Show #2 has been a lot of fun to navigate. I learned and experienced more than I expected. Whenever I put my camera on the tripod, I learn something new. Going into Show #2 I was much more confident than I was two weeks before. I felt more comfortable around my classmates, equipment, and new locations. One of the biggest parts of being an ENG is moving around a lot to new places and adapting quickly. I’ve had to adjust to this but after Show #1, I was comfortable doing this. One place that tested this was the Coliseum. Unfortunately, I am not as lucky as some of my other classmates who work for ESPN+ and work on the court a lot. When I arrived with Cam on the floor for the women’s game, I was a bit overwhelmed. This is a new environment for me, and Cam had already shot a handful of games and knew his way around. I had to move past my timidness and get to work. Cam showed me around and answered any questions I had regarding filming. After this, I felt much more confident and got ready to film.
Just like the Coliseum was new to me, so was Coopers Rock. Shocking that a WV native and someone who has lived here for 3 years has never visited Coopers Rock, but it’s true. So, I put on my warm clothes, and Emily and I headed that way. It’s a beautiful site to see. One that put into perspective all the amazing opportunities that I am receiving from this class. Not only am I building connections and learning teamwork, but I am also experiencing things I may have never had the chance to had I not been a part of Mountaineer Playbook. While very cold, Emily I got to work creatively and try new ideas. I wanted to test some ideas I had, while they may have failed in the edit lab, I was able to try something new. It also taught me that lighting is your worst nightmare sometimes. This was the reason my idea failed in the edit and why Emily and I spent 20 minutes finding a spot to do her standup.
Mylan Park was also a new location I also visited this show in Morgantown. Ben and Joey were shooting packages on the swimming and diving team. I was there to help Joey and Ben with their standups and Ben get extra b roll. When I showed up, Ben let me know what he had shot previously and what he needed me to do. I learned to appreciate when my teammate asked me to get specific shots. It helps me because I am not running around unsure of what to get.
Show day came around and I was excited to see everything together. Caitlin and I headed on set to shoot her 3-in-30. With the necessary equipment this time, we got it done smoothly. Ben and I decided I would manage two of the three takes this time. Now, feeling better about my position, I was ready to do so. Besides the 3rd take’s monitor issues, I thought they all went well. I am proud of the show we all helped make. It takes a village, and we worked hard for it. Each classmate I helped Show #2 was amazing to work with. I have gotten comfortable in my ENG skin, and I am much more vocal if something looks wrong or could be better. I fill them in on an idea I have and see if they like it. These experiences have helped me become more confident and ready for Show #3. It will be my last show as an ENG and while I am nervous about starting packages, I have been able to learn from those I’ve worked with to try and create something show-worthy. Show #3 is going to be great and I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with.
