Hannah_Ch8

After reading chapter 8, I've been reflecting on Sandler's definition of a "conscious camera". The way he explains this term is the point in time when the audience is shaken out of dream mode by making the camera movement the focus of the film rather than the actual film. When I was thinking about this concept, the classic TV show The Office popped into my head. This mockumentary-style TV show has been a fan-favorite for years, and it stands out for the camera-movement techniques used in the show. When you're watching the show, you are completely conscious of the camera because of its dramatic movements achieved through handheld filming. The show also exhibits many fourth-wall breaks by having the characters speak directly to the camera. 

Filming The Office

This youtube video delves into the cinematography behind the lovable TV show. According to the video, the camera movement works to match the emotions portrayed by the characters. Handheld shots create a sense of urgency, a pan can feel disconnected, and a zoom creates comical effect. By providing plenty of different camera movement styles and breaking plenty of rules, the show faces an equal number of advantages and disadvantages to success, while making humor the top priority of the mockumentary.