I Just Can't Slate To Be A Director

“Practice the birthdays” became my motto this year in directing the live morning video announcements. Through this position, I learned how to direct and keep my classmates on task without being hostile or annoying--I made sure mic checks got done on time, the lights were turned on, the teleprompter was up and running, and the camera shots were checked. Giving feedback on the delivery of scripts, as well as helping out the floor managers when needed were also in the job description. Overall, my experience was a positive one, however, a part of me wishes I was on-camera. I found the directing position to be monotonous and uninteresting. In contrast, I found that when I was on-camera the story was different every time. This made for new challenges that kept me interested and always learning both writing and delivery skills. I will definitely take with me the scriptwriting and speaking skills I’ve learned in TV as I continue my directing career in college.

This year I also took on the role of Event Coverage Director. This required me to compile a list of events, critique my classmates’ videos, create my own, and upload the final projects to the CHTV YouTube Channel. From this role I’ve learned ways to deliver effective feedback to my classmates that they will actually listen to. It was interesting for me to watch others’ videos analytically and consider what changes I would have made to make the package more effective. I also found that I had to write down my feedback (even if my classmate only had one minor mistake to correct), or else it would never get fixed. Also, in creating my own event coverage videos I’ve been able to gain additional on-camera experience.

Wow I don’t like waking up early, but getting up on late starts to get to direct MUSEic in the Library was worth it. I got the chance to meet amazing musicians, gain experience directing my classmates, and have the opportunity to shoot handheld and crane shots. It was my responsibility to get the equipment, lights, and cameras set up and ready to shoot, as well as edit the show together. My favorite moment has to be when “Combo Meal” performed. It was amazing to have a bassist, saxophonist, drummer, and pianist groovin’ in a corner of the library.

(insert screenshot of Combo Meal Performance)

I also gained invaluable experience directing my first short film “To Do:”. After feeling idea-less for so long it was wonderful to finally get my first screenplay written. I gained a deep understanding of all of the stages of production, personally seeing each step to completion. I storyboarded, casted, directed, DP-ed, edited, and worked with the composer to create my vision.

I’ve also gained experience directing in my IB Film class. Although my role was primarily in cinematography, I was also an assistant director for the short film “Temerate.” This gave me the opportunity to focus on just two jobs, instead of taking on every role like I did during the production of “To Do:”. I was able to give the composition and lighting of the shots in “Temerate” my full attention and work closely with the actors to position/frame them well in the scene. The challenges of shooting at night proved problematic, but after a little problem solving I was very happy with how my shots turned out. This is probably my favorite shot of the film:

The experience I’ve gained in directing during my time at CHS has been invaluable, and I’m so thankful for all of the opportunities I’ve been afforded though both the IB Film and CHTV programs.

Welp, that’s a wrap.