Video & Sound Production - Final Project
FINAL PROJECT - VIDEO AND SOUND PRODUCTION
Aina Ahmed Aleem | 0355701 | BDCM
Video & Sound Production | Project 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Lectures
- Instructions
- Process
- Final Outcome
- Feedback
- Reflection
LECTURES
INSTRUCTIONS
This group-based VFX project focused on developing a concise yet engaging visual narrative within a set of creative constraints. Working from a given theme, we produced a short VFX-driven video limited to two characters, a single location, and one key event, conveyed in fewer than 15 shots. These restrictions encouraged strong narrative clarity, intentional shot composition, and efficient visual storytelling.
To enhance the narrative, we integrated voice-over, sound effects, and music, using audio as a supporting storytelling tool rather than a secondary element. The project began with detailed storyboarding, which was reviewed and approved prior to production to ensure a clear visual structure and smooth execution.
The final video was delivered digitally in Full HD 1080p (16:9) format, using H.264 compression, a frame rate of 24–25 fps, progressive scan, and 48kHz 16-bit stereo audio. This project strengthened my collaborative workflow, planning skills, and understanding of how visual effects can be used purposefully to support narrative rather than overwhelm it.
Duration: Week 05 – Week 14
Submission Deadline: Week 14
IDEATION
Following the storyboard, we brainstormed a range of concepts
that could effectively communicate the theme within the project’s
constraints. After discussing our ideas with the lecturer and receiving
approval, we selected a concept centred on a visual effects sequence where a
drink appears to pour out of a mobile phone. This idea allowed us to explore
creative VFX transitions while maintaining a simple and focused narrative.
To support the technical execution of the concept, we researched and reviewed several VFX transition tutorials on YouTube, ultimately selecting the most suitable one as our reference. Once the visual approach was finalised, we proceeded to write the script, ensuring that the narrative aligned with the chosen effect and could be clearly communicated within a short duration.
I handled the recording process, adjusting camera angles and shot
composition to best capture the narrative and visual flow of the scene. The
footage was recorded using my phone, which provided flexibility in framing
and positioning. These adjustments were particularly important for the VFX
sequence, as precise camera angles and consistent shots made it easier to
align the layers, apply masking, and create a seamless pouring effect in
post-production.
I shared all the recorded footage via a Google Drive link, allowing us to
systematically sort and organise the clips. This step was essential for
managing the material efficiently and preparing it for editing, ensuring
that each shot could be accurately placed on the timeline in the correct
sequence.
During post-production, my groupmate led the VFX compositing process in
Adobe After Effects. She began by downloading, organising, and importing
all recorded footage, ensuring the files were properly prepared for
editing. The clips were arranged strategically within the timeline to
allow accurate synchronisation and smooth alignment between the phone,
bottle, and juice footage.
Masking techniques were applied using the Pen Tool, with feathering and animated mask paths used to achieve seamless blending and natural movement of the pouring effect. To further refine the composition, the Roto Brush tool was used to isolate the phone from the background, allowing it to integrate cleanly with the layered footage. Opacity animation and freeze-frame techniques were also applied to enhance continuity and create a smooth visual transition, resulting in a polished and cohesive VFX sequence.
After my teammate completed the VFX compositing, I took over the post-production process to compile all the clips and finalise the video. Using Adobe Premiere Pro, I arranged the footage in sequence on the timeline based on the storyboard, ensuring smooth transitions between shots and maintaining the intended narrative flow established during recording and VFX work.
I then performed colour grading to enhance the overall visual tone and cohesion of the video. This involved adjusting exposure, contrast, and colour balance to ensure consistency across all shots, as well as applying minor corrections to shadows and highlights to create depth and visual appeal. Throughout this stage, the video was reviewed multiple times to check for timing issues, visual inconsistencies, and overall flow. The final step included syncing the audio with the visuals, adding sound effects and voice-over where needed, and exporting the project in Full HD 1080p with high-quality compression, ready for submission.
Experience
Participating in the VFX and post-production stages of this project was both demanding and engaging. The process required careful attention to detail, particularly when working with timing, layering, and visual continuity. I found it rewarding to see how multiple elements gradually came together through refinement and adjustment, transforming raw footage into a cohesive final sequence. This experience reinforced the importance of planning and organisation in post-production, as a well-structured workflow made the editing process more efficient and manageable. Overall, the project allowed me to further develop my technical confidence while understanding how visual effects support storytelling.
To support the technical execution of the concept, we researched and reviewed several VFX transition tutorials on YouTube, ultimately selecting the most suitable one as our reference. Once the visual approach was finalised, we proceeded to write the script, ensuring that the narrative aligned with the chosen effect and could be clearly communicated within a short duration.
Once the concept was finalised, we began writing the script to structure
the narrative and plan the sequence of events effectively.
VIDEO RECORDING PROCESS
VFX EDITING PROCESS
Masking techniques were applied using the Pen Tool, with feathering and animated mask paths used to achieve seamless blending and natural movement of the pouring effect. To further refine the composition, the Roto Brush tool was used to isolate the phone from the background, allowing it to integrate cleanly with the layered footage. Opacity animation and freeze-frame techniques were also applied to enhance continuity and create a smooth visual transition, resulting in a polished and cohesive VFX sequence.
EDITING PROCESS
I then performed colour grading to enhance the overall visual tone and cohesion of the video. This involved adjusting exposure, contrast, and colour balance to ensure consistency across all shots, as well as applying minor corrections to shadows and highlights to create depth and visual appeal. Throughout this stage, the video was reviewed multiple times to check for timing issues, visual inconsistencies, and overall flow. The final step included syncing the audio with the visuals, adding sound effects and voice-over where needed, and exporting the project in Full HD 1080p with high-quality compression, ready for submission.
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FINAL OUTCOME
FEEDBACK
REFLECTION
Participating in the VFX and post-production stages of this project was both demanding and engaging. The process required careful attention to detail, particularly when working with timing, layering, and visual continuity. I found it rewarding to see how multiple elements gradually came together through refinement and adjustment, transforming raw footage into a cohesive final sequence. This experience reinforced the importance of planning and organisation in post-production, as a well-structured workflow made the editing process more efficient and manageable. Overall, the project allowed me to further develop my technical confidence while understanding how visual effects support storytelling.
Observation
Throughout the project, I observed that successful VFX work relies heavily on accuracy and consistency. Small misalignments in timing or compositing can significantly affect the realism of an effect. I also noticed that patience is essential, as many improvements required repeated testing and fine adjustments. Additionally, having a clear plan and organised assets helped streamline the workflow and reduced errors during editing. The iterative nature of the process encouraged problem-solving and experimentation, leading to stronger visual outcomes.
Throughout the project, I observed that successful VFX work relies heavily on accuracy and consistency. Small misalignments in timing or compositing can significantly affect the realism of an effect. I also noticed that patience is essential, as many improvements required repeated testing and fine adjustments. Additionally, having a clear plan and organised assets helped streamline the workflow and reduced errors during editing. The iterative nature of the process encouraged problem-solving and experimentation, leading to stronger visual outcomes.
Findings
From this project, I learned that effective post-production combines technical skill with creative decision-making. Careful preparation such as organising footage, planning the timeline, and structuring layers plays a crucial role in achieving smooth and professional results. The project also demonstrated how gradual refinements can greatly enhance visual quality and narrative impact. Overall, this experience strengthened my understanding of post-production workflows and highlighted the importance of precision, patience, and creativity when working with visual effects.
From this project, I learned that effective post-production combines technical skill with creative decision-making. Careful preparation such as organising footage, planning the timeline, and structuring layers plays a crucial role in achieving smooth and professional results. The project also demonstrated how gradual refinements can greatly enhance visual quality and narrative impact. Overall, this experience strengthened my understanding of post-production workflows and highlighted the importance of precision, patience, and creativity when working with visual effects.
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