July 4th- Went to a flea market to search for props. We made out ok, and we got a helmet, some gloves, boots, and a laser sight.
July 7th- Purchased the RZ80 camcorder we'd use to shoot the movie.
July 11th- Shot Scene 1. A lot of people showed up to help out, and the shoot was a success. A huge boost for everyone who'd been working really hard the past few weeks on the project, and a spark of interest shown by those who weren't involved until now. If the turn-outs are going to be that good, production should always be this easy. Also, to reward members of the crew for showing up and helping out, we may do pizza next time...oooooh...
July 17th- Did a lot of work preparing props and shooting some test footage with Matt and John.
July 19th- We found out that we were going to lose our van soon, so we had to pull together an "emergency shoot" this evening. We filmed with the whole SWAT team and finished most of Scene 4. Later that evening, we began writing our dialogue.
July 20th- Continued construction of website, which is intended to provide all members of cast and crew with the latest updates and progress in regards to the project. Aquired a desk to demolish with special effects for gunfight scene.
July 21st- Took some uniform test photos, continued work on website. Currently pondering special effects options.
July 23rd- Created flash intro for addition to website. Scouted a possible location at Ryan's house, then talked with him about special effects possibilites.
July 25th- Conducted our mock SWAT training at Ryan's house in which each team member for the movie suited up and used real SWAT tactics including room clearing, deployment of flashbangs, and hand signals to clear a 3-story structure. Afterwards, we briefly worked on some dialogue.
July 28th- Began story-boarding. I went through the script and drew small sketches of different shots and angles I'd like to achieve while filming those parts. A lot of times when you're on a shoot, you forget to take filler shots, which keep your movie from moving too quickly. Watch for filler shots the next time you watch a movie, and you'll realize most of the film consists of material that, although usually relevant, isn't necessary for the movie. For example, in my film, if one officer is picking a lock, while shooting I'd be tempted to move on once I'd filmed that cop picking the lock. Another camera should be capturing the surrounding scene, maybe another officer watching him, just as filler. Storyboarding helps you to remember your filler shots.
August 11th- After a long break, it's time to get back into things. I had a little meeting with Ryan and a new actor who will replace Dave Hangley as one of the SWAT officers. Dave is going away to school soon, and wouldn't be able to participate in any of the shoots, although its a shame he can't be included. The new actor, Matt, will be filling in.
August 12th- Arranging for a shoot next Sunday.
August 15th- After three days of planning, the shoot finally happened. Before the actual shoot, John and I went over a few things. Then Ryan and I had dinner and discussed a few shooting options. When we assembled and got things rolling on set, it was about 8:20 pm. Managing the three SWAT members, 2 cameras, and the set wasn't easy, but one of my crew members Paxson showed up and helped out a lot. Everyone did a great job, and the tape came out awesome. I just can't wait to put this whole thing together.
August 31st- We recently had a short meeting about production and things we've been slacking on. Today I continued my editing of the tape I've got. It's coming along nicely. I spoke to Officer Bill Lewis of the Burlington County Sheriff's Dept. about using a squad car in a few shots, and he said there shouldn't be a problem. I hope to shoot that stuff next monday.
September 4th- John will most likely become a co-producer now that most of my crew has gone away to college. I'll need all the help I can get planning this project out. Currently, we'll be working on completing the screenplay and practicing some special effects for Scene 7.