MJ Hasty

Hi James, I enjoyed the trailer, wondering what the film is all about. Can you tell me a bit about the lighting? I like the way the indoor faces are lit, nice texture and shadow, good dramatic effect. Are you using a 3-point system? I'd be interested to know what equipment your using, positioning, etc. How about outdoors? So what's the narrative? Thanks for posting! MJ

Thanks Bryan! This may sound very mundane, but what I really want to do is make documentary-style film for use mainly in the college classroom. For instance, I'd like to do a bio-pic on this really interesting anthropologist, a guy whose work everyone reads in Anthro 101 but there are no films devoted to him and his work. The film would involve interviews with other anthropologists plus some on-location shooting in central Africa, where he did much of his work. I'm an anthropologist myself (now shifting out of academia). I have a Canon XL-2, just figuring out how to use it, very new at all of this. I am considering taking courses on camera, lighting, sound, and editing, to give me a foundation. I'm reading Viera and Viera's book on lighting right now (Lighting for Film and Digital Cinematography), very helpful. Your advice on interviewing is greatly appreciated---yes, the lighting and sound would be key in the kind of film I have in mind. I am going to have to figure out how to raise the money to afford professionals on the interview shoots. Thanks again for the feedback, I have lots of questions but feel a bit silly about asking the professionals. MJ Hasty

Hello, I'm a newbie considering the "Four Week Documentary Film School" hosted by International Film and Video Workshops in Rockport, Maine. Anyone have any info on this or similar programs? I need a crash course in documentary film. Thanks! MJH

Is your sister a university student or does she know anyone who is? A university media program might be able to do this. If your sister (or a student friend) were to visit a media studies professor (in person) during her/his office hours, she/he might be able to help you. Particularly if you find someone interested in international film. An email from a stranger might not motivate any action. Good luck! MJ

Hi Josh Loewen, Which model of the KATA works best with the XL2? What price did you pay, if you don't mind? Thanks, MJ