If you don’t want or it’s not possible for you to make a costume, you can still join in. Just make the donkey head and film the close-ups as below. If you decide to do this, you can also make the donkey head smaller if that’s easier for you – once the donkey head is close up to the camera, the size won’t be obvious.
What to wear
If you haven’t made a Carnival hat, see what hats you have available at home. A straw hat or a flowery hat is ideal, but you can add ribbons and paper flowers to any hat to make it Carnival-ready. If you have a bandana or head scarf available, try wearing that under your hat.
Also look in your wardrobe for a bright top – a patterned one is ideal, particularly if it’s flowery, but a plain white top is also fine.
If you don’t want to show your face on camera, just pop on some sunglasses and tie a bandana or scarf around your face, or wear a Covid mask.
Where to film
The best place to film is your kitchen area, as it’s for the ‘Kitchen Carnival’. But if somewhere else in your home is better for you, that’s fine too.
How to set up your camera
If you’re using your phone or tablet, remember to put it on its side because we are filming for TV (YouTube). You can support your device on a cushion, or prop it against anything that you have available.
If you are filming on your computer, perhaps using Zoom or QuickTime, move the computer if you can to the best place to film your performance.
If you don’t have someone else to help, try to make sure you can see yourself while you are filming. If you can’t see yourself, stop and play back your first shots, and then adjust your position as necessary to get the best out of the filming.
Performing to the camera
Remember that your camera represents your audience, so direct your performance at it. Before you start, think about the different movements that you can do. Also think about what type of personality your donkey has, and how this affects the way that you move your donkey’s head.
Shot list
- Film yourself facing the camera.
- Film yourself in profile (side on). Film from both sides if possible.
* You don’t need to record sound, but don’t worry, we will edit out any sound that appears on your film.
- Film your donkey’s head moving in different ways and at different angles.
MID SHOTS (top half of your body)
- Move up and down as if you are riding. Remember to hold the reins – just use one hand if you need to use the other hand to support the donkey’s head.
LONG SHOTS (full length)
- If you have made the full Burrokeet costume, just sway your hips and your donkey will dance.
- Film yourself dancing in one place; dancing towards the camera; and dancing around the kitchen.
- If you have made a tail for your donkey, film yourself dancing from behind too.
Send your shots to nina@together2012.org.uk