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A successful film shoot begins long before the camera ever records a single frame. With extensive planning and pre-production, many of the potential setbacks of an assignment can be anticipated and corrected before the crew ever arrives on location. Whether producing an instructional corporate video or documenting an elementary school classroom, Paladin works to obtain all available information to ensure a safe, successful production.
Prior to filming in any location, a site survey is conducted to determine the layout of the area. Factors such as these are taken into consideration:
• Loading/unloading access
• Available parking
• Earliest time crew can arrive
• Any unusual attributes to the location
• Any potential safety concerns
• Any sources of audio interference
• Room dimensions
• Window locations
• Available power sources
• Maximum amperage/wattage per circuit
• Lighting sources
On the day of classroom production, the crew arrives from 1 to 2 hours in advance, depending on the complexity of the shoot. Lighting is positioned and all necessary equipment including cameras, microphones, cables, and monitor is set in its location. All audio/visual connections and feeds are tested before the designated start time to ensure that they are working properly.
Once the students arrive, the producer makes a short introduction in front of the class. The children are encouraged to look at the equipment and become familiar with the unusual classroom situation. The students are then asked to behave normally and refrain from looking into the cameras or at the crewmembers until the end of class.
When filming begins, the crew operates quietly and discreetly, capturing the action with two cameras. The first camera is situated on a tripod and follows the teacher’s actions while a second hand-held camera captures shots of the students, the work materials, and the overall classroom layout. A lapel microphone is attached to the teacher to record his audio and a boom microphone is used to record the students’ comments.
After filming has been completed, all gear is quickly removed from the classroom and broken-down. This process generally requires less than fifteen minutes, and is done without causing disruption to the class. The students are then allowed to ask questions of the crewmembers and learn more about the industry of media production.
The Paladin Media Group is dedicated to the production, distribution, and promotion of redemptive entertainment and educational media. We strive to follow the example of the Paladin Order of Knighthood which, under the rule of Charlemagne, was charged with the task of preserving the values and virtues of the society and culture.
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