The more I think about having a DOP film my scenes for my research proposal, the more I become more reluctant. Despite my previous reflections saying that working with a DOP is the way I want to go so that I have less to worry about on the day of shooting, and directing them to shoot the shots I have planned, I think I have changed my mind.

I still want to get a sense of my style of filmmaking and methodology of working, and I’m becoming more aware that in order to do this, I need to step out of my comfort zone and be confident behind the camera. Gabby’s research proposal really struck a chord with me as I can relate to her wanting to gain a confidence with directing and filming. Her presentation really made the penny drop for me that in order for me to get the most out of this process, I need to step up and get behind the camera.

I asked myself how I would feel to have a DOP film the scenes I am planning for my investigation. I wondered how I could accurately test my theories of ‘ownership’ if I didn’t film the scenes myself? Sure, plenty of famous directors use DOPs, however as this is a reflective course, I want to be able to reflect upon my own style of filming which require me to get behind the camera. This helped me decide that in order to have a better understanding of creative control, I would need to film the scenes myself.

The next natural question is then what camera should I use? I definitely want to use either the EX3 or Z7. I have used both of these last year, and I don’t really have much of a preference right now. It would be a good idea to experiment more with the cameras in class, or even out of class to decide which I would prefer to work with for my investigation.