5th to 8th Nov - Shooting Interviews

Look Back : Have you seen the mask guy behind you?

Our first interview was originally scheduled for the 4th of November,  but a few hinderances took place and we had to postpone it to 5th Nov. Even though the schedule got tighter and the editing time was super short, we still managed to pull it off, all thanks to our teamwork. A huge shoutout to Alvin, our editor and cameraman, for being incredibly fast and efficient, he made the entire process look smooth, even though we know how much effort went in behind the scenes!

Fatima kept things on track by scheduling interviews and helping us build a clear direction for the shoot which kept us grounded. Huzaifa made sure details were looked after from sound checks to setting up properly before each shot. Ambrose was there to help with the logistics and support wherever needed, which made things a little easier. And Rumeena was trying to take care of the overall process, and making sure everything came together and fell in a better place.

The first interview was shot at a fast pace to meet the submission deadline, but it laid the foundation for what followed. On the 8th of November, we conducted our second and third interviews: this time, focusing on improving what we had missed earlier. One of our biggest challenges so far has been framing the right questions. As we progressed, we realized that many responses tended to sound repetitive, pushing us to rethink our approach and craft questions that draw out deeper and more authentic answers. It has totally been a learning curve throughout, while trying to connect every possible dot to create a bigger, better picture. 

Ambrose wanted to share some light on our setback - Abu Dhabi: The Missed Opportunity

Isn’t it always the case that expectations and reality are at placed at two opposite ends of the spectrum. Our first interview took a drastic turn for the worst where we committed with an interviewee in Abu Dhabi and were prepared to make the long journey down to the country’s capital from Dubai.

We geared up to the University with all our equipment, vehicle fueled and GPS locked on target for a punctual departure at 7PM, our minds ready to accomplish the task at hand!

Life unfortunately, had other plans. Just before setting out, to maximize our efficiency we attempted to make contact with the interviewee just so that we managed our time to the best of our abilities. This is where we experienced our first set-back as the interviewee decided to cancel the shoot on the spot as he was unable to host us at his lodging.

Talk about a metaphorical gut-punch when you least expect it! We all were lost for words because this interview was definitely going into the final documentary but it was a huge part of Assignment 1 Part 2’s submission!! To say this cancelation really sent the alarm bells off would be an understatement to say the least!!

The next bits were a blur as we scrambled to regroup, find a new interviewee and try very hard to not let this loss affect us. It was a struggle but two days later we managed to find someone else, arguably even better than the original interviewee. Life has a funny way of working itself out sometimes!

In retrospect however, this was a powerful learning experience for all of us as a team. Firstly, don’t put all your eggs in one basket until and unless you’re 110% sure it’s worth the risk. Secondly, this moment taught us about adapting to the situation at hand and not always getting the perfect way is also alright. Learning to be resilient in the face of adversity and regrouping with a better strategy is where the real magic happens. I’m glad we didn’t let this set-back bring our team morale longer than it did. Believe me, it was difficult at the time to digest when the rug was pulled out from beneath us. But, we bounced back! Stronger than ever, focused and determined!

-Words by Ambrose