Egghunting Studio Reflection

Link to Video: https://vimeo.com/380152906

 

This spring semester has taught me a lot as a creator. This blog post discusses and reflects upon my latest art piece that I created with a fellow student who were dedicated and committed to create a music video. The video has identifiable strengths and weaknesses, through continuous editing it would be made possible to make small changes to meet public viewing standards. Strengths that were identified was how the entire body of work had a continuous theme and idea that was maintained. It was consistent and met the requirements for the assignment. Along with strong vibrant colours, solid camera work and clean edits. In contrast the video lacked a compelling opening shot, although I liked the beginning, I thought that the video could have had a stronger opening. Something to capture the audience’s attention would have been really nice to complement the shots we had of Robert and the variations of lighting. Another note to add is the ending, having an object be completely destroyed would have been a really interesting visual and a nice closing frame.

Having the opportunity to be able to work with someone outside of the project was interesting. I have never worked with a ‘client’ before but as this presented the opportunity, I was able to obtain knowledge and skills. Being able to consider the opinions of the artist as well as the groups needs was a difficult task at times. Communication was a key aspect ensuring all information was shared, as well as understood.

There was nothing as such I personally I would have added to the M.O.U however, I would have liked is to pitch the ideas and brainstorm with Robert in person obtaining his feedback on what he would have preferred. Although he loved the work and concept, I would have preferred to have the time to sit down and receive feedback. Due to logistical reasons this was impossible. Robert was an easy client to work with therefore, I found no discrepancies with the document.

I find myself to be most effective when I work within in a team with other people who have similar work ethic as well as mind set and goals. I have found with past group assignments that I am quite adaptable depending on the strengths and weaknesses of the group. I can take leadership if required and lead a group or simply work with each other in order to get the task done. I was fortunate enough to work with people who were easy collaborators who had a similar mind set. Within ‘Top Dawg Productions’ we were able to work together without having defined roles but rather everyone contributed. I found that some group members were easy to work with as they were able to adapt and compromise to meet the groups needs however, some were more reserved only giving opinion when asked upon. This was disappointing as we would have loved everyone to be able to fully contribute. I think this time around it was a learning experience, being in a group that were collaborated well together. For myself I had a wonderful time I tried to remain conscious of others around me. Ensuring ideas were being heard, as members tended to speak over the top of one another. I think for future group collaborations I need to be firmer in getting my opinions communicated effectively. Overall, I really enjoyed working with this group of people.

I really enjoyed watching everyone’s final product and see how their ideas came to life on screen. One music video that really stuck out to me was the Claim video ‘Endless Day’. I found it had a strong concept incorporating the band and filming on a beautiful location. A shot that really stuck out to me was the opening sequence of the posters on the wall. It created an illusion that there was something bigger going to happen. Through these dramatic zooms, it drew my attention towards the poster along with the vibrant colours.

 

Another video I found capturing was James Chatburn’s ‘Omens’. There were many elements I found interesting however, one that drew focus was the use of black and white filter. It draws attention to the movement as well as the actions of the people being shot. Another point of interest was the overlaying of shots helped to create this idea of being dazed and confused. Both groups completed amazing works and I am really impressed.

One thing I have found really important is the importance of lighting. It can be something that can make or break a video. Being able to play around with different lighting set ups as well as gels was something quite new to me and something, I had never really drawn focus towards when making videos. I now realise looking back on the final product how much of difference it made and the great effects it had on the video and how it has helped shape the music video. I also learnt a lot from not only the teachers around me but the students in my group. Learning about how to conduct oneself on set taking responsibility in order to get the job done.