Going into Show 2, I’ve really started to settle into my role as ENG, and these past two weeks reminded me how much I enjoy the collaborative side of shooting. What I’ve noticed the most lately is how much communication matters when you’re working behind the camera. Filming isn’t just about knowing the technical side of the equipment. It’s also about working with the reporter to help bring their story to life visually. A lot of the moments that stood out to me during this cycle came from brainstorming ideas together and finding small ways to make each shot feel more natural or engaging.
One thing that went especially well was working with Connor while filming his SOT Tz. When we first started setting up, he was planning on using the stick mic, but I suggested switching to a lav mic instead. Since he was walking through the shot and gesturing with his hands, I thought it would help him move more naturally without worrying about holding the microphone. He ended up really liking that idea, and afterward, he told me his SOT Tz turned out well, partly because he felt more comfortable being able to move and express himself. Moments like that reminded me how much small technical decisions can impact someone’s on-camera performance. It also felt good to know that my input helped improve the final product.
Creatively, I had a lot of fun experimenting with different standup ideas with my classmates. When filming with Logan, we tried something a little different in the U92 studio by having him speak into the microphone as if he were actually on the show. It gave the standup a more authentic feel and helped connect the environment to the story he was telling. I’ve been realizing more and more how much the environment can add to a shot when you use it intentionally instead of just placing someone in front of a random background.
Quinn and I also spent time bouncing creative ideas back and forth for his standup concept involving the 1980s. We talked about ways to visually represent the time shift, and it was interesting to see how those ideas evolved after discussing them with our professors. That process made me appreciate how much storytelling can change just through collaboration and experimenting with different visual approaches. Even if every idea doesn’t end up being used, the brainstorming process usually leads to something better than the original plan.
Of course, not everything went perfectly, and those moments were just as helpful for learning. One thing I need to stay more mindful of is leaving space in the frame for the bug or graphic that appears on screen. Most of the time, I remember to frame with that in mind, but there were moments where I forgot, and I believe Quinn had to reshoot a shot to make sure there was enough room. It’s a small detail, but it’s an important one, and it reminded me that good framing isn’t just about what looks visually balanced in the moment; it’s also about thinking ahead to how the shot will be used in editing.
Overall, I feel more confident helping set up shots, adjusting framing, and suggesting creative ideas when we’re filming. At the same time, I’m still working on keeping myself organized and staying on top of deadlines, which is something I know will be important in any professional production environment.
Looking at the class as a whole, it’s been exciting to see everyone getting more comfortable with their roles. People seem more confident experimenting with standups, trying new shot ideas, and helping each other solve when something doesn’t go as planned. That collaborative energy has made the whole process really enjoyable. For me, being an ENG has been a great balance of technical work and creativity, and I’m excited to keep building those skills as the semester continues!