Friday, December 31, 2010

Magical Moments on the Wedding Show (programme critique by Hilda W. Mwangi 09-0872)

The wedding show is a local television programme aired on Citizen Television every Sunday between 6-7pm and is presented by Noni Gathoni. She visits wedding ceremonies of people and captures the whole event from the decorations to the dressing of the bridal party and to the reception grounds. She also interviews the wedding couple to get to know about how they met, how the proposal was done, what went into the wedding, why they chose their decoration colour, decoration and so on. A commercial break is aired halfway into the show, some wedding tips often follow. Wedding planners are also interviewed to give tips on how to have a stress-free and successful wedding. Two different wedding ceremonies are show cased in each show.
26TH September 2010
Pink, purple and green colours used made the whole show colourful and bright. The melodious music at the background was faded well whenever the presenter wanted to talk. During the interview, there was noise at the background but the signal-to-noise ratio was high so it did not affect the interview. Those in the audience who dressed nicely were given some recognition which emphasized the importance of friends and relations in a wedding ceremony. However, there was some pop out sound from the couple during the interview which needed to be taken care of during the editing process. Also, the camera was moving too much when the couples were reciting their vows; it should have focused on them.
3rd October 2010
The bridal parties were dressed in gold, maroon, pink, violet and green which was beautiful combination. Though the weather was dull, the lighting covered up for it and the picture quality was bright and good. The camera techniques were used appropriately. There was a zoom in for viewers to take a closer look at the shoes, jewelry and hair styles of the bridal party. There was also a dolly in as the bride walked into the church and during the dancing session at the reception ground. This created the happy mood of the occasion. The presenter wore a lavaliere microphone that made her hands free to express herself. However, the commercial break was too long with so many adverts this made it boring for some of the viewers who do not like such things.
10th October 2010
It was not the usual church wedding but a garden one which made it unique. The scenery and decorations was beautiful with friends and relations attending in their numbers and magnificently dressed. The sound and picture quality were both good though sound qualities had problems when the presenter’s pitch went high at some point and also when the band musicians were playing at the reception. They opted to use omni-directional microphones which picked up signals from all directions which caused a lot of feedback. The commercial break was still too long. The camera angles brought in every detail in the dressings and decorations. The songs were cued in well such that they followed one another systematically.
17th October 2010
The show was unique one as it was between a Kenyan lady and a Scottish man. The groom was dressed in his Scottish traditional wear while the bride was in her normal wedding gown. The rich culture of the Scott’s was displayed through the music and dance. The lighting system was bright and since she used the lavaliere microphone, an objective representation of audibility and loudness was projected. The combo was done well and each time, the music fades away slowly to usher in her voice. However, on few occasions, noise from the audience could be heard especially during the interview. Also at the very beginning of the show, the host seemed not to be ready because the camera was on her for about a minute before she started talking and as usual the commercial break was too long.
24th October 2010
There was a pre-wedding show where the bride-to-be was getting herself prepared for the occasion. A wedding expert was interviewed and she brought out some useful wedding tips. The camera angles and movements were good. During the recitation of the vows, the pastor put the microphone very close to his month which produced some signals but he was quickly corrected. The signal-to-noise ratio was accepted considering the fact that there was a lot of noise in the background. The sound quality was good and so was the picture quality. However there were some “P” and “B” sound alterations from the groom during the interview which could have been taken care of during the editing process.
31st October 2010
The show started with the parents of the bride walking her into the church and the pastor took over the ceremony. The camera angles and lighting system used were good during the ceremony as they helped in pronouncing the emotions in the room. The reception started with the couple and their families and friends dancing to the tune of some traditional music. The sound and picture quality was good also in the reception. Everything went well except for during the vow recitation when the microphone presence was very poor as the pastor could be heard very well while the couple was barely audible. When the programme was over, the master monitor was not turned off but the presenter did not know this so all that she said after wards was aired as well.
7th November 2010
This was a good wedding which was unique in the fact that the congregation of witnesses also partook of Holy Communion. The camera angles used were spectacular as they made it feel like the couple was one with the crowd. The crowd looked involved in the wedding and not just like observers. The fact that a dolly was used in the reception was evident as the viewers could see every part of the couple even the tiny but beautiful wedding rings bestowed on their fingers. Everything was good except for the fact that so much editing had been done that it made the wedding seem fake like a movie and not reality.
14th November 2010
This wedding was set in an outdoor setting and the camera angles used were mostly to demonstrate the number of wealthy guests attending the glorious event. The camera focused on the luxurious Bentley that the couple arrived in at the Zen Gardens and how beautiful they looked getting out of the car together. It was clearly an expensive wedding not to be missed by anyone. The lighting used was adequate as no mishaps could be spotted. The sound system was quite audible as there were no moments of strenuous listening. The camera captured the dances between the couple meticulously and also focused on what the guests were adorned in.
21st November 2010
This was a beautiful event where the bridal party were a sight for sore eyes. The arrangement of the grounds was also very welcoming as the seating arrangement was well specified, especially the VIP area which was especially well decorated. The feature of the show though was the wedding cake. It was a beautiful seven tier chocolate brown cake which towered as high as the expectations of the day. The cake was captured in close range and was still zoomed into as it was being cut. This was followed by a showing of past cakes also featured on the show. The final part was as the cake was being enjoyed by the bridal party.
28th November 2010
The part of this wedding was the night party as the colours did not depress but added mystery to the ballroom detail. The lighting helped in achieving these details. The interior decorations were also spectacular and the ambience achieved was indeed a good achievement. The guests could be seen to be having a good time as the camera panned from table to table at their smiling faces. A dark red tint had been achieved which went well with the black dress code. This made the gathering appear classy. The sound quality was also good as Noni talked about the newlyweds.

Thursday, December 16, 2010

MORE THAN A SUPERSTAR-TPF 2010

TUSKER PROJECT FAME 2010 CRITIQUE
INTRODUCTION
Tusker Project Fame is a reality show that airs everyday on Citizen Television with the climax being Saturday (eviction shows) and Sunday (probation shows). Tusker Project Fame is produced by Endemol Africa and sponsored by East Africa Breweries brand Tusker. This show goes on for eight weeks whereby, the contestants spend time at the academy being coached on how to improve their music careers including voice, instrument and dance and performing skills. The winner at the end of the season walks away with 5millio shillings, a recording contract from South Africa-based Gallo records and a laptop just to mention a few.
This season, we have Southern Sudan joining Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda. A total of 18 contestants were introduced into the show, but only 15 of them made it into the academy. They comprise Uganda’s Davis Ntare, Rachel Namubiru and Thomas Madooba and Rwanda has Elizabeth Gaga, Gilbert Gabiro and Atete Gaëlle. Representing Tanzania is Aneth Kushaba, Leah Mwambogela and Peter Msechu. For Kenya we have Stephen Nyabwa, Prudence Kibaya, Juvenalis Ochieng’ and Amileena Mwenesi. Finally representing Southern Sudan is Kuonck Deng (K-Denk) and Paleki Obur in, who were both excited for their country to be recognized and involved in this year’s reality show.
The judges this season are the very mean but indispensable Judge Ian, Judge Juliana a Ugandan Songstress and Judge Hermes a record producer. The faculty or teacher of the academy are principal Hellen Mtawali, a Daystar university lecture, Voice coach Kavutha Mwanzia, Dance choreographer Sarakasi's Edu, and Producer Robert Kimanzi (R-Kay) and the head of the band being Aaron Rimbui, a keyboard guru. We have two hosts who were in the third season Kenya’s Sheila ‘Nikki’ Mwanyigha alongside Uganda’s Dr. Michael Egwang famously known as ‘Mich.’

CAMERA ANGLES
In Tusker Project Fame, there are several camera angles used. The close-up angle is mostly used when the judges are commenting on the performances of the contestants. It is also synonymous when either of the hosts, Mich or Sheila is sitted next to a contestant and asking them personal questions. Backstage, this shot is also used to capture the emotions of the contestants before going on stage for their performances. When the contestants are entering the stage, a long shot is used to show the entire body. When the contestants are performing in a band for instance when Palek was performing with Msechu and Ameleena being her background vocalists, a long shot is used to show her performance as well as her back-ups. The long shot is also used when the contestants have all performed and are required to go on stage to know who is on probation.

Tracking is also used in this show. The camera is mounted to a train-like device and it travels forward, backward, from side to side, diagonally, or in a circle. Tracking in this show is used when a contestant is performing to capture their movement around the stage. This ensures that the audience does not miss any detail of the performance. In this show however, I am a little concerned with the tracking technique used. In every show, the cameramen controlling the camera on the track are always captured by the other cameras. It is almost a norm. This needs to be addressed.

There is evidence of cameras mounted on cranes used in Tusker Project Fame and they capture the aerial view of the entire audience and the judges. Panning, zooming and tilting are also observed which enhance the different sides of the performance in a distinctive way.

EDITING
The Saturday and Sunday shows are live and so there is little editing done on. When the contestants are put on probation, they are featured asking for votes. Here, we are shown what mistake put them on probation alongside them asking for votes. Split screen enables us to see the contestant asking for votes and their blunder. When Gabiro was lobbing for votes on the November 14th, the camera person did not frame him well. It made Gabiro appear like he was going to falloff the stage. I think, the editor should have used a better caption other than that one with a bad shot because the audience will concentrate on that mistake other than listen to Gabiro’s petition.

SOUND
The sound effects used in this show are very appropriate. For instance, we have panic sound effects when the judges are announcing the contestants on probation. There is a programme jingle “More than a Superstar” that introduces the programme and played
whenever there is a break.

The type of microphones used in this show is dynamic microphones. The pick up pattern of the microphone used by the hosts, contestants and judges is unidirectional. This is evident because when the hosts are having a dialogue, they have to point the microphone in the respondent’s direction.

LIGHTING
The lighting done is of good quality as the entire dome is well lit making the setting appropriate for live performances. The dome is usually lit with jell of different colors which creates different moods depending on the genre of the song being performed. The background screen keeps changing to create a good contrast between the contestant or the host and the background.

EPISODE 1
SATURDAY 23RD OCTOBER (EVICTION SHOW)
In the previous show, Gabiro, Gaelle, Prudence, Juveh and K-Denk were put on probation for their poor performance. In this show therefore, one or two contestants will leave the academy. This will be the first contestants to be evicted from the academy in Tusker Project Fame 4. Who will it or they be?

The show begins with the contestants who are on probation repeating their performances. After K-Denk’s performance, the crowd goes wild with cheering. An aerial shot is used to capture the audiences’ emotions. A spotlight is used when K-Denk is listening to the judges’ comment on his performance. Though K-Denk cannot sing, he has a certain aura that keeps the audience falling for him. One would actually think the audience will vote for him. However, instead the audience saves the sweet and beautiful Gaelle, Juveh is saved by the faculty and the contestants save Gabiro. This is how K-Denk and Prudence are evicted. A close-up shot to take Prudence and K-Denk’s emotions upon their eviction.
After their eviction, we are taken back to the life of Prudence and K-Denk in the house. Here, there is evidence of editing skills where we only the most fascinating moments of the two are played back.

EPISODE 2
SUNDAY 24TH OCTOBER
The theme today is reggae. The contestants are all dressed in Rasta colours. Gaelle does a lovely rendition on her song and her performance stands out. During her performance, there is a close-up of her and we are able to see that she is enjoying the song. After her performance, the crowd goes wild jubilation due to her grand performance and there is an aerial shot of the audiences some giving a standing ovation while others are holding up banners with her name on them.

A long shot is used when the contestants are asked to take centre stage. The camera man then zooms in to show the anxiety on the contestants’ faces. The cameraman pans left and right from one contestant to another and one can almost feel their hearts beating. The contestants who are put on probation are three Kenyans Amelina, Juvenalis, Steve and Gabiro who is beginning to frequent this list.

EPISODE 3
SATURDAY 30TH OCTOBER (EVICTION SHOW)
The show starts off with Sheila and Mitch introducing the show, judges and contestants and welcoming the contestants. Three of the contestants on probation are Kenyan Amelina, Juvenalis, Steve and one Rwandese Gabiro.

The sound is good and the lighting is just precise to create a reggae mood. There is a long shot as each contestant comes down to perform giving us a good view of their entire attire. The cameraman later gives a close-up shot of the performer to enable us to see if they are feeling the song. Tracking is used on Steve who makes good use of the stage.

The deciding moment has come. A wide shot is used as the contestants are coming to take centre stage. The dome is quiet and a sound effect that creates a tense mood is playing softly in the background. Gabiro is saved by the contestants; Steve South B’s finest is saved by East Africa and Gabiro by the contestants. Juvenalis is not lucky enough and he has to leave the academy. A close-up of him is done to get his emotions. He appears calm and collected. Maybe he saw it coming.





EPISODE 4
SUNDAY 31ST OCTOBER (PROBATION SHOW)
This is Duets Sunday and the contestants are paired according to their vocal ranges. Steve is paired with Palek, because of their love affair though I feel Steve and Rachel is a better match, Gaelle is paired with Msechu, Davis and Aneth, Davis and Gaga and the other pair is Gabiro and Leah .

As the contestants are performing in pairs, a medium shot is used because it captures them from waist-up and gives the details of their facial expressions as they sing to each other. For instance, when Steve and Palek are performing, this shot is used to show the passion in their singing because they love each other.

Tracking is used to show the movement of the two contestants on stage and the cameraman zooms in farther to show the emotions the contestants are expressing when doing the song. The camera man also uses tilting up and down motion to get a full view of the contestants’ gestures.

A medium shot is used to capture all the judges and a close-up when each of them is giving their comments. A hitch occurs when Ian is about to give his comments. His microphone is faulty and he has to borrow Judge Juliana’s. When Judge Ian gives negative comments on Leah and Gabiro’s performance, the crowd gets disorderly. The cameraman uses an aerial shot to take the audiences’ reactions and later zooms in to get back to Judge Ian.

EPISODE 5
SATURDAY 6th NOVEMBER (EVICTION SHOW)
Yet another eviction show is here with us. The previous show saw Leah, Gaga and Palek, Aneth on probation. The sound and lighting in this show are of good quality. As Gaga is performing, a wide shot of her is taken and the cameraman decides to zoom in to get the facial expression. However, he does this too suddenly and it results to the formation of a blurred image. Another hitch in this is lack of input. Sheila is introducing the show but what we see on the screen is the Tusker logo.

The contestants repeat their performances. East Africa votes to keep Palek since she is among the favorites and the faculty decides save Gaelle. The contestants choose Gaga over Leah. Leah from Tanzania is the fifth contestant to leave the academy. This is an emotional eviction show as the other contestants bid her goodbye.

EPISODE 6
SUNDAY 7TH NOVEMBER (PROBATION SHOW)
The show begins with Sheila introducing the contestants and Mitch in the backstage introducing the judges. A close –shot of both of them is taken. The contestants who are on probation are Gabiro, Aneth, Gaga and Gaelle

An aerial view of the entire dome is taken and one is able to see the audiences’ expectation. Racheal gives an incredible performance. She receives a heartening round of applause. The cameraman seems to have been carried away by the performance as well and delays in capturing the audience. Therefore, he suddenly decides to pan resulting to distortion of the image. Black and white lines appear on the screen.

The probation list is ready and we can almost predict that Gabiro and Gaelle are in it. True to my words, they are there together with Gaga and Gaelle.

EPISODE 7
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 13 (EVICTION SHOW)
Once again, another contestant has to go home, surprisingly, this time round, it is a double eviction. The contestants who are on probation are Gabiro, Aneth, Gaga and Gaelle and they repeat their performances. During their performances, the cameraman zooms in to show the judges’ disappointment in their performances and pans are used to move from one judge to another and from the judges to the faculty .According to the judges, all the performances are poor and the teachers are equally disappointed and challenge the contestants to do better. When Principal Mtawali announces the decision of the faculty not to save anyone, cameo lighting is used. Here, the spotlight is on her whereas a close-up shot is used to capture the seriousness on her facial expression. The background around the principle which is the audience is not lit.

East Africa saves Gaelle, the contestants eliminate Gaga and Aneth because they see them as competition. They decide to save Gabiro. Gaga and Aneth are evicted.


EPISODE 8
SUNDAY 14TH NOVERMBER (PROBATION SHOW)
The theme this Saturday is African; the judges, faculty, hosts and contestants are all dressed in African regalia. There was clear sound throughout the show, microphones and all other effects were well executed. The lighting is set to create an African mood.

The show is introduced by the hosts as usual and a medium shot of both of them is taken. An aerial shot is taken to give an overview of the entire dome. After the performances the contestants take centre stage to listen to the results a medium shot is used and then the cameraman zooms in to capture the facial expressions of the contestants. The contestants who are put on probation are Gabiro, Anette, Gaga and Gaelle. A close-up shot of Judge Ian is taken as he challenges the viewers to vote for talent and not looks.

EPISODE 9
SATURDAY 20TH NOVEMBER (EVICTION SHOW)
The contestants put on probation the previous week are Gabiro, Gaelle, Amileena and Palek. One of them will leave the academy. The show begins with a close-up shot of the hosts Sheila and Dr. Mitch introducing the contestants, faculty and welcoming the audience. An aerial shot is used to capture the entire audience in the dome. They contestants go ahead to repeat the performances that put them on probation.

Before the contestants on probation start their performances, all the contestants give a performance. Tracking is used to get the movement of Steve and Msechu as they dance across the stage. When Palek is performing, there is a wide shot of her so as to capture her back-ups as well. Cameo lighting is used; the spotlight is on Palek as her back-ups (background) are not lit. A hitch occurs, when Gaelle is talking to Sheila back-stage, she has not been framed well and there is little headroom for her almost cutting her head. As the dialogue goes on, there is panning from Sheila to Gaelle whenever either is talking and a close-up shot. When the contestants on probation are called on stage, a long-shot is used to enable the viewer to see the full figure of the contestants. Panning is used to move from one contestant to another.

Good framing of Nancy Mbugua from Prize Water House Coopers when she comes to give Sheila the contestant that has been saved by East Africa, a close-up is used on both of them to show the seriousness of the moment. Sound effects and the lighting darkens to are create a somber mood.
Palek is saved by the faculty, Amileena is saved by East Africa and Gaelle has more votes than Gabiro from East Africa’s votes. Gabiro leaves the academy. An extreme close-up is used on him to show his facial expression of happiness of having been able to make it that far.




EPISODE 10
SUNDAY 21ST NOVEMBER (PROBATION SHOW)
The show begins on a different note this time. All the contestants are on stage set to perform a couple of songs. Mild lighting is used to create a calm mood. Sound is generally good, good levels are depicted. A long-shot is used to get their full figures of the contestants on stage. A close-up is done as Davis is leading the song and panning used to move from him to his fellow contestants on stage. There is a very creative shot used in this show. The background of this show is several CD’s merged together. When Amileena is singing, the camera man takes a shot between two CD’s.

When Rachel is performing, the camera man takes a close-up shot of Judge Juliana whispering something to Judge Ian. After Rachel’s performance (she is performing Judge Juliana’s song) the camera man fails to capture Judge Juliana giving a standing ovation on time and only gets her shot after she sits down.

As the contestants all go to centre stage to be told who is on probation, a wide long shot is used to capture their full figures. The contestants put on probation are Steve, Palek, Msechu and Gaelle. With only two weeks to mark the end of the show, it is hard to predict who is going to win the grand prize.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Program Critique - Wedding Show.

Program Critique.
09-0952.
Claire Kariuki.

The Wedding Show

Introduction.
This is an aspiration show, with reality show elements. Weddings are big in the Kenyan society and the show connects across all demographics.
It guarantees high viewer ship numbers due to the entertainment value, prime-time slotting and heavy promotion of the show. It is new opportunity for your brands to be show-cased.
It features the style focusing on the salient details of; the mood, the look and feel, the gown and tuxedos, the themes, color schemes, fashion for bridal party and guests, food, guest’s behavior, behind the scenes, the miss-haps and lots of interesting elements for the viewers at home. It’s aired every Sunday between 6& 7 pm and is hosted by Noni Gathoni.
However it has a negative impact on many viewers. Today weddings have been made all about show biz and the sense of a holy matrimony has been lost. The types of cars, wedding gowns, venues, and wedding rings have really become a bone of contention depending on their prices and where they were bought.


Show:1

The wedding was between typical Kenyans that is, luo and Kikukyu couples.
First of all in terms of culture I feel that the luo culture was made to look more fun than the kikuyu the camera man concentrated so much on the luo dance than the kikuyu which was aired for a very short time. The angles of the camera in the church were quite as the zooming could be noticed quite well however the lighting was very good as it complemented the mood. When it came to interviewing people about their choice of dressing the noise from the background was quite loud causing the interviewee to shout.

Show: 2

I quite liked the show it was a Scottish man and a Meru lady. The Scottish man did not have the usual wedding suite instead he was in a skirt that is, the red checked skirts they wear. This was very interesting to view. The camera was always getting zoomed towards this couple and the made the film very colorful. Noni, the host was very impressed by the couple and and she had still photos taken which looked very good as the rule of thirds was applied. She had the lavaliere microphone which helps her mingle comfortably through out the wedding and when she is pointing out to a unique fashion, the cake and so on.



Show: 3
Atleast this time the wedding was out of Nairobi. It was in Ethiopia where a Kenyan man married a lady from Ethiopia. Her wedding gown was very unique and chic. They had a lot of rituals involved and the camera skills were very and also the lighting. This brought out the different style of make up and décor very well and one could see there was a lot of good dolly in & out. Even during the open of the champagne the bottle pop that made some wine spill on the camera did not cause unexplained movement of the camera

Show 4:
This wedding was a traditional kikuyu wedding and was worth watching. The couple had traditional gowns as well as the bride’s maids and grooms men. A lot of photos were taken and since the sun was very bright there was no flash being used. This made the photos they show on screen after the wedding look very nice and properly balance d in terms of light.

In conclusion, proper use of camera techniques make a place or the people look very nice and colorful. Lighting if well done only makes this better. Therefore as future journalists we should ensure we are perfect on this art to enhance good film production.

programme critique of papa shirandula by kanaiza immaculate 09-0896

Papa Shirandula is a Kenyan television comedy consecutive aired on Citizen TV every Thursday. It follows the hilarious proceedings in the life of Papa Shirandula and his family, as he tries to maintain the pretense that he works as a manager, while he is in truth a watchman. The show embraces Kenyan communities and the multiplicity between them through multicultural characters and their interaction. The characters include Papa Shirandula and his wife Willbroda, their daughter Naliaka and his in-laws Jalang’o and Otoyo. His workmates also play major roles in the TV show; his boss Juma Anderson and co-worker Njoroge are pieces in the enigma of Papa’s life.
Episode 1:
Papa goes to his rural home in search of a housemaid. When he finally takes her home in Nairobi, Wilbroda and Naliaka ridicule her primitive ways. The women(wilbroda and the housemaid) also have to deal with spoilt meat bought by Naliaka.they have to return it to where it was bought and demand for fresh meat. It turns out that Naliaka did not buy the meat in that butchery but they still give them fresh meat.
Episode 2:
Naliaka is a candidate for KCSE exams. Papa has to buy her clipboard and stationery for the exams, but he is (as ususal) short on cash. He tells his daughter to go to school without the required marerials, promising to provide them as soon as possible.Naliaka goes to school without the equipment and Wilbroda confronts Papa for not providing for his daughter. Ths episode ends before the conflict is resolved.

Episode 3:
While Papa and Willbroda are separated, Papa has a Caucasian friend that he met online, Stephanie. She travels to Kenya and gets to meet him. Papa uses Juma Anderson’s office to fool her by posing as the manager, with Njoroge’s help. Papa’s attempts to speak English are comical. When she suggests that they go for dinner, he is faced with a dilemma since he is broke. She ends up paying for his meal and then proposing marriage to her. Amusingly, she accepts his proposal and goes with him to his home. Jalang’o interrupts the couple and proceeds to embarrass Papa with his slapstick comedian character.
Episode 4:
Papa has borrowed money from several of his workmates to keep up with his demands. His debtors grow impatient and approach him, demanding their money. Papa is unable to pay, and argues with them. When they leave, a man promoting Ariel detergent approaches him, offering free detergent. This is a relief for Papa, and he takes several sachets of the product.
Episode 5:
Jalang’o and Otoyo are commissioned by Willbroda to sell at her kiosk, Will-P Shop. They are terrible salesmen, and drive customers away. Jalang’o makes a young girl pregnant in the shop. Her parents, on discovering that he is the father of the girls unborn child, demand that he marries her. Jalang’o denies association with her, and her parents call the police. Jalang’o is the arrested for impregnating a minor.
Episode 6:
With Jalang’o in jail, Otoyo is without a companion. However, the police arrest him on charges that he stole coats and clothes from his rural home before fleeing to Nairobi. He is sent to jail, but we are aware that it is a separate place from Jalang’o’s confinement.
CRITIQUE:
In general papa shirundula is produces at a measurably good standard in terms of lighting, camera techniques(camera positions, and sharpness and quality) and story line.
Lighting is used for basic illumination- the production of the show relies largely on natural lighting, and I did not notice the use of lighting for creative purposes. Interior scenes are similarly illuminated: fully alight with no (OR VERY LIMITED) shadowing. There is no use of light colors (gels) creating a unified feel for all interior scenes across episodes. This type of lighting is relevant to the simplicity of the TV show, but would leave the creative visual viewer without stimulation.
The sound in Papa Shirandula is dominated by a soundtrack- a melancholy melody played on a flute or instrument. This tune is played at the turning points of the stories in each episode. The audio from the scenes are also well for TV production. However, the monotony of the tune episode after episode is uncreative. It is wearisome to hear the same tune played each time something happens, with no variation for different moods.
The camera angles and movements in the show are up to standard- there is good use of the basic camera movements and shots, well framed and steady. However, the camera operation, like the lighting, is simplistic and basic. There is minimal use of creative angles and movements, and the camera is used simply to capture the relevant action; again, this leaves the visually alert viewer disappointed.
Product placement is a prominent component of most episodes of Papa Shirandula. Several goods are advertised on the show, including Ariel and Royco, and services like the KCB savings account. While this is an important source of funding for most TV shows, the product placement in Papa Shirandula is unpleasantly done; with the storyline diverting to accommodate obvious promotion for the products.
In general, Papa Shirandula is an entertaining TV show that minimizes superiority through familiarity to most urban and rural Kenyans. However, the show can be better produced to appeal to a more international audience, not by altering the content, but by increasing the creative use of lighting, sound and camera operations and also by catching up on issues affecting humanity in general other that Kenyans only.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

PROGRAMME CRITIQUE: TUSKER PROJECT FAME EVICTION SHOWS BY 08-0888

PROGRAMME CRITIQUE
PROGRAMME: TUSKER PROJECT FAME SEASON FOUR

Introduction
Tusker Project Fame is East Africa’s first ever locally produced reality television show, which seeks to discover raw, untapped musical talent in East Africa that can be groomed to stardom, through a series of regional auditions.
The chosen contestants are then enrolled into the Tusker Academy where they are given expert training in every aspect of the music business - from performance and song writing to behind-the-scenes preparation and a personal advisor. But the power of determining who stays and who goes lies with the public, and their votes. The chief sponsor is East African Breweries Limited.
The contestants competing in tusker project fame season four are:
• Leah A Mwambogela
• Elizabeth Gaga
• Gilbert Gabiro
• Atete Gaëlle
• Aneth Samuel Kushaba
• Peter J Msechu
• Paleki Matthew Obur
• Stephen Nyabwa
• Prudence Kibaya
• Juvenalis Ochieng Amonde
• Amileena Mwenesi
• Davis Hillary Ntare
• Thomas Madooba Kirya
• Rachel Namubiru
• Kuonck Deng

The judges in the competition include:
• Ian Mbugua
• Juliana Kanyomonzi
• Hermes Bariki

The faculty includes:
• Principal, Hellen Mtawali
• Voice Coach, Kavutha Mwanzia-Asiyo
• Edwin Odhiambo of Sarakasi dancers

TPF normally has two main shows which are the main show which is aired on Sundays where the contestants get to sing what they have been practicing throughout the week and those who do not impress the judge are put on probation and the second show is the eviction show which is normally aired every Saturday from 8:00pm to 9:00pm, where those who are put on probation are voted for and those who are not voted for either by the contestants, the public and the faculty are evicted or drawn from the competition. The shows are hosted by Sheila Mwanyigha from Kenya and Mich Egwang from Uganda.
In this critique I will focus on the eviction shows.

Eviction Show 1: 23rd October 2010
In this show those who were put on probation were; Prudence, K- Deng, Gabilo, Gaelle and Juvenalis. The faculty saved Juvenalis, Contestants saved Gabiro and the audience saved Gaelle. Two contestants Prudence and K-Denk were evicted from the academy. It was very emotional but they accepted the defeat.
Eviction Show 2: 30th October 2010
Those in probation were; Ameleena, Juvenalis, Steven, and Gabiro. Juvenalis was evicted from the competition.
Probation Show: 31st October 2010
The contestants focused on singing duet whereby they partnered to sing. The performance at the first instance was not encouraging especially to Judge Ian but when the show was ending the contestants started singing well. Some of the contestants were put on probation.
Eviction Show 3: 6th November 2010
Those in probation were; Atete Gaëlle, Gabiro, Elizabeth Gaga and Leah A Mwambogela. Leah A. Mwambogela was evicted from the show, she was voted out by the contestants.


Eviction Show 4: 13th November 2010
In this show the contestants sang Reggae. The contestants on probation where; Gaga, Anneth, Gabiro, and Gaelle. The Teachers did not save a contestant this time because they said that they did not cooperate in the training. This time two contestants were evicted from the show: Elizabeth Gaga and Anneth.
Probation Show: 14th Noveber2010
African songs were the main focus and the Contestants really entertained the audience especially Steve, Dave and Msechu who really danced to the African tunes. The songs were from different African countries especially Congo. The judges were impressed by most of the contestants
Eviction Show 5: 20th November 2010
This show was marked with songs from Africa and those who in probation were: Gaelle, Amileena, Palek and Gabiro. Gabiro was evicted from the Show since he had the least votes.
Camera Shots Noticed in the shows
First of all there was an establishment shot of the audience and the contestants. They then took a long shot of the Hosts and zoomed in so as to bring the CU of the hosts. The camera man then panned to the left so as to show the Judges as they were being called out by the judges and a CU of each judge were shown.
I also noticed Over the shoulder shot were one could see the contestants in the back stage being asked questions by the hosts, I could see the back of the host as he or she questioned the contestants.
As the contestants went to stage to perform, A Long Shot was taken so that the audience could see what the contestants were putting on and also to emphasize on the stage presence. Medium shots of the Contestants were also seen as they sang.
In conclusion I would say that the shots were well taken the lead room, head room and nose room was well enhanced and the transition was perfect though sometimes the transition was very quick to an extent of not getting good view of the contestants
Camera Movements
A couple of camera movements were evident in the show. The main movement that I noticed was Tracking or Dolly shots whereby a track was laid on set for the camera to follow. The dolly shots were mainly for movement especially when the contestants were performing and moving from one place to the other and also to show the hosts walking to the stage.
Panning was also seen when the camera person wanted to show the audience he or she panned right from the contestant performing to the audience who were cheering the contestant
There was not much of tilting up and down only on a couple of instances when the camera man wanted to show the structure of the stage or when he wanted to emphasize on a certain part of a contestant like the shoes.
The only problem with the camera movements was that some times the camera was shaky but other than that the camera movements told the story.
Camera Angles
High Angle shot was evident were I could see the audience as if I was elevated. This angle was enhanced by the cranes which carried the camera person.
A wide camera angle was also seen as the contestants were called to the stage just before the eviction.They rarely used the narrow angle in the shows. The camera angles were well done.

video programme critique- Com 264A by 08-0041

Introduction and background information to the programme

I chose a local program for my video programme critique. The programme is Papa Shirandula aired every Thursdays from seven thirty five to eight in the evening on Citizen Television. The programme has also some repeat of best episodes every Sundays after the four o’clock news on citizen television. I have been following the program since then and appreciate the creative minds behind the programme that is gaining more fans who recently crowned it the best in the local productions in the recent Kalasha awards.

Papa Shirandula is a programme highlighting a typical African man earning a low salary while aiming to sustain his polygamous family. The programme highlights issues on poverty, education, economic investments, marriage and family and general working conditions of Africans. In this case, the program focuses on a watchman’s lifestyle in a city struggling to make both ends meet while deceiving his wife and family that he is an information technology manager in Mr. Juma Anderson’s company. This has created more confusion and conflict with Papa Shirandula’s work mates who have to play fowl of hiding Papa’s occupation in the company as a gate keeper. This makes Papa engage in a series of deep thoughts to come up with abrupt solutions to some of his problems and challenges at the work and residential places. The highlights on the size of family of three wives, forces Papa Shirandula to borrow some funds from the company to supplement the family’s income generations. Life is very difficult for Papa shirandula who has to resort to bicycle as the means of transport to his place of work. The location of the programme scenes in rural and urban highlights the struggles and tension in the family in making both ends meet. The shifting of scenes takes place from Kawangware in Nairobi, to Mumias, to Juma Anderson’s company and some at Juma Anderson’s residential area in Runda in Nairobi. This indicates the originality of the idea that makes most Kenyans identify with papa shirandula’s programme.

Programme production

The program highlights that most of the scenes are taken during the day and few at night, indicating the most working conditions of Kenyans who have a twelve hour working condition to make a living. Most of the production is done in-doors and out doors to depict the working environment of a gatekeeper and most Kenyans. The lighting and picture quality is moderate and medium to bring out the real images of Kenyans with different working environments without exaggerating and the western influence. The kind of lighting is natural mainly for the outside production at the gate of the company and reflected for the scenes taken in doors. This helps identify the different environment when there is strong lighting when there is bright sunlight as Papa Shirandula is manning the gate and main entrance to the company. The lighting done is mainly done to bring out the quality of some video actions, although some of the productions done in Mr. Juma Anderson’s office is aimed at manipulating the images to produce video shots that views Mr. Anderson as a wealthy and a higher ranking individual in the society who is out to exploit the lower earning Kenyans Like Papa at his gate. Since most of the production is done during the day, this doesn’t mean that there are no night shots. The lighting is also manipulated to create night shots during Papa’s daughter’s wedding reception. This was achieved in reducing the light intensity being received through the camera by adjusting the armature of the video camera and turning on the night shot button, followed by a white balance to help achieve the best frames and clips.

Camera movements and shots exhibited in this programme are quite a variety. Amongst the camera movements illustrated include tracking or dolly movements. This is highlighting through following Papa Shirandula from his residential place to his place of changing into his working uniform then to his work place. This is aimed at establishing the main working conditions of Africans in their economic contributions to the nation building. Another camera movement in zoom in and out which is achieved by the movements and adjustments made on the camera lens. This movement is seen through out the programme during the discussions by different characters on different issues affecting them at their work and residential places. Another camera movement in this programme is established when the camera is mounted on the stand. This includes the left and right panning in door to establish the different moods at different venues that include papa shirandula’s house and his place of work, Juma Anderson’s office and his residential place in Runda. The panning is also accompanied by tilt movements up and down.

The different camera shots exhibited in the programme include the extreme close up, close up, long shots and crane shots. The long shots in this programme are initiated to explain working environment of Papa Shirandula {gate keeper}, his daily activities and social life. This is used to establish the main idea of each episode that has been touching on matters of family, marriage, education, investments and security. The extreme close up is establishing to explain the life style and struggles that Papa is trying to cope up with. This also helps to explain the sequences in the story as it helps to complement the main idea of each episode.

The extreme close ups used throughout the programme is meant to highlight the mental torture the main character papa Shirandula is going through as a result of what he is going through. This includes the stressful in-laws, Otoyo and Jalang’o who have forced their way into this small family with very little income. This shot is used throughout the programme to highlight the main idea in each episode. This means that as Africans when we are faced by problems, we tend to console ourselves and not like sharing them with our friends or with God. One of the episodes of the programme was staged live during Labour Day celebrated in Kenya at the Nyayo stadium in Nairobi. There were different camera movements and shots for example the boom shots on cranes. This was used to highlight the view by listeners back at home and those who were not present at the venue.

The type of microphones used includes super cardioids and dynamic microphones. The dynamic microphones were basically used during the Labour Day at Nyayo Stadium. These were codeless microphones used by the papa shirandula and his crew to entertain the guests. The kind of lighting was basically natural as most of the light source was from the sun.
In conclusion, I like the programme as it highlights and has set a platform for the local production. The programme highlights the issues that have close relations to our daily lifestyles. We can easily identify with each topics in each episode aired on Citizen. This is because most of the topic ranges from matters of social, economic and even leadership through the world that is continuously being dominated by elites. This makes me be proud of our up-coming local programming on our local television and radio channels. This is reducing the foreign content demands by our local audience.

PAPA SHIRANDULA CRITIQUE


This is a weekly show that is aired from 7:40pm-8:30pm every Thursday on Citizen Television. The cast is composed of papa shirandula family, neighbors and workmates where he works as a security guard. He is married to three wives and of the two wives one stays with him town and the rest stay in the village.
Papa Shirandula or Papa Wycliffe Wilson Wilberforce Shirandula is an old confused man who lives a double life. An office manager to his family, but a watchman to the rest of us! Uncomfortable with his status in life, he keeps his source of livelihood a closely guarded secret, only revealed to his workmates and his beloved cousin. Even his long-suffering, ever-loving, inquisitive wife Wilbrota, is none the wiser! Papa lives on a lot of debts and his miserable pay slip often reads zero, thanks to his frequent salary advances. A humorous, likeable burly fellow, Papa Shirandula will resonate with the ambitions, struggles and values that so many of us hold so dear in a most comical way. The show can be rated as average according the Kenyan standard which is still shaping up in terms of quality production.
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It is a well directed show that is flexible enough to accommodate the daily challenges that a common Kenyan citizen goes through. The choice of having the cast done in the office and at Papa’s home helps one to identify with the program.
The cast members have been able to win accolades locally both for themselves and the TV station. This is according to the station website, with Papa topping the list with two awards, his ‘wife’ Wilbroda one award and the director Mr. Mudegu Kibwana has been voted as the best TV director. Most of the production elements has been incorporated into the show i.e. camera movements, lighting, video recording and the switcher.
During this process one can pull up, cut, paste, and join various shots to produce full motion video and audio sequences that is transferable directly onto an edit master tape for on-air use. Here different camera angles are merged to create a continuous piece of work, and this is evident in the production because we can see shots taken at home and the papa working station. Special effects are also created and by the use of character generation, putting titles to the production is also done during this process. This show is not an exception and we can see this in the comedy show.

Papa shirandula producer has incorporated this aspect because as one watches you can feel there is a flow of events and the combination of audio, image ad lighting controls has been employed is professional.
In terms of quality production for an outside audience I would beg to differ because the target audience is limited and what may be considered comical may not be the same case in other audiences.
The producer has used different camera shots, example, close up of Papa shirandula to show how  mad he is with his friend Njoroge for asking him money for a drinking spree, a long shot of the of Mr. Juma Anderson’s car as it enters the gate and as papa struggles to open the gate for the vehicle.
Microphones
Camera with a good microphone pickup are used in the production of the show, it is likely some of the microphone used are shotgun which is suitable for outdoor and normally fitted with a wind jammer to prevent any sound alteration by wind or noise.
To get a clear and candid sound the producer has also used the long fish pole boom mike which can be held from different positions, i.e. from above the subjects, below the subjects and sideways.
Generally so far the production is good and a little bit of changes in the production team will ensure that the program receives an additional audience.

There are several camera shot and movements that have effect on how the story is told. Close-up to see the business paper when it was left on the table and zooming in to see the letters on the paper. When Joni is in dilemma on whether to pick the paper or not there’s extreme close-up that makes the viewer feel like he is in the dilemma too, it leaves you thinking what if I was in his shoes what would I do? There’s a three shot when Lisa and her two friends are reading in the library before Joni joins them. Long- shot and some sounds to create the mood as Mr. Anderson  approaches the work place. Dolly in and dolly-out to show how the  Njoroge is feeling after being caught by  Mr. Anderson   at the gate with the watchman’s uniform and you almost feel the tension in the compound. It looks so real. The sound is good at least you can hear what they are saying in each scene but they are using omni directional microphone that picks sounds from all directions and you can hear some irritating sounds in the background. And when the person holding the mic moves you can hear the movements through the mic. In some instances I noticed that the use of the omni directional to especially when papa shirandula and his family visits Mr. Juma Anderson in their house. However I would suggest that the producer uses the lavaliere mike to reduce the costs of hiring people to carry around the boom microphones. Because the former are mounted on an individual and they can move freely without any restriction as long as they are within the frequency reach. But on the other hand the lavaliere mikes provide quality sound though is not common in outside studio operation.
 The lighting is good I didn’t notice any faults it has improved greatly, especially inside the rooms and they have dealt with the shadows.





Thursday, December 9, 2010

CAT Feedback

You may pick your theory exam papers and CDs from my Athi Campus office.

Have a peaceful festive season!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Sending Audio/Video File?

There is a free and very easy-to-use online service which allows us to send very large audio/video. This is what you need to do:
  • Go to https://www.yousendit.com/
  • Click on ‘Sign up’ in the top right corner of the screen
  • In the ‘Compare Plans’ columns, choose LITE Free Single User and click on ‘Sign up’
  • Enter your e-mail, your name and choose a new password.
  • Confirm password.
  • On the next screen you can read “Congratulations. Your account has been created”
  • Click on the green ‘Send now’ button Enter  e-mail address of the person you want to send to thefile to (e.g rnyaole@daystar.ac.ke) in the ‘To:’ box
  • Write your name and ‘audio file’ in the subject line.  A message is optional.
  •  Click on ‘Select file’ and choose your audio file from your documents on your computer
  • Ignore the pay-per-use options Click on the green ‘Send it’ button on the bottom of the page.
  • Done
Why not give it a try?
Rosemary

WANGUI J. MBUGUA 08-1033 PROGRAMME CRITIQUE

WANGUI J. MBUGUA                      08-1033         PROGRAMME CRITIQUE
INSPEKTA MWALA
This is a weekly show that is aired on our very own Citizen Television each Monday at 7.40 to 8.00 pm.
It explains as teaches the society of the day to day workings of a police officer and the crime in the society and gives a solution to it.
The main characters are Dennis Mwabili whose career began very early when he was part of the Vitimbi family who until today has a show. He is the “Inspekta” who deals with all sorts of crime yet he brings out the comedy in the whole scenario.
Episode 1: a man tells his wife that he is off to his rural home but in actual sense he is going out to meet his lover.
The sound in this episode was very clear using sound effects at the editing stage to create a mood of suspense and deceit when the man is found out by his wife. The man is arrested and he is taken to the cell and the camera shots for his arrest killed the man because the cut him at the waist. The camera moved back to focus where we see the man having an argument with his wife the camera men use the panning system to take shots for this episode..The lighting is good and there are no shadows.
Episode 2: Inspekta Mwala arrests a woman who has kidnapped a baby.
In this episode there were hitches, there was no lead room and headroom for the characters and they seemed like they were squeezed on screen. The camera seemed zoomed out and due to some wind in the background at an outside scene the sound was distorted. The lighting was good as we had no shadows. The editor would have checked on the sound issues.
Episode 3: a man who delivers tea to the officers at the Police Station is caught stealing a phone.
Like every society there are some black sheep. At the Kona Mbaya police station a trusted personnel, Murio who delivers to the officer’s tea is caught stealing a cell phone. The shots on this episode were very clear though I think at the editing they missed to put a scene because the story does not end. We are shown Murio getting arrested but we do not get to know what the outcome of the events is. The lighting is good but there was a bit of shadows especially on the wall of the cell where Murio is locked in. 
Episode 4:   Inspekta Mwala is battered by his wife.
This episode was very educative firstly because it’s showed that this is a vice that we as society need to curb. The lighting was good it even brought out the wounds that Mwala had incurred during the battering. There were no shadows at any one point. The camera movements must have been trucking because the camera showed an almost three dimensional scene of his being battered. The sound is good and even has the extra hidden sighs and background noise that aids one to know what is going on even before we see it.
Episode 5: trouble in an estate due to noise pollution.
This scene shows people living in a plot and their land lady comes to evict them because they are misusing the electricity and a class four child calls the police to report that he is being disturbed by the noise that is never ending. The police come to the child’s aid and even stop the tenant and landlady battle. The lighting is good very suitable seeing as it is an outside episode that. The camera is on a crane at some point as they show the police coming into the plot to bring calm and as they make their arrests. The sound is effective though the words are at time blown away. The clips are in sync with the sounds.
Episode 6:  the main police dog Rex gets lost.
This is a very hilarious episode because it stars with a very distraught Inspekta and you would think that it is an actual human being that has gone missing because of the great seriousness this is taken with. The lighting is effective and the sound brings out each and every emotion that the episode has. The sound is exemplary and the camera shots are mainly panning. The only problem is that the editing was not done comprehensively because some scenes have errors that would have been removed at the editing stage.
Episode 7:  civic education for the Referendum and Constitutional process.
This episode was very crucial seeing as it brought out the aspect of the rights of the citizens when it comes to the law enforcers who for a long time have been accused of harassing citizens. The lighting in this episode was good though compared to other episodes it was not as good the problem might have been that the episode was mainly shot in the outside using very many civilians. The editing was carefully done bringing out the relevance of the constitution in the whole episode. The camera was panning horizontally due to the many characters in most of the scenes.
Episode 8: kidnapping in Kona Mbaya
This episode depicted the kidnappings that were on a rise in the country. It also showed ways of curbing the crime and safety measures that should and ca be taken by the families and police. The shots in the episode were too bright with some seeming discolored. There was a problem of white balancing. The camera was placed on a crane and truck. The lighting was okay and so was editing.
Episode 9: this episode showed the referendum process on the actual voting day.
The episode covered the lines and the people who turned up for voting in Kona Mbaya where they were given adequate security. The shots were clear and a variety of movements, trucking, panning and crane were used for the camera. The editing was great seeing as it incorporated the constitution theme for the period. The editing and lighting were good enough.
Episode 10:  the recruitment of new officers.
This episode showed the process and the recruitment of police officers based on merit in a period where there were discrepancies with the recruitment with some saying there was a lot of bias. The episode mainly used panning movements with long shots and short lens shots. The editing and lighting were good considering it was a shot with a number of people and in the open.
SUMMARY:
Inspekta Mwala is a local production that mainly teaches the society on daily hustles faced by law enforcers and the crime, ranging from petty theft to serious theft that civilians face.
It depicts solutions and with each episode, the producers try to relate it to an ongoing situation in the country giving a solution t it and a means to curb the crime. The only challenge they face is that the time that is given to each episode at times is not enough hence they rush it which results to in cohesiveness in their shots and hence no understanding by the audience. The lighting in this production compared to previous ones is very clear and the camera movements too. The editors are very keen and there are rarely mistakes in the editing.  

inspekta mwala critique

WANGUI J. MBUGUA                      08-1033         PROGRAMME CRITIQUE
INSPEKTA MWALA
This is a weekly show that is aired on our very own Citizen Television each Monday at 7.40 to 8.00 pm.
It explains as teaches the society of the day to day workings of a police officer and the crime in the society and gives a solution to it.
The main characters are Dennis Mwabili whose career began very early when he was part of the Vitimbi family who until today has a show. He is the “Inspekta” who deals with all sorts of crime yet he brings out the comedy in the whole scenario.
Episode 1: a man tells his wife that he is off to his rural home but in actual sense he is going out to meet his lover.
The sound in this episode was very clear using sound effects at the editing stage to create a mood of suspense and deceit when the man is found out by his wife. The man is arrested and he is taken to the cell and the camera shots for his arrest killed the man because the cut him at the waist. The camera moved back to focus where we see the man having an argument with his wife the camera men use the panning system to take shots for this episode..The lighting is good and there are no shadows.
Episode 2: Inspekta Mwala arrests a woman who has kidnapped a baby.
In this episode there were hitches, there was no lead room and headroom for the characters and they seemed like they were squeezed on screen. The camera seemed zoomed out and due to some wind in the background at an outside scene the sound was distorted. The lighting was good as we had no shadows. The editor would have checked on the sound issues.
Episode 3: a man who delivers tea to the officers at the Police Station is caught stealing a phone.
Like every society there are some black sheep. At the Kona Mbaya police station a trusted personnel, Murio who delivers to the officer’s tea is caught stealing a cell phone. The shots on this episode were very clear though I think at the editing they missed to put a scene because the story does not end. We are shown Murio getting arrested but we do not get to know what the outcome of the events is. The lighting is good but there was a bit of shadows especially on the wall of the cell where Murio is locked in. 
Episode 4:   Inspekta Mwala is battered by his wife.
This episode was very educative firstly because it’s showed that this is a vice that we as society need to curb. The lighting was good it even brought out the wounds that Mwala had incurred during the battering. There were no shadows at any one point. The camera movements must have been trucking because the camera showed an almost three dimensional scene of his being battered. The sound is good and even has the extra hidden sighs and background noise that aids one to know what is going on even before we see it.
Episode 5: trouble in an estate due to noise pollution.
This scene shows people living in a plot and their land lady comes to evict them because they are misusing the electricity and a class four child calls the police to report that he is being disturbed by the noise that is never ending. The police come to the child’s aid and even stop the tenant and landlady battle. The lighting is good very suitable seeing as it is an outside episode that. The camera is on a crane at some point as they show the police coming into the plot to bring calm and as they make their arrests. The sound is effective though the words are at time blown away. The clips are in sync with the sounds.
Episode 6:  the main police dog Rex gets lost.
This is a very hilarious episode because it stars with a very distraught Inspekta and you would think that it is an actual human being that has gone missing because of the great seriousness this is taken with. The lighting is effective and the sound brings out each and every emotion that the episode has. The sound is exemplary and the camera shots are mainly panning. The only problem is that the editing was not done comprehensively because some scenes have errors that would have been removed at the editing stage.
Episode 7:  civic education for the Referendum and Constitutional process.
This episode was very crucial seeing as it brought out the aspect of the rights of the citizens when it comes to the law enforcers who for a long time have been accused of harassing citizens. The lighting in this episode was good though compared to other episodes it was not as good the problem might have been that the episode was mainly shot in the outside using very many civilians. The editing was carefully done bringing out the relevance of the constitution in the whole episode. The camera was panning horizontally due to the many characters in most of the scenes.
Episode 8: kidnapping in Kona Mbaya
This episode depicted the kidnappings that were on a rise in the country. It also showed ways of curbing the crime and safety measures that should and ca be taken by the families and police. The shots in the episode were too bright with some seeming discolored. There was a problem of white balancing. The camera was placed on a crane and truck. The lighting was okay and so was editing.
Episode 9: this episode showed the referendum process on the actual voting day.
The episode covered the lines and the people who turned up for voting in Kona Mbaya where they were given adequate security. The shots were clear and a variety of movements, trucking, panning and crane were used for the camera. The editing was great seeing as it incorporated the constitution theme for the period. The editing and lighting were good enough.
Episode 10:  the recruitment of new officers.
This episode showed the process and the recruitment of police officers based on merit in a period where there were discrepancies with the recruitment with some saying there was a lot of bias. The episode mainly used panning movements with long shots and short lens shots. The editing and lighting were good considering it was a shot with a number of people and in the open.
SUMMARY:
Inspekta Mwala is a local production that mainly teaches the society on daily hustles faced by law enforcers and the crime, ranging from petty theft to serious theft that civilians face.
It depicts solutions and with each episode, the producers try to relate it to an ongoing situation in the country giving a solution t it and a means to curb the crime. The only challenge they face is that the time that is given to each episode at times is not enough hence they rush it which results to in cohesiveness in their shots and hence no understanding by the audience. The lighting in this production compared to previous ones is very clear and the camera movements too. The editors are very keen and there are rarely mistakes in the editing.  

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Video Programme Critique- "Citizen News at 9"

The general presentation, on both Friday and Saturday is clear as Karigoh Ng’arua takes anchorage, while ‘Sunday Live News at Nine’ is presented by Julie Gichuru. Monday news has two anchors Michael Njenga and Catherine Khasavuli. These news anchors are eloquent in their speech. Karigoh starts off by walking onto the platform in all of the shows and she stops at a particular point beside a glass table. While Catherine and Michael start off in their seats. The lighting, sound, shots and movements do not change much in this production as it is constant, and a repetition. All that changes is the main subject’s attire and make up. Julie Gichuru comes in, in what they call studio B. Here she interviews guests. Throughout the weeks anchors are changed and switched. Through out the week news anchors are changed but the procedure is routine.

Lighting: It is not perfect as I notice a shadow formed behind Karigoh; this could mean that the back light is not bright enough; rather the intensity is not strong enough to kill the formation of a shadow. For the outside interviews it is clear as the camera person is using natural light. You can tell that he has used the white balance. Another problem is when Hon. Raila Odinga is talking it is really dark and the camera person realizes as it suddenly becomes bright. The Sunday production is just as well lit, where most shots were taken during the day thus shadows are minimal as the camera person and the subject both stand in the sun.
On Monday News at Nine, Catherine Khasavuli is focused on with the screen at the back it creates a false image of extreme light. At the end of each production the studio lights fade away until it is totally dark.

Shots and Movement: At the beginning of the news broadcast the camera person does what is known as a follow shot of Karigoh. He then takes a two-shot of two cabinet ministers seen talking in the news highlights. Back at the studio, the camera person zooms in at Karigoh when she begins to talk. He then zooms out in order to capture the image on the screen while still capturing Karigoh speak about the news showing on the screen. He then pans left to get a better shot of the screen and Karigoh. He centralizes these two subjects which I believe qualifies as a two-shot. I feel like even though the two shot is actually of a living thing and a screen that the camera person leaves too much head room above Karigoh. Another impressive shot is the aerial view shot of land below as the news reporter talks of land grabbing issues. The camera man does another follow shot leaving sufficient nose-room as Karigoh walks to the visual screen. Most of the shots taken in the interviews are bust shots and over-the-shoulder shots. The Sunday News at Nine Live shows a wide-view shot is taken of Julie Gichuru after she has given the news headlines. The shots are mainly bust shots in the Monday ‘News at Nine’; this is due to the continuity of interviews. A knee shot is taken of one of the field anchors as he speaks on the new constituencies. There are very few shots where the camera person is tilting or panning the camera to fit the subject into the frame of the camera and even then, they are not as obvious. It is as though the camera is set and then the subject placed in front of it.

Sound: Sound is not as clear as it should be. There are a lot of breaks in speech, and delay in the reception of sound. Also we keep hearing Karigoh flip the pages of her script. This indicates that her lavaliere microphone is very sensitive and picks up sound easily. The sound during the Sunday production is somewhat worse as their voice break in between words and sentences, making it hard to hear what the people are saying. Some of the reporter relayed news sound very rushed; as though the speed of her speech is artificially increased. It seems that the main problem is just breaking in sound waves at some point in all the productions. No echoes or feedback is had in any of the microphones.

Visual Editing Techniques: The visual aids they use are well cued. For example, at the bottom of the screen where there is a constant display of news; business news, forex exchange reports, international news, as well as sports news. The use of the “CW” that appears to be floating on a screen in the background is well placed. Other visuals include the names of the news anchors and interviewees. These are shown well and are on time: they appear in time with the picture of the subject. These visual effects are definitely added as the news is edited and presented. A few scenes are however not well edited, for example on the 12th of November, a man bends to pass in front of the camera, so that he is not seen but he is still visible to the viewer. The use of transitions is visible when they change from one scene to another, this helps show continuity in the story.

Conclusion
You can tell throughout these productions that those that do the lighting and shots and movements are very talented and have studied the right way to work the equipment necessary. The sound is the only thing that seemed to constantly have a problem from the microphones picking up unnecessary sound to the anchors not being heard clearly.

Missing Assignments

The following have not handed in their semester Assignments:

A) Audio
1) JoyAdams Munene 09-0786
2) Carolyne Kiambo 09-1567
3) Cynthia Nyokabi Maina 09-1742
4) Syeve Waguwa 09-0936
5) Waithera Valentinw Mburu 09-0797
6) Emmaculate Kanainza 09-1182
7) Erick Weru Muriuki 07-1429
8) Mercy Kamau 08-1429
9) Samuel Kuria

B) Video
1) Joy Mwendwa 09-0805
2) Wairimu Wambui 09-0709
3) Claire Kariuki(Empty DVD) 07-1024
4) Winnie Chepkorir (Empty DVD) 09-1152
5) Nyambura Ndung'u 09-1231
6) Caroline Wanjiru 09-1567

Remember to pick your CDs/DVDs from my Athi campus office. You may also come for progress feedback, if need be.

Monday, December 6, 2010

Video/Audio Assignments!

I believe all is well even as you sit your end year exam. I have finished grading your audio/video assignments. Most of you have progressed quite well in terms of broadcast techniques. Your microphone and camera handling techniques are quite impressive.

However, there are a few cases of lack of proper focus in telling a story. Remember, each time you set out to report any newsworthy event, identify a story angle that would be of interest to your target audience.

Remember, this was a foundation course. Make use of the skills you've learnt in other courses e.g. COM 361, COM 365, COM 466, among other broadcast related courses. If you would like us to discuss your progress, feel free to come to my office or contact me on rnyaole@daystar.ac.ke. Make an effort to pick your CD/DVD from my office.

Pass all your exams and enjoy the festive season as well!

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Tusker Project fame

Tusker Project Fame 4

Tusker project fame is a programme that is aired daily from late October. It comes at 8.30-9.00 pm in weekdays, 8-9 pm on Saturdays and 7.30-9.00 pm on Sundays. The programme is mainly sponsored by Kenya Breweries Limited. It natures young potential singers young have the ability and passion to sign and puts them in a competition where the winner among them walks away with5 million Kenyan shillings, a whole year collage sponsorship and health insurance. This competition has drawn many to compete and work hard due to fame and the grand prize for the final contestant.
The weekday shows mainly show hat the contestants have been doing through out the days to improve their talents and also to bond.
Programming
The programme is aired daily on Citizen Television in Kenya.

1) Weekdays - 8.30-9.00 pm. This show updates us on what happens in the academy on daily basis.
The updates are usually helps the audience try to know which contestant is serious in the house and who is joking or is not serious with the competition.
It also shows how the contestants are relating with one anther and how bonding with the other contestants is affecting him or her in performance and participation in the house.

2) The Sunday show. This is a live show from the tusker academy. There are judges, teachers, two host contestants and the audience in the house.
The contestants usually sing a singe song that they have been practicing during the week to the audience, teachers and the judges.
The professional judges will judge and put the weak four performers of the night on probation to work on the song again and perform better come Saturday.

3) Saturday show. This is the eviction show. The contestant that were put on probation the previous Sunday have a chance to sing again on the stage and one of them will go home that same night
One of the contestants will be chosen by the east African public by voting through sms, the second one is chosen by the teachers and the third one will be chosen by their fellow contestants. The fourth one has no choice but to go home. There is usually an eviction party to bid good bye and success to the contestant going home

Lighting
Lighting in the academy is of high-quality. The lighting in the house in the weekly shows is a bit dull but it is good for in door lighting.
During the performances the lighting is excellent. There are light all over the room that the contestants are performing in showing a good and bright mood and atmosphere. These lights of different colors brighten the whole house and the stage where the contestants are performing making the contestants feel like superstars while on stage.
The many lights that are there kill shadows such that they do not appear at all when the contestant is on stage, in the audience, judges and even the teachers.



Microphones and sound
Microphones are commonly used to boost ones voice when talking. Sound is the most important aspect and too in the house. The contestants have lavaliere microphones that they put on daily so as they can be heard well in the house. When the contestants are doing live shows the host, judges, teachers and have hand held portable microphones.
Though is has been improved, the judges used to use the same microphone to say their opinions after the performances. I really don’t think that it is hygienic or even appealing to the eye for a viewer. Sharing of microphone for judges can e irritating for the judge or even the audience watching live.
Sound from the live band that they use in their performances is adorable. They have good instrumentalist who enjoy their work bringing out high quality beats for music.

Recording
The contestants have been using Cds with songs that they are going to sing for practice purposes. This helps them memorize the songs at their own free tie and pace too. They have cd players that help them in listening at the music when they practice.
The commercial that come in between the show were recorded longtime a go and they are used to sell the tusker brand.
All show that are performed or any other happening in the tusker academy are recorded for future references. The daily shows are recorded and editing is done to give an interesting 25 minutes show daily.
Camera
Camera work is the most crucial work that the activity in the whole academy. There are so many cameras in the academy that help detect any misbehavior in the house. . They are also used to capture the different events that happen in and outside the academy. They are very circuital equipment because they also help in capturing the live sows that we watch in the television.
The most commonly used types of camera shots are the long shot and medium dots. The long shots are mostly used in live shows to show the contestants singing and the audience too. The long shots in the live show go hand in hand with the aerial shot that shoe the people in the house from above their heads. Long shots are also used to show how the contestants relate wit one anther during their free time, when the show is starting to show the dressing of the host and the contestants.
Medium shots are mostly used in the house as the teachers and the students relate. They are also used in the live show to show the teachers and the judges as they re giving their opinions. They also use the medium shot to show the expressions of the contestants as they are performing.


Dressing
Generally, the dressing of the contestants, host and the teachers has been superb. The contestants have been dressing according to the theme of the night.

Nyambura Monicah Ndung’u
09-1231