Last month pupils from Abbot Alphege Academy spent a day with videographer, Justin Towell, learning technical skills on how to take photos and films at the end of the summer term.
The children learned how to think about perspective and to use the ‘rule of thirds’ whilst taking their photos. They were also taught how to generate the best short clips by going slowly and steadily. The children worked in pairs or small groups on iPads to practice these skills. After playtime, the children were excited to test out their new skills on a visit to Beckford’s Tower.
The Tower is currently closed to the public while we carry out essential renovations, but we gave the children and staff special permission to go on site to look at the outside. The children noticed the changes from their last visit and, being careful to avoid “camera shake”, took their photos and short clips. Despite the rain the children stayed enthusiastic and really thought about their angles and subject matter. Back in the classroom, Justin taught the children how to edit the clips and photos into a continuous film, working with transitions. Some children even managed to add in writing and music.
You can watch the finished films here:
These films give you an exciting glimpse into the building work that is taking place at Beckford’s Tower. They show the scaffolding being erected and the East Vault being excavated. Keep coming back on our news page to see what other exciting plans are taking shape!
We would like to say a big thank you to Emery’s (our building contractors) for allowing us to film, Justin for his time, patience and incredible skills, the teachers Mrs Day and Miss Seyers for organising the day, and to all the pupils that took part. We look forward to welcoming the school back in the autumn term to document more changes.