Tuesday, 27 April 2021

How to Take Notes


Industry feedback is at the heart of what we do at Escape Studios. Our students' short film projects receive regular feedback from our tutors and also from industry guests, especially during the storyboard animatic stage when the story is still fluid.  But taking notes isn't always easy; it can be hard not to feel defensive about criticism, however well-meaning it might be.  Writer-directors are often quick to defend story ideas - even when these are not working well, and this can get in the way of making the project work better.  Never forget that the person offering critique is there to help you, and that any criticism is always aimed at making the film better.  Below are our three key rules for "taking notes".

Rule 1 - Don't take it personally
One of the hardest skills for animation students to learn is how receive criticism.  We all tend to be a bit insecure about our work, especially when we are doing something for the first time, like directing a short film.  

When our work is criticised, that criticism can feel very personal. Try not to take it personally. Our tutors and industry guests are there to help make your work as good as it can be - they are on your side.

Rule 2 - Make Changes Where Needed
Do your best to apply the notes, but understand that someone critiquing your work may not necessarily have all the answers or the right solutions. You will need to think creatively about how to implement their notes in the best way.  But if someone is telling you that the story doesn't make sense, resist the temptation to tell them they are wrong. 

Rule 3 - Write the Notes Down
Getting feedback is primarily a listening exercise. The person giving notes is giving up their time to help you, so honour their commitment by writing down what they have to say.  This will help you focus on the notes themselves, and not on your immediate response to them.  Take your time to consider how best to implement the notes - the answers may well come to you later.  


Film-Making Resources

To see more film-making resources at Escape Studios, follow the links below:

Development & Pre-Production
Production
Post-Production

The Escape Studios Animation Blog offers a personal view on the art of animation and visual effects. To apply for our BA/MArt in 3D Animation, follow this link. To apply for our storyboarding evening class, visit this page here. For the next 12 week animation course, click here


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