Introduction
What is Zenith? Zenith is the last big project that seniors take on at Freestyle. This project encourages us to look into topics and skills we are interested in and develop a project that is doable over a few weeks. This project will need to allow us to grow and build upon current knowledge while learning new skills.
My Project
For my zenith project, I decided that I wanted to focus on visuals, specifically lighting, and composition of shots in films and television shows. I had done something similar to this but on a much smaller scale previously so for this project, I wanted to take it a step further. My goal was to create 10 different shots which vary in lighting type, subject, audio, props, etc. This project was really incredible because it had me do work for all sections of film processes, pre-production, production, and post-production.
Process
- PRE-PRODUCTION
I started off by proposing my idea to Mr. Taylor. Once approved I made a calendar that outlined how much and what I would get done each week.
Once I got the green light I began the planning process for these shots. I used something called Shotdeck to find shots that interested me. Then went out and found the video version of such shots.
Next, I created a document that outlined all of the information I needed for each shot such as location, lighting setup, makeup, costume, etc.
2. PRODUCTION
I then found actors, got together my equipment together, got my props, set up, and got to shooting!
Often I had to make adjustments throughout by looking at my reference to find disparities between my shot and the film’s.
3. POST-PRODUCTION
Lastly, I had to edit such videos. I was editing the light’s color tone, audio, adding effects, and so on. I did this through both After Effects and Premiere depending on the changes I was making. For only color and audio I used Premiere Pro but for more transformative effects I used After Effects.
Final Product
For my final product, I had 10 compositions meant to closely resemble those of the shows or movies I found clips from. I created a presentation in which I could show these side by side.
Video coming soon.
Reflection
Below I describe the process of making this project, what I learned, what I would change and overall the trials and tribulations of this sort of project. Listen for more!