Before actually starting the photo shooting, I talked to the IT director of our school, Mr. Meehan, about the feasibility of my proposal and also some advice on shooting. Unfortunately, the school policy regulates that drones must be flown in the open air; therefore, I would not be able to take the drone shots. However, Mr. Meehan talked to me about an alternative solution, which is to use a fluid head tripod that can achieve the same smooth-turning effect as the drone. Mr. Meehan helped me set up the video camera and the tripod and explained to me how to operate the equipment.

He especially cautioned me to be extra careful with handling the equipment because the video camera is very expensive and is usually not lent out for students’ use. We ran over the storyboard together and he gave me some suggestions on how to best film the shot. For example, instead of moving the camera with the ball to capture its motion as I’ve initially planned, he suggested me to set the tripod stationary and turn the camera as the ball moves. In the afternoon, he very kindly set up the equipment for me in the gym and made sure everything’s all set before he leaves for his meeting. He was so kind and supportive, and it was the first time I realized how thankful I am for every teacher in the school for helping students pursue their areas of interest in their own way. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to do what I’ve always wanted to do and will forever remember each and every person that made this dream turn into a reality!