Experiment. Screen. Sensation. Studio – Research journey & Topic development

Enrolling in the studio, the planner in me was concerned about not knowing what to expect. Now that the studio is coming to an end, I realize going in without a detailed plan has got me more excited about everything I learned in every Zoom session and project.

One of the dominant topics in my two projects is sensory and along with editing/technical development, they were the main focuses of my research journey. I was aspired to make videos that evoke and accentuate senses because I am always fascinated with how sensory can lead an individual to obtain very personal experiences and memories. In order to find the best methods to translate my message through the screen, I researched editing techniques, film styles, visuals, etc. that were prompted by the studio’s resources or pure curiosity. Some topics that were researched extensively are overlay effects, animation, and sound layering. I was devoted to practicing editing skills across multiple platforms and was drawn to explore art forms instead of certain film genres. I believe that the topics and research journey I developed are represented properly in the videos I made

My main takeaway from the studio, in general, and the projects, in particular, is perhaps a new mindset. Before this course, I often preferred having subject or format constraints imposed by the project. Also, I think I have many weaknesses and limitations when it comes to filmmaking. Hence, I tend to be anxious and reluctant when approaching a new project, especially one that requires me to be more creative. Although I still do not think of myself as a filmmaker, I no longer regard it as a negative thing. I now place a greater emphasis on what I will learn during the process rather than worrying too much about my work not meeting certain expectations. Especially, positioning myself as a storyteller, rather than a filmmaker, with the screen as the medium has put me more at ease.

I suppose my experience shows the charm of the studio. It gave me the freedom to explore and create whatever my heart desired, obviously with clear motivation and research. While the quality of my videos is debatable, the process of making them has provided me with new insights into my capabilities. The mindset and skills I gained in this studio will undoubtedly serve me well in the next stages of my professional journey.