Today you will be taking notes on Focus Statements and Camera Techniques


1.  What is a Focus Statement?  Define
A focus statement is a few words that sum up the topic of your story. Usually a subject, verb, then object.

2.  Why do we need a Focus Statement?
To stay on topic, and really emphasize what the story is about.

3.  Give an example of a Focus Statement sentence.
Girls Make Homecoming Dresses

4.  Give an example of a Focus Statement in 3 words: (Subject-Verb-Object)
Girls Make Dresses

5.  What are the 6 Essential Equipment items you need with you when shooting an interview?
Camera, tripod, microphone, headphones, batteries, media

6.  Why is a tripod important? 
A tripod is important because they keep shots perfectly steady and clean.

7.  The Tripod is my friend.

8.  Define:  Pan- moving tripod horizontally.

9.  Define:  Tilt- moving tripod vertically.

10.  Why are headphones important?  
They are the most important for sound. They help you identify if there's a short in the microphone.

11.  Why is it important to TEST YOUR EQUIPMENT BEFORE YOU GO ON SHOOT!

It is important to test your equipment before you shoot because you want to make sure each piece of equipment is going to work. It is also important to bring extra batteries. You don't want to have to re-do the shoot, so to prevent this from happening it is very important to test your equipment.

12.  Define Wide shot:
Give an overall feel for setting and surrounding.

13.  Why do we need a wide shot?
They establish the location. (Used in opening scenes)

14.  Define Medium shot:
Give less setting, more detail

15.  Why do we need a medium shot?
Focus on specific area

16.  Define a tight shot.
A close up


17.  Why do we need a tight shot?
Give lots of detail

18.  What is a sequence?


19.  Why do we need a sequence?