CCR #3

Hello blog!

CCR question number 3 is in progress! Since the last two questions pertained to a new video, I decided to make another storyline for the CCR. I would be taking a test in school and ask I read the questions on the paper test, in my mind I read it out loud. And I answer them... in my head! The question asked will be "How did you integrate technologies – software, hardware, and online – in this project?". 

   This question is has various parts to it and of course I will discuss them! It’s asking how technology was used throughout the entire process of creating my film, from the pre-planning stages to the final editing. It covers everything from the physical tools I used, to the software that helped put everything together, and the online resources I relied on. Technology played a huge role in this project, and here’s how it helped me bring the project to life. 

Hardware: For the hardware, I used a combination of tools to get the best shots for my film. The majority of the filming was done using an iPhone 14 and an iPhone 13. The iPhone worked well because of its high-quality camera, especially in the gym setting where there was good natural lighting. It gave me clear, crisp footage, perfect for capturing the fast-paced moments of the Gianna’s training. However, for more specific shots, like extreme close-ups of the protagonist’s focused expressions or text message notifications, I used a Nikon d3100 camera. Although this camera is more suited for photography, it was essential for those moments when I needed ultra-clear shots. In a yellow-lit room, the d3100 helped prevent pixelation, ensuring the text message scene came out sharp and readable. Both the iPhone and the Nikon camera worked well together to capture the different types of footage required for the project. 

Software: When it came to editing, I used Adobe Premiere Pro. I took a class in television production last year, and I’ve been using it ever since (even though I swore I would never need it). It's filled with various  and fulfills each one of my needs for this project. Premiere Pro allowed me to control the pacing of the film, ensuring it stayed fast and engaging, which was important for keeping the intensity up during the gymnast’s training sequences. It also gave me the flexibility to make adjustments to the tone and structure of the film, allowing me to emphasize Gianna’s determination in the way I imagined.  

Audio: For the audio, I relied on Pixabay for background music and diegetic sounds. Pixabay was a great resource because it offered free-to-use music and sound effects that I could layer without worrying about copyright issues. I used different background tracks to match the emotional tone of the film, whether it was the intense moments during the gym training or the quieter, more reflective scenes. I also found specific sound effects to match the actions on screen, like the sound of the gymnast’s feet hitting the floor or the buzz of a text message notification. Layering the sounds carefully really helped to set the atmosphere and complement the visuals. Using a resource like Pixabay saved me time and allowed me to focus on creating the right mood without worrying about any legal issues related to copyright. 

Online Resources: Throughout the whole process, I turned to YouTube as a vital online resource. From learning new editing techniques to understanding how to create the perfect sport drama, YouTube was amazing for research. I watched tutorials on everything from sound design to pacing in sports films. There were so many helpful videos that guided me through challenges I encountered while editing, and I even found tips on how to improve my cinematography. YouTube also provided insight into specific aspects of editing sport dramas, which helped me maintain the right tone throughout my film. Whether I needed help with a particular effect or just wanted to see how other filmmakers tackled similar scenes, YouTube was a go-to resource. 

Looking back at the entire production process, it’s clear how integral technology was at every stage of making my film. From the hardware I used to film the project, to the software that allowed me to edit, and the online resources that taught me along the way, technology was essential to bringing everything together. By carefully choosing the right tools and combining them effectively, I was able to create a film that captured the essence of the gymnast’s journey to achieve her dream. Technology played a key role in not only making the production process smoother but also in helping me achieve the creative vision I set out with.