So I did it, I finished my Project Brief 3! I didn’t really think I could do it, but here it is, a finished product that I’m actually really proud of. I didn’t realise I would find the editing process so soothing at points. I was sitting down for a 5-hour stretch to finish this project but with some patience, I realised that I enjoy it.
The fact that I’m not extremely well versed in Adobe Premier as of yet probably shows to the pros, yet for me, this is a real accomplishment. How I visualised it was different to how it came out, but through the editing process it turns out I prefer this version a lot better than to the one I had in my mind! The main thing that I wish I could change is the style of the video. There were a few things I wish I could have added, but my lack of experience with the software limited me. For example, the title is fine and I like it the way that it is, but part of me envisioned this beautiful, complicated, white title that stretched ever so slightly left and right. I attempted to do this, but after literally 45 minutes of trying and having watched at least 10 different tutorials with no success, I realised I had to let it go and move on. Whilst this is a minuscule detail, part of me wishes it was something I could’ve changed, but I’m still extremely proud of the outcome!
I realised that the different footage and framing of certain shots really does make a difference. For example, when a more serious topic came up with my subject, I used a close frame in order to show more emotion. When it was a bit less of an intimidating question, I left the frame at a medium or long shot. This variation in shots allows for change, which until you start editing, is something you are in desperate need of, or else your video has a chance of becoming static and boring. Another thing I realised was that action shots really do make a difference. Catching someone in their everyday life and intercutting it with their answers gives it that sense of reality and intrigue.
What I didn’t expect was that stock footage would elevate my project to the next level, I assumed it would be a nuisance and that no matter what I did it would look off, but I was wrong. My biggest struggle was finding good quality stock footage, but once I did, integrating it into my project was easier than I expected. It adds another layer to the interview, and it actually makes it flow a lot better than when the project was without the footage. I’m really happy with my use of stock footage!
On one last note, I will say that planning is everything. Whilst I would say I finished this project right on time, I realised there were a few things I could’ve planned earlier. My sister has quite a busy schedule, so filming had to take place over the weekend, giving me a limited time to edit. I did plan the questions, the backdrop and the action shots, which without I think I would’ve started to panic. I’m also lucky that I was able to acquire a school camera, as I thought they were all booked out but to my luck they weren’t! I know now in the future that planning will just make your life a whole lot easier and will take that little bit of stress off your back.
