We were not able to recce the production the filming location before the shoot because it is Mr Batoor’s private property and all our schedules did not allow it. So prior to our first meeting, we requested for him to send us a few photos so we could plan our shooting positions beforehand and manage production time more effectively. Thanks to Mr Batoor, we could imagine possible furniture arrangements and its effects on lighting.

On the day, we requested for a few minutes to set up, plan our positions and collect ourselves. I was very nervous. On the bright side, I was able to use that energy to maintain a formal, professional attitude. Even though we all contributed, planned and organised the shots together, my mind was very scattered and I was not very helpful with keeping track of what had been shot or suggesting new shots. Fortunately, that was not my stipulated role. Khalidah was operating the camera and Jen had the shot list. I decided to take a step back and focus on breathing and recording sound, instead. I learnt that I cannot multi-task. Does this mean employers do not want to hire me?

Then we wrapped up filming. Mr Batoor and his partner were very kind to offer cake and tea. We talked about Bollywood, our shared interest in Irfan Khan, a little bit about Cate Blanchett’s representing UN and his future projects. This part of the process was easier for me: being curious about another’s disposition, sharing opinions and having a somewhat formal, get-to-know-another type of work. Perhaps I should go back to applying and enhancing my interviewing skills during our next project. And I realise how important it is to have these kinds of conversations, to have a better idea about who we are working with and if we would enjoy working together again: it’s networking, not facebook-ing.