Research: Sherlock, Camera and Technique.

I may not be in the technical area of the project but I am on the Set Team. This means that I have to be aware of camera movements and consult with Joel and Sylvia at all times at make sure that the set we design is convenient for their vision.

We were asked to look at "A Scandal in Belgravia" (dir Paul McGuigan) from the second series of Sherlock  (2010 - present, BBC, created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss).

Source: BBC iPlayer. Date accessed: 12th January 2012.

[01:18 - 01:19]  Despite this being pat of the "Previously" segment of the episode I felt it interesting to note the use of the focus. To some it seems obvious to use such a technique: focus on one area of the mise-en-scene and the focus onto another part, changing the focus of the original point of sight immediately. However, I do believe this is a technique we can use.

[09:09 - 09:14] The transition from present to past is done exquisitely here with camera doing a 360-degree shot on in front of the character instead of around him. It is a striking shot and even though film and television have been around for several years now it just goes to show that there are still a few tricks. Since there are flashback scenes in the script it only seems logical that we find a worthy camera technique to make the transition into said flashbacks rather than leaving it to the editing. If we have a solid camera technique, it would be a major advantage, not just for flashbacks but for transitions in general.

[30:39] A great shot from the safe. As Sherlock presses the buttons, they come up on the screen. Perhaps not relevant to the project but I'm hopeful that a similar technique can be used, like with the mirror scene. 

[33:33] Sherlock is drugged and the camera is side ways on the floor as he hits the ground.

[34:38 - 34:42] The same 360 technique is used here as he tries to get up. It really adds something to his state of mind. Sherlock is usually so level-headed. But he has just been out-done. Probably for the very first time. So the shot not only signifies the effects from the drug but also the effects of Irene Adler, the woman who beat him.

[35:48] Sherlock is having an hallucination because of the drug and a bed comes out of nowhere . It is not as if Sherlock himself is falling, but that the bed has risen up to greet him. then shot then goes back to reveal him in his bedroom.