Video and Sound Production - Lecture and Exercise

In this week asynchronous class materials, I understand storytelling and Three-Act story structure. The three-act story structure is a timeless framework in storytelling, dividing a narrative into the setup, confrontation, and resolution. Act One establishes the protagonist, their world, and an inciting incident that disrupts their status quo, compelling them to take action. This setup is crucial for engaging the audience and setting the story in motion.

Act Two, the confrontation, is the longest part, where the protagonist faces escalating challenges. This act is split into initial progress and subsequent setbacks, deepening the protagonist's character and driving the plot. A significant crisis at the end of Act Two forces the protagonist to reevaluate their approach, setting the stage for the final act.

Act Three, the resolution, brings the story to its climax, where the protagonist overcomes their ultimate challenge. The climax is the story's most intense moment, followed by the denouement, which ties up loose ends and concludes the protagonist's journey. The three-act structure's enduring appeal lies in its ability to create compelling and well-organized narratives that resonate with audiences.

3.4 Week 02 - Filming and Storyboard Exercise

3.4.1 Video 01 - "Christmas Advert" by John Lewis

In Week 02, Mr Martin instructed us to watch a video called "Christmas Advert" by John Lewis. In this video, we can learned about the different shot sizes and after watching this, we need to name the shot sizes from some scenes inside.

Video 03 "Christmas Advert" by John Lewis

Figure 3. Scene 01

Shot size: Medium shot

Figure 3.3 Scene 02

Shot size: Wide shot

Figure 3.4 Scene 03

Shot size: Medium wide shot

Figure 3.5 Scene 04

Shot size: Full shot

Figure 3.6 Scene 05

Shot size: Close up shot

Figure 3.7 Scene 06

Shot size: Medium Close up

Figure 3.8 Scene 07

Shot size: Close up

Figure 3.9 Scene 08

Shot size: Medium shot

Over the shoulder shot

The over-shoulder shot is a camera angle that aims to present the perspective of the foreground character, rather than necessarily showing their actual shoulder in the frame. The focus is on conveying the viewpoint of that character, even if their physical shoulder is not the primary visual element. The key aspect is capturing the subjective perspective of the character, rather than strictly including their shoulder in the foreground. The goal is to immerse the audience in that character's point of view, regardless of whether their shoulder is visible.

The bottom shot is not an over the shoulder shots, this is because bottom shot should be taken from a camera angle positioned below the average eye line and pointing up, but over the shoulder shot is a camera angle that usually taken from behind the shoulder of one character, showing the face of another character.

3.4.2 Video 02 - "The Unsung Hero - Thai Life Insurance Ad "

After finnish the Video 01 - "Christmas Advert" by John Lewis, we continue to watch another video called "The Unsung Hero - Thai Life Insurance Ad". And then name the shot sizes of the some scene selected by Mr Martin.

Video 04 "The Unsung Hero - Thai Life Insurance Ad"

Figure 3.10 Scene 01

Shot size: Close Up shot

Figure 3.11 Scene 02

Shot size: Close Up shot

Figure 3.12 Scene 03

Shot size: Extreme Close Up shot

Figure 3.13 Scene 04

Shot size: Close Up shot

Figure 3.14 Scene 05

Shot size: Medium shot

Figure 3.15 Scene 06

Shot size: Extreme wide shot

Figure 3.16 Scene 07

Shot size: Medium Full shot

Figure 3.17 Scene 08

Shot size: Close Up shot

Figrue 3.18 Scene 09

Shot size: Medium shot

Figure 3.19 Scene 10

Shot size: Over the Shoulder shot

Figure 3.20 Scene 11

Shot size: Over the Shoulder shot

Figure 3.21 Scene 12

Shot size: Over the Shoulder shot

Figure 3.22 Scene 13

Shot size: Medium Full shot

Figure 3.23 Scene 14

Shot size: Over the Shoulder shot

Figure 3.24 Scene 15

Shot size: Medium Close Up shot

Figure 3.25 Scene 16

Shot size: Full shot

3.5 Week 02 - Shot size, camera angle, and composition (Quiz)

Next, we were told to complete a quiz on Shot Sizes in Google Forms.

Figure 3.26 Quiz

3.6 Week 02 - Research

3.6.1 Research on "Depth of Field"

What are the foreground, midground, and background in composition? Provide an image for explanation.
In visual composition, the foreground, midground, and background refer to different layers of depth that enhance spatial organization and interest. The foreground is closest to the viewer and often contains the primary subject or focal point. The midground lies between the foreground and background, providing context and aiding the transition between the two. The background is farthest from the viewer, offering the setting or overall scene context. Together, these layers create a sense of depth and guide the viewer's eye through the image.

Figure 3.27 Example of Foreground, Midground and Background
What is Depth of Field?
Depth of field (DoF) in photography refers to the range of distance within an image that appears sharp and in focus. It can be shallow or deep, influenced by factors like aperture size (a wide aperture creates a shallow DoF, a narrow aperture creates a deep DoF), focal length (longer lenses create a shallower DoF), distance to the subject (closer distance results in a shallower DoF), and sensor size (larger sensors produce a shallower DoF). Photographers use DoF to emphasize specific parts of an image and guide the viewer's attention.
What is Deep Depth of Field? What is Shallow Depth of Field Provide an image for explaination?
A shallow depth of field blurs the background and foreground while keeping the main subject in focus, distancing it from the surroundings and directing the viewer's attention to a specific area.

A deep depth of field ensures that both th background and foreground are in sharp focus, allowing the viewer to see all the details in the frame. It creates a sense of depth and brings attention to geographical elements such as lines and patterns, empahsizing the importance of all the details in the image.

Figure 3.28 Examples of Deep Depth of Field and Shallow Depth of Field

3.6.2 Research on "180 Degree Rule (Static Screen Direction)"

What is 180 degree rule (static screen direction)?
The 180 degree rule (static screen direction) is a basic guideline in filmmaking that states the camera should stay on one side of an imaginary axis drawn between the subjects being filmed. This axis is often referred to as the "line of action" or "the 180-degree line". Staying on one side of this line ensures that the relative positions of subjects remain consistent, thereby avoiding disorientation for the audience.

Figure 3.29 180 degree rule
What is continuity in cinematography?
It involves maintaining elements from one scene to another, ensuring smooth narrative flow. It is a key principle in filmmaking that keeps the audience engaged in the story.
Watch the video. Does it adhere to the 180 degree rule?
The video does apply the rule as the conversation between the 2 actors has the same shot angle in the movie. The shot start on 0:05 to 0:08, 0:10 to 0:11, 0:14 to 0:22.

3.6.3 Research on "Dynamic Screen Direction"

What is dynamic screen direction?
It involves intentionally using motion and placement within the frame to direct the viewer's focus and communicate the story in film, television, or other media. It manages the movement of the camera or the viewer's gaze on the screen to produce a feeling of motion that enhances the storytelling.

3.7 Week 02 - Shooting Exercise (Framing)

For our next exercise was shooting exerrcise, we were instruced to shoot different shot sizes we learnt.

Figure 3.30 Shooting Exercise

I decided to shoot with my friend for this exercise. After finnish shooting with our phone, we then edited the final output at Adobe Premiere Pro.

Final Frame Shooting Exercise Video

Video 05 Final Frame Shooting Exercise Video

3.8 Week 02 - Editing Exercise 03 (Lalin)

After finish the lecture given by Mr Martin, he tasked us to do a video editing exercise. This video editing exercise is mainly taught us how to use Adobe Premiere Pro more skilfully when we do our Project 01, 02 and Final Project.

Final Editing Exercise 03 (Lalin)

Video 06 Final Editing exercise 03 - Lalin

3.9 Week 02 - Three-Act Story structure (Quiz)

After finish the Final Editing of Exercise 03 (Lalin), Mr Martin tasked us to do the quiz prepared by him in the Google Form.

Figure 3.31 Quiz

3.10 Week 02 - Three-Act Story structure

3.10.1 Video 01: Lalin

Which part is act 1, act 2, act 3 respectively? Describe each act with ONE paragraph only.
Act 01 begins when the female protagonist introduced herself at the begining of the video and started online dating with the male protagonist Nut after viewing a moon-drawing image. Next, Act 02, Nut is in Japan and wants to meet the female protagonist in person. There are some flashbacks of memories included. Last, Act 03, they didn't meet in person in the real world.
What is the inciting incident in the movie?
The movie's inciting incident is when Nut, the protagonist's online dating boyfriend, unexpectedly asks to meet in person, causing a major upheaval for the main female character due to her deep insecurities about her appearance.
What is the midpoint scene in the movie?
In the movie, the midpoint scene forces the main character to confront her fears and reveal her true self to her online boyfriend. This scene addresses her inner struggles and her attempt to escape, directly addressing her inner conflict.
What is the Climax scene in the movie?
The Climax scene in the movie is, the female protagonist ran away and didn't meet Nut, but later regretted it.
What is the theme of the movie?
The movie's theme revolves around identity and self-acceptance, highlighting the separation between our true selves and the personas we present to the world. It also explores how social media in the modern era can lead people to idealize themselves at the expense of their own vulnerabilities.

3.10.2 Video 02: Everything, everywhere

Which part is act 1, act 2, act 3 respectively? Describe each act with ONE paragraph only.
Act 01, meet Evelyn, the main charactter whose life i surrounded by central conflicts, particularly within her own family dynamics. Her strained relationship with her daughter Evelynn emphasizes the generational gap conflicts and adds tension to the story. For Act 02, Evelynn faces complex troubles in a multiverse world, undergoing a self-transformation path. She explores different worlds and considers alternative circumstances, challenging her own thinking.
What is the inciting incident in the movie?
The inciting incident in the video is the moment when Evelynn is contacted by her multiverse husband who informs her that she is the key to saving the entire multiverse. She is then pulled into the multiverse and forced to confront many impending troubles.
What is the midpoint scene in the movie?
The midpoint scene in the movie is when Evelynn fully embraces the multiverse reality after initially being confused and has a deep realization about her difficult relationship with her daughter across different universes.
What is the Climax scene in the movie?
Evelynn confronts her conflicts head-on, both within the multiverse and within her own family, including her alter ego, Jobu Tupaki. She battles her alter ego in physical, emotional, and existential realms.
What is the theme of the movie?
The theme of this movie is revolve around Love, Family, and Sacrifice. Evelynn's journey through multiple universes serves to emphasize the strength of love and challenges of being a parent within familial bonds.

3.11 Week 03 - Storyboard (Quiz)

After finnish the class, Mr Martin tasked us a quiz prepared by him in the Google Form.

Figure 3.32 Quiz

3.12 Week 04 - Asynchronous class materials reflection

In this week asynchronous class materials, I understand Filmmaking process, the distinct stages of pre-production, production, and post-production. Pre-production is a meticulous planning phase, where the foundation of the film is laid. This stage involves scripting, storyboarding, casting, and designing every aspect of the film's visual and auditory elements. It’s a phase that requires creativity and organization, ensuring that every detail is in place before the cameras start rolling.

The production phase is where the vision begins to materialize. It’s a dynamic and often challenging period, where the actual filming occurs. This stage demands extensive coordination and collaboration among the crew, actors, and directors, relying heavily on the groundwork laid during pre-production. The logistical complexities and the physical demands of shooting scenes underscore the importance of teamwork and effective communication to keep the production on schedule and within budget.

Post-production is the final stage where the film truly comes together. This phase involves editing the footage, adding sound effects, music, and visual effects, and performing color grading to enhance the visual tone of the film. Post-production is a meticulous process that requires a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of storytelling to create a cohesive and engaging final product. Each stage of production, from the initial planning to the final edits, is essential in crafting a film that resonates with its audience and fulfills the creative vision of the filmmakers.

3.13 Week 04 - Production Crew (Quiz)

After the class, Mr Martin tasked us a Quiz.

Figure 3.33 Quiz

3.14 Week 05 - Prepare for video shooting (Group Shooting)

During Week 05, we are tasked to prepare filming for Project 2A. Our class are to seperate into 3 groups. We need to choose our position based on the spreadsheet provided by Mr Martin.

Figure 3.34 Task Allocated

Before the filming day, Mr Martin let us to practice one of the scene from the video.

Figure 3.35 Practising one of the scene

3.15 Week 06 - Video Shooting: Everything, Everywhere All At Once

This week was the filming week. We have told to bring some items related to the filming through the document prepared by Mr Martin.

Figure 3.36 Filming Day

3.16 Week 07 - Video Editing: Everything, Everywhere All At Once

After the filming, we need to edit the video by ourselves. I downloaded the video and audio clips from Google Drive that created by our filming group's producer.

Figure 3.37 Audio Clips

Figure 3.38 Video Clips

After finnish downloading the clips, I started the editing process.

I have cut all the clips and combine them together, I also added the subtittles for the conversation of Waymond and Evelyn.

Figure 3.39 Edited all the clips

Figure 3.40 Added subtittles for conversations

After added the subtittles, I start to sync to audio and video together. (To do so, Mr Martin provided us a Youtube Link on "How to auto sync video and audio in Adobe Premiere Pro")

Figure 3.41 Syncing audio together with video clips

Futhermore, when I finnished the syncing process, I start to conduct the colour correction process.

Figure 3.42 Conducting colour correction process

📌 Too Much Information

It shows two devices (Apple and Windows) of Adobe Premiere Pro is because I don't often bring my laptops to class (it's very heavy, I can't take this anymore /(ㄒoㄒ)/~~)

Colour Graded version

Video 07 Colour graded version of Video Editing exercise

3.17 Week 07 - Colour Correction, Colour Grading (Quiz)

During Week 07, Mr Martin has tasked us a Google Form Quiz about Colour Corerection and Colour Grading.

Figure 3.43 Quiz

3.18 Week 08 - Independent Learning Week*

This week is Independant Learning Week.

3.19 Week 09 - Editing Exercise (Audio Editing)

In this week's exercise, we need to download the 3 audios from the provided the link (Click HERE). After the downloaded the files, we need to edit the 3 audios with Adobe Audition by the following provided tutorials (Practical Video / Practical Sildes)

We are requesed to edit 5 sound effects:

1. Phone call sound effect (Parametric equalizer)

2. Muffled/Closet sound effect (Parametric equalizer)

3. Space/Bathroom sound effect (Reverb)

4. Cave sound effect (Reverb)

5. Alien sound effect (Pitch shiffer)

Working Progression

1. Phone call sound effect (Parametric equalizer)

Figure 3.44 Parametric equalizer - Phone Call effect

Audio 01 Final Phone Call Effect

2. Muffled/Closet sound effect (Parametric equalizer)

Figure 3.45 Parametric equalizer - Muffled/Closet sound effect

Audio 02 Final Muffled/Closet Sound Effect

3. Space/Bathroom sound effect (Reverb)

Figure 3.46 Reverb - Space/Bathroom sound effect

Audio 03 Final Space/Bathroom Sound Effect

4. Cave sound effect (Reverb)

Figure 3.47 Reverb - Cave sound effect

Audio 04 Final Cave Sound Effect

5. Alien sound effect (Pitch shiffer)

Figure 3.48 Pitch shiffer - Alien sound effect

Audio 05 Final Alien Sound Effect

📌 Google Drive Link: Click HERE

3.20 Week 10 - Stop Motion Trial Shooting

During this week, we're having a stop motion trail shooting as a preparation for our final project which is to create a Stop Motion Video by individual or group.

In this exercise, first, we need to follow the group from this Google Spreadsheet: Final Project Trial Shoot. Next, Team leaders will organize the shoot, and all members are requested to support the tea, leader in preparing the materials, tripod, installing stop-motion application and more. (Follow the checklist provided by Mr Martin. )

Figure 3.49 Group 3B

Stop - Motion trial shoot checklist

Stop-Motion trial shoot checklist

I then started to prepare the materials for the clay puppets/props.

I follow the instructions Mr Martin given, buying the clay at MR.DIY because of its low price. After that I tried to follow the overall look of he clay puppet from the video (Click HERE) by Hui Yi Chong.

Figure 3.50 Clay Puppet (My version)

In Week 10, we did the stop motion trial shooting at E1.01 (Photo Studio). Each scene will be shot twice, one with DSLR and one with smartphone (Downloaded with stop motion application).

1. Clay - The Cost of the Call by Hui Yi Cong (00:04 - 00:13)

No need Lego background

2. Paper cut - Adopt Don't Stop by Tze Earn (00:09 - 00:43)

Working Progression

Figure 3.51 Behind the Scene

After the shooting progress, SiYuan uploaded the DSLR stop motion trial shooting into Google Drive (Click HERE), while JieXuan and SiYuan uploaded the smartphone version to out WhatsApp group.

Stop Motion:

Video 08 Clay (Stop Motion)

Video 09 Paper Cut (Stop Motion)

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4. FEEDBACK

No feedback given from Mr Martin.

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5. REFLECTION

The exercises were an enjoyable introduction to Adobe Premiere Pro.

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QUICK LINK

Project

Video and Sound Production - Lecture and Exercise

Video and Sound Production - Project 01: Audio Editing Exercise

Video and Sound Production - Project 02: Shooting Practise and Editing

Video and Sound Production - Final Project: Stop Motion

Video and Sound Production - Final Compilation