Measuring Distance

Three videos from Youtube all about measuring height or distance. Interesting to watch the different camera angles/techniques. The first video looks to have been shot some years ago (1970s-80s?) in the classic information film style (copied/spoofed by Peter Greenaway). Notice the different number of shots from different angles and the use of zoom. Though documenting a continuous process the use of detailed close-ups gives a pleasing discontinuity and a certain fetishistaion. (Note you will need to fast forward through the dull diagram sections). 

The next video shows a style which is much used by contemporary Youtube information videos and has its origins in TV programmes such as Top Gear. Using fixed tripod shots with the presenter talking directly in an animated/physical fashion to camera (rather than using a voice over as in the first two videos). the presenter moves in and out of frame at the beginning and end of shots with his commentary providing a link between shots creating the impression of a continuity as if he were walking directly from one shot to another in real time. The presenter also often points to or at things in the frame almost as if it were a picture or backdrop. There is a nice touch in this video on the thumb shot when the commentary was clearly recorded in a complettly different space.