Homework (BLK)

Reflections

Representation

The genre we chose was horror. Shots from this particular genre often feature dim lighting, shadows and have a subject which raises narrative enigma. Taking these factors into consideration, we included a sleeping young female; this represents her innocence, her vulnerability and the unknown. In addition to this, we also included a huge shadow of a hand, which emphasises the genre, as she is clearly going to be attacked in her sleep showing she is the helpless victim. The use of low key lighting and shadows highlights the conventions of the genre and represents our chose genre.

How we achieved the shot?

To get a good shot we knew we had to ensure the lighting was suitable as this is a key part of the genre, the dark lighting helps portray the fear and vulnerability. In order to achieve this we had to choose a location within the school, which was dark. Therefore, we chose to shoot the shot under stairs. We used an extra light and one of our hands to achieve the effect of a big shadow.

What is successful about our shot?

I think our shot was successful as we clearly portray the genre we chose. Our lighting is effective, as it’s dim and the use of shadows reinforces the gloomy atmosphere. The use of the character’s innocence through her sleep creates dramatic irony as the audience are aware she is going to be attacked, whereas she isn’t. The position of the subject presents her being very vulnerable and a helpless victim, following some of the genre’s key conventions.

Possible improvements

In terms of the shot’s composition, I would frame the shot much tighter and reduce the unwanted mise-en-scene. I will also make the subject’s facial expressions more visible. This is will give more focus on the subject, which will create a better effect. I would make the lighting more dimmer, to make it even gloomier and horrific.