Explorations

Introduction

What is the explorations project? To answer this question, its a very open ended project that allows each of our in our own individual elective classes to try something new. The overall goal of the project was to focus on expanding and developing what we call a 21st century skill.

For my project specifically, I decided to look into television intro sequences. I chose this because I had an interest in how intricate short videos could be. I got to expand my knowledge in software like after effects and illustrator. In a sense, the 21st century skill that I learned was Technological Literacy, meaning I learned about how these software applications specifically worked, and how they could be used in really creative ways.

Process

creating a font using Illustrator

For this project, I used primarily After Effects in addition to Illustrator. I created an intro for Stranger Things Season 1 in specific using a combination of different styles that are commonly seen within introduction sequences. To explain, I used a mixture of b-roll, animated movement and animated details. The first task that I did was design a font for my video. I went into illustrator and made an artboard for each individual letter of the alphabet so in total 26 artboards. I made the font unique by using a plain block font, creating outlines and then distorting it to fit the thriller and adventure tones of Stranger Things.

My After Effects Interface

I then put together the actual video. I started by finding good b-roll that I could use to fit the theme and aesthetic of the show while not spoiling the actual plot line. I had to cut up these shots, extend them to be the perfect length, and create cohesive and smooth transitions between them. I wanted to do something with more animated styling so I made a clock within After Effects which I then 3D animated. Similarly, I made a water transition using numerous effects within After Effects.

Final Product

I am waiting for the video to be uploaded to youtube but as soon as it is, it will be listed here!

Reflection

This project was a very eye-opening experience. I genuinely feel that I really learned a lot and gained new perspective. At the beginning of this school year, we as a class discussed the diversity of the industry and the jobs within it. Interestingly, there is a whole job dedicated to making these intro sequences, in a sense the amount of time and effort that is put into them when most of us skip over them entirely is crazy! I also gained more practice in After Effects and Illustrator which I think will help me with making my future films more intricate.

Experimental Music

Another big part of this section of this year was learning Pro Tools. We got to put this to use with the Experimental Music assignment. I was inspired to make a song that had the feeling of a more sad or calming song but attempt to make some of the beats and notes more chaotic to clash with this. Featured below through SoundCloud is my final product. (ADD THIS WHEN UPLOADED)

This project was really interesting because I am not very music-oriented. It allowed me to see into how difficult this process is, and how creative you can really be with it. I gained a new appreciation for those who create music, especially with virtual instruments as it is more difficult than you would presume.