album title. Institutional information and the barcode will be along the bottom. The background will be the same as the front cover which should hopefully give a seamless look. 

Back cover inspiration

Here is the flat plan for the inside panels.

Inside panels

Inside Left Panel

We are planning to have the outline of AJ's side profile filled with words that represent what the album means to AJ, including feelings and thoughts. It will also include some representation of his beliefs and personality. The background will be a plain dark grey and the text will be a silvery white colour to give a sleek, classy finish. Our target audience members really liked the concept of the words inside the head and so I hope that we can make this panel look sophisticated, creative and professional. 

Inside Right Panel

The focal image will be a MCU of the back of AJ's head and will be taken on location. It will have a shallow depth of field so the background will be out of focus. We plan to edit it so that the photo is black and white, matching with the simple colour scheme of the other panels. 

R+P Post 23: Planning my web pages

Artists websites are an important part of marketing as they allow the audience to access all information, music, videos and merchandise. It also works in synergy with the album art and promo shots, making the branding and marketing more memorable to the audience. We spoke about our planned website pages with members of our target audience as well in order to see if it will appeal to them.

Below is a flat plan of our website's home page.

Our plan for the Home Page

The main focus of the page is the album release and ensuring there is an opportunity to buy the album. Our first cover shot will also be a photo of AJ which we hope to be eye-catching.

We are having the home page as a scrolling page so that all of the newest content can be viewed straightaway and keeps the audience engaged. The content will include the debut album release and purchasing options as mentioned before, the music video for the new single and social media links. Each section will have a different cover photo as well. This is similar to Jason Derulo's and James Arthur's websites.

However the additional links at the top will be separate pages in a similar way to The Weeknd's website.

We are definitely including:

• A menu bar with each of page links across the top - similar to John Legend's website
• A Biography page so the audience can find out more about the artist beyond their music
• A music page with options to buy or stream AJ's songs
• A videos page where the music videos will go along with any behind the scenes videos or personal videos from AJ himself during the shooting process (the behind the scenes video idea was liked by our audience members we spoke to as it makes AJ appear more fun and down to earth)
• A Tour page with cities and dates for live performances 
• A photos page with promo photos, behind the scenes photos and some goofy photos to help show AJ's personality
• A Shop page where the audience can buy merchandise such as clothing, posters and the debut album. (After asking some friends who are part of our target audience for their thoughts on our website ideas so far. We were told to ensure our shop has a range of different merchandise options so that it's not all clothing and it is more realistic.)
• Social media links at the bottom of the home page including Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube so that the audience can stay up to date and feel connected with the AJ. We plan to have a live Twitter feed and some instagram photos on the home page as well. (Social media is used by much of our TA and so this was a particularly appealing idea as it means they can stay up-to-date. We therefore must ensure that we have fully functioning social media accounts set up for AJ that can be viewed by the public).

Jason Derulo's Social Media links at the bottom of the home page

John Legend's menu bar

R+P Post 22: Planning my promo shots

For our digipak cover and website we are going to need a range of photos and so we have to plan some promo shots that we can use. Promo shots are important as they need to represent the artists and their music. Below are some examples of promo shots that we really like and are inspired by. 

Using these existing promo shots as inspiration we have planned a range of our own. Below are some rough drawings of what we would like to achieve. 

Some of our promo shot ideas with annotations

We have decided on having:

• A range of costumes to help create variety and give us more options
• Different camera angles and framing choices
• Some photos with a shallow depth of field, background out of focus 
• A mix of studio shots and location shots
• Candid, natural shots to help represent our artist as authentic
• Both direct address and looking away from camera

R+P Post 21: My key shots storyboard

After finishing our timeline we used it to create our storyboard. To do this we got a piece of sugar paper and different coloured post-it notes which would represent different shot types (e.g long/mid/close-ups). We didn't storyboard every single shot, instead we decided on storyboarding our key shots and set-ups. Here is a photo of our finished storyboard.

Our Key Shots Storyboard

We decided to split it into four sections: Narrative shots , On location shots, Studio shots and Dance shots. Below are some photos of each section in more detail.

Studio Shots

Dance Shots

Location Shots

For the narrative we did storyboard all of the shots as it is an important part of our video. It helped us to ensure the narrative worked and that we didn't leave any shots out.

Narrative Shots

By colour coding the shot types it helped us to realise when we didn't have enough of one type of shot and so we could adapt and change our ideas slightly to make sure there was variety. It also helped us to check if we were following music video conventions by having dramatic shot changes (e.g from an long shot to a close up). Furthermore we also decided that we are going to film each location shot as a long, mid and close up so we have as many options as possible when it comes to editing.

Ultimately I feel like the storyboarding process has been really useful as we now know our key set ups and have a visual reference for all of our shots. This will be important when it comes to making our shootboard as we can guarantee to get the all of the shots we need. 

R+P Post 20: My Music Video Timeline

Our next step was to create a timeline of our whole music video. We did this by sticking A4 pieces of paper together and drawing three different tracks along them. The first track was for the lyrics, the second was for the images/shot types and the third was for lighting. Below is a photo of the whole timeline

We used our steal-o-matic as a guideline for the first 2 minutes and then we continued to add and decide on what shots would come next and how long they'd last. We listened to the track whilst creating the timeline not only to ensure that our timings were correct but also so that we could make sure to cut to the beat as much as we could. Because we have put the lyrics on the track as well, we know exactly which shots would be narrative or dance based and how much of the song doesn't require lip-sync. As lighting is an important factor of our video, having a lighting track meant that we could pin down exactly how many different lighting set-ups we will have and which shots they will involve.

We also broke it down by the structure of the song. We marked the end of the verses, pre-choruses and choruses so we knew what was happening in each section. 

Intro, First Verse and Bridge

First Chorus, Second Verse and Bridge

Second Chorus, Dance break

Final Bridge, Final Chorus

Overall I found the process of creating the timeline extremely useful as it helped us to plan out our video in detail and it has compiled all of our ideas in one place. It also means that we know exactly what shot is happening at each point of the song. This will be beneficial when it comes to editing our video and it will help us save time. 

R+P Post 19: My influences and vision for the project

For the project we created a Steal-o-matic. This is a video of images and clips that are from other music videos that we have been inspired by. It also represents the ideas we have in terms of shot order, lighting ideas and the mix of narrative and performance. Below is the video we made.

I think that the video represents the narrative and performance shots we are going for. It also clearly reflects the lighting ideas we have for the lip-sync, dance breaks and silhouettes. 

I also really like the performance lip-sync shots we included as they really show emotion and I would like for us to be able to convey that amount of emotion through our lip-sync shots.

We were also able to represent our creative ideas such as the use of a screen to create a shadowy figure. 

Overall I think that producing the steal-o-matic has been really beneficial for us as it has allowed us to compile all of our ideas and see if the work with the music. It's also made us realise exactly what we want in our video. In addition to this we have now planed out our shots in more detail and figured out their order and length.

R+P Post 18: Analysis of my track's lyrics and instrumentation

Once we had decided on our song we wrote out the lyrics on a piece of sugar paper and annotated it with our original shot ideas for each line as well as our interpretation of the lyrics.

Lyric Analysis and initial ideas

As our lyrics lend themselves to creating a narrative, we have come up with a loose narrative involving our artist as the main character. The song is about his girlfriend cheating on him with another man. 

• Beginning: The artist is looking back on the good times he had with his girlfriend. This section will feature cute couple shots with the two of them in a home environment, ending with the girl leaving the room. 
• Middle: Montage of shots of the girl with another guy, in a park or at his house. 
• End: The artist and the girl have an argument, he confronts her about the cheating. They break up and the artist ends as the bigger person by walking away after forgiving the girl. 

To use Goodwin's theory about the relationship between the lyrics and the image, we plan to match our shots to the lyrics through both narrative and performance. For example on "some other guy" or "I found out from him" we wanted to have a shot of the girl with another guy. We can either do this through the narrative or having a creative shot where the are shadows or silhouettes.

Additionally we can match the artists performance shots with the lyrics by having his actions match the words. For instance when it says "keep messing with my head" we can have him point to his head. Another example would be pointing directly at the camera on the word "you". Below is an annotated version of the lyrics with actions that our main character can do whilst lip-syncing.

Lyrics with planned actions

The song has a steady pace throughout with clear regular drum beats which will be useful for cutting to the beat. It also has a distinct synth melody that is repeated throughout. This steady rhythm will be good for dance breaks as well.

R+P Post 17: My Chosen Track

The track we have decided on is 'Cry Me A River' by Justin Timberlake. It was written by Justin Timberlake, Timothy Mosely and Scott Storch and produced by Timbaland (as well as having his vocals featured). It was released on 25th November 2002 by Jive Record Label. It is said to have been inspired by Justin's break up with Britney Spears.

We decided on this song because we really liked it and we were coming up with a lot of ideas for both the possible performance and narrative sides. Additionally we thought that the lyrics meant that we could be creative with our shots and try some more conceptual artistic shots. 

Below is a table of Pros and Cons for the track.

In order to use the song we have to think about its copyright. To request permission we emailed Sony Music Entertainment - the parent company of Jive Records (which has since been taken over by RCA Records in 2009). Below is a copy of the email that Sian sent to them on behalf of our group. We have not yet heard a reply and so are presuming that it is ok to use for our project.

The email that was sent to Sony Music Entertainment