Sony vs. JVC

Both cameras a great for different reasons, the Sony has a simple design that is easy to use especially for someone who is still learning new filming techniques and the JVC is compact and uses newer technology such as memory cards instead of tape.
The JVC is well equiped for filmmakers on the go who need a small, light camera that has all the bells and whistles they need especially in difficult shooting environments. I found features like the zebra pattern for lighting useful and the memory card recording format allows the filmmaker to review each shot without worrying about losing material by accidentally taping over it or creating problems with the time codes. The one major feature I don't like is the single focus wheel that requires the operator to switch back and forth between zoom and focus.
I prefer the simpler design of the Sony for my filming purposes. All the controls are easy to access and the larger viewfinder makes setting up shots easier to translate how they will look on a larger screen. I also find using tape an easier medium to keep track of.

What does the future hold?

What are you going to do with your life? What are your plans after you graduate? These are questions I get asked all the time. As a senior in college these are some of the most terrifying questions in the world, but also the ones that need to be answered.  I have changed my plans for my future career many times. At first I thought I would like to be an actor, then found out that I'm only ok on stage or in front of the camera and it would not be the best career choice. As I started taking more film classes I bounced between wanting to do everything from cinematography to producing. As I have gained more experience in filmmaking I have developed a strong interest in directing.
I love the creative process of film and as a director I am able to be involved in every stage. My interests as a director are mostly in narrative, but I also would like to try documentary also. Working for a large company like Warner Bros, MGM, 20th Century Fox, Disney, ect. would be great, but I wouldn't mind working with a smaller company. As long as I can make films that speak to me and enjoy making them it doesn't matter who I am working for.
As a student I want to develop my technical as well as creative skills. I want to get a good basis for what makes a good shot and learn how to make it unique and convey my message. There is so much more to filmmaking than framing a scene and recording the action and I want to learn about it all. Mostly what I want to get out of this course is how to frame and light a shot so I can have the strongest impact on the audience.

Visual Inspiration

     My visual style as a film maker comes from many places. To me film is an art that uses light, color, sound, and movement to tell a story. It conveys emotion in a way that no other medium can using all these elements. 

     I love to use color, whether it is the powerful statement of a black and white image or an onslaught of bright bold colors. The smallest details can completely change the mood of the image. Bright colors can evoke a sense of energy and excitement. Soft, muted colors create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. The choice of color used in a background or in a character's wardrobe can completely change the emotion of a scene regardless of the dialogue.

     Light is a powerful tool in creating an image. It can be used to create highlights and shadows that emphasize the emotion of a character, create intrigue, or turn a live action image in to a work of art.

 

     One image that caught my attention was in the film Girl With A Pearl Earring. It is a shot of the lead actress Scarlett Johansson recreating the painting by Vermeer. The way the light is captured by the camera creates the illusion the audience is looking at a painting instead of a photograph. To me this image represents how much film is influenced by other form of art.

     Nature is also a great source of inspiration for me. A beautiful sunset can speak volumes and creates a unique blend of light and shadow and color that can only be seen in that particular moment.

10 Things About Me

10. I am obsessed with facebook and YouTube. I love staying connected and sharing with my friends.

9. I am a film student and I get inspiration from the world around me. I spent most of my life being filmed by my family, and now want to share my love of film making with the world.

8. My favorite TV show of all time is a tie between Friends and Gilmore Girls

7. I don't have a favorite book, but I do enjoy reading and would love to work on a great film adaptation of a book

6. I love movies so its really hard for me to have a favorite movie, but I especially love old classics like Casablanca and Breakfast at Tiffany's

5. I am a big sports fan especially St. Louis Cardinals baseball

4. I want to travel the world and document my experiences

3. Laughter is the best cure for almost anything

2. I believe that art really does imitate life. As a film maker I want to bring my view of the world into my work.

1. I have huge dreams that I reach for every day