Reflection of Practical: TV Drama Still

When we were set this task, we decided on a western genre. To achieve this, we thought of places and props that could signify that the shot is from a western TV show. When we were planning our shot, we used a storyboard so we can decide who takes what role in each shot. The storyboard also has the shot number and several details about each shot such as the framing, lighting and props that are required.

For my shot, I decided to set it on a set of stairs next to an old looking door to represent the old fashioned time period of the 1800s. In addition, I used the basic cowboy outfit of a brown jacket, jeans, leather shoes and a cowboy hat, which creates semic codes, telling the audience that it is a cowboy. I also used a prop revolver gun and fake blood to indicate that the shot was taken after the action of a conventional shootout in western genres. The revolver is a common gun seen in the genre, and acts as a genre signifier which creates more realism for this shot. For the lighting, we used a portable light with a yellow filter to create the warm desert sepia colour scheme seen in western genres.

From this shot, I wanted my audience to understand that it was a shootout, since the dead cowboy also had his gun out, as if to shoot. This may create enigma and provoke the audience to ask who killed him and why there was a shootout. In addition, the dead cowboy also represents a symbolic code that is conventional to the genre; the idea of the good cowboys versus the outlaws.

If I were to retake my shot, I would add more conventions to pin down the genre, such as a desert setting, which could be achieved through a green screen. This would instantly suggest a western genre as they are typically set in those settings, especially for shootouts. Also, I would have tried to use more realistic blood to immerse the audience so it would be more believable. Furthermore, the gun could be positioned better so it is in clearer view and a holster or leather belt could be added to improve the costume, making a more convincing cowboy.

In conclusion, I think my shot was fairly successful in conveying its meaning, as it is clear that the man is a cowboy who has just lost a shootout. In addition, the lighting and background does well at anchoring the genre and the LS framing and high angle portrays the cowboy as weak and helpless, which would contrast to how the victor would be portrayed and indicating the skill between the cowboys in the shootout.