My Experience on a Music Video Set!

Date: Wednesday 9th of October 2013 

Time: 10:00 am to 8:30 pm 

Location: Walthamstow, in a house (with a dog) 

So, I was given the opportunity to be a runner on a music video set for a UK based artist. It's a tiring job which requires constant running, helping with lunch, carrying stuff, grabbing stuff and stuff in general but its a great way to build contacts and network as you spend most of the day helping people in the "media" industry.Throughout that day, I spent most of my time helping the gaffer who essentially handles all the electrics and lighting. I helped put up lights, take down lights and carry lights. I learnt a few things about lights from the wiring to the actual names of lights such as the 2500 watt light, which I'm still confused about. Don't ask. But I spoke to the gaffer about how he got into the industry, and we conversed on many occasions about career options and aspirations whilst I also spoke to the actor involved in the shoot about the same things. 

I was able to witness the making of a legit music video which gave me an insight in what it consists of and how they are done on a professional level. It was a great learning experience as I learnt the use of base-tracks and the slow motion effect. The filmed scenes in one go to make a base-track whilst using a variety of shots and angles in the same scene. Watching the construction of a music video from the background, provided minimal yet helpful knowledge in directing a production as I observed the director who maintained his vision of the video and practically dismissed any other. The production cast included the director, the director of photography (DOP), a gaffer, a production assistant, me - the runner and obviously the artist. I noticed how the director must maintain a relationship with the director of photography as he makes the directors vision of the video come true as he frames the shot. The director must also direct the artist and the actors in their performances whilst the DOP directs the camera people and gaffer for light assistance. 

I took a few pictures of the day from behind the camera of what actually occurs and what direction is needed within a music video production.