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The Vox Pop Dance
Introduction:
A vox pop is the 'Voice of the People'. They are made up of many responses to the same question. Vox pops are a quick way to gauge public opinion on an issue. They can be serious or just fun. Best of all they are very easy to make and a great way to refine your video skills.
Method
Step 1 Grab a group of friends typically around 5 works well. Decide who will be reporter, camera operator, assistant etc.Step 2 You need a camera with an external mic, a tape, a charged battery etc.
Step 3 Decide on the question you are going to ask.
Step 4 Shoot an introduction, something like:-
Reporter: 'Hi I'm ....... Today on THE CREW we're on the streets at ........ asking the question .................?, lets go!!'
Step 5 Find a large group of people, target the first interviewee, start rolling tape before you reach your target to ensure you capture the entire interchange. Ask the question something like:-
Reporter: 'Excuse me, do you mind if I ask you a question......... If you were God what colour would you paint the sky???'
Step 6 Ask the same question to as many people that you can as time affords.
Step 7 If you come upon an interesting answer ask the interviewee to clarify:
Reporter : 'and why do you think that?'
You can also use a second question to develop content of your vox pop. eg if the first question was "When it comes to binge drinking, what do you think the issues are for young people?", the second question could be "what do you think can be done about the issue?"
Step 8 Shoot a conclusion. Something like:
Reporter: 'Well there you have it! The youth of Australia have spoken, but what do you think??, I'm ....... for 'The Crew'.
Depending on the content of your vox pop you may find a good concluding comment in the answers you obtain.
Step 9 Edit the vox pop. Suggested edit sequence as follows: Introduction, Reporter asking first 'victim', first victim answers, second victim answers, third victim answers, reporter asks third victim 'and why do you think that'? 3rd victim responds reporter asks question to 4th victim, 4th victim answers etc
Vox pops can be a great way to start investigating a serious issue but they can also be a great way to have some fairly random fun. The range of possible questions is limited only creative imagination.
* When it comes to binge drinking what do you think are the main issues?
* Who is winning the human race?
* What's more important, love or money?
* What's the funniest thing that has happened to you on a date?
* What's the best excuse you've used for getting out of homework?
* What do you look for in a guy / girl?
* If Australia was a republic who do you think should be the President?
* If you could say one thing to your parents and have them listen, what would it be?
* What are the main issues facing Aussie youth today?
* Keep the camera set to wide angle. This creates a steadier shot and gives that 'in your face' look.* Make sure the area that you are working in is relatively quiet.
* Suggested edit sequence as follows: Introduction, Reporter asking first 'victim', first victim answers, second victim answers, third victim answers, reporter asks third victim 'and why do you think that'? 3rd victim responds reporter asks question to 4th victim, 4th victim answers etc..
* Play with camera angles and movement, you can afford to be creative here. Generally you will use a mid-close up shot, but don't be afraid to take a few paces back with the camera to get a two shot. This will give a context. Stay there for half the response and them walk back in, shooting the whole time.
* If you move into a crowd and the first couple of responses are negative, from experience, you are not likely to get a good response from the rest of the crowd ..... change locations.
* Take care in the playground, there is always one person that thinks they will be funny and tries to grab the camera. This could bring your entire project to grief, and is the reason why it is good to have a crew of 5.
H a v e f u n! !
