For the first research update I learned about video production and editing. The resourse that I used to find this information is from Lynda.com. While putting together my research plan one of the main skills that I knew I needed to learn or grow more in was in film production. Throughout the video playlist the viewers were taught of the different aspects of production and editing. I have always believed that editing was simple and the least important. These videos have changed my perception and have caused me to changed the way I approach editing videos and I have gained a new respect for this part of the creative class. The expect giving these lesson is Rob Garrott, the content manager for video production and editing at at lynda.com.
One of the first points that Rob brought the attention of the viewers is the importance of having a clear creative goal before shooting even begins. In my past experiences I would go into the field and begin filming based off all the ideas and concepts that are scattered throughout my mind. I often found myself very frustrated while filming and now I understand why. Rob often argued that pre-production is the most important part of the entire process. The example he would give is that you would never see a musician going on stage without practicing his instrument and receive a standing ovation, and the same goes for filmmakers and producers. It would be ignorant for a producers or filmmaker to go onto the field without practicing or having a plan of action. It’s important to be able to describe your vision with clearly with words. If you are having a hard time accomplishing this then it’s imperative to go back to the drawing board and work out more of the kinks that still linger.
Another interesting part of the video series was how Rob broke down the three stories that every film has. The first story that every film has is the story that you wrote and conceive; the second story is the one you shoot in your camera; the third story is the one that you edit. All three of these stories should be able to work harmoniously and create a fluid storyline that supports the vision and creative goal that was created in the very beginning of the creative process. Something else that stood out to me was when Rob was speaking on the control and power that the editor has. Editors have the power to manipulate the viewer’s perceptions by how the various elements are pieced together. While the director camera crew and providing the shots and scenes of the film it’s actually the editor who has the most control. The way a video is editing is the reason for audience reactions and emotions throughout the film. For example when watching a horror movie or thriller the way a scene is edited brings out the emotions of the viewers. While the actors and directors play a pivotal role as well it the way the shadows are presented in the room and how the music is lingering in the background and then fades out to really put the view on the edge of his or her seat.
It’s very interesting how these videos have broken down the importance of production and editing. One of the most important concepts from the videos was how editing is a creative process and like any creative process it takes trial and error and forces one to really be creative and dig down deep inside one’s self to find solutions and beauty to the film. The skills and knowledge that I have acquired from this will be very instrumental in the production of my project and will prove to play a pivotal role in how I attack this film and guide my throughout the creative process.