My 10 episode critique was on the hit reality show ‘Tusker Project Fame’.I focused on the following aspects as learnt in my 264- Broadcast technique class.
a) Camera angles
b) Camera movements
c) sound-types of microphones
d) Lighting
In my opinion I saw that this programme is live hence there was no need of an editing skills critique. The transitions between the various cameras were done using the switcher in the control room.
Introduction
As any programme, Tusker Project fame starts with a short montage which is about 40 seconds. This montage introduces to us these seasons’ contestants. Its theme colour is the beer- tusker’s colour. This makes me realize that this programme is really all about Kenya Breweries limited advertising their Tusker brand.
a) Camera angles and movements.
There was use of close-up shots when the judges are talking i.e. to give their comments about the contestants’ performances. The close up shots enables the viewer to focus on one particular judge and his or her comments.whenartists are performing, the camera is being panned from right to left this enables the audience view the whole stage setting that their favourite contestants are performing on.
There is zooming in and out when the contestant is performing, as the viewer I am able to see the whole outfit of the performer, the facial expressions and how they are dancing, making me feel like I am an audience at the Tusker Project fame Academy.
There is also evidence of use of mounted cameras on cranes as there is appoint the viewer is able to see an aerial view of the entire audience and the judges. The mounted camera zooms to the judges for their comments then to the audience.
In the Tusker project fame Academy house
I think the cameras used are hidden cameras or they are attached to the wall but at the same time they are still able to perform different camera angle movements and shots. For example, on Wednesday 3rd November 2010 there was a full shot of all the contestants and their music director Mr .R.Kay when they were choosing the song that they are going to perform during the weekend Close-up shots are used to show people’s reactions as they are watching themselves, performing on a large screen. We see looks of surprise, disbelief, anger, and also smiles of those who are proud of their performances.
On Sunday 31st October 2010, two men were unfortunately caught on camera dragging dolling and lighting equipment. They passed right in front of the camera that was focusing on the judges. This happened twice think the person at the switcher was not keen enough.
b) sound-types of microphones
The two hosts Sheila Mwanyigah and Dr.Mitch as he is commonly referred to, use unidirectional microphones to commentate the show.
There is very appropriate use of sound effects of Panic, when they are announcing the people going home, that is, being eliminated from the competition.
They have telephone calls from their close friends and family, but they do not use handsets. The calls are connected to their Lavaliere microphones.
There is use of Lavaliere microphones for all the contestants in the house. This is because they are going on with their normal business in the house hence they are not able to use dynamic microphones.
There are some whispered conversations that the contestants are having among themselves. The production crew has however made it possible for us the viewers to know what they are talking about by putting subtitles.
When practicing, they are using unidirectional microphones when practising their songs.
The sound does not sound very pleasing on thursday 18th November 2010. as there are hissing noises in the background and it is very clear especially when there is no one talking.
c Lighting
The lighting done is good as the stage is well illuminated and the audience is not- The audience is dark making the setting appropriate for live performances.
The camera base light is good and we can generally say that it is well illuminated, no single shadow is visible. There is even a good attempt of creating a silhouette when the contestants are performing.
c) Other observations.
When show ends abruptly and we see a split screen again .The left side activity in the house is continuing normally while the right side we see credits scrolling up. the last thing we see are the names and logos of the sponsors.
I have noticed that there are always three minute commercial breaks and the first one is always an Advert of the alcohol brand ‘Tusker’.
The screens at the background of the stage provide a nice beautiful setting. it simply looks marvellous.
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