India has 560 million active internet users and many of them live in villages and have access to affordable mobile data. This technology can be tapped to share knowledge, best practices and raise awareness on critical issues.

Keeping this in mind, the Hyderabad-based National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) in collaboration with the Vigyan Prasar, is training people in mobile film making. A three-day workshop on mobile film making was held from August 23 to 25.

Participants were taught basics of filmmaking such as using camera shots, story approaches, script writing and film editing. Emphasis during the workshop was given to training them in handling pre-production, production and post-production using a smartphone.

" Participants were taught basics of filmmaking such as using camera shots, story approaches, script writing and film editing. "

Some of the sessions covered included science communication, introduction to mobile science filmmaking, making the phone ready for filming, iPhone and Android Camera settings. One session was on using the native camera app - Focus and Exposure. Tips were given for smartphone video; compositional elements and basics of videography.

The participants also had a session on shooting of experimental film by the participants in groups, third party camera apps, digital video basics, advance control in other apps, video stability - with and without gear.

Dr. W. R. Reddy, Director General, NIRDPR asked the participants to record inspiring stories from the ground of rural India, through the films that they will go on to make in the field. The participants were mentored by Nimish Kapoor, Scientist E, Vigyan Prasar.
India Science Wire