Sunday, September 26, 2010
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
June 8th Reflection
In today's lesson, we presented our analysis of music videos. Due to the time restriction, we were only able to see a few, and I was one of them.
I had some confidence before presenting. I was sure my analysis of the video, and I prepared well for the presentation. During the presentation, I focused on every point, and to try to connect to the audience.
I think I did quite well in the presentation. I presented my knowledge of the music video to the class, and with the assistance of the power point, was told to the audience well. I broke down the music video into its elements, and explained each of them, as well as telling how they contribute to the video.
I prepared well for the presentation, and I was more than satisfied with the results. I was lucky to not come across any major problems, and the presentation went smoothly.
However, by looking at others' presentations, I did realize some things I missed out in mine, the main one being camera angles. I did include camera distances, but the angles were left out.
Also, I learnt a lot form watching others' presentations, I learnt some presentation techniques. I spotted what was wrong in theirs, and thought about how they could be improved. I also realized that different people have different interpretations to different things. This was yet again important, to look at things from different perspectives.
When the others were playing their music videos, I tried to do a brief analysis for myself. In my head, I thought of the different shots, angles, editing etc. that were used. I would improve from looking at more videos, and realize how different techniques were applied.
There was also a very interesting thought that I had in mind. We recently completed our own music video, and now we were looking at professional music videos. I wanted to see how they were different, and thus learn from them.
Monday, June 7, 2010
June 7th Reflection
In this lesson, we reviewed all the music videos created by all the groups in the class.
I was very interested to see how different groups interpreted the music, and the different methods they used for making the music video.
With each video, I wrote down notes. I recorded any specific things that caught my attention, or would help me gain a better understanding of music videos. By evaluating others' videos, I could learn from them greatly, about how I could improve myself.
The most helpful part was when we watched our own music video. I also did a self-assessment. I tried to watch it as a stranger to the video, as would all other people. I did realize some mistakes by using that point of view. Through this, I understood that sometimes, we have to view things from different perspectives, so that I would gain a better understanding of them.
Also, teachers and other students gave lots of feedback and opinions to us. It as extremely useful to me. The good and bad sides of our work was clearly identified, some I was completely unaware of. I learnt a lot from their feedback, and noted them down.
I would take my understanding and apply it to future work. By doing so, I would improve bit by bit. I realized how important feedback from other people was, and that was necessary for my own improvement.
I was very interested to see how different groups interpreted the music, and the different methods they used for making the music video.
With each video, I wrote down notes. I recorded any specific things that caught my attention, or would help me gain a better understanding of music videos. By evaluating others' videos, I could learn from them greatly, about how I could improve myself.
The most helpful part was when we watched our own music video. I also did a self-assessment. I tried to watch it as a stranger to the video, as would all other people. I did realize some mistakes by using that point of view. Through this, I understood that sometimes, we have to view things from different perspectives, so that I would gain a better understanding of them.
Also, teachers and other students gave lots of feedback and opinions to us. It as extremely useful to me. The good and bad sides of our work was clearly identified, some I was completely unaware of. I learnt a lot from their feedback, and noted them down.
I would take my understanding and apply it to future work. By doing so, I would improve bit by bit. I realized how important feedback from other people was, and that was necessary for my own improvement.
Reflection on Editing
I didn't have much experience in editing, and wasn't sure how it was going to be done. I did know the very basics of it, where I learnt in the previous unit. Therefore, I tried to take the initiative, and to do more editing. I wanted to learn more about it, and make use of it, also in the future.
I tried to edit it, using my limited knowledge, and whenever I had problems, I would ask the teacher or my group mates to help me on them. By doing so, I could learn about editing much more efficiently.
I knew that editing was one of the keys to a good music video. Therefore, I looked at some other music videos, and tried to spot some key characteristics should be used. One of the music videos I watched was Every Day - Rascal Flatts.
I understood more about the characteristics of a music video, and could apply them to our own video.
Along the way, our group constantly communicated and peer evaluated. With all the different opinions and ideas,it was necessary that we understood our different views, and then to use them for a better editing of the music video. I feel that our group did very well in this aspect.
After the whole editing process, I definitely gain a much better knowledge of editing. Final Cut Pro seemed quite confusing to me before, and there was a large range of complicated tools that can be used. Now that I had a good understanding of them, I could make use of them, and contribute to the editing of the video.
I have a lot of confidence in editing, and will be glad to take the role of editing in the future. I understood much more clearly about the elements of a film, since editing required a good understanding of the elements, by frequently coming across them.
I think the group worked very well together once again, and the work was done efficiently. I also think that my own contribution to the group was good. I tried hard to edit, and constantly asked my peers for different ideas or opinions.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Reflection on Filming Process
At the start, I was not very sure of how the filming would go, and how we would do it. Even though we were briefly assigned to our roles, I still wasn't sure how it was going to work together.
I thought about my own job: cameraman. It was relatively straightforward. I had the most experience in photography, and I could apply my knowledge into cinematography. Before we arrived at each location, I tried to visualize some of the shots. Using the storyboard, and the script, I thought of the potential shots, and asked my teammates for any comments. Then we would arrive, and take a look at the area again, seeing if the shots previously thought of would work.
We had already done a reconnaissance around Hong Kong, looking for locations, and establishing potential shots. This made our job easier, but it was still somewhat brief. In the actual filming, it was different, as the camera positions and other elements affect.
However, we could agree on some shots quickly, and took them accordingly. At times, I would suddenly think of some different shots. I'd ask my teammates, and with their approval, I would film them. I wanted to try different shot, and sometimes be more creative. It would make the film seem more interesting.
I realized that if some footage was bad, we could always not use it. A lot of post-processing could be done, and we could choose which footages to use. Therefore, I thought that it was better to have more footage than less.
We tried to work efficiently as a team. Sometimes, shots required good communication, especially for the actor. However, this film did not require audio, as it was a music video, and we could shout and speak to the actor directly. Sometimes, the actor was around the corner, and there was no visual contact at all. This is when the team work was crucial for a successful shot.
Another major problem was the public. There was lots of people in different places, and it was hard to predict when and where they would walk. This caused lots of trouble for us, and we sometimes had to make 5 or 6 shots before it was satisfactory. This required patience, and it was worth the wait.
We tried to watch our for any passerby that would disrupt our shot, and we would wait for them to pass. Traffic was also an issue, some shots required the camera to be positioned very close or on the road. This again required team work for our own safety. One would watch out for any dangers around, and warn the cameraman if necessary.
The shops and stalls were also problems. Our filming may cause some disruption in their work, or even their customers. We tried to inform the shopkeepers about our work, and to apologize for any troubles we might cause.
However, some shots required us to move around, and informing all the shops would be hard. We went on with shooting, and after several trials, some of the shopkeepers started to complain. We tried to wrap up our work as quickly as possible.
These were inevitable problems, and problems that we had to cope with. At times, we looked for other locations that might serve the same purpose, and some alternatives to the shots. We also tried to time ourselves to when we would shoot. We avoided rush hours, and other buy times, where the crowd would make it impossible for us to film.
There was one time, where we woke up early in the morning just to get an ideal shot, and to avoid the crowd. We also went to retake some shots that didn't go well.
Another major problem was the weather. It was something we could not control at all. We were travelling to our location, when it started to rain cats and dogs. I tried to use the weather, and come up with some different shots that could make it interesting. However, after some discussion with the teammates, we had to give up shooting for the day.
We had to catch up for all the work that was missed, and it required a big amount of effort to do so.
This whole filming process has much improved my team work, and I realized how important it is for success. It was the key to all the shots. The teamwork has also drawn tighter the relationship within the group. Through the troubles we ran into, we were able to solve them, and film the required shots.
The process has also let me understand much more about cinematography, especially in the case of the camera. I could apply my knowledge of photography to it, and add some more to it too. I tried to keep in mind and to maintain a good composition for all shots. This would greatly add to the aesthetics of every shot.
Lastly, this filming process has been a very good experience, and I have learnt a lot from it. I hope to do more of this similar work, and the next time, I would be able to work much more efficiently.
I thought about my own job: cameraman. It was relatively straightforward. I had the most experience in photography, and I could apply my knowledge into cinematography. Before we arrived at each location, I tried to visualize some of the shots. Using the storyboard, and the script, I thought of the potential shots, and asked my teammates for any comments. Then we would arrive, and take a look at the area again, seeing if the shots previously thought of would work.
We had already done a reconnaissance around Hong Kong, looking for locations, and establishing potential shots. This made our job easier, but it was still somewhat brief. In the actual filming, it was different, as the camera positions and other elements affect.
However, we could agree on some shots quickly, and took them accordingly. At times, I would suddenly think of some different shots. I'd ask my teammates, and with their approval, I would film them. I wanted to try different shot, and sometimes be more creative. It would make the film seem more interesting.
I realized that if some footage was bad, we could always not use it. A lot of post-processing could be done, and we could choose which footages to use. Therefore, I thought that it was better to have more footage than less.
We tried to work efficiently as a team. Sometimes, shots required good communication, especially for the actor. However, this film did not require audio, as it was a music video, and we could shout and speak to the actor directly. Sometimes, the actor was around the corner, and there was no visual contact at all. This is when the team work was crucial for a successful shot.
Another major problem was the public. There was lots of people in different places, and it was hard to predict when and where they would walk. This caused lots of trouble for us, and we sometimes had to make 5 or 6 shots before it was satisfactory. This required patience, and it was worth the wait.
We tried to watch our for any passerby that would disrupt our shot, and we would wait for them to pass. Traffic was also an issue, some shots required the camera to be positioned very close or on the road. This again required team work for our own safety. One would watch out for any dangers around, and warn the cameraman if necessary.
The shops and stalls were also problems. Our filming may cause some disruption in their work, or even their customers. We tried to inform the shopkeepers about our work, and to apologize for any troubles we might cause.
However, some shots required us to move around, and informing all the shops would be hard. We went on with shooting, and after several trials, some of the shopkeepers started to complain. We tried to wrap up our work as quickly as possible.
These were inevitable problems, and problems that we had to cope with. At times, we looked for other locations that might serve the same purpose, and some alternatives to the shots. We also tried to time ourselves to when we would shoot. We avoided rush hours, and other buy times, where the crowd would make it impossible for us to film.
There was one time, where we woke up early in the morning just to get an ideal shot, and to avoid the crowd. We also went to retake some shots that didn't go well.
Another major problem was the weather. It was something we could not control at all. We were travelling to our location, when it started to rain cats and dogs. I tried to use the weather, and come up with some different shots that could make it interesting. However, after some discussion with the teammates, we had to give up shooting for the day.
We had to catch up for all the work that was missed, and it required a big amount of effort to do so.
This whole filming process has much improved my team work, and I realized how important it is for success. It was the key to all the shots. The teamwork has also drawn tighter the relationship within the group. Through the troubles we ran into, we were able to solve them, and film the required shots.
The process has also let me understand much more about cinematography, especially in the case of the camera. I could apply my knowledge of photography to it, and add some more to it too. I tried to keep in mind and to maintain a good composition for all shots. This would greatly add to the aesthetics of every shot.
Lastly, this filming process has been a very good experience, and I have learnt a lot from it. I hope to do more of this similar work, and the next time, I would be able to work much more efficiently.
Monday, May 17, 2010
17th May
Unfortunately, we didn't manage to film any footage the previous week, and we didn't have any editing to do. However, we went around Hong Kong to find locations for different shots. We split up for different areas in HK,and took photographs of some potential locations.
We looked at the different options, and shared our views. There were some arguments on where the shots would be taken, but we chose the best ones, also considering other factors, e.g. transportation. We chose locations according to these aspects, and at the end, chose what we thought were the best.
When that was completed, we decided to try out some shots we would do. However, since I was the cameraman, and we were using the HD camera, I wanted to get used to the functions and features of the camera. this way, I could make full use of the camera when shooting.
I started by reading the manuals, but I put it down in just a while. I saw some of the functions that I was familiar of. I have a good knowledge on photography, and lots of them could be applied to cinematography, and the camera.
I tried taking some footage, and it was quite straightforward. I also tried using some of my photography techniques, and they indeed applied to this as well.
After that, we left the classroom, and started to prepare for our shots. Even though we had a script, we tried to explore different options of shots, and we had some time. We did come up with some different ideas, and they were extremely useful.
We again, worked very well as a group, and the progress is very satisfactory. The whole process should run very smoothly, since we cooperated very well together, and our roles as a group was very clear.
We looked at the different options, and shared our views. There were some arguments on where the shots would be taken, but we chose the best ones, also considering other factors, e.g. transportation. We chose locations according to these aspects, and at the end, chose what we thought were the best.
When that was completed, we decided to try out some shots we would do. However, since I was the cameraman, and we were using the HD camera, I wanted to get used to the functions and features of the camera. this way, I could make full use of the camera when shooting.
I started by reading the manuals, but I put it down in just a while. I saw some of the functions that I was familiar of. I have a good knowledge on photography, and lots of them could be applied to cinematography, and the camera.
I tried taking some footage, and it was quite straightforward. I also tried using some of my photography techniques, and they indeed applied to this as well.
After that, we left the classroom, and started to prepare for our shots. Even though we had a script, we tried to explore different options of shots, and we had some time. We did come up with some different ideas, and they were extremely useful.
We again, worked very well as a group, and the progress is very satisfactory. The whole process should run very smoothly, since we cooperated very well together, and our roles as a group was very clear.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
10th May Reflection
Our group had a clear idea of what we were going to do. The storyline was clear, and the script was near completion. In this lesson, we could start on working straight away.
Again, I tried to lead the group, and my teammates did listen to me. We divided the work up, so that it could be done more efficiently.
I had no experience of writing a script or a storyboard. I asked the teacher and my teammates for help. They gladly taught me, and gave me some tips. I grasped the technique quickly, and started writing parts of the script. I also helped in drawing the storyboard. It was fairly straightforward. The images and each shot was clear in my mind, and I could illustrate them quite easily.
At times, I asked my teammates for advice, whether they agree with me on some points. Even though we seemed to have the same main idea, the little details were different, and they were clarified in this process.
In all the occasions, we tried to write the script and storyboard in relation to different aspects. For example, location, the rules of cinematography.
Then we decided on dates to film etc.
This lesson went very well, and we worked very well as a group. I contributed to the group, and our work was done efficiently. I hope that our group will continue on working with this quality, and create a good product.
Again, I tried to lead the group, and my teammates did listen to me. We divided the work up, so that it could be done more efficiently.
I had no experience of writing a script or a storyboard. I asked the teacher and my teammates for help. They gladly taught me, and gave me some tips. I grasped the technique quickly, and started writing parts of the script. I also helped in drawing the storyboard. It was fairly straightforward. The images and each shot was clear in my mind, and I could illustrate them quite easily.
At times, I asked my teammates for advice, whether they agree with me on some points. Even though we seemed to have the same main idea, the little details were different, and they were clarified in this process.
In all the occasions, we tried to write the script and storyboard in relation to different aspects. For example, location, the rules of cinematography.
Then we decided on dates to film etc.
This lesson went very well, and we worked very well as a group. I contributed to the group, and our work was done efficiently. I hope that our group will continue on working with this quality, and create a good product.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
27th April Reflection
This is the 2nd lesson we started creating our music video. In the previous lesson, we chose a song that we all agreed on. However, we left out a factor that was quit important, the time. "Life is a Highway" is 5 minutes long, and to put an interesting story with different varieties might be hard, and end up plain and boring. Therefore, We chose a new song that was shorter, and more concise. This process was done in a short time, since we decided that the lyrics and the overall sound of the song wasn't the most important. The chosen song was "Someday - Nickelback)
Then we started to think of ideas, also developing on previously ideas. I tried to take more control in this lesson, and rather took charge. I tried to ask my teammates for ideas, and combining them with my own. Slowly, a storyline seemed to develop.
We tried to connect the story to a theme - the environment. We focused on the environments specifically in Hong Kong, since there has a huge variety of places that is interesting. We wrote down the different places and tried to think of a transition, or how to connect them together.
Throughout the lesson, I tried to be motivated, and keep moving on. However, there were times when we were stuck, and lacking ideas. We asked the teacher for help, and we got lots of tips and ideas.
We had an idea of what we were doing. We also went on the internet to find more inspiration, and it helped a lot. We also starting writing our script.
I was glad that we made some considerable progress this lesson. I tried to lead the group, and we tried to work efficiently.
Then we started to think of ideas, also developing on previously ideas. I tried to take more control in this lesson, and rather took charge. I tried to ask my teammates for ideas, and combining them with my own. Slowly, a storyline seemed to develop.
We tried to connect the story to a theme - the environment. We focused on the environments specifically in Hong Kong, since there has a huge variety of places that is interesting. We wrote down the different places and tried to think of a transition, or how to connect them together.
Throughout the lesson, I tried to be motivated, and keep moving on. However, there were times when we were stuck, and lacking ideas. We asked the teacher for help, and we got lots of tips and ideas.
We had an idea of what we were doing. We also went on the internet to find more inspiration, and it helped a lot. We also starting writing our script.
I was glad that we made some considerable progress this lesson. I tried to lead the group, and we tried to work efficiently.
Monday, April 26, 2010
26th April Reflection
In the last lesson, I learnt a lot more about music videos. Our ideas were shared among the class, and I also tried to contribute my ideas. I learnt even more from the others and added them to my list of requirements in a music videos. The others' opinions were very useful, as I understood more about music videos from another perspective.
Then we were divided into groups, and started to work on creating our own music video.
The first task was to pick a song. I figured that this wasn't very important, as there were lost of songs, and one wouldn't be much different from another, and it all depends on how the music is created into a music video.
However, I still tried to look for songs with a larger variety, or a subject that was relatively easier to portray. With different paces in a song, a variety of clips could be created, and thus making the video more interesting.
We figured that the best way was to divide ourselves up, and pick our own song, then we could pick them more easily. With only 4 songs at the end to choose from, we came to a conclusion easily, with agreements from the group.
After that, we immediately started brainstorming our ideas. Lots of ideas came up, and I tried to be organized, and wrote down all of them, so that we could review them later on.
Then we were divided into groups, and started to work on creating our own music video.
The first task was to pick a song. I figured that this wasn't very important, as there were lost of songs, and one wouldn't be much different from another, and it all depends on how the music is created into a music video.
However, I still tried to look for songs with a larger variety, or a subject that was relatively easier to portray. With different paces in a song, a variety of clips could be created, and thus making the video more interesting.
We figured that the best way was to divide ourselves up, and pick our own song, then we could pick them more easily. With only 4 songs at the end to choose from, we came to a conclusion easily, with agreements from the group.
After that, we immediately started brainstorming our ideas. Lots of ideas came up, and I tried to be organized, and wrote down all of them, so that we could review them later on.
23rd April Reflection
Today, we were given the task to research about music videos. The teacher wasn't here, and we didn't have a lot of guidelines.
I thought of the different elements of a music video, and according to cinematography. I immediately thought of the structure of it, how it would be narrative. Then I thought what music videos were attractive to me, then I realized it was more than basic cinematography, but rather a creative idea.
I went online and searched for different music videos. Most of the them were quite similar. It was just singers dressed in "fashionable" clothes, and dancing around singing. I wanted to look for different and creative ideas to do them. Then I found some that seemed very interesting to me. For example, some used stop-motion, and another one used a pop-up book style animation.
Then I started to realize some relations from the videos to the music, or rather, the lyrics.
The content of the video doesn't necessarily have to match the lyrics or the music, but the pace of it should be in close relation. Also, the introduction of the music video holds the key to attractiveness. The introductions the critical to grasp the audience's attention, and attracting them to be interested to see the music video.
The idea of the music video also has to be relatively creative. If it is similar to another video, it would seem boring to the audience.
However, even if the song is slow paced, the video clip shouldn't be too slow, or the video might simply seem uninteresting. A story has to be told in the short few minutes, and more content should be packed into it. Also, the basic rules of cinematography has to be obeyed, e.g. rule of thirds.
I thought of the different elements of a music video, and according to cinematography. I immediately thought of the structure of it, how it would be narrative. Then I thought what music videos were attractive to me, then I realized it was more than basic cinematography, but rather a creative idea.
I went online and searched for different music videos. Most of the them were quite similar. It was just singers dressed in "fashionable" clothes, and dancing around singing. I wanted to look for different and creative ideas to do them. Then I found some that seemed very interesting to me. For example, some used stop-motion, and another one used a pop-up book style animation.
Then I started to realize some relations from the videos to the music, or rather, the lyrics.
The content of the video doesn't necessarily have to match the lyrics or the music, but the pace of it should be in close relation. Also, the introduction of the music video holds the key to attractiveness. The introductions the critical to grasp the audience's attention, and attracting them to be interested to see the music video.
The idea of the music video also has to be relatively creative. If it is similar to another video, it would seem boring to the audience.
However, even if the song is slow paced, the video clip shouldn't be too slow, or the video might simply seem uninteresting. A story has to be told in the short few minutes, and more content should be packed into it. Also, the basic rules of cinematography has to be obeyed, e.g. rule of thirds.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
23rd March Reflection
We encountered a problem the previous lesson, and we went to solve it right at the start of the lesson.
Through different tries from the teacher, we finally found a way to convert the file, and make it suitable and efficient for editing in Final Cut Pro.
I observed how the teacher did it closely, so I could repeat the steps afterwards. The file conversion took us some time, so the other half of the group continued on finding more footage online. They also reviewed the footage we already had, and mark down which areas we had to cut, change etc.
After the file conversion, we could finally start adding the clips into the interviews. It seemed a simple task, and I tried Final Cut Pro around myself, and I could find ways of accomplishing it myself. I understood how the program works much more, and thus allowing me to be more efficient in editing.
However, there were some problems with he video sizes, and I asked some classmates about it. Luckily, a group mate has had previously experience of this, and he taught me how to do it.
This was my first time of editing film clips, and it was very interesting to me. I have observed how the others does it previously, and so I could learnt from them, and do them myself.
I have learnt a lot about Final Cut Pro and its functions this lesson. I learnt them through asked teachers, asking classmates and by trying to figure them out myself. I have gained an interest for editing, and I enjoy the process of doing it.
The editing is almost complete and we will soon have a finalized footage.
Through different tries from the teacher, we finally found a way to convert the file, and make it suitable and efficient for editing in Final Cut Pro.
I observed how the teacher did it closely, so I could repeat the steps afterwards. The file conversion took us some time, so the other half of the group continued on finding more footage online. They also reviewed the footage we already had, and mark down which areas we had to cut, change etc.
After the file conversion, we could finally start adding the clips into the interviews. It seemed a simple task, and I tried Final Cut Pro around myself, and I could find ways of accomplishing it myself. I understood how the program works much more, and thus allowing me to be more efficient in editing.
However, there were some problems with he video sizes, and I asked some classmates about it. Luckily, a group mate has had previously experience of this, and he taught me how to do it.
This was my first time of editing film clips, and it was very interesting to me. I have observed how the others does it previously, and so I could learnt from them, and do them myself.
I have learnt a lot about Final Cut Pro and its functions this lesson. I learnt them through asked teachers, asking classmates and by trying to figure them out myself. I have gained an interest for editing, and I enjoy the process of doing it.
The editing is almost complete and we will soon have a finalized footage.
22nd March Reflection
Our editing of the interviews were completed, only a few minor details needed to be adjusted.
Now we had to add in and edit out clips we captured previously. They were related to the context of the interview, and specifically to what the interviewees are saying.
We made a list the previous lesson of what footage we needed to capture. Even though we didn't capture all of them, we managed to complete the most important ones. I was sure and clear of what we had filmed, so the footage should be easy to edit.
However, we couldn't borrow a school film camera to record the clips. Instead, we used my own digital camera to film them. This presented a problem in converting and editing. The files that recorded the film were not meant to be edited, but more of a playback footage. I realized that a lot of the settings were different, and I didn't realize that there even were such things. I thought the matter was simple previously and everything would work normally, but it didn't.
The problem was hard to solve, as the file type wasn't suitable for editing. Through multiple tries of different methods, we still failed. Therefore, we asked the teacher for help.
While this was all going on, I realized that we didn't need all 4 group members to help solve this problem, so I asked 2 of the group members to find more footage online, edit the footage, and also find some background music. These were important things that could be done, and we could be much more efficient by splitting up the work.
The problem persisted, and we had to solve it the next lesson.
Now we had to add in and edit out clips we captured previously. They were related to the context of the interview, and specifically to what the interviewees are saying.
We made a list the previous lesson of what footage we needed to capture. Even though we didn't capture all of them, we managed to complete the most important ones. I was sure and clear of what we had filmed, so the footage should be easy to edit.
However, we couldn't borrow a school film camera to record the clips. Instead, we used my own digital camera to film them. This presented a problem in converting and editing. The files that recorded the film were not meant to be edited, but more of a playback footage. I realized that a lot of the settings were different, and I didn't realize that there even were such things. I thought the matter was simple previously and everything would work normally, but it didn't.
The problem was hard to solve, as the file type wasn't suitable for editing. Through multiple tries of different methods, we still failed. Therefore, we asked the teacher for help.
While this was all going on, I realized that we didn't need all 4 group members to help solve this problem, so I asked 2 of the group members to find more footage online, edit the footage, and also find some background music. These were important things that could be done, and we could be much more efficient by splitting up the work.
The problem persisted, and we had to solve it the next lesson.
Monday, March 8, 2010
8th March Reflection
Half of the editing was completed the last lesson, and so we could do more than just editing this lesson. Also, our whole group was present, and we could divide the workload to work more efficiently.
I was in charge of thinking of ideas to interpret the film and make it more interesting. I started by searching for related photographs to the interviews. However, Ms. Wong suggested that photos wouldn't provide the same effect as film clips. And so I changed my search to film clips.
Sifting through countless numbers of clips, there were a few parts that really caught my attention. I related the clip into how I could use it for our interviews, and downloaded the clip.
By doing this activity, it further improved my ability to spot key images or clips that is related to a topic. It helped me to be more critical and alert of images and video clips.
I was in charge of thinking of ideas to interpret the film and make it more interesting. I started by searching for related photographs to the interviews. However, Ms. Wong suggested that photos wouldn't provide the same effect as film clips. And so I changed my search to film clips.
Sifting through countless numbers of clips, there were a few parts that really caught my attention. I related the clip into how I could use it for our interviews, and downloaded the clip.
By doing this activity, it further improved my ability to spot key images or clips that is related to a topic. It helped me to be more critical and alert of images and video clips.
5th March Reflection
We have captured 4 individual interviews, 2 on the colonization of Hong Kong, and 2 on the environment of Hong Kong.
The last lesson, we had lots of troubles considering Final Cut Pro and the capture feature. I learnt a lot from the problems we encountered, and I was much more familiar with the interface of Final Cut Pro. My workflow was much more fluent.
I could also capture the film easily, not many problems occurred, and the process was done quickly.
Since I already had the footage on the computer, I could start editing. This was my first try at editing on Final Cut Pro, and I had a lot to learn.
I asked my group mate to teach me the basics, and I got the hang of it quickly. It was relatively easy to do, since the filming and the interviews were done well.
One of the techniques of filming was to leave a 5 second gap at the beginning and at the end of each clip. I didn't fully understand the use of it before. However, once I had to edit them, I really saw the convenience of it.
The last lesson, we had lots of troubles considering Final Cut Pro and the capture feature. I learnt a lot from the problems we encountered, and I was much more familiar with the interface of Final Cut Pro. My workflow was much more fluent.
I could also capture the film easily, not many problems occurred, and the process was done quickly.
Since I already had the footage on the computer, I could start editing. This was my first try at editing on Final Cut Pro, and I had a lot to learn.
I asked my group mate to teach me the basics, and I got the hang of it quickly. It was relatively easy to do, since the filming and the interviews were done well.
One of the techniques of filming was to leave a 5 second gap at the beginning and at the end of each clip. I didn't fully understand the use of it before. However, once I had to edit them, I really saw the convenience of it.
Monday, February 22, 2010
February 22nd Reflection
I missed the previous lesson, so I didn't have a chance to record my own interview. However, my partner and I had a chance to get our hands on another group's video tape.
Most of the equipment I used today was quite familiar to me, and I was fairly sure of how to operate them.
However, there were some other things that i haven't experienced before, like Final Cut Pro. I am familiar with Macintosh applications, and the interface of this fairly familiar. However, there was much more to what I know, and it made it much more complicated.
I have learnt a lot on how to operate Final Cut Pro today, but I will learn more about it when I get home. I will watch some tutorial videos to further enhance my knowledge on the program.
There were also some problems my partner and I ran into, and the problem kept occurring. We tried hard to solve it, and through multiple tries, we did solve the problem. I have learnt that I have to keep trying, ad eventually will succeed at it.
Most of the equipment I used today was quite familiar to me, and I was fairly sure of how to operate them.
However, there were some other things that i haven't experienced before, like Final Cut Pro. I am familiar with Macintosh applications, and the interface of this fairly familiar. However, there was much more to what I know, and it made it much more complicated.
I have learnt a lot on how to operate Final Cut Pro today, but I will learn more about it when I get home. I will watch some tutorial videos to further enhance my knowledge on the program.
There were also some problems my partner and I ran into, and the problem kept occurring. We tried hard to solve it, and through multiple tries, we did solve the problem. I have learnt that I have to keep trying, ad eventually will succeed at it.
February 1st Reflection
I was introduced to something new this lesson, oral history. i enjoyed the presentation given by two representatives from the Hong Kong Heritage Group. They provided a lot of information about oral history, and key points of how to conduct it.
The concept is simple and straightforward, yet a lot of research and other various aspects are required to make an interview successful and informative. For example, the questions asked, the location, and even down to the position of the mike is crucial to a successful interview.
Oral history may be something we do when speaking with other people, especially with elderly people. We might have conversations when having a meal about their own experiences e.g. World War II. This is an event that did occur to me previously, as my grandfather talked about his experiences about eh Japanese occupation of HK, and I also asked him questions.
I found this topic very interesting, and thought it would be great if I could interview some other people, and also to record and document it.
The concept is simple and straightforward, yet a lot of research and other various aspects are required to make an interview successful and informative. For example, the questions asked, the location, and even down to the position of the mike is crucial to a successful interview.
Oral history may be something we do when speaking with other people, especially with elderly people. We might have conversations when having a meal about their own experiences e.g. World War II. This is an event that did occur to me previously, as my grandfather talked about his experiences about eh Japanese occupation of HK, and I also asked him questions.
I found this topic very interesting, and thought it would be great if I could interview some other people, and also to record and document it.
"Quantum of Solace" Trailer
1. This trailer always gave a sense of suspense and it always drew my attention. It made me want to find out more about it all the time, as small bits of information is shown. It shows some flashes of gripping moments in the film, and draws you to the film.
2. The filmmakers started by introducing the main character slowly, and released more information about some things bit by bit. They showed some parts of the movie, fighting, thinking, shooting scenes, all drawn towards the suspense it creates. The quick transitions also provide more gripping action.
3. It starts by "I was always very interested to meet you", and this already draws you into the trailer. Then another character's voice is introduced. The film makers used a few words in between the clips to show a preview of what's to come. The language used are all keywords and key sentences from the film, yet not entirely revealing the information.
4. The trailer is very effective in that it introduces you at first, then slowly grips you with words and sentences, and finally shows very short clips from various aspects of the movie with fast transitions. This technique grabs your attention throughout, and makes the film seem very interesting.
2. The filmmakers started by introducing the main character slowly, and released more information about some things bit by bit. They showed some parts of the movie, fighting, thinking, shooting scenes, all drawn towards the suspense it creates. The quick transitions also provide more gripping action.
3. It starts by "I was always very interested to meet you", and this already draws you into the trailer. Then another character's voice is introduced. The film makers used a few words in between the clips to show a preview of what's to come. The language used are all keywords and key sentences from the film, yet not entirely revealing the information.
4. The trailer is very effective in that it introduces you at first, then slowly grips you with words and sentences, and finally shows very short clips from various aspects of the movie with fast transitions. This technique grabs your attention throughout, and makes the film seem very interesting.
5 Questions on HK History
Is there enough open space or green areas e.g. parks, in urban areas? Especially when HK has a high building density and heavy pollution.
Is the urban planning adequate for the rapid population growth in HK?
Are the commercial areas accessible enough to the residential areas?
Are the industrial areas or buildings with high pollution located at appropriate areas, i.e. are they too close to the urban areas?
Is the history of HK too rapidly demolished along with the development of the buildings?
Sunday, February 7, 2010
IB Learner Profile
I missed the first film lesson, and I had to catch up the homework afterwards. I asked my classmates for information on the first lesson, and also checked up files on the teacher's blog.
I am not very sure of what the IB learner profile is, even though I've heard of it in several occasions. Through reading the teacher's and other classmates' blogs, I gained much more knowledge on it.
I will incorporate the characteristics of the IB learner profile throughout the course:
Inquirers:
When I come across something new, or I'm not familiar with, I should always ask the teacher. I should also do some independent research to gain a greater understanding. I can then apply the knowledge in class.
Knowledgeable:
Through my questions and research, I can gain more knowledge and other concepts about the world. It can allow me to be open-minded, and gain a better understanding of my surroundings.
Thinkers:
I must think carefully when coming across decisions or any problems. I have to consider all possibilities, and all ideas from others. I should analyze them, and carefully make a decision that will benefit myself and others.
Communicators:
There are lots of ways to communicate in film, and they are broad ideas and concept. I should communicate clearly, yet creatively. I should use a variety of methods, and try different ideas, yet not using just one method of communicating. I should also communicate well with my classmates to share my ideas and work well together.
Principled:
I will take all my actions with responsibility, especially when coming across film equipment. I must return them according to the guidelines, i.e. on time, in good condition. I should also be honest in any case, and respect my classmates.
Open-minded:
I should always keep an open-mind to accept knowledge, ideas and concepts. I can learn much more by doing this, and be more acceptive of thoughts and opinions. However, I should also keep a clear direction in my mind, not going off course too easily from the open-mindedness.
Caring:
Whenever others give an idea or an opinion, I should listen and respect them, also appreciating them. I should consider each of my actions, and how they would affect the others around me.
Risk-takers:
When coming across challenges or problems, I should always stand firm, and take attempts of solving them. I will often come across unfamiliar situations, and I should learn from these situations, and to experience them. I should be clear of my objectives, and strive for them.
Balanced:
I should bear in mind of all the things happening in class, and out of class. I should keep a good balance of my activities, and not spending too much time on a particular factor. I should do my homework after each lesson, keeping a balanced workload.
Reflective:
I should always reflect on my actions, and through them, understand my strengths and weaknesses, hence learning from them. I can develop more clearly, and understanding my every step better.
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