A number of unrelated events led my thoughts to the subject of this blog post: a visit from a local camera club, a talk with my good friend at Somerville Photography and viewing the now ubiquitous Battle at F-Stop Ridge. I had considered a similar project based around photographers in a military recreation, one that I might enlist some of my film maker friends on (should they be willing). All that was put on hold when is saw F-Stop Ridge: obviously another similar video made so soon after would seem like cheap imitation.
The concept still had some weight though; photographers always talk about “shooting” and there are so many other aspects that could have crossover (make-up artists as medics anyone?). So if not a promo video then what? Well why not just have a bit of fun with the idea, so below I’ve listed the Rules of Engagement, a photography based game for 4-∞ players. Any ideas for a snappier name are more than welcome. EDIT: I really didn’t mean that pun, but I appreciate it now it’s there
Rules of Engagement
Overview: An active outdoor game based loosely around the military recreation style found in airsoft and paintball. It is a non-contact game, emphasising strategy, quick thinking, technical skill and artistic flair.
Photographers are provided with limited equipment, chosen before the game starts, and a “magazine” memory card with only a limited number of shots available. The aim of the game is to capture as many sharp, well exposed images of other photographers without getting shot yourself.
Equipment
Each photographer may only carry a single camera body and a single memory card (granting 30 images). They must then choose only two of the following
– Additional memory card: Grants a further 30 shots to the photographer
– Flashgun: Good for short range, narrow aperture
– Telephoto lens: Snipers choice
– Standard zoom: The all rounder
– Spotter: Useful for snipers, carries a reduced extra clip (10 images). Worth extra points if captured
Suggested Builds
– The sniper: Telephoto lens, spotter
For the person who likes to take their time and capture the perfect shot
– The soldier: Standard zoom, telephoto lens
An all rounder that allows the photographer to function both at a distance and close up
– The shotgunner: Standard zoom, flashgun
Set your f.stop high to maximise depth of field as you get in close to shoot everyone in range
– The machine gunner: Standard zoom, extra memory card
Snapping away on continuous mode, this photographer puts faith in quantity over quality
Scoring
Gaining Points
• Scoring is based on a combination of several elements: composition, exposure and sharpness.
• For every image that meets these criteria they are awarded 5 points per element
• An image that shows acceptable quality at all 3 is worth an additional 20 points
• A perfect headshot (well composed, exposed and sharp) is worth 50 points
Losing Points
• For every images captured of them a photographer loses half the number of points the capturing photographer gains.
• Spotters lose their photographer full points
Ending the game
• When a photographer has used up all of their “ammo” they have to return to the safe zone. They are still a viable target until they reach this area.
• When in the safe zone they are out of the game: their score will be tallied and no further points can be gained from them.
• The game ends when either of the following criteria are met
– All the photographers have run out of ammo
– The time limit (recommended 20 mins) has elapsed
