Common Types of Allusions in Films
Allusions represent a popular literary device that is used by authors and screenwriters to achieve character development. To create strong associations to well-known works and past concepts. And to devise stronger storylines. Many different types of literary allusions in films exist to develop these connections to past works. From phrases that can be connected to […]
How to Film Match an Action Cut
The match cut is a common method of smooth transition from one shot to another or from one scene to another that is sometimes referred to as a standard transition. Learning how to film match an action cut is something that requires a bit of practice. Sometimes referred to as cutting on action, or matching […]
What is a Continuity Person & What Role Do they Have on Set?
We have been answering the question “What is a continuity person” for over a decade now. A continuity person is often referred to as a script supervisor. Once more frequently referred to as “Script Gals,” the continuity person is responsible for maintaining the continuity of the film during each scene, take, and throughout the entire […]
What is Shot Blocking in Film?
When you hear the term “shot blocking,” do you think about preventing a shot from taking place? If you’re a basketball player, you certainly do. But as a filmmaker, the mind might take a different approach. In film, various terms are used to describe processes that involve the camera movements, position, and use of equipment […]
Are All TV Shots Voiced Over in a Studio After Filming?
Are All TV Shots Voiced Over in a Studio After Filming? Shooting a television show is certainly a process. It’s a bit different from what you might have seen in filming a movie. But not so much that the entire production process is altered. In fact, much of the process during production for a television […]
Must Know Film Call Sheet Abbreviations
Call sheets are handed out to cast and crew in advance of the film shoot to help everyone understand what is expected of them in the coming shoot days. If you’re not familiar with what’s included in a film call sheet, you should begin by educating yourself there. The next big step will be to […]
How to be a Good Production Manager
The skills that you bring with you to the film set can make a world of difference in whether you provide true value to your team or simply “help out” on occasion. The contributions of the film crew, including writers, editors, directors, actors and other members of the production process ultimately define the success, or […]
Understanding Foreground, Middleground, Background in Film Composition
When looking at the composition of a shot, the filmmaker is faced with a layered scene. In which there is essentially a foreground, middleground, and background in film. Each of these areas, respectively, represents a very important area of your focus. In which, together, the foreground, middleground and background are combined to produce the desired […]
What is Omniscient Point of View in Film?
The point of view (POV) that you use in storytelling plays a key role in how your audience will experience the description and visibility of the world you’re creating for them. Throughout filmmaking, the use of third-person omniscient point of view is common. Allowing a glimpse into the character’s story. But exactly what is the […]
Recognizing Symmetry in Film: What is Symmetry & What Does it Mean?
Throughout the world of filmmaking, the use of various forms both of symmetry and balance frequently come up in discussions of composition and how to engage in the art of visual storytelling. The use of symmetry in film composition represents one of various forms of expression that a filmmaker can control. While delivering the desired […]