Portfolio Project: Sound

Chapter 18

 While sound can be an elements that is overlooked, it’s arguably the most important aspect of a film. If the audio of a film is perfect, then you should be able to make out what’s happening with your eyes closed, not needing any visuals. Of course this is difficult to achieve, which is why I dedicated an entire week to foley, finding sound effects, and the overlaying of the sounds to synchronize with what’s happening on screen. 

To create dimension I included background sounds found on the editing app I used (CapCut). One was a mix of "cicadas, crows, construction sounds heard from the outside in summer," which was continuous  throughout the entirety of the film. This prevented any silence in the film. Additionally, I used "[Raw recording] Record playback noise" from the same app to create a realistic soundscape ,since Catalina’s environment features classy music for the majority of the film.

 Using sound bridges and fades, I smoothly blended audio between scenes, ensuring a seamless transition. By allowing sounds to overlap and flow into each other, I prevented abrupt cuts that might have disrupted the viewing experience. Additionally, in certain scenes, I employed non-diegetic stings to build suspense, intensifying the tension of the film and hinting at potential danger.

 For the majority of the film, I created my own sounds, as I felt it enhanced the realism and better coordinated with what's on screen. Above is a video demonstrating how I used an object that was not originally part of the scene to mimic the prop used on screen. Specifically, I used a keychain to replicate the sound of a necklace clasp. Please refer to the video below to see the shot that incorporates the foley sound.

(Unfortunately despite my efforts the necklace clasp scene will not load so we will just have to wait for the actual film opening.)

Necklace clasp shot

Above is an example of how I used an object similar to the prop to create a foley sound. I used a lipgloss tube to mimic the sound of a concealer tube. Please view the scene featuring the sound below.

Concealer scene

 Considering I wanted to add onscreen music I had to choose between two great background music options. Below is the breakdown on how I decided which one.

Sample one:

“Waltz No. 10 / Chopin, piano”

Sample two:

“ The CREEPIEST Piano Music - Mozart Requiem (Lacrymosa) Arr. Liszt”

CLICK ON VIDEO

 The first sample was classy and sophisticated, with varying intensities throughout the audio. It sets an elegant tone, occasionally obscured by the sting I added in my editing. Meanwhile, the second sound was also classy but had an eerie and suspenseful quality. Both options mainly featured piano, which adds to the sophisticated mood. However, the second sound, while adding more suspense, felt too spooky and might give the impression that the entire film is meant to be scary, which isn't the case since it's not in the horror genre. The film is only supposed to be suspenseful at certain times, which is what the stings are for. Considering this comparison, I've chosen the first sample, 'Waltz No. 10 / Chopin, piano.' Its elegance allows the stings to be expressed and effectively enhance the suspenseful feeling when necessary.

 With all this being done, I have successfully completed the editing process and will be moving on to my Creative Critical Reflection (CCR).

Portfolio Project: Peer feedback #2

Chapter 17

 Earlier this week, I had shared my film with my peers and family, receiving valuable feedback on changes I could make to my project. One recommendation suggested the inclusion of a "point-of-view shot" (POV) of the window, showing what exactly the protagonist was startled by. This was part of my original vision that I had to cut since my film had already exceeded the two minute mark at that point. I realized that although it may seem like a small insert it could greatly contribute to the audience's understanding of the character’s fear.

Above is a picture of what the POV shot looked like.

 Another suggestion from my peers was to "stop the music at tense points” to change the mood. I did this and decided to add stings (which my mom suggested) to creature tension buildup when needed. By implementing this feedback, I was able to create moments of greater suspense, drawing viewers deeper into the narrative and keeping them on the edge of their seats.

 One feedback note suggested a "close-up shot" of the protagonist's hand taking a coat before reaching for the purse, as it wasn't clear that it was a coat. While I appreciated the feedback, I decided not to incorporate this suggestion. After consulting with other opinions, it was clear that the majority understood what was going on with the context without the need for additional clarification. Additionally, the foley sound I later incorporated suggested it was indeed a coat.

 After taking these recommendations and applying them to my film, I feel much more confident in my project. This process is essential; criticism is one of the best ways to improve, especially when one is viewing something from one perspective for so long. Many things can go overlooked. Understanding the audience and their perspective helped me improve, from enhancing clarity to building suspense. Each suggestion contributed to creating a more understandable and engaging film.Everyone I showed the film to easily understood the three main things happening: disguise (wig), getting ready to leave (makeup and suitcase), and feeling watched (camera view and outside noises making the protagonist jittery).

Portfolio Project: Foley

 Chapter 16

Sources and references will be derived from this article and my personal class notes on sound. The article explains the art of Foley, creating sounds that are synchronized with a film, offering interviews with professional foley artists and explaining the process of creating sounds for movies. From footsteps to explosions, the meticulous techniques used to create realistic audio experiences for audiences by utilizing various items. Often, object’s sounds aren’t what are shown on screen. For example, the sound of bones breaking might be created by breaking celery sticks. By considering techniques like these utilized by professionals I will be able to produce the most realistic sound effects, using a variety of sound scapes, items, and many other elements.

Given the unique sounds required for my story's development, many of which are challenging to find, I'll be creating a variety of them myself. Below is a list of examples of the sounds I'll recreate.

Foley to do list: 

- Heels footsteps

- Wine glass being placed on wood

- Opening and closing of products

- Clothes rustle (Coat)

- Sitting down (Chair)

Portfolio Project: Editing/hardware and software

Chapter 15

This is an update on where I am. Earlier this week, Vanessa and I finished filming. I have nearly finished editing and decided on using the CapCut app as my main editing platform, since I am familiar with the app as I have used it for numerous of my projects in the past. The app contains layering features which is how I will achieve the camera look scene, additionally, it has non copyright music embedded within the app at my disposal.

House camera shot

For this shot, I used the overlaying effect, combining a static and grain effect with an additional camera recording template. While static is not as common in modern household cameras, I included it to evoke the association with lower quality cameras, which is often the perception of household cameras. Additionally, I incorporated the recording template (•Rec.) to enhance the effect of feeling watched.

Editing screen shot

The screenshot above displays the progress I have made cutting and editing the shots. I've completed most of the shot edits, with only the sound elements remaining. I still need to do the Foley work, which I aim to finish this weekend.

Phone stand(hardware)

I utilized phone stands similar to this one that I had around my house. I used them for shots where I wanted stability and a steady look, without distracting from the action within the frame. 

[Click the image to buy]

Camera stand (hardware)

For many shots, I needed higher or eye-level angles, which I achieved by stacking books and items (empty trash bin) on top of each other and then placing the phone on the top. This method allowed me to adjust each angle and shot precisely as I wanted, as holding up a phone steady for long periods can be challenging.

Technologies integrated

Software (used or may be used)

-CapCut

-bulletproofbear.com

-bensound.com

freesound.org-

Hardware

-Phone stand

-Side table

Portfolio Project: Creative Critical Reflection planning

 Chapter 14 

 Earlier this week, Mrs. Stoklosa, my Media Studies teacher, taught the class about the Creative Critical Reflection questions, which are questions answered about the project that will be included as part of our project submission. During this lesson, she explained what was necessary to address in each individual question and how to evoke and maintain interest within the viewers. She also advised the students as to what they should avoid doing. Here are my class notes, from which I will be deriving my information.

 The Creative Critical Reflection (CCR) is essentially a creator's reflection on their production. The reflection should consider the production process, which is how the final product was achieved, and reflection upon the final product, as well as changes one would make for the future. Additionally, the reflection must be presented in a creative manner, typically one found within the media sphere. Although there are four questions, each one often contains more than one ask. My teacher recommended we create two productions to address the questions: one presentation with a voiceover (VO) and a director commentary, which would be me answering the questions, showing my face, while coordinating photo pop-ups on screen pertaining to the discussion topic.

The questions are as following:

• How does your product use or challenge conventions and how does it represent social groups or issues?

 This question requires an overview of my thriller genre. It could be helpful to include other films as comparisons. After thriller film components have been established, I can analyze in depth how elements developed within the film are incorporated in society and who or what they can be symbolic of. Finishing off by discussing the overall representation.

• How does your product engage with audiences and how would it be distributed as a real media text?

 Introduce the target audience and how they are chosen, acquired, and maintained by engagement through techniques such as editing and mise-en-scene choice. Then talk about realistic methods of distribution—a small film company typically wouldn’t be distributed through a large distribution company. Streaming services such as YouTube would suffice.

• How did your production skills develop throughout this project?

 Describe how the beginning of the project was—research, planning, and storyboarding. Discuss changes to the project and why, for example, cutting sections because of time issues. End with a comparison of where I started, finished, and how far I’ve come.

• How did you integrate technologies – software, hardware and online – in this project?

 Discuss the technologies used within production—apps, devices, tripods—and how they were used and contributed to the development of the theme.

End with conclusion of what I learned and how to apply it to improve for the next time.

IDEAS for theme/setting.          

-Get Ready With Me (GRWM)

-Discuss while on the filming set 

-Paint while answering then flip to reveal significant art piece

-Presentation voice over

 TIPS to keep in mind.                      

-Create a script

-Incorporate blog references

-Include citations

-Include clips from production

-Include inserts and cutaways

-Include sound effects/music

-Interesting background 

-Be creative

-Avoid talking head

-Avoid jump cuts(tend to seem accidental)

-Avoid exceeding ten minute time limit

Portfolio Project: Props

 Chapter 13

Here is how I created an essential prop within the film.

A major prop used is the wine. The character’s pouring, sipping, and enjoyment of the wine tells the audience she is accustomed with the luxury. She swirls the liquid and takes in its aroma. The wine serves as a constant which is always present as she gets ready and even when she leaves.

Since I could not utilize authentic wine I improvised and prepared some using beet powder. Below is a visual step by step tutorial of how I accomplished this.

Supplies:

• Cup/glass 
• Mixing tool (spoon)
• Container for storage (emptied wine bottle) 
• 1/4 cup water 
• 1/2 tbsp beet root powder 

 Measure beet root powder.

Combine beet root powder with water.

Mix ingredients in cup.

Pour liquid in chosen storage place with additional water. 

Final product can an store for up to 12 hours in room temp.

 

Portfolio Project: Set design/Costuming

 Chapter 12

Yesterday, Vanessa and I began the filming portion of the product, and let’s just say I was mistaken to think we could film the entirety in one attempt. This is one of the densest projects I have ever worked on, it’s one where you have to take one step at a time and be sure not to rush the process. For reference, Vanessa came over to film at 2:30 and left at 9:40. That’s approximately seven hours. Since we couldn’t film during daylight, we used that time to prepare for filming by developing the set, organizing, creating, and finding the props, and practicing the scenes.

Before

 Above is an image of the set before the makeover. I've selected this particular scenery because it features a window overlooking Catalina's desk, providing an ideal setup to imply that someone may be watching her as she gets ready. 

After 

 In the 'after' image, the set undergoes a significant transformation. The lighting is notably darker, with the room illuminated solely by candlelight. At times the lighting could appear too dim so I utilized my Phillips Hue LED lights, they have a candle setting and since the remote is the app I could dim or brighten the hues to my liking, a video is attached below. On the left side of the table, there are floral arrangements, while on the right, a bottle of wine and a glass are positioned near another candle. The certificate that was hung above the desk has been replaced with a simple flower-shaped accessory. Additionally, a heart-shaped mirror now sits on the table, where the protagonist gets ready. To enhance the ambiance, a fluffy fur seat cover has been added to soften the appearance of the chair, providing a more relaxed atmosphere compared to its previous business-like style. This seat cover was purchased from Amazon.

Catalina wears dark, form-fitting clothing, projecting sophistication and simplicity, directing focus to essential mise en scène elements shaping her persona. Against this backdrop, her character emerges strongly, drawing attention to enriching details. Through intentional blending of fashion and mise en scène, Catalina captivates audiences, inviting them to unravel her character's layers. Additionally, her initial lack of makeup and jewelry highlights her natural beauty, authenticity, and inner strength. Her bold red nails subtly symbolize hidden depth or daring within her understated style.

Here’s a couple sneak peaks as to what we filmed yesterday. (Please disregard the sound)