Camera/Software
 

I'm not in this contest, but I'm in for the next one.

One request: That the camera and the editing software used be listed somewhere.

Not a bad idea, Steve! I'm always curious what other folks are using, too, and I'll make sure I list the camera and software somewhere in my credits.

But at the same time, we should realize that all of the entries will be encoded to web-friendly bit rates so one can't really take measure of the camera and NLE this way. A dolt like me can make a really BAD movie with two XL H1's and Adobe Production Bundle, while someone with talent can make a winner with a single-chipper and M$ Movie Maker. What will really be on display is the talent of the cast and crew!

And don't ask me how it is going. FINE...all I need is an idea! ;-)

Pete is right about the talent of the cast and crew being the most important factor. No matter what camera you shoot with, the films always have to be reduced to about a 30mb or less size to get delivered. I'm always playing with different codecs and settings to get the best image, and still I am never satisfied.

Someone suggested recently that we have a contest for movies shot with HD cameras. Sounds good on the surface, but we would still have that little 30mb size target to hit. They would look no better to those viewing them at home.

This is truely a contest where the camera does not matter much at all, just your ingenuity and skill in filmmaking. Look at Dylans two entries with his little 1-chip palm camera, they easily beat most others. Someone was even going to make one with a video camera phone, and why not!

My suggestions for a good entry would be to have a good compelling script, then work on lighting, camera angles, shot composition and sound. The sound is always the hardest for me!

Now if I could just come up with that compelling script!!!! :)

Mike

Can you put Reflection in the title or dialogue?
 

I thought I remembered reading a DV Challenge rule that said you could not use the theme in the title of your movie, nor could you include it in the dialogue. I searched but couldn't find that rule anywhere. Is it an official rule? A recommended guideline? Or am I completely mis-remembering?

Hey Philip,
If I remember correctly, Dylan just wanted to stay away from getting a bunch of films entitled, "Reflections," or whatever. So, the more original you can be, the better. But his DVC2 movie under the theme of "Secrets" was called "Secret Confessions of a DV Info Moderator," so it's not like you have to avoid the word altogether. As for the dialogue, there are no rules/guidelines about that, I don't think.

Yes...I believe Lorinda is correct. At least that is the way I understand it.

This discussion occurred in last Challenge, i think, as that was only one I was around for, and I recall it also as Lorina stated.

Bingo!
Yeah, it makes it much easier when judging to not have six shorts titled Reflections or something similar.

Also, try to keep the titles on the shorter side.
"Secret Confessions Of A DV Info Moderator" would be a good example of a title that is WAY too long. :)

It was not my intention to imply that equipment makes an entry great and I certainly don't believe that.

Just thought it would be interesting.

Steve,

Don't get me wrong, I think it is a good idea too! I will list my equipment, that is if I get an idea and actually get a movie made! :)

mike

Usually everyone who submits a film starts a thread to discuss it and their production process. That is where most people will tell you what they shot and cut it with.

Question...
 

Please forgive me if I missed this somewhere. I

Will there be one winner for DVC #5 (winner take all) or will there also be other categories? i.e., Best Picture, Runner-Up Best Picture, Best Cinematography...etc.?

It will be one winner takes all the prizes (best picture).

Runner-Up will get a certificate. No other official categories as Rob said.

Excellent! Thank you Rob and Dylan.