Amateur movie making (1928)

334 AMATEUR MOVIE MAKING while really of a travel nature, have the element of daring and exploration may properly be classed with the sporting film, as they differ so widely from the usual travel film as made by the casual tourist. Even the amateur ethnologist can hardly class his work with the sports because, while he does run a certain amount of risk, his work is undertaken in a scientific rather than daring spirit. Making the Exposure. — As for details of operation, these are about the same as in other cases. During the big game, when the spectator is somewhat removed from the scene of action the long focus lens will prove invaluable. The difference between the field embraced by the one inch and that embraced by the six inch lens is really remarkable. In many other sporting events, of whatever nature, the cameraman is often forced to take up a position somewhat removed from the scene of action, and it may be regarded as axiomatic that for all sports pictures, with the exception of the posed actions for analytical purposes, a lens of not less than three inches focal length should be used. This gives us a three to four lens range, that is ; three inch, three and three-quarter inch ; four inch and six inch. In preparing for such work, and when using such long focus lenses, the range finder is invaluable also. By checking the field of action, the cinematographer can locate any portion of the possible field of action which will not be properly covered by his lens set at infinity and can, when necessary, establish a focal point for use in emergency. When possible, secure a position where the sun will fall obliquely over your own shoulder upon the subject. This may not always be easy, but any trouble will be amply repaid, and finally make sure of the exposure, for there are often extraneous circumstances surrounding the field of action which will have a decided effect upon the exposure.