Blog 18: Costuming

 

 Costuming

    Dear, bestie!!! Welcome to 2025's first blog. We're opening the year with an interesting topic. I'm very appreciate as we encounter another chapter of our filming project. You had came a long way and stayed persistence with this process. I am SUPER impressed and far more wished us a successful year. Up until now, we had already filmed our project and I'm proud to spill you with some tea. Let's discuss about the choice of costume.     

    Throughout our film opening, we won't have any change of location. The film sets at Gigi's house (our main character in the movie) with the motive to showcase her roller-coaster emotions on the first birthday without her sincere mom. Gigi will only put on one outfit and it's quite simple. She puts on a formal jeans, a white shirt that cover with a soft pink crop jacket. Each color layers symbolize a stage of thoughts, pink for exciting; white for neutral and shift in emotion stages; dark blue for sorrow, disappointed and nostalgia. 

    Additionally, prior to our plot twist, she has her hair up with a cute clip for the get ready process. Just an ease-looking outfit with a back meaning, Gigi doesn't expect anything much by portraying herself as a casual person. Lastly, most of the props will be seen in the movie will be in order as the plots goes: birthday sash, makeups' necessities, phone, birthday cakes, candles, and family picture frame.

Blog 17: Preparing to Film

 

Preparing to Film 

    Hey, welcome back to my blog! Today, let's talk about our Filming's supplements. 

Actors

    Since our film is title to a coming up age theme, we will be having only one character throughout our filming process. Having one character not only save up our time and portrait the isolate atmosphere but also limit unnecessarily factors that allows us maximize our details as well as time for editing. Giving an isolate environment with dynamic lighting, it's more liikely to build up a Hollywood filming quality vibe. 

Costumes

    Our main character will first put on a simple outfit but also looking nice with a vibrant color which indicating that somethings bless is going to happen. Obviously, it's her birthday. On the background when we shadowing the room will show a princess birthday dress. But our main character will not put it on as the plot twist lead to her out-mood and cancelation. 

Props

    Props will play a huge role in our movie opening. We decided to introduce our name as contributor through labeling it on each of the make up piece like brush, concealer, and eyes palette. Our character will be holding each of the items and we will do the magic using editing. As the movie progress, she will be holding up her mother's picture that they took on her birthday the previous year while mesmerize. Another prop coming up will be the birthday cake as she carry it out with mix feeling, the cake will be dark chocolate as it juxtaposition her mood. 

Locations

    Initially, we decided to film at the Spiderwoman's house. However, due to the change of mind and actor, we decided to film at Real life Barbie's house instead 

Dates and time 

    The film idea began in 2024 and the first shot will be taken on January 3rd, 2025 at 1pm 

Film equipment 

    Upon discussing, we decided to use our own filming equipment, instead of borrow them from professionals. Why? Our group have experience of working together on many filming projects, hence we will work our way up like regularly with a Iphone's camera and a phone stander to keep it stable. Overall, I believe that this will be a fun and smooth filming experience.

Blog 16: Initial Storyboard

Initial Storyboard 

    Hey guys. Welcome back! Today, we are having a special blog. This blog is definitely longer than usual since I will present to you our Storyboarding. Storyboarding is a form of visual and elements that provides us a concrete guideline to base off when filming. 

    Here are the overview components of our group's Storyboard: crafting process, story flow and contributors. There are the total of 18 scenes including a sketch, description, camera angles, audio notes, transitions and graphic/text link to each. The creation of this script was a true team effort, with everyone contributing their talents and hard work. However, the major credit for the brilliant ideas goes to our very own "Spiderwoman," the mastermind behind it all. Next up, we have our artist. 

    As I introduced in Blog 10, 'Real Life Barbie' is the superior artistic person and she is willingly to take over the sketching part. Her collaboration with me and "Mimeo" was nothing short of amazing as we worked together to refine every detail. The descriptions require much efforts and time, involving thoughtful and considerate conversations. We constantly discussed the elements of each scene and ensure that the story flowed smoothly without any illogical. Setting everything on track and divide tasks that suitable toward each individual's strength had enhanced our teamwork's quality and mark the key of communication. 

    Now that I already tell you about the Storyboard's establish, you're very welcome to take a closer look at our recent work! 

Blog 15: Mood Board

 

Mood Board 

Hey guys, this is another episode of my filming project journey. Today, I am presenting you our mood board. 

    The main idea of this mood board is create a sad atmosphere. As you already know, we are filming about a coming up age girl who are celebrating her first birthday without her mom and her dad couldn't make it in time due to his work. The mood board mostly cover with lonely pictures that convey a nostalgia mood. Additionally, there are also some flashback to childhood's memories compares to her older self next to a birthday cake. We also decided to add in some rainy window to create an dark atmosphere. A more chilly atmosphere adds on with the silence of the house would definitely emphasize the loneliness. 

    Furthermore, we decided to make a change in background color from white to dark gray because it would make the poster stood out as a darker theme. The muted tones and reflective imagery, such as a close-up of a phone screen with a message received or an incoming call from dad evokes a feelings of longing and emergence. On top of that, the party elements including a small cake, a party hat, and a "Happy Birthday" banner lights up the bittersweet nature of celebrations that may bring back one's deep down memories. Additionally, the scene where a person is applying makeup or the white flower highlight the contrast of different stage of the main character's life. This mood board overall goal is to maintain a powerful representation of life's multifaceted emotions. 

Blog 14: Final Project Idea

Final Project Idea

Welcome back guys! As I promised you before, I am coming back with our group final idea. 

    As our group huddled together, brainstorming ideas for our final project, we found ourselves drawn to the universal themes of growth, resilience, and the bittersweet moments that shape us. After much discussion, we settled on a coming-of-age story that captures the essence of these experiences. Our film will open with a poignant scene of a girl preparing for her birthday party, meticulously doing her makeup and getting ready to celebrate.

    The twist in our story comes when her phone rings, and it's her dad on the other end. He regretfully informs her that he won't be able to make it home early tonight, leaving her to spend her birthday alone. This news hits hard, but it's compounded by the absence of her mom, who recently passed away. It's her first birthday without her mom, and the weight of this realization sinks in as she looks at herself in the mirror, missing the comforting presence that once filled her special day with joy. Our project aims to convey the deep emotional landscape of this moment. Through careful cinematography and heartfelt performances, we hope to explore the protagonist's journey of coming to terms with loss and finding strength within herself. The setting, props, and costumes were all thoughtfully chosen to create an authentic and relatable atmosphere. Thanks to Little Miss Barbie's generous offer to use her house, we have the perfect backdrop for our story.

    In this narrative, we emphasize the internal struggles and resilience of our protagonist, capturing the raw and relatable aspects of growing up. While this storyline is more complex, it provides us with a rich opportunity to create a film that resonates on a deeper emotional level. By focusing on a personal milestone, our film stands out in the coming-of-age genre, offering a unique and touching perspective on the journey to adulthood.

Blog 13: Title sequencing

 

Title sequencing 

    Welcome to my new series!

    From now on, I will mostly blog as I record my filming journey. 

Let me tell you something, I am very picky when it comes to picking a movie. The opening or the first episode always have to fascinate enough for me to bind on them. Similarly, a movie's extract or a trailer could also play a role here. When it comes down to a good movie, professionally edit is a surplus point to visualize the efforts as well as storyline one can bring. Naturally, title sequencing also come up as the master of art's last piece. If it places in the beginning, it has to be a clever showcase that naturally blend in with open scene. If it places towards the end, it close up an art work that linger inside the audience's heart with the recap as each name goes on-credit their contributes. In this blog, i will show you 3 examples that further illustrate an up to mark title sequencing. 

Shogun 

    The title sequence of "Shogun" is a master in setting the scene for a historical set in feudal Japan. It begins with aerial shots that reveal the intricate sand patterns, which is resemble the traditional Japanese Zen gardens. Furthermore, we see lush landscapes that highlight the natural beauty of Japan, which contrasted with the imposing architecture of Japanese castles. These elements, together serve to create the view of historical and geographical setting of the story. Additionally, the use of traditional Japanese music, with its distinct instruments and tones would further capture the audience and convey a sense of classical Japan artificial. 

    One of the most stood out visual is the title card itself. The title "shogun" appears over a blurred background that features a samurai hemet, symbolizes the martial and political power. The movie's choice font and the way the title fades in and out is also very sufficient. It gave out a set of mind to prepares the viewer for the intricate and dramatic tale of martial art and personal motive that is going to be reveal within the movie. Overall, the Shogun's title sequence did a great job of blending the title sequence into establishing scene. 

                                                                                  Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret

 

    The title sequence of "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret," based on the beloved book by Judy Blume. The skillfully sets the stage of the story as nostalgic and heartfelt narrative. It begins with a scenic view of a forest, setting a serene and reflective theme for the movie. Additionally, the earthy tones through the sense of the 1970s also build up a historical context. Key images like the road with a bus driving though a forest and a person looking out of the bus window, symbolize the journey and self-discovery that Margaret experiences. 

    The typography used for the title "Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret" is simple yet elegant. The title pops out and seamlessly blend with the visuals. Placing the text over a lively backgrounds enhances the nostalgic feel and ensure it to remain the focal point without overshadowing the image. The title sequence hints at the themes of the movie, such as growing up, exploring new environments and forming connections through freedom. The movie essence around Margaret's journey and the questions she surround with trying to find an answer. Overall, the combination of visual elements and score conveyed a mood of reflective and hopeful, which set the stage for the audience to connect with Margaret on a higher level. 

Out Of Her Mind 

    The title sequence "Out of Her Mind", created by Sara Pascoe, effectively sets the series with a playful and colorful tones of colors. While this creating an engaging atmosphere, its choice of color also signal that the show will be fun and vibrant. For examples, the imagery of broken eggshells an floral designs hint at themes of fragility, growth and a new beginning; while the modern urban setting of a subway train suggest a focus on a contemporary life and personal experiences in the city. 

    As we can see throughout the title sequence, a playful style of typography was presented. It features different fonts and background visuals, which reinforces the light-hearted yet thoughtful tone of the show. Phrases like "My Life Is Ova" paired with a person standing inside a subway train also showcasing her free, yet also sloppy lifestyle. Overall, the concept of "Out Of Her mind" is a very catchy/vibrant movie, suitable for modern audience who are also follow an entertaining way of life or movie through the present of Sara Pascoe' vision. 

Blog 12: Group's idea brainstorming

Group's idea brainstorming

    Hey guys!! Welcome back to my blog!!! 

   The opening scene of film serve a power to captivate audience’s attention and set tone for the entire story. Whether it’s through suspense, action, or symbolism—an interesting beginning would ensure that viewers are drawn right from the start. Let’s explore some of the ideas my group came up with. 

    One compelling idea to start with is an eerie atmosphere. Imagine a silent, abandoned cityscape with a single flickering light or a faint sound in distance. This isn’t just an ordinary but instantly set the audience down as they are preparing for haunting mood. This topic never gets old and definitely will hooks the audience up. The main point of this topic is setting the stage for a story steeped in mystery and suspense. 

    Another bold option is to dive straight into the action. Let’s picture a protagonist sprinting through a bustling market and clutch something valuable while being chased by an unknown figure. This fast-paced opening would throw viewers directly into the heart of conflict. This will lead the, on the edge of their seats and eager to understand the backstory. The action driven in the beginning are perfect for films that aim to grab attention and maintaining high energy from the outset. 

    A time jump can also consider as an intrigue narrative structure. Starting in a dystopian future and flashback to a hopeful past would create a striking contrast. The shift would immediately sets the tension of the story and raises questions surround the changes of the world. This technique would works well for stories about transformation of loss. 

    Lastly, the coming of age would be a new breeze to our selections. The topic reflects on society issues and focus mainly on younger audience. The opening could present an issues encounter as one transitions into their mature journey or a stable condition will be disrupt due to the conflict of ages. 

We are still deciding on which topic to choose. So, STAY TUNE for our updates!!!

Blog 11: Former Student Work

Student Former Work 

Roll call

The Roll Call clip captures attention right from the start with its suspenseful opening scene and had effectively use camera's angles to convey the emotions of the characters. The film did a great job of building up tension throughout the clip. However the audio quality is a bit lacking with some dialogues being hard to catch. This can be distracting and take viewers out of the moment. Additionally, the transitions between scenes feel a little abrupt and it could be smoother. To enhance the film quality such as sound, they should use external microphones or post-production techniques so it can captures a clearer audio. The editor can also use some transitions effect to make it more seamless. This would significantly improve the viewer's experience and maintain the suspense to keep the audience engage from start to finish. 

New Everything

Bravo to the 'New Everything'!! The film stands out with its strong and relatable them by the excellent use of natural lighting, which gives the clip a very realistic feeling. However, the pacing of the film tends to drag and make it difficult to maintain audience engagement throughout. Some scenes are suffering from less than ideal framing, it detracts from the visual of storytelling. This film can be enhance by tightening the editing to ensure a more genetic pace and pay closer attention to shot composition. By doing this, the film would significantly elevate its narrative impact and increase the overall storytelling experience.

Dreamland

This is my favorite one!!! Dreamland offers a creative and dreamlike storyline that sets it apart from every other film. I love how they employ a dreamy musical score to enhances the atmospheric quality of the film. Nevertheless, some of the special effects come across as clumsy, which affect the polished feel of the film. The narrative could amend a tighter cohesion to keep the audience fully immersed like they're in the actual dreamlike world. By investing in higher-quality special effects or refining the currents one would very much improve the overall viewing experience. 

Dear Lover

Dear Lover hits hard with its emotional storytelling and features strong performances by the cast. It results in a highly relatable engage throughout the intro. However, the film occasionally crosses into overdramatic plots, which can feel a bit forced and taken away from the authenticity. Additionally, the inconsistency in lighting can be a minus point as it detracts from the film's emotional tone. The film could achieve a more balanced and engaging emotional impact by dialing back the drama to maintain a more realistic portray as well as supplement with additional light for better quality.

Dare to Thrill

Dare to thrill excels with its fast-paced and thrilling concept. The film effectively use sound effects to heighten the tension and got the audience on the edge of their seats!!! However, some of the action scenes could benefit from better choreography to enhance the realistic and excitement atmosphere. The storyline also feels a bit thin and could use a more depth or dramatic plots to fully engage the audience. Additionally, refining the action choreography for more realistic sequences and adding more layers to the plot would be another improvement they should consider. These changes help to create a more compelling and thrilling watch as it become closer to the Hollywood vibes. 

Blog 10: Group member

 

Group Member 

Welcome my Sweet Watermelon's lover!!!

After a deeply considerate and a fight over headaches, due to recruiting process, I have come down to finalize my lovely teammates. They're whose will work with me through thick and thin in the upcoming filming project. And today, you will get to meet them!!!

Candidate #1 

Mimeo!!!

Mimeo is a cat lover, just like her name. Her favorite color is green. How does that relate? Mimeo brings in a fresh air and vibrant just as her favorite color. She brings a breath pf fresh air and an unique perspective to everything she touches. As a cat lover, she portraits her loyalty, creativity and she's also very funny. Her artistry knows no limits, and I couldn't think of anyone better suited to work along with me. I found these characteristics of her to be very appealing and I can't wait to see the magic she'll bring to our project!!!!

Candidate #2 

"Real life Barbie"

How can I even describe her? She's absolutely gorgeous, a built in real life Barbie. She caught my eyes since day one. Her fashion, her beauty and mostly her personality can speak up for the word "perfect". But don't be fool by her stunning looks; she's as sharp as they come. Over the years, I've had a privilege to work with her on a few projects now. Therefore, we understand and known each other the best from being responsible to respect ones another's idea. Hence today, I am introducing you to her again. We are bonded like glue and will ace our coming up project!!!!

Candidate #3 

"Spiderwoman" 

Last but not least, meet our secret weapon: Spiderwoman! She's a fusion of Mimeo's creativity and is indeed inherit with Barbie obsession. Once a topic is brought up, like an automatic robot, she will comes up with ideas that you would never think up in 2 seconds. With her unstoppable energy and imagination, she'll have you on the EDGE of your seat. Our project's outcome will reveal the true power of hardwork and teamwork. 

Blog 9: Story Boarding

  

Story Boarding

Storyboarding is a critical step in the filmmaking process. It bridge the gap between a director's vision and the realization of a scene. Recently, I just got into creating a storyboard for a scene from "To All the Boys I've Loved Before", portraying on "Kitty's Confession".  

Film Origin:

Story Boarding: 

    Storyboarding helped me understand how scenes are planned not just for the narrative flow but also to convey emotional impact. Through creating the storyboarding, I learned that lighting play a huge role in my storyboard. For example, in the scene "Kitty's Confession" they use low-key lighting to set the tone of uneasy and dramatic atmosphere for a nighttime confession. Throughout this scene, my sketch revolve in deciding where characters and objects are placed in each frame and allowed me to guide the audience's attention and build tension. Furthermore, to transit between scene to scene, maintaining consistent lighting and setting is also crucial to create a relative environment. Furthermore, storyboarding made it easier to plan character's movement and interactions; ensure that every moment felt purposeful.

    

    There are some challenges can propose to storyboarding making process like conveying a mental image into a clear and comprehensive visual is way harder than expected. Drawing skills can also be a factor that make this task overwhelming. Additionally, visualizing how characters and props cooperate within a confine space required a lot of planning to avoid confusion during filming. 

Blog 8: Mis-en-scene

Mis-en-scene 

 

Welcome back, welcome back!!!

 Today, I will introduce you to my favorite movie of all time "To All The Boys I've Loved Before". This movie had sit on my re-watch list for a while now, I don't think I will take it off anytime soon. ( I rewatched it at least 5 times already) As a movie nerd, I will release some sweet photos of them from the movie and introduce to you a new word "Mis-en-scene". "Mis-en-scene" is basically everything you see in a scene that creates an atmosphere and convey the mood/feelings toward the audience. 

  To All The Boys I've Loved Before....

    In this picture, the setting sets on a bus with the soft sunlight rising through the window, touches on Peter's face and highlights part of Lara's smile. The natural lighting effects emphasizing the comfort they find in each other's presence. The hint is given that they're going on a school trip as there're other students in the back. The mis-en-scene elements establish a sense of warmth and intimacy between Lara Jean and Peter. Lara Jean's costume was a red plaid shirt layer over a white lace blouse, while Peter also puts on a similar shade of red that visually match them as a couple. They conveys a cozy, approachable and closeness vibe. Additionally, Lara Jean holds a pink jacket on her lap, a prop that adds to the scene's warmth, suggesting that Peter feels safe and relaxed around her as he sleeps on her shoulder. The young actors shown their best suit for the scene as their physical like Lara's gentle smile communicate a sense of affection on the early stage of their relationship. The romance building up between them signals the begun of their trust and care for each other. 

   The mis-en-scene of this scene conveys a casual   yet potentially significant moment of the two characters. The scene sets in a retro-style date with a checkered floor and neon signs, the environment adds a timeless quality and suggests the universal romantic interaction. From the simple furniture, such as round table the wooden chairs to the classic decoration of a local bakery shop, the environment adds more depth into the characters' conversation. Continually, Peter dressed casually with a simple hoodie over and Lara dressed in a fitted top with a white pants—position them as relatable young adults. This mark a period where the couple transition into adult's life.

    The setting of this scene was established as an outdoor festival with floating lanterns. It evokes a sense of community and celebration.  The background is filled with other people and lanterns, but they remain clear in a focal point and isolated in their own moment. The effect was created through framing, focused mainly on the couple in a close distance and blur the background in a sense of further distance away. It adds to highlights their moment together, serving as a metaphor for hope and shared dreams. The lighting from the lanterns casts a warm glow against the dark night, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Additionally, their costumes also play a role on reflecting the cool weather, reinforcing the genuine nature of their bonds. Both characters dressed warmly in neutral, cozy outfits suggest their comfort and connection. 

    In this image, the mis-en-scene creates a more   intimate, quiet moment between the two characters.   The location is again an outdoor festivals with   lanterns, but here, the couple is siting on a blanket.   The setting focus on their personal connection at a   more private and seclude level. The lighting from the lanterns was provided in the background, anticipating a soft, ambient glow that illuminating their faces and casting a shadow. Their costumes remain consistent, which enhances the cozy and sentimental atmosphere. In terms of staging, the two character are positioned close to each other, with Petter gazing attentively at Lara as she is looking at the fresh written ink with their name on her poster. The hint was provided through the props, which is the brush she's holding on her hand. This attention gave from Peter Kavinsky and the excitement from Lara Jean emphasize the focused on each other, amidst the surrounding event. 

   In a more formal, romantic setting, Lara Jean and Peter spend their date at a local bakery shop. Their intimate was enhance under a soft, dim lighting that also surrounded by fairy lights and lush greenery. Lara Jean's blue dress contrasts with Peter's clary-sage shirt, highlighting their individual's unique personality but somehow bond and connect well as they come together. The location is likely at a lovely party that convey a dreamy quality with perfect setting for romance flying in the air. The framing centers on their eyes contact and happy smile—focusing on the deep emotional sense they're building. With no distracting props in this scene, the attention remains entirely on their expressions and body language. This allows the audience to feel the intensity of their connection. Together, these mis-en-scene elements combines to deliver a meaningful moment and capture the private closing scene for their happy ending. 

Blog 7: Mood Board

THE HIDDEN LOVE

Welcome back to my blog!!!! Today, I will introduce you to my Mood Board for the movie "Hidden Love". This Mood Board was created with a mix of imagery that capture the themes of secret admiration, intimate moments and the quiet beauty of romance. Let's dive in! 

The "Hidden Love" is a romantic Chinese-drama revolve around a couple that known each other since their teenage years. The images convey a quite, intimate aesthetic with majestic that hint a hopeful and happy ending. The mood board fills with muted colors, warm tones, and dreamy filters to enhance the sense of subtle romance and nostalgia. 

Each image is carefully chosen to convey devotion of love: soft lingering glances, secret letters exchanged in silence, intertwined hands, vintage polaroid and warm candlelight evoke the essence of two lovebirds drawn together overtime. Although, through out the movie, there was conflicts and tension arise, these  details reinforce a sense of trust and resilience that ultimately contribute to strength their bond. Overall, the mood/theme symbolize by a lock and key, their journey suggests they might be a suit for one another—if they choose to unlock each other's heart.  

Blog 6: Sound Story

Welcome back my girl! Today's blog is a little different. Let's close your eyes and walk through my Sound Story. This project capture the familiar routines that have become second nature but soon will be part of my cherished memories. 

Sound Story

Foley Video 

Script

Time period: 0:00 - 0:39

Setting: Classroom (last period)  

- Soft chatter of students

- Clock ticking

- Pages flipping

- Books being closed

- Zipper of a backpack

- Sound of books being stuffed in backpack

- Chairs scraping as student stand

- Clock ticking fastens à bell rings

 

Time period: 0:40-0:58

Setting: School hallway à Student parking lot

- Footsteps

- Students chatting

- Door creaking open

- Wind rushes past

- Bird chirping

- Humming

- Car unlock sound

- Dialogue “Bye, see you”

- Car door open

- Car door close

- Car engine starts

 

 

Time period: 0:59-1:53

Setting: On the road driving home

  

- Button sound (to turn on music)

- Background music

- Car seat belt warning

- Putting seat belt on (warning stop)

- Car driving sound

- Traffic

- Turing signal sound (blinker ticking)

- Car’s slowing down sound à come to complete stop

- Grab key as key jingling

- Car door close

- Car lock sound

- Foot step sound (walking toward the house)

- House door open

- House door close

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    For our project, we chose to create a sound story based on our daily activities as seniors. Our goal was to capture the essence of our high school journey as a reflection of theses memorable times. My blogs revolve on things that deeply longing to me and play a significant role in my life. The familiar sound of the bell ringing at 2:40pm signals the end of the day, followed by packing up, heading to the car and driving home. Just like that, an everyday cycle that only found once in our student's lifetime. 

    Initially, we explored apps like iMovie and WeVideo but ultimately decided too stick with CapCut. We chose this software because of our previous experience with it and its user-friendly interface. CapCut is accessible and easy to use. Most of our sound effects were sourced from Youtube since they offered a wide variety of options. While the process of gathering and using these sounds was somewhat challenging, we managed to work through it effectively. We would first screen-recorded the specific sounds we needed, then extracted and layered them carefully to ensure a smooth and natural blend between scenes. 

    Thanks to my prior editing experience, I was able to complete this project without any major difficulties. This made the process much smoother and more enjoyable.