Video and Sound Production - Exercises

⭐ 24/4/2024 - 8/5/2024 (Week 1 - Week 3)
πŸŽ€ Yan Zhi Xuan | 0369425 

πŸ’œ Video and Sound Production | Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media | Taylor's University
πŸ“š Exercises



TABLE OF CONTENTS



1. READING MATERIAL NOTE

WEEK 1 - NOTE

A Comprehensive Guide to Camera Shots: Understanding Shot Sizes 
Understanding shot sizes is crucial in filmmaking for crafting compelling visual stories and conveying emotions, as they shape the narrative and engage audiences.

Fig. 1.1 Types of Camera Shots by Size.

Reading Material | Types of Camera Shot Sizes

Extreme Long Shot (ELS): Uses a small subject to emphasize the vastness of the environment.
Long Shot (LS): Frames the subject from a distance, providing context while capturing the character.
Full Shot: Frames the subject from head to toe, used in action sequences or depicting physical movements.
Medium Long Shot (MLS): Captures the subject from the knees or waist up, balancing character emotions and spatial relationships.
Medium Shot (MS):Frames the subject from the waist or chest up, focusing more on the character.
Medium Close-Up (MCU): Frames the subject from the shoulders or chest up, intensifying focus on the character's emotions.
Close-Up (CU):Zooms in on a specific part of the subject, creating intimacy and emphasizing detail.
Extreme Close-Up (ECU): Focuses on a minute detail or feature, intensifying the emotional impact and significance of the subject.


Exploring Camera Framing Techniques 
Camera framing techniques significantly influence the meaning, emotion, and storytelling in filmmaking, ranging from single shots to immersive perspectives, influencing viewer engagement with the narrative.

Fig. 1.2 Types of  Camera Shot Framing. 

Reading Material | Types of Camera Shot Framing (working with subjects in the frame)

Single Shot: Focuses on a single subject or element, used for emphasis, isolation, or highlighting 
Two Shot: Features two subjects within the frame, used for conversations, interactions, or character relationships.
Three Shot: Expands on Two Shot, used for depicting group dynamics, teamwork, or simultaneous reactions.
Over-the-Shoulder Shot (OTS): Positions camera behind one character, capturing another's perspective, enhancing engagement and dialogue exchanges.
Point-of-View Shot (POV): Simulates a character's perspective, fostering empathy and audience engagement.

Guide to Camera Angles in Filmmaking

Fig. 1.3 Types of Camera Shot Angles.

Reading Material |Types of Camera Shot Angles

Eye Level Shot: A shot taken at the subject's eye level, creating a neutral perspective. 
Low Angle Shot: A shot from below the subject, making them appear larger and more powerful. 
High Angle Shot: A shot from above the subject, making them appear smaller and more vulnerable. 
Hip Level Shot: A shot taken at hip level, often used in westerns during standoffs. 
Knee Level Shot: A shot taken at the knee level, useful for capturing action or movement. Ground 
Level Shot: A shot taken from ground level, emphasizing the height of the subject. 
Shoulder-Level Shot: A shot taken from shoulder height, typically used in conversations to maintain perspective. 
Dutch Angle Shot: A tilted shot creating a sense of unease or disorientation. 
Birds-Eye-View Shot / Overhead Shot: A shot from directly above, providing a unique perspective of the scene. 
Aerial Shot / Helicopter Shot: A high-altitude shot taken from a drone or helicopter, offering a wide view of the landscape.

Rules of Shot Composition in Film: A Definitive Guide
Shot composition is a crucial aspect of visual storytelling, combining elements to advance the story, reveal character, and create emotion. Understanding and effectively using shot composition rules can keep the audience engaged throughout the filming process.

Reading Material | Types of Shot Composition in Film

Rule of Thirds: Divides the frame into nine equal sections for visually balanced compositions.
Centered Composition: Places the subject at the center of the frame, highlighting symmetry.
Symmetrical Composition: Mirrors elements on either side of the frame, creating balance.
Leading Lines: Prominent visual elements within the frame that guide the viewer's gaze.
Framing within a Frame: Uses elements within the scene to frame the main subject.
Dutch Angle: TTilts the camera at an angle, creating visual tension or disorientation.
Over the Shoulder (OTS): Positions the camera behind one character, capturing the perspective of another.
Point of View (POV): Simulates the perspective of a character, fostering empathy and audience engagement.

WEEK 2 - NOTE

What is The Three Act Structure — And Why It Works
The three-act structure is a powerful tool for storytellers to organize narrative arcs, guiding audiences from introduction to resolution, ensuring compelling and well-paced storytelling.

Reading Material | Storytelling Acts Overview

Act 1 - Setup: Introduces characters, setting, and main conflict.
Act 2 - Confrontation: The protagonist faces obstacles and challenges. Tension builds as stakes are raised. Subplots may develop, adding depth and complicating the protagonist's path. 
Act 3 - Resolution: The final act brings the story to its climax and resolution. The protagonist confronts the main obstacle, leading to the decisive outcome. Loose ends are tied up, and themes are often reinforced. Resolution provides closure and reveals the consequences of the protagonist's actions.

How to Write Three Act Structure

Reading Material | A Narrative Using the Three-act Structure

Act 1 - Setup:
• Introduces the protagonist, setting, and central conflict.
• Hooks the audience with a compelling problem or question.
• Ends with an "inciting incident" setting the protagonist's journey.

Act 2 - Confrontation:
• Longest section with rising action and tension.
• Protagonist faces obstacles and challenges.
• Subplots may emerge, complicating the protagonist's journey.
• Final act marks a turning point or revelation.

Act 3 - Resolution:
• Brings the story to its climax and resolution.
• Protagonist confronts the central conflict, leading to a decisive outcome.
• Provides closure for the audience and shows the consequences of the protagonist's actions.

WEEK 3 - NOTE

Introduction to Storyboard

Reading Material | What is a Storyboard? The Fundamentals to Get You Started 

Storyboarding in Film, Animation and Other Visual Media
• A visual tool used to plan sequence of events in a story.
• Consists of illustrated or sketched frames representing specific shots or scenes.
• Serves as a blueprint for the entire project, allowing filmmakers to visualize narrative flow and plan shot composition.
• Breaks down script into individual scenes for visual representation.
• Helps filmmakers make decisions about camera angles, shot types, pacing, and transitions.
• Serves as a communication tool for directors, cinematographers, and production team.
• Mastering storyboarding requires understanding visual storytelling principles and translating narratives into compelling visual sequences.

Storyboarding

Reading Material | Visualize scenes for your film with a storyboard in Milanote

Milanote: Digital Tools for Storyboarding
• Milanote is an online platform for organizing, visualizing, and sharing storyboards.
• It integrates digital elements like images, text, and notes for efficient scene planning.
• It facilitates real-time revisions and collaboration among team members.
• The intuitive interface allows filmmakers to unleash creativity and bring vision to life.
• Leveraging tools like Milanote elevates storytelling, resulting in more cohesive and visually compelling narratives.

WEEK 4 - NOTE

Production Stages

Reading Material | Stages of Film Production — Overview of the Entire Process

Film Production Phases
Development: Involves brainstorming, scriptwriting, financing, and assembling the creative team.
Pre-production: Involves planning before camera roll, including casting, location scouting, storyboard creation, set design, and shooting schedule planning.
Production: Involves capturing scenes and performances according to script and director's vision. Involves working with actors, cinematography, sound recording, and special effects.
Post-production: Involves editing footage, adding visual effects, sound design, composing the score, and reshoots.
Distribution: Involves marketing, arranging for theatrical releases, securing distribution deals, and possibly entering film festivals.
Exhibition: Final stage, where the film is screened for audiences.

Production Crews (Beginner)

Reading Material | The Roles of The Production Team 

Roles in a Production Team
Producer: 
Oversees the entire production process from development to distribution. Handles budgeting, hiring key personnel, and ensuring the project stays on track.
Director: Translates the script into a visual and auditory experience.Works closely with the cast and crew.
Screenwriter: Writes the script or screenplay, creating dialogue, characters, and storyline.
Cinematographer: Captures visual elements of the film. Works with the director to determine the look and feel of each shot.
Production Designer: Responsible for the overall visual aesthetic of the film. Works closely with the director to create the right atmosphere and mood for each scene.
Art Director: 
Implements the visual style of the film. Oversees the construction of sets, acquisition of props, and costumes.
Editor: Assembles footage into a coherent narrative. Works closely with the director to select the best takes, arrange scenes, and add special effects and music.
Sound Designer: Creates and edits the auditory elements of the film.

Production Crews (Advance)

Reading Material | Ultimate Guide to Film Crew Positions (Jobs & Duties Explained)

Advanced Film Crew Positions
First Assistant Director (1st AD): Manages the set and executes the director's vision efficiently. Creates the shooting schedule and coordinates with department heads.
Second Assistant Director (2nd AD): Assists the 1st AD in managing the set. Handles paperwork, manages extras, and coordinates logistics.
Script Supervisor: Ensures consistency in visual and narrative elements of the film. Tracks continuity, script changes, and shot lists.
Director of Photography (DP): Oversees the camera and lighting departments. Collaborates with the camera operator, gaffer, and grip.
Camera Operator: Operates the camera according to the DP's instructions.
Gaffer: Head of the electrical department. Works with the DP to achieve desired lighting effects.
Key Grip: Head of the grip department. Rigs and supports camera equipment.
Special Effects Supervisor: Oversees creation and execution of practical effects.
Visual Effects Supervisor: Oversees creation and integration of digital effects.
Sound Mixer: Recorded high-quality audio on set.




2. INSTRUCTION

Doc. 2.1 Module Information Booklet of Video and Sound Production.



3. WEEK 1 EDITING EXERCISES: MINTS & DORITOS

VSP Week 1 Briefing 2024: PPT
VSP Premiere Pro tutorial 01: Youtube

Week 1 In-Class Editing Exercise 

Fig. 3.1 Work Progress - Mints.

Final Outcome

Fig. 3.2 Week 1 Editing Exercise - Mints.

Week 1 Editing Exercise (Independent Learning)

Fig. 3.3 Work Progress - Doritos.

Final Outcome

Fig. 3.4 Week 1 Editing Exercise - Doritos.




4. WEEK 1 ASYNCHRONOUS CLASS MATERIALS REFLECTION


Reflection

The Ultimate Guide to Camera Shots is a wonderful resource for filmmakers and lovers alike, providing a thorough review of over 50 different types of shots and angles utilised in movies. What impacted me most about this guide is its attention to detail and clarity in discussing each shot type, which is supported by graphic examples to enhance understanding. Every aspect of cinematography is covered, from establishing shots to extreme close-ups, making it an invaluable resource for anyone wishing to improve their understanding of visual storytelling.

One aspect I particularly like is how the material identifies each shot type while also explaining its purpose and potential impact on the audience. Understanding the complex details of various shots enables filmmakers to make more thoughtful storytelling decisions, whether they want to communicate intimacy, drama, or spectacle. Furthermore, the guide emphasises the significance of shot composition in shaping the viewer's perspective and emotional response to a scene. Furthermore, the guide's emphasis on the connection between shot size, camera position, and storytelling is insightful. It emphasises the importance of visual language in expressing narrative ideas and character dynamics. By mastering the various shot types covered in the guide, filmmakers may improve their craft and create more immersive cinematic experiences. 

In summary, I learned that camera work in filmmaking involves various elements such as shot size, framing, focus, angles, movement, and shot mechanisms. Shot size influences the viewer's perception and engagement with the narrative while framing directs attention and conveys meaning. Focus manipulates the viewer's gaze, while camera angles add depth and perspective, evoking emotions. Camera movement enhances the cinematic experience, while shot mechanisms like zooms, pans, tilts, and dollies provide visual effects. Mastering these elements allows filmmakers to create compelling and immersive cinematic experiences. The Ultimate Guide to Camera Shots is a fantastic resource for filmmakers of all levels, offering ideas and inspiration to help them improve their narrative abilities.




5. WEEK 1 ASYNCHRONOUS CLASS QUIZ

Doc. 5.1 Quiz Result - Shot Size, Camera Angle, and Composition.



6. WEEK 2 SHOOTING EXERCISE

VSP Week 2 Lecture (Framing & Storyboard): PPTYoutube

Mr. Martin asked us to form groups of two and go around the campus to complete a framing shooting exercise. Below are the framing shooting shots and the requirements.

Doc. 6.1 Shooting Exercise - Framing.

My partner was Ziyang, and we decided to shoot our framing exercise in the library. After shooting the video, we had to edit it into a compiled video.

Fig. 6.2 Work Progress - Framing Shooting Exercise.

Final Outcome

Fig. 6.3 Final Outcome - Framing Shooting Exercise.
My phone has poor pixels so the picture may look less HD.

7. WEEK 2 EDITING LALIN

VSP Week 2 Lecture (Framing & Storyboard): PPT, Youtube
VSP Premiere Pro tutorial 02: Youtube

Exercises in PPT 

PAGE 9: Understand O.S shot to answer the question.

Fig. 7.1 Page 9 with answer.

PAGE 10: Unsung Hero, and name the shot size of each shot in PAGE 11-14.

Fig. 7.2 Page 10-14 with answers.

PAGE 15: Research on “Depth of field”, and answer the questions in your blog under exercises.

Fig. 7.3 Page 15 with answers.

PAGE 16: Research on “180 Degree rule (Static Screen Direction)”, and answer the questions in your blog under exercises.

Fig. 7.4 Page 16 with answers.

PAGE 17: Research on “Dynamic Screen Direction”, and answer the questions in your blog under exercises.

Fig. 7.5 Page 17 with answers.

Week 2 Editing: Editing Practise 3 (Lalin)

We have to edit the footages and graphics with audio ourselves by referring to the given storyboards. The following are the given storyboards, footages and graphics.



Fig. 7.6 Storyboards of Lalin(Thailand Ad).

Fig. 7.7 Given Footages & Graphics.

Fig. 7.8 Work Progress - Editing Practise: Lalin.

Final Outcome

Fig. 7.9 Final Outcome - Lalin (final cut 35s).

8. WEEK 2 ASYNCHRONOUS CLASS MATERIALS QUESTIONS

Lalin

1. Which part is act 1, act 2, act 3 respectively? Describe each act with ONE paragraph only. 
Act 1 sets up the character of Lalin as a young girl facing bullying and insecurity in Thailand. It establishes her desire to escape and reinvent herself, leading to her decision to study abroad in Sapporo, Japan, where no one knows her and can live under a new identity. This act introduces the themes of identity, social pressures, and the allure of social media.

In Act 2, Lalin's change begins as she adapts to her new life in Japan. She develops  an online persona and becomes an internet idol known for her appealing appearance. However, beneath the surface, she fights with self-acceptance and the pressure to keep up her appearance. The performance examines the conflict between Lalin's online presence and her hidden insecurities.

Act 3 highlights the consequences of Lalin's lie as she confronts the reality of her situation. Her inner conflict develops as she confronts the disparity between her online identity and her genuine self. Ultimately, she must confront her fears and accept sincerity to achieve inner peace and self-acceptance.

2. What is the inciting incident in the movie? 
The inciting incident occurs when Lalin, who has been facing constant bullying and social pressure in Thailand, decides to start over by studying in Sapporo, Japan. This decision sets the foundation for her journey of self-discovery and reinvention.

3. What is the midpoint scene in the movie? 
The midpoint scene depicts Lalin's online persona at its greatest popularity, with her social media sites receiving considerable attention and admiration. Despite the external acceptance, Lalin's inner suffer worsens as she struggles with the differences between her online persona and her real identity.

4. What is the Climax scene in the movie? 
The climax scene takes place when Lalin, overcome by the weight of her lie and the pressure to keep her appearance, finally meets her inner fears. She realises that true happiness can only be reached by embracing her actual self, which leads to a moment of clarity and relief.

5.What is the theme of the movie?
tThe theme of "Lalin" covers the complexity of identity, the pressure to conform to cultural beauty standards, and the implications of leading a life based on appearances and dishonesty. It delves into the value of self-acceptance, authenticity, and finding inner peace in the midst of external pressures and expectations.

Everything, Everywhere, All At Once.

1. Which part is act 1, act 2, act 3 respectively? Describe each act with ONE paragraph only. 
The opening image establishes a setting for Act 1, which introduces us to Evelyn Wang and her seemingly humdrum life, overburdened by responsibilities and unaware of the wealth surrounding her. The concept is introduced when Evelyn struggles with her sense of purpose and perspective on life. The turning point happens when Alpha Waymond announces the existence of the multiverse and the peril it faces, throwing Evelyn into a another world.

Act 2 follows Evelyn's journey through the multiverse to meet the threat of Jobu Tupaki. She embraces her newfound skills, deals with internal and external challenges, and discovers the connection of her identities across universes. The halfway scenario occurs when Evelyn must decide whether to completely embrace her potential or succumb to the chaos of the multiverse.

In Act 3, Evelyn faces the ultimate conflict with Jobu Tupaki, in which she must confront her anxieties, reunite with her daughter, and save the universe. The climax scenario takes place when Evelyn chooses kindness and empathy over hopelessness, eventually saving Jobu/Joy and restoring balance to the multiverse.

2. What is the inciting incident in the movie? 
The movie's inciting incident occurs when Alpha Waymond reveals to Evelyn the existence of the multiverse and the current danger it faces from Jobu Tupaki. This discovery throws Evelyn into a new reality, pushing her on a journey to confront the threat and realise her full potential. 

3. What is the midpoint scene in the movie? 
The midpoint scene happens when Evelyn must decide whether to completely embrace her potential or fall into the chaos of the multiverse. This occurs when Alpha Gong Gong considers destroying Evelyn to keep her from becoming like Jobu Tupaki, causing Evelyn to confront her own identity and choices.

4. What is the Climax scene in the movie? 
The climax scene occurs when Evelyn confronts Jobu Tupaki in a final fight, forcing her to choose between creating chaos or embracing kindness and empathy. This scene marks the end of Evelyn's quest, in which she confronts her fears, addresses with her daughter, and eventually saves the multiverse.

5.What is the theme of the movie?
The movie's theme is around self-discovery, perspective, and the interconnection of everything. Through Evelyn's journey, the film emphasises the importance of embracing one's true self, finding meaning in seemingly everyday moments of life, and acknowledging the impact of our actions on ourselves and the world around us.




9. WEEK 2 ASYNCHRONOUS CLASS QUIZ

Doc. 9.1 Quiz Result - Three-act Story Structure.



10. WEEK 3 ASYNCHRONOUS CLASS MATERIALS REFLECTION

Reading Material Links: 

Reflection

After reading both resources, it is clear that storyboarding is an essential component of visual storytelling, providing a methodical technique for conceptualising and organising the narrative flow of a film. Whether using classic drawing methods or digital tools such as Milanote, the primary goal remains the same: to graphically plan out the sequence of scenes and images, creating a cohesive and interesting narrative. Storyboards serve as blueprints for filmmakers, giving them a real framework to experiment with different visual elements, including camera angles, shot compositions, and pacing, before production begins.

By incorporating digital tools like Milanote into the storyboarding process, filmmakers can improve productivity and communication among team members. The straightforward layout of Milanote makes it easy to organise images, text, and notes, allowing for seamless collaboration and real-time edits. This digital technique not only speeds up the storyboarding process, but also encourages greater creativity and precision, allowing filmmakers to experiment with new ideas and enhance their vision together. These digital technologies act as catalysts for invention, allowing filmmakers to transform their ideas into appealing visual tales that are clear and coherent.

In summary, the combination of traditional storyboarding approaches and current digital platforms is the combination of creativity and technology in the filmmaking process. By embracing these tools, filmmakers may use visualisation to better plan, communicate, and execute their creative vision, resulting in more cohesive and visually appealing storylines. Whether sketching on paper or storyboarding in Milanote, the primary goal remains the same: to translate written narratives into grabbing visual scenes that engage audiences and bring stories to life on screen.




11. WEEK 3 ASYNCHRONOUS CLASS QUIZ

Doc. 11.1 Quiz Result - Storyboard in Film Making.



12. WEEK 4 ASYNCHRONOUS CLASS MATERIALS REFLECTION

Reading Material Links: 
2. Production Crews (Beginner): The Roles of The Production Team

Reflection

I learned that the stages of film production provide an interesting insight into the complexities of turning a story into a cinematic masterpiece. The process, as detailed in StudioBinder's overview, consists of three stages: pre-production, production, and post-production, with each stage requiring thorough planning and execution. The pre-production prepares the framework for filming by developing scripts, casting, and scouting locations. The production brings the screenplay to life by coordinating the performers, crew, and equipment to capture the vision on camera. Finally, the post-production polishes the film before release by adding final touches such as editing, sound design, and visual effects. This thorough book reveals the collaborative efforts and creative processes that occur at every level of filmmaking.

Moreover, by reading the second material, I understood the roles of the production team is critical for beginners looking to break into the film production industry. GovTech's summary is brief, highlighting essential professions such as director, producer, cinematographer, and production assistant. Each function brings something essential to the production process, from creating the creative vision to ensuring logistical and administrative chores operate successfully. This fundamental understanding not only builds respect for the collaborative aspect of filmmaking, but it also provides useful insights into various career options within the business.

Furthermore, by reading the third material, I realised that the advanced production teams reveal a wide range of specialised responsibilities, each critical to the smooth execution of a film. StudioBinder's Ultimate Guide to Film Crew Positions provides a thorough examination of these roles and their responsibilities. From the gaffer directing lighting sets to the script supervisor ensuring continuity and the production designer creating visual aesthetics, each position necessitates a combination of technical expertise, creativity, and good communication. This comprehensive handbook emphasises the specialisation of film production, showing the collaborative efforts that propel cinematic storytelling to new heights.




13. WEEK 4 ASYNCHRONOUS CLASS QUIZ

Doc. 5.1 Quiz Result - Production Crews.

Doc. 5.2 Quiz Result - Production Stages.




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