Video and Sound Production / Final Project

23/05/2023 - 04/07/2023 (Week 8 - Week 14)
Derin / 0354969 / Design in Creative Media
VSP 60104 / VIDEO AND SOUND PRODUCTON
Final Project



INSTRUCTIONS

 

Final Project: Stop Motion (30%)
Students are required to produce stop motion video by a given theme. Voice over, sound effects and music can be used, to tell a compelling story. Confine to no more than 2 characters/ locations and only 1 event in less than 15 shots.

Deadline:
Week 14


FINAL PROJECT

For the final project, I had the pleasure of teaming up Adifa!!!!!11 Together, we brainstormed various ideas and ultimately decided to center our project around environmental awareness, as per the recommended theme.

To kickstart our project, Mr. Martin kindly provided us with a slide that outlined the process of editing a stop motion using Premiere Pro and After Effects. This valuable resource served as our guide as we ventured into the world of stop motion animation.


Fig 1.0 Stop motion briefing

Premiere Pro:

  • Create new project: 1920x1080 resolution, 24/25 FPS.
  • Adjust "Still Image Default Duration" in preferences: 2-5 frames.
  • Import folders and enable "Insert and overwrite sequences as nests or individual clips" option.
  • Create a new sequence for each photo sequence.
  • Resize imported sequences to 1920x1080 resolution.

After Effects:

  • Change import setting to 24 FPS in preferences.
  • Import multiple files and check three boxes.
  • Adjust speed using Time Stretch. Create one composition for editing: 1920x1080 resolution, 24 FPS, covers the whole video.
  • Create one composition for editing: 1920x1080 resolution, 24 FPS, covers the whole video.


The following are our proposals for the final project.


Fig 1.1 Final project proposals


Although we faced some challenges along the way, such as struggling to gain approval for our initial idea, we remained determined. Initially, we planned to utilize a Gawr Gura nendoroid figurine as the focal point of our stop motion. Considering Gura's character representation as a shark, our concept aimed to shed light on the pressing issues of marine pollution and overfishing. We envisioned incorporating various props into our presentation, such as a cost-effective body scrub symbolizing nets or seafoam, as well as small fish models crafted using modeling clay. To depict bubbles, we planned to use a combination of white and blue round Lego plates. It was an ambitious concept that hinged on the artistry of stop motion animation.

However, we encountered a setback as the Gura figurine proved too heavy to be held securely by stands. Undeterred, we quickly pivoted our topic and settled on the theme of deforestation. In this iteration, we chose to work with paper as our medium, finding irony in using a material synonymous with destruction to highlight the consequences of deforestation.


To kickstart our stop motion video, we began by creating a storyboard. This visual roadmap allowed us to outline the sequence of scenes and visualize the flow of the story.

Fig 1.2 Storyboard Page 1

Fig 1.3 Storyboard Page 2

Fig 1.4 Storyboard Page 3


Next, we delved into the prop creation. Our vision was to make the main tree stand out prominently amidst the other props. To achieve this, we decided to differentiate the main tree by giving it a distinct red and brown color. As for the remaining props, we opted for a uniform white color, ensuring that the main tree would command attention and serve as a focal point within the stage. This deliberate color choice added visual interest and enhanced the overall aesthetic of the stop motion set.

Fig 1.5 Preparation for the stage


For our stop motion, we decided to feature a family of rabbits as our main characters, symbolizing the innocent creatures affected by deforestation.


Fig 1.6 Video tutorial to create the family of rabbits out of rabbits


Setting up the stage and lighting proved to be a meticulous process, taking longer than anticipated. We encountered difficulties with maintaining consistent lighting, as the camera continuously adjusted its tones from white to yellow. To rectify this, we turned to Premiere Pro for color correction, ensuring a visually cohesive result.

Fig 1.7 Stage preparation


To streamline the production process, I meticulously sorted out the pre-composition for each scene. By organizing the images and reusing certain elements, such as the hand holding the axe or the bunnies conversing, we were able to create a video that lasted over a minute. This approach allowed for easier navigation and enhanced the overall cohesiveness of our project.

Fig 1.8 Video composition


With the visual aspects finalized, Adifa took charge of adding the accompanying sound effects. Her keen attention to detail and creativity brought the video to life, ensuring that the auditory elements perfectly complemented our stop motion animation.

Fig 1.9 Adding the sound effects


Here is the result for the stop motion video. It is a testament to our teamwork, resilience, and commitment to raising awareness about the critical environmental issue of deforestation.


Fig 1.10 Final result



REFLECTION

Working with my friend Adifa on this stop motion project was a blast! We started by brainstorming ideas and creating a storyboard to guide our narrative. To make the main tree prop stand out, we used red construction paper while keeping the other props white. Technical aspects like camera angles, lighting, and scene composition were important considerations. We faced challenges with lighting consistency but found solutions. Overall, this project gave me a deeper understanding of the creative and technical aspects of stop motion, and I'm proud of what we achieved together. It was a fun and valuable experience that will shape my future work in animation.