My video project took a deeper look into the hobbies and activities that people were able to develop and explore throughout COVID. Personally, I learned American Sign Language. It is something I have always wanted to learn, but have never had the time to do.
In addition to my own hobby, I also filmed my friend, Anna Kate, who picked up running as a hobby. This video was actually perfect timing because the same week it was due, she completed her first half marathon, a race that she began training for at the beginning of quarantine!
As a way of keeping my audience engaged, I incorporated different forms of A and B roll. I began by showing videos of myself using sign language with a voice over speaking about what I am signing. After introducing myself and my hobby, I transitioned to an interview with Anna Kate. Through this transition I used music, not only to keep the attention of my viewers, but also to allow for a smooth crossover from one subject to another.
To end my video, I used a montage of photos depicting different hobbies. My idea with this was to bring the topic back to my viewers and allow them the opportunity to reflect on any new hobbies they might have taken up.
Being a content creator, as opposed to being a consumer, I definitely found a new appreciation for people who create films and videos as part of their lifestyle. I found myself frustrated with the process at times. For instance, if I filmed from the wrong angle and had to reshoot it, or if I couldn't get the voice over or music to match the way I wanted.
I also found myself having trouble straying from my original ideas. Once I had a plan of what I wanted to shoot and how I wanted to shoot it, I did not want to change it. Of course, I was met with different obstacles throughout filming that forced me to change up my original ideas -- ultimately for the better.
Through my experience as a content creator, I found myself building upon my current skill sets. While I gained technological experience working with new video applications, I think I was able to develop some more personable skills as well. I had to become flexible and adaptable to make my final product work, and I think those skills bring just as much to the table as tangible ones.
My original draft and my final draft conveyed the same message, but my final was a lot cleaner. I was able to remove confusing and unnecessary pieces, like my opening montage, from my rough draft. In return, this made my final much more engaging, appealing, as well as easier to follow along.
One thing I would change about my video is my use of live action shots. I would have loved to use footage of me working in an elementary school, however, I was unable to obtain the film in time for the final creation of my video.
I also think it would have been beneficial to include more active videos and photos of my friends and their hobbies. Time and accessibility to certain items prohibited me from using as much as I would have liked, but I think my message still remained clear.
Overall, I am very happy with the result of my final product. I am satisfied not only with the video itself, but also the new skills and knowledge I gained along the journey.
No comments:
Post a Comment