LET’S LEARN THE BASICS:

EXAMPLES HERE:

LET’S LEARN THE BASICS:

ALL ABOUT A ROLL VS B ROLL

Discuss the difference between A-roll (the “talking head”) and B-roll.

• A-roll is referred to as “the talking head” because it is the footage of the main interview. This is where you see the person responding to the questions being asked by the interviewer.
• B-roll is the support footage that is used behind the sound of the A-roll. B-roll helps an interview move along more efficiently. It also provides context to what the person being interviewed is saying. 

Most importantly, it makes the documentary less boring to look at. No one likes to look at a talking head for five-ten minutes straight. 

In fiction films, it establishes setting and important objects for the audience to see. It’s the camera’s way of saying “look here” and “look even harder!”.

WATCH THIS VIDEO: ALL ABOUT A VS B ROLL

VIDEO TUTORIAL: MASTERING B ROLL

VIDEO TUTORIAL: SHOOTING B ROLL

THE ASSIGNMENT:

STEP 01: WORKSHEET

Instructions:

Make a Google Doc in a folder and complete the worksheets below. This should only take you one class. Answer all the questions in full sentence form. Use a different color and text font. Make sure it is in full sentences and NOT point form. Provide as much information and detail as possible. DO NOT write one line answers. Be detailed and descriptive for every question possible. Watch the videos provided to help you answer the questions. 

Part 1: 

1. Why is it important to include A and B roll footage in my film?

2. What is the most effective way to incorporate B roll in my film?

3. Who will I interview for this film?

4. What makes a successful interview and what do I need to remember when filming?

Part 2: TELL ME ALL ABOUT YOUR INTERVIEW YOU ARE PLANNING: 

1. Who is your subject? Give me some insight into why you have chosen them and what they will speak about.

2. What questions will you ask them to answer? Remember, you need to collect B roll footage for their answers. So the questions should prompt specific answers. For example: If you want them to talk about their favorite hobbies, you might ask “what are your favorite hobbies, and why?”

3. What B roll footage will you require? List the imagery you will be needing to overlay on top of the interview’s answers.

STEP 02: PRE PRODUCTION

STEP 1: Pre Production TREATMENT (Thinking/ Inquiry)

Okay. So you have thought about your video. But now you need to write it in full sentences. Describe everything that is in your head about your video from location, to props, to people, to crew. Here are few things you need to include,

You CAN IF YOU WANT also include the following three (3) items;

1. Cast & Crew List: Who is part of the production of this graphics project. If you are solo then this does not matter. 
2. Design Sketches – Some sketches are fine…but consider as many as you can for this project. Include color IF YOU WANT…in these sketches to convey your ideas effectively.
3. Production process:  What programs will you be using? (Adobe premier pro etc…)
4. A paragraph summary that is a description of your theme and message. Using the most economical language possible (K.I.S.S. – keep it simple students – rule is in effect) Some things to remember though… do NOT include and technical terms in this section… that means nothing about camera composition (shots, angles & movements), lighting, audio, etc. unless of course it is important to the story. For example, if a character hears a particular song and that triggers some kind of reaction, such as a flashback for example, then it would be okay to include as it is a part of the story.

STEP 2: Complete the shot list. This is a list of shots that will match with what you are filming. Remember to be descriptive enough in the ACTION/ Dialogue box to explain what is happening.  

DOWNLOAD THE SHOT LIST AND SUBMIT THIS WITH YOUR FINAL PROJECT.

STEP 3: Write out an agenda for your interview movie project. Copy my example below and add this to a google doc.

HERE IS MY EXAMPLE
Day of the week	Explain in detail what you will be doing	Completed
Monday	Film myself for what are my favourite hobbies A ROLL.	Completed
Tuesday	Review footage. Pull strongest answers for script. Write a voice over to incorporate in the video if needed. Also, film voice over and collect B roll footage.	Completed
Wednesday	Begin editing.	Not Started
Thursday	Finalize editing & Submit	Not Started
Friday	Preview scene for feedback and grade	Not Started

STEP 03: GO FILM !!!

STEP 04: SUBMISSION TIME!!!

Google Drive LINK with the following items:

1. Google Doc Worksheet
2. Pre Production Treatment
3. Shot list
4. Final Video in MP4