Pre Visualisation 101

Camera Experiment 1 - Pan Shot

In a pan shot, the camera moves horizontally across a scene. This establishes time and space for places and characters in the scene. The aim of this exercise was to create a steady pan that kept the characters positions accurate and centred.

 

I kept the camera position steady, working with rotation and speed to capture the two characters effectively. Using the 'rule of three' grid (as seen in the screenshot in experiment 3) and keyframes, I created a motion that sustains the willing suspension of disbelief.

Camera Experiment 2 - Staircase Roll

A roll shot uses rotation more dramatically, creating the effect of a camera literally being 'rolled'. This experiment uses a high angle and an outward zoom for effect. Our character's surroundings become ominous due to the emphasis of height and enclosed space. The pattern on the floor suggests psychedelic themes.

Camera Experiment 3 - Pitch Shot

A pitch shot plays with a cameras vertical rotation whilst staying attached to one spot. Once again, using the rule of three helps to keep the character centred in the shot, which was more of a challenge in this exercise since it lacks an environment. Creating stamps on specific 'pitch' keyframes allowed me to avoid cutting off the character during the scene.

Camera Experiment 4 - Dolly Shot

A dolly shot consists of a camera being mounted on a wheeled platform that is pushed on rails. 

single shot to two shot. Maya software is able to construct a dolly that replicates its physical relative:

 Through manipulating camera rotation and its positioning on a single axis, I was able to replicate a realistic dolly camera technique. 'Overscan' creates a grey boarder around my shot, making the boarders of my composition clear.

Camera Experiment 5 - Crane Shot

A Crane Shot is simply taken by a camera on a crane. Similar to a Dolly shot, a crane is a machine that can be reconstructed digitally in Maya:

The use of crane shots allows a large amount of space to be captured in a single movement. In this example, two characters and the complex space between them is easily and clearly demonstrated.