Project Planning CHAPTER 4

OBJECTIVES You will be able to Identify the elements of project planning Plan and strategize a video project Complete the elements of a script Complete the elements of a storyboard Organize the materials and resources needed to complete a video project Produce a documentary

VOCABULARY Audio – the portions of a video project that include sound (dialogue, music, or background sounds). Brainstorming – creatively identifying and listing possible ideas and topics for a project. Character generator – a video component that allows the typing of words and simple graphics onto the video. Font – a letter type or style used in character generation. Script – the written portion of the video project that depicts the “spoken” part of the audio components. Storyboarding – the process of planning a video project that includes drawing a simple sketch of the desired shot, planning the accompanying audio, and estimating the duration of each element. Topic elements – the information, concepts, and ideas about the topic that are to be included in the video program

Why is it important to plan? Projects have a greater change for success when carefully planned, thoughtfully scripted, and then effectively produced. Planning can help minimize errors and make the process more enjoyable.

TOPIC SELECTION Ordinary topics, but using a creative approach Brainstorming Compile a list of topics Narrow it down to one or two ideas Consider the following aspects to see if your idea or topic is viable: Is the idea feasible? Do you have the ability (skills) and resources (equipment) necessary to produce the project? Are the time constraints realistic? Can the project be produced within the time frame established for completion? Is the topic politically or socially acceptable? Adhere to the values, morals, and standards of school code of conduct and guidelines.

TOPIC SELECTION Identifying Topic Elements Example: Identifying Topic: Student Parking at your school Elements to be covered: 1.Number of students verses number of parking spaces 2.Application process for parking permits 3.Senior parking spaces: uniquely named “spaces” 4.Do’s and Don’ts (parking rules) 5.Alternatives for those who cannot obtain parking privileges * Remember there is a time limit to cover the entire topic.

TOPIC SELECTION Topic Approaches The “approach” or point of view you will take during the production of the topic is what makes it unique and interesting to the viewer. Use creative talent and ideas Find a unique angel and strategy to capture interest Think of a fresh, new look for your topic Creative approaches Unique camera angels, special effects, dazzling editing, good script writing, and on-camera talent personalities

TOPIC SELECTION Unique Approaches Consider again the identifying topic example: Student Parking at your school A dramatization – is an approach that takes a “movie-like” view on a subject. (see example in chapter packet) A documentary – is an approach that takes a serious look at the topic. The script is narrated and includes background music as viewers watch and learn about the topic. (see example in chapter packet) A news report - is an approach that can be used in conjunction with the production of a [school] news program. A reporter is assigned to find out facts about the topic situation. (see example in chapter packet) A commercial – is an approach that creates and relays information about the topic using videography, narration, music, and graphics.

SCRIPTWRITING Whatever topic and approach you choose, the script comes first! Dramatization – uses settings, dialogue, and direction cues. (see example in chapter packet) Documentary – written in narrative style; talent or guests may appear on camera. (see example in chapter packet) News report - contains reporter on camera statements, questions to be posed to on-camera guests, and some narrative for voiceovers. (see example in chapter packet) PSA (Public Service Announcement) – information told in an exciting way to entice the viewer on the topic; short and concise but still gets the topic point across. (see example in chapter packet)

SCRIPTWRITING Remember: Write down ideas first! Use good phrases and dialogue Write for your audience. Use language and words they can understand and relate to The tone should reflect the content; Is it exciting, entertaining, or serious? Identify titles and names of people in your project; can use graphics for this purpose too.

STORYBOARDING The process of planning a video production by drawing a simple sketch of the desired video shot, writing an audio portion (or description of the audio if not scripted), and listing the approximate time for the sequence. It is a printed outline of what the completed video project will look like. Questions to consider: Do you use a moving camera, or a tripod (a stationary device)? What kind of camera angel is preferred? Close-ups, extreme close-up, unstable horizon shots, or bust and medium shots *See example storyboard sheet in classroom packet

STORYBOARDING Advice to consider: 1.Keep it simple 2.Draw the actual shot (Imagine how the shot would look on TV) 3.Point of view; angle and shot 4.Use the margins or frames for notes 5.Estimate the length of each shot 6.Use arrows to indicate panning, tilt, or zoom motions for the camera; directional notes 7.Storyboard ALL aspects of your project: video shots, graphics, audio (including music and sound effects)

Storyboarding

Storyboarding

5 minute Mini Documentary Assignment You will come up with a 5 minute documentary about yourself To begin… 1.Brainstorm at least five ideas Something about yourself: what you like, a creative talent, where you live, something unique about your family, etc… 2.Narrow your idea down to 2 the two most effect stories you can tell

Storyboard Practice Plan the first three opening shots of your idea. Remember: Visual – Video shot and Description Audio – Script and Sound Time – in secs (0:00)

CHARACTER GENERATOR What is a character generator? An electronic character generator is used in video production to include: Titles Credits Internal graphics describing the task Content On-camera appearances of talent and guests Uses fonts, colors, backgrounds, and effects Example: Videonics Titlemaker 3000

CHARACTER GENERATOR

Guidelines to follow for a successful character generator: Be aware of character size as it relates to the viewing situation. (needs to be big enough for the audience to read) Use a variety of forms. (fonts and colors) Use high-contrast colors and shades. (Avoid pastels) When using a transparent background, be aware of the contrast between the video background and font colors. Don’t overcrowd a page. (No more than 3 lines per page) Keep it simple. Spelling is important! Proofread carefully!