Combination #2

To further apply a combination of split screen and green screen, I carried on editing the film and applied a third ninja to the shot. I like this outcome and it again showcases what I have learned using these techniques.

Combination

Due to the fact I had ran out of time to film and edit a 'final piece', I had no way of presenting all of my experiments in one film. To somehow accommodate for this, I combined split screen and green screen and produced multiple ninjas into one edit.

I like this outcome and I think it showcases well what I have learned in these techniques.

Muzzle Flash/Flash Bang Evaluation

I am aware that I should have evaluated these technique after I had initially experimented with them. Unfortunately, it did slip my mind until now.

This technique is one that was inspired by films such as Fury. With this inspiration in mind, it helped me when editing my effect because I had in mind the type of effects I wanted. It was good to have the Catterick Garrison footage archived to have had something to work off.

Using After Effects was a brilliant experience and has helped me so much with my editing skills. It has helped me experience how precise I have to be to not only get a perfect edit, but to also have believable SFX in place. It has been a very helpful learning curve.
I believe some of my tests were successful and had some nice effects to them. However, what I intended to do was carry out extra tests from different angles. Due to time constraints, this did not happen and it is very unfortunate. These type of tests are something I am going to do in future, as I believe I need all the extra practice in applying these effects.

Green Screen Evaluation

This part of the project was the one that needed more attention than the others. This was mainly because it required a lot of pre-planning before the actually editing part actually place.

I believe that was a very successful experiment. All the mistakes I made allowed me to learn from them and improve my knowledge of the technique, therefore I was capable of producing a more successful outcome.

I thoroughly enjoyed this experiment and I plan on extending my knowledge of it in the future; hopefully I will have the opportunity to apply my knowledge onto a big project, such as final.

If I could do anything different, it would have been to get more ambitious with the shots used and film other types of background to change the type of edits I had. 

Ninja Edit #3

This is the third and final Ninja green screen edit WITH green screen filter.

After the success of my second edit, I went back to the edit to make tweaks and make it look a lot more natural. In the second edit, the edges were all defined and it made the shot look really unnatural. I went back to this and added a blur to the edge of the subject. I adjusted the blur so it didn't go too far and ruin the shot. This was a good learning curve as it allowed me to find out how to add a natural filter to the shots and how far I can go without ruining it completely.

Ninja Edit #2

This is my second edit of the green screen ninja footage WITH the green screen filter. As soon as I started the edit, I discovered that editing it together first was a mistake. This was because the green screen filter needed to be applied to each individual clip. I put each clip into After Effects and adjusted the colour key. To my surprise, the filter turned out better than expected. There is no green outline or disappearance of the subject in anyway, which means my lighting technique in my second shoot had worked.

Ninja Edit #1

This is a first cut of all the green screen ninja footage combined. I have yet to apply a green screen filter because it made sense to have the edit first, to try to establish what type of backgrounds are needed. I have applied a score (Audio Network) to the background in order to add an effect to the edit.

Green Screen Shoot - Lighting Re-Visited

After the multiple lighting mistakes in my first green screen shoot, I evaluated the lighting and went back to improve it. The lights in used in the second green screen shoot were:

• 3x Studio Lights
• 4x Red Head Lights

Just to light the green screen, I used 2 studio lights to light it from overhead and I used another 2 red heads to disperse the lighting and spread it evenly. To light my subject, (after lighting the green screen), I blocked Richard in place so I could avoid shadows on the screen. I then used 2 red head lights to light him and then lit him with 1 overhead studio light to flood out shadows and light the subject evenly. 

Green Screen Editing Test #2

This is the second editing test I did using the green screen filter. The  point of this test was establish the limitations I had with the filter, seens though I had messed up the lighting.

I adjusted the colour key to eliminate as much green as possibly without taking out any part of the subjects (Richard and Gav). This test also alerted me to the problems with the shadows in the shot. From this knowledge, I intended to take it into my next green screen shoot and hopefully apply it to solve these problems.

Green Screen Editing Test #1

This is my first editing test using the green screen filter.

I put the clip into After Effects and began adjust the colour key in order to remove the green from the shot. However, due to lighting mistakes, this did not go very well. The colour has removed half of my subject (Richard) and makes him look very cartoon-like. Also, due to the green reflection on his face (another lighting mistake), the colour of his face has dramatically tinted yellow, adding to the cartoon-look feel - a look I was not going for.

I have other test  footage from this shoot that I have experimented with.

Going back to Green Screen

Unfortunately, due to focussing on experimenting with other effects, I neglected to go back to using green screen; primarily the editing part.
I did, however, go back and started playing about with the editing side. My initial were somewhat disapointing, due to a lot of mistakes on my part. Later on, I did go back to the drawing and I re-done some of the tests, which some were successful.

Ghostly Effect Evaluation

Taking inspiration from programmes such as Supernatural and Charmed, I wanted to create an effect that allowed me to have ghosts as part of the storyline. Initially, I wanted to create the type of shimmering effects you see in both programmes, however, I quickly came to discover that creating a believable 'ghost' character actually needed more attention that the fancy effects that can possibly go with it.
During these tests, I had to constantly go back to the drawing board and had to keep using the advanced effects from the 4-point garbage (I used 8, 16 and 32 garbage mattes to create this effect). This was good practice for my editing skills and I enjoyed creating this type of effect, even if the end result did not work. The mistake I made was not leaving myself enough time to go back and shoot, allowing me to do more tests and get the effect accurate. I would have liked to do this. I do plan on experimenting further with this effect and hope to get it accurate.

ghost effect test three

In a last ditch attempt to solve the problems with editing the effect, I went on to using the 32-point garbage matte in order to refine the shot even more accurately. I, again, adjusted the opacity first in order to identify (once again) problem areas. I then spent some time adjusting the points in the garbage matte to pin point Dan in the shot. I then moved the shot around in order to line up the problem areas with the ones on the under-laying shot. This went better than my first two attempts, however, the problems are still there and it not confirms that the problem is actually in the camera angle.

ghost effect test two

This is my second test for creating ghost effects in a shot.

As it can be seen, the problems with the location in the shot are still there, although it is a much better attempt than it was previously. I have begun to believe that I may have adjusted the camera slightly and it has caused an inaccurate overlay. To attempt to resolve this once more, I went on to using the 32-point garbage matte.

Ghostly Effects - 16-Point Garbage Matte

After my first attempt went pretty wrong, I went back to the drawing board. I once again overlayed the shots and adjusted the opacity first, in order to get an idea of where the problem areas were in the shot to begin with.
I took a 16-point garbage matte effect (instead of 8-point) and made another attempt to refine the shot down to just Dan. Due to the fact I adjusted the opacity first, I knew where the problem areas first. I was able to cut down the shot a lot better using this knowledge. However, the problems with the location in the shot were still there but less apparent. This was frustrating as I thought I had solved the problem. I began to believe that the problem was actually in the camera angle and not the way I was editing the effect. Once again, I wanted to attempt to edit this better, so I resolved to using the 32-point garbage matte.

Ghost Effect Test One

This is my first test edit to create a ghost effect.

Using the same technique as split screen, this helped me attempt to create the effect.

However, using the 8-point garbage matte was not sufficient enough to create the effect and I had a few problems refining the shot to accomodate for the effect. To resolve this, I went on to using the 16-point garbage matte in an attempt to create the effect more accurately.

Ghostly Effects - 8-Point Garbage Matte

The idea of experimenting with this effect is because it is quite a common sight in the fantasy/sci-fi genre (a genre I will be interested in working in). The original plan was to try and put shimmering into the ghost effect, however, I found that actually creating a believable ghost like persona in the film was actually something that needed more attention.
To create the ghost, I used the same technique that I used for the split screen effect. However, where I used the four-point garbage matte for the split screen; for this test, I used the 8-point garbage matte. The point of this was to refine the shot that little bit more; plus, I was not using the entirety of the shot, I was only using one element of it.
Taking the 8-points of the shot,  I adjusted the frame so you could only see Dan out that one shot. I attempted to refine it as much as possibly, so you could only see Dan. However, 8-points was not enough to make it look believable. I then adjusted the opacity to create the ghost and hoped this would solve the problem. However, it did not as you could see other bits from the shot, such as the stairs, ghosted over the under-laying shot. This ruined the edit, so I decided to go back and do the same thing using a 16-point garbage matte.

Split Screen Evaluation

For this effect, I used the four-point garbage matte tool and the colour corrector tool in Adobe Premiere.
Even though I had problems in the beginning of my experimentation and editing, I believe I was able to solve this problems and had a successful time experimenting with this effect. I would like to have done more tests with this effect, however due to problems with software and poorly managing my time, this was not an option. I do plan on experimenting more with this effect in the future and hope to get more ambitious with it. I hope to apply this effect at some point, whether it be final; one of the third year projects or a project in my own time.
I thoroughly enjoyed using this effect and I am pleased with the outcome.

Split screen with slight color correction

Going back to editing the shot, I have resolved to use the colour corrector tool in order to get rid of the cut line in the shot. Using this tool, I adjusted the reds and greens in the top shot. My reason for this being the door. The door is where the cut line can be seen and the reflections/colour of the door could affect this dramatically.

I only adjusted the colours slightly as I didn't want a green/red tint in other parts of the shot, but I wanted to adjust it enough not just to get rid of the line, but to add a slight warmth to the shot. I believe this was a successful move because it appears to have improved the effect a lot more than expected.

Split Screen Test Four

Going back to editing the garbage matte, I have once again adjusted the cut. However, there are still problems with the colouring of the shot. Even though this adjustment has improved the effect, the cut line can still be seen.

To try and save this, I will go back into premiere and use the colour correct tool. Hopefully this will improve the effect.

Split screen test Three

In this test, I went back to adjust the garbage matte because in the last test, half of James dissapeared behind the glass panelling.



In premiere, I moved over the cut in the shot to take out more of the top shot. This allowed the shot to make more sense, so you can see the entirety of James behind the glass panel. However, this move affected the colours in the shot and the distinct line is once again apparent. So I will go back to the shot and once again try to adjust the cut.

Split screen Test Two

Taking my extra footage from that shoot, I played around once more using the four-point garbage matte.

This test was more successful because the lighting was a lot better therefore more even, so when the shot was cut, colour fading was less apparent and did not leave a distinct line down the middle.

Even though I used the same technique, cutting the shot straight down the middle cause other problems. When James walks in through the door, due to the shot being cut down the middle, James' arm and some of his body disappear behind the glass panelling in the door. This completely ruins the shot, so I resolved to go back and adjust the garbage matte.

Split Screen Test One

Using the four-point garbage matte effect in Adobe Premiere, I adjusted the shots to get James on the screen twice at the same time.



I overlayed both shots and used the garbage matte to cut the top shot. I cut the shot down the middle so it only took up 50% of the screen. This showed James walking down the stairs looking at himself sat there. This was a straight forward, successful first test for what I wanted. However, issues arose due to the bottom shot's colour fading when the top shot was cut. This has left a very distinct line down the middle of the screen.



I thought this might have been the location of the shot (possibly), so I resolved to use other footage that I had obtained from this shoot and see if I face the same problems.

Multiple Exposure

Image found at: https://thedarkroom.com/tips-on-creating-double-exposures/

The following information is found at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multiple_exposure

• A multiple exposure is the superimposition of two or more exposures to create a single image. 
• The exposure values may or may not be identical to each other
• In photography and cinematography, multiple exposure is technique in which the camera shutter is opened more than once to expose the film multiple time, usually using different images.
• The resulting image contains the subsequent image/s superimposed over the original. 
• This technique is sometimes used as an artistic effect often to create ghostly images or to add a person or object to a scene that wasn't originally there. 
• It is often considered easiest to have a manual winding camera for double exposures.
• Some more advanced automatic winding cameras have a multiple exposure setting, however, the setting must be set up before each exposure. 
• Due to the fact multiple exposure exposes a frame multiple time, negative exposure composition must first be set to avoid overexposure. 
• Medium to low light is ideal for multiple exposure.
• A tripod is not always necessary if combining different scenes in one shot. However, in some conditions (such as recording an entire lunar eclipse), a stable tripod is essential to order to keep consistency. 
• More than two exposures can be combined, with care not to overexpose the film.

Split Screen Effect

After watching a film made by Buster Keaton, using old fashioned double exposure, I wanted to create something similar using digital means.

In order to shoot with the idea of creating this effect, I had to learn how to set up the camera and block out the actor/location to accommodate for this. I had to set up the camera on a tripod (I used a P2 camera) and keep it set in exactly the same place. I then had to block the actor/location. I had to put my actor (James) on the right side of the screen and make sure he doesn't go past a certain point. The reason for this is because the shot will be cut down the middle in post and I didn't want to cut off the actor at any point. In order to block this, I had to show him the type of shot being used on the viewfinder and explain to him where he had to stand and couldn't go past and so on. After filming the shot, I asked him to look back at the viewfinder and remind himself of what point the shot will be cut in post. I then asked him to go to the left hand side and walk in from out of shot, whilst still acknowledging the restrictions. He did this well and it helped when editing the shots.

After problems with Avid, I had to take the shots into Adobe Premiere where I used an effect called a Four-Point-Garbage-Matte which allowed me to cut the shots at certain points.

Problems with Avid

I began having problems with Avid right from the beginning; some of which were human error. For example, the footage for my split screen effect tests were shot in the wrong formation (.MXF) that Avid refused to recognise. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, I could not go back and re-shoot my test footage. I resolved to put the footage into Adobe Premiere and work with the footage from there. This was unfortunate, and I do expect this to affect my mark for this module, as it was my own error.

However, a few of the problems I had with the software were technical issues, which set my work schedule back. After the trouble I had exporting it, I went back the next day after doing some on-line research with the intention of exporting my edit and doing more edits using Avid. However, when I started up the software, I was informed that the trial mode had ran out and I was unable to use it. With our technician being away, this could not be resolved. Admittedly, if id have went back to Avid a week or so sooner, this problem would not have happened and I would have had my edits. 

To resolve this issue, I discussed with my lecturers about returning to Adobe Premiere up until deadline. This compromise was agreed, however, the agreement was just for this module. I would absolutely have to use Avid for the client pieces.. 

Editing with Avid

Due to problems with Avid software and setting up Edit-share, it took me a while to go back to practising editing with Avid. However, I did go back to it and began putting together a small edit of the ninja green screen footage (without the green screen filter to begin with).

Importing the footage into Avid was relatively straight forward. I created a new bin in order to organise my footage sufficiently. I them AMA linked the footage from the folder straight into Avid.

I found organising the footage on the timeline tricky. Due to the fact I am used to Adobe Premiere when editing, it was difficult to make the transition. What I wanted to do was to have each bit of footage on separated so I could them down and refine the shots by the frame; however, the way Avid works means it automatically joins all the clips up when imported into the timeline. I found this made editing slightly difficult as it was a bit of a pain to organise. After playing around with the edit for a few hours, I began to get used to the way it works and started to feel more confident in organising my shots. This allowed me to feel more confident using the software.

I managed to get a small edit done with the footage, which I was happy with. However, I had a few problems exporting the edit. I exported the edit around 7 or 8 times and every time I tried to play it back, it said it was in the wrong format. With our technician away at the time, I resolved to using the internet and asking some advice from an ex-student who'd used the software before. After a few more attempts, the issue was not resolved. So from then I decided to go back to it the day after, after I had researched the software some more.

Green Screen - Extreme Close Up Ninja

Another green screen test.



The reason I did this test is because I wanted to use the green screen at different camera angles. The reason for this being it will allow me to learn to apply green screen effects at different angles and block the shot more efficiently.

Green Screen - Ninja Close Up

This is another experiment with the green screen. If successful, this footage will be incorporated into the final test piece.

The idea of this test being filming something (with green screen) with the intention of it being put into a piece. Sufficient planning; blocking and lighting arrangements were made in order to film this piece.

This will be put into After Effects and a forest scene will be placed in the background in order to make it a full clip.

Production Diary - 10/12/2014

Unfortunately, due to crossed wires and mis communication, we were unable to film on the 9th of December. This is unfortunate being the last week before the holidays, so we need to move fast and think of a solution to accommodate for this.
Me and Matty have discussed possibilities, and after speaking with Di, we have decided that we should possibly shoot in the film studio (laying down mats and plastic covers) and just get a few small segments and incorporate them into the footage we already have.
Due to the fact we have already done most of the prep specifically for a shoot with SFX, this would be a good settlement to carry out our tests.

I am currently still working with After Effects (creating muzzle flash/flash bangs), however, I have been unable to use Avid due to time constraints and the Edit Share server being down. At this point, I will carry on working with After Effects, to gain more knowledge. Luckily, I have extra editing time before Christmas and I will be getting the bulk of editing done (With Avid) on them days. I know that I was meant to be doing all the Avid tests before using After Effects, however with the Edit Share getting set up and trouble with the editing suite in general, I settled to using After Effects in the PC lab and holding off on using Avid.

My next step is to incorporate all my tests into one clip and working them around each other.

After Effects Test #5 - Muzzle Flash Re-Test

In this test, I applied more muzzle flash to the clip in order to enhance the usage and practice using the effect. I applied the flash to the first machine gun I used, however, I added additional muzzle flash in order to compensate the amount of gun shots. This went well and not the shots look better on the clip.
I then added muzzle flash to the second machine gun in order to accommodate to that part of the clip. When applying this, I played around with the positioning and size of the flash in order to get it accurate. This went well because, I think, this has made the muzzle flash more realistic and adds to the effect.

I also practiced applying the effect more accurately to the frames of the clip. This allowed me to get the timing of the effect more accurate and be on par with the gun shots on the clip. This has helped me apply the effect more efficiently and thus helped me advance my skill in the use of it.

Next, I will be applying the muzzle flash on a different camera angle (as the gun will be facing the camera) in order to further practice positioning and scaling of the flash.
After this, I will be using the original clip (without any effects) and combining muzzle flash and flash bangs in order to gain more practice with After Effects.

After Effects Test - Muzzle Flash Test Two

This is a second muzzle flash test in After Effects.

I have added more muzzle flash to the other machine gun shots at the end of the clip.



I did this using the exact same method as the other test, however, I have practiced at getting the flash exact to the frame in order to time it perfectly with the shots on the actual footage. I have also practiced with the positioning of the muzzle flash.



In my next test, I am going to place muzzle flash at a different camera angle. I will be using the camera shots starting at 0:06 to place the flash because the guns are actually facing the camera.



After the next muzzle flash test, I will begin combining muzzle flash and flash bangs in the same clip.

Creative Production - Meeting with Matty Gunn 04/12/2014

In a meeting with Matty, we have discussed a final shoot date in order to gain the final footage for creative. This shoot is now planned for Tuesday 9th December at Urlay Nook (we have gained permission).

For the shoot, we need the costume for our actor (Richard; also playing Ninja soldiers). The costume will be a green tshirt (which we hope to gain from Primark) and camo trousers with boots. These items should be gained fairly easy and we plan on going out tomorrow to buy the items. 

The duration of the shoot is roughly planned from around 10:45am to 3pm. This is not including travelling time. However, this should give us enough time to prep the shoots (with FX) and film the shots we need. A substantial amount of planning will go into the shoot beforehand in order to save time. 

The crew will be:

Myself - Co- Direction/ Digital SFX

Matty Gunn - Co-Direction/ Practical SFX

Gavin Murphy - Camera Op

James Bushnall - Sound Op

Matty will be doing all the make up effects on the day of shoot and I will be blocking the shoot/set in order to get the shots done correctly prepared for digital SFX. 

Storyboards have been generated and scripts have been conducted. One final meeting will be held before the shoot in order to get everything in order. 

After Effects Test #4 - Flash Bang; Sound Effects

This is my fourth after effects test. For this, I was applying sound effects to the flash bang effect to enhance it and make it more applicable.

To do this, I needed realistic sounding effects to apply. I look on audio network and other sound effects sites and couldn't find anything to fit. After speaking to colleagues, Dan D'Arcy and Adam Bouadba, I found out about a package named Video Co Pilot which is for After Effects and includes plenty of sound/video effects. As it happened, Adam has the full package on his laptop and he allowed me to have some effects that I needed off there.
After searching through the package, I found plenty of sound effects that I could use. I had a listen to them to find out which ones would be more applicable. I imported all the 'Explosion' tracks into After Effects and then chose 'Explosion_Fast' off the list. I dragged the track onto the timeline and began moving it in line with the flash bang.
I cut it down to fit in with the length of the flash bang. However, as I could not hear it through After Effects, I was basically winging it. I copied and pasted the sound effect (twice) and put them in line with the other flash bangs. I then exported the clip.
After watching the clip, the sound effect was not right and sounded like a grainy blip which completely ruined the effect. So, I listened to the track again and went back to my After Effects work space. I deleted the copied tracks off the timeline and began re-editing the original one. Listening to the track again made it easier to judge where I needed to cut the sound effect. I did so and once again copied and pasted to align with all the flash bangs.
After watching/listening to the exported clip, it sounds a lot better and the sound effect does make the flash bang better and makes it more applicable.

I plan on working on this effect further to enhance it.

Flash Bang Test Footage with Explosion Sound Effects (Re-Edited)

This is the same flash bang test footage (with sound affects) as before. I have re-edited the sound to make it more effective and enhance the flash bang effects.

This works a lot better and this test is okay and progressing. I will be working on it more to enhance and improve the effect.

Flash Bang Test Footage with Explosion Sound Effects

This is my flash bang test footage with added sound effects to make the flash bang more effective.

However, I could not hear the sound on After Effects, so I was winging it when I cut it down to fit with the flash along. This went wrong and it just sounds like a grainy blip in the sound.

I plan on going back and re-editing the sound effects to make them fit.

Flash Bang Test Footage

This is the footage where I apply flash bang.

I think the test went okay, however, sound effects and a few more masks on the flash would have made this technique more efffective to the footage.



I plan on expand on this clip with more masks and a few other effects.

After Effects Test - Muzzle Flash

This is my initial avid test with applied muzzle flash using After Effects.



The effects is at 0:20 and is just 3 muzzle flashes coming out of a machine gun. The effect is very subtle however, I think it works well with the footage.



I plan on expanding on this footage, applying more muzzle flash and flash bangs to the clip.

After Effects Test #3 - Flash Bang

For this after effects test, I have been experimenting with applying a flash bang light effect onto the footage. To begin with, I imported (again) the catterick garrison clip I had put together in Avid. I cut it down to the part I wanted and re arranged it on the timeline.

I then went to Google in order to find images to put over the clip. After two failed attempts at using images of fire and explosions (which were not effective), I came across the following image:

I chose this image because it is quite light and has the look of a flash bang from a game. I thought this would be effective as it would provide the flash without the explosion.

I put it over the clip and applied the 'screen' blending mode to it. I then stretched the image so I did not get the outer elements of the image, only the light screen.

I then adjusted the opacity to 65% and cut the clip of the flash down to a second fragment (so the flash will only appear on screen for a second). I copied and pasted the flash and applied to clip two more times, resulting in 3 flash bangs in the clip.

This did not look effective to begin with, so I played around with the opacity (on all of the flashes) and come to the conclusion that an opacity of 45% was more efficient and better quality.

This test looks okay, however, I think the flash bangs are less effective without the sound effects to go with them. This is something I will be experimenting with in my next flash bang test. 

Green Screen Lighting Test

This is one of my first lighting tests for Green Screen. In order to gain, I lit up numerous studio lights, such as the flood lights, and attempted to light the green screen as evenly as possible.



I then blocked out the studio and place my subject in a position where I could light him separately without casting shadows over the green screen. This was done by overhead studio lighting and red heads.



After framing the shot, I then asked my subject (Richard) to speak to the camera and move around on screen. This allowed me to observe shadowing and allow me to block the studio more accurately.

Double exposure

This is a double exposure test done by you tube user boxes661. This test is done using a Bolex h-16 16mm camera.



This is similar to how double/multiple exposure was done when film stock was a popular format.

Split Screen Test Footage

I have began filming with the intention of taking it into editing and giving a split screen. The idea of this is so I can have the same person on the screen at the same time.

In order to do this, I needed to centralize the shot and keep the camera in the the same place at all time. Also, I needed to block the shot so the actor (James) did not pass the centre line. The idea being that both shots are going to layered in post and then the top layer will be split into 2 halves. One of the halves will be taken away, giving way for that half of the underlaying shot. However, because the camera has stayed in the same place, it goes unnoticed that half a shot has been taken away.

I filmed these test shots in two different places in order to get extra practice with camera placement and blocking.

After Effects Test #2

In my second After Effects test, I found a tutorial on You Tube that was a simpler demonstration of how to create muzzle flash (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrMtV_Map60&index=6&list=WL). This was really helpful because it wasn't described in an over complicated way and it used tools that I didn't have to buy the package for.

Also, I was provided with an Adobe After Effects 'Cheat Sheet' and a couple of Adobe 'How to' tutorials. This allowed me to be a bit more efficient.

In order to create the muzzle flash, I again downloaded an image from Google Images. I imported the image into After Effects and applied it onto the clip. This brought the image up onto the source window on top of the clip. I then reversed the image and put it in to the exact place it was needed.

I then shortened the image clip and moved around on the timeline. The idea of this is to get the right time codes on the timeline.

Due to the fact there was three gun shots straight after each other, I had to copy the image another two times onto the timeline to accommodate for this. I then had to re arrange the images on the timeline to get the timing right.

I found this test successful and I am pleased with the outcome. The fact that there was already a small spark off the gun in the original clip helped because I had something to work around.

After Effects Tests

I have began working with After Effects and tried to get my head around it. I looked up a couple of tutorials on You Tube. This initial test I attempted at creating muzzle flash with the Catterick Garrison footage.

After watching the tutorial (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M64vpXEiymU), I attempted to break down the footage, to the bit I wanted to edit. I did this quickly using B and N as a keyboard shortcut. This allowed me to put in and out points on the footage quickly and accurately. I then took that small segment out of the footage and began editing in a separate composition.

The tutorial stated that I needed to download (and pay) for a package that provided all the effects for you. However, I was unable to pay for this package. To solve this, I downloaded similar images off Google images and imported them into after effects.

I noticed that the images had a black background on them, so I imported the images into Photoshop to attempt to get rid of it. However, this didn't work out very well and I couldn't use the images in After Effects.

This test didn't take me anywhere, however, I have learned that this way of doing things doesn't work and I will be finding an alternative way.

Production Diary - Week Ending 16/11/2014

At this point, I have now had my green screen tech demo; ran some green screen/lighting tests; had another Avid demonstration and finalized the script for the final piece.

I am starting to feel a lot more confident with the use of Avid. I haven't been able to carry out the tests I like (due to the application of Edit Share in the past week or so) however, I do plan to do another one or two Avid tests within the next week. The plan is to extend on the Catterick Garrison footage.

My next step is to take the green screen tests into the editing suite and start applying the RGB key to it, with a background, in order to make it a full shot. I will then evaluate my experience with the technique and try to improve.

I have also tried to use After Effects in the recent weeks, however, due to a mess up with the Adobe software I have been unable to. I plan on using it in the next week, with the Catterick Garrison footage. I will be applying gun effects and flash bang effects to begin with. I will then evaluate my experience with the software and try to improve.

Green Screen Tech Demo - 7/11/2014

Unfortunately, I was not able to post this when I done it because I was busy doing tests and such.

Green Screen Tech Demo - Notes

• Use flood lights in order to get even lighting across the green screen. This is to avoid hot/cold spots on the screen.
• Use a flat surface to avoid shadows. This will create different light exposures on the screen. Iron the screen where necessary.
• The material used is important! Be cautious of reflective materials. This is because the color will slightly shine on the subject, thus creating a problem in post. 
• Use scrim on red head lights in order to try and take away hot spots. This is due to the intensity of the lights.
• When using red heads on the screen, aim them away from the green screen and use a reflector to shine the light. This is to avoid high intensity hot spots and will allow the light to be even.
• The subject should be lit with the same lights as the green screen. To light the subject, have it in front of the green screen lighting and light separately.
• When lighting a subject, include overhead lighting in order to get rid of shadows. (if lighting a whole person).
• When you are green screening one subject, a minimum of 2 flood lights and 3 red head lights will be needed to light the green screen and subject.
• When green screening a window, where possible remove the glass in order to get rid of reflections and light glares. Also, place the green screen behind the window frame.
• If glass cant be removed on a big window, place the green screen outside on the other side of the window and avoid lighting towards the glass.

When using a P2 Camera:

• Its important to shoot progressive. This is because motion/blur need to be refined.
• Shoot in 720P.
• Use a high shutter speed in order to define the image. The standard for shutter speed is usually double the frame rate.
• Higher shutter = more light needed.
• When filming with a high shutter speed, the image will look artificial. In post production, add a blur in order to make it look realistic.
• Use the zebra setting in order to see exposure.
• In order to logistically keep track of exposure (Graph), use the waveform setting. This will show a graph using waveforms to record exposure. You will want the line on the graph as flat as possible.
• Aim for around 70-80% exposure.
• Avoid a shallow depth of field. 

When using an AVC:

• Need to shoot in 1080/25P
• For both AVC and P2, avoid interlace where possible. 

'Interstellar' (2014) Review

Video still shot taken from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSWdZVtXT7E

Interstellar is a film about a group of people who set out to find another planet, in another galaxy, in order for mankind to carry on living. At this point, the earth's climate is changing, so mankind are hit by famine and drought. A sphere that is able to transport into another galaxy is discovered, thus forcing NASA to start sending out teams to find another habitable planet for mankind. 

This film is directed by Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight Trilogy; Inception) and stars Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Michael Caine and Mackenzie Foy. 

This film a strong story line and has a really great cast to go with it. McConaughey gave an amazing performance as Cooper, struggling between the ethics of finding another world and saving mankind or being a father to his children. This was brilliantly played out by all the actors involved and added to the drama of the movie.

The SFX/VFX in the movie were beautifully done and done the story line justice. The shots that showed space and the transportation into the other galaxy were impressive, showing a combination of SFX, CGI and modelling. These effects helped tell the story, showing a world that is unknown or not seen often. In my opinion, seeing this created more suspense and added more realism to the story. Also, the actors were adapted well into the 'surroundings' and played the roles of the characters in that type of atmosphere brilliantly. 

Before going to see the movie, I was skeptical of how it would be portrayed. Although the trailer looked good, I was unconvinced that they would be able to convey the concept without going too much into the 'Star Wars' style. However, I was astounded by how realistic the effects looked and how much it contributed to the story. 

This is a film that I would expect to win awards for the SFX at least. I believe it to have the capacity to inspire not only my own work but future Hollywood films. 

The Beginning and Use of Green Screen

I watched Hollywoods History of Faking it: The Evolution of Green screen Compisitng at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8aoUXjSfsI&index=1&list=WL  (Posted by Filmmaker IQ - Youtube User)


This clips begins by talking about the history of Green Screen. He talks about George Melies' use of matte and multiple exposure. He presents the clip 4 heads are better than one (1898). He describes this as the beginning of green screen composition. Melies would black out part of the frame using a piece of glass with black paint on it (this was so light would not reach that part of the film, therefore it wouldnt get exposed). He would then rewind the film and then matte out everything else in the frame except the parts that were matted out before. This was all done inside the camera.

The technique was then used again in The Great Train Robbery (1903) in order to create a larger world. This was because it was virtually impossible at the time to film the sequence on an actual train due to location restrictions and lighting. The movie was filmed in the studio and certain parts, such as windows and door frames, were matted out in order the moving scenery outside the train.

Norman Dawn used the matte technique in order to present big locations and sets without the cost of construction. The Glass Shot was a matte inspired technique used to do this. The problem with this is that paintings of the locations had to be ready on set. The painting was put onto a piece of glass and placed between the subject and the camera. Dawn solved this later on by painting the glass black and treating it like it was a matte shot. The glass was then transferred onto a different camera where matte artists could then spend time developing the paintings.

This technique was used for some time through the golden era of Hollywood and is even still used in the modern digital world.



The above information was retained from Hollywoods History of Faking it: The Evolution of Green screen Compisitng at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8aoUXjSfsI&index=1&list=WL  (Posted by Filmmaker IQ - Youtube User)

'Fury' (2014) Review

This image is retained from: http://www.imdb.com/media/rm898352384/tt2713180?ref_=ttmi_mi_all_sf_16

As part of my research into SFX with guns and flash bangs etc. I am looking into a small number of army films in order to see what the effects are like in said films.

I visited the cinema to see the newly released Fury (2014, Directed by David Ayer. Starring Brad Pitt and Logan Lerman). My reason for watching this particular movie is because it is an up to date adaptation of such films, therefore has up to date SFX.

The entire film was full of drama and the relationship between the characters drove the film. The SFX were impressive throughout the majority,  using a range of different flash bangs; fire/smoke effects; gun shot effects and CGI. 

However, what really disappointed me (and possibly ruined a few scenes for me) was the use of strobe light effects in order to show gun shots. I am unaware of the technical aspects of what gun fire looks like, however, there were moments where it seemed like they were using the same effects that were used in the original Star Wars (1977). You could often tell which side were shooting just based on the colour of the strobe light (Green for German; Red for American). This disappointed me because all the other effects in the movie were simply amazing and done well. I felt that maybe the strobe light effects took the focus away from what is a brilliantly shot movie. 

Other than the strobe light effects, I was impressed by the entire film. The storyline; characters; acting; locations and so on, were all done brilliantly and just added to the drama and effect of the movie. This is a movie I would definitely watch again. 

Production Diary - Week Ending 2/11/2014

As of yet, I have not had my tech demo for the green screen. This is due to the technician being really busy. With him, I have scheduled in a tech demo for the 7th November in order to gain an understanding of the technique and hopefully carry out some tests. Due to not having a tech demo, my work for this technique has been put back by around 3 weeks. Even though this is frustrating, I plan to incorporate more tests into my shooting dates in order to catch up with myself (Green screen shoot date is scheduled for 12/11/2014). I plan to begin the shoot carrying out numerous tests before filming properly. This (I think) may also help the actor to become comfortable with scene throughout the course of the shoot.

Upon further discussion with Matthew, we have changed the scripts again as we realised we were missing some aspects for both of our projects. Also, we have come to realise that we need two slightly different versions of the script in order to accommodate us both in our projects. Seens though Matthew's work is in production and my main bulk of work is in post-production, we have come to the conclusion that we need separate filming dates with a significant time period between them in order to let us both do our projects. Final shoot dates have yet to be discussed.

I have yet to look over and annotate the new script. I will be doing that within the next few days.

I have had further tech demos with Avid and I am now feeling more confident with the software. I have also began looking at After Effects and looking at how I'm going to use it. I am going to do a second Avid test and a first After Effects test within the next week.

My next steps are to pin down shoot dates/locations; produce more software tests and research further into the techniques.

Avid Testing

I have begun using the Avid editing suite, a software I have never used before. In order to gain more experience and practice, I have taken found footage (from the Catterick Garrison shoot at Level 4) and started putting together a small piece (30 seconds to begin with).

I have made an attempt at colour grading in Avid. What I wanted to do was emphasise the green and brown tones in the shot, which went really well to begin with. However, I made the mistake of overusing the colour wheel and the colour grading went wrong. I plan on experimenting with this more.

Link to video in VLE.

Production Diary - Week Ending 26/10/2014

Throughout this week, I have began writing a short script in order to apply to special effects skills I will obtain through research, development and practice. The piece is around 3 minutes long and the story is written in a way that I can use all the effects I plan on developing.

Upon trading scripts with Matty (who is experimenting with practical effects), we read and analysed each other's scripts and later come to the conclusion to slightly fuse. I will be taking my 'soldier' idea and fusing it with the storyline he written. His script included a lot of practical and special effects, so it made more sense to use his piece. However, one or two of my aspects were missing from his script, so we went over it and altered bits in order for us both to use all the effects we plan on developing. 

Taking the new script, me and Matty both made a kind of 'shooting script' but instead of putting in camera shots, we both annotated the script with our effects separately. This allowed us to see where each effect will go in, therefore making it easier to plan the shoot around. 

We have yet to decide on location and actors, however, I expect full planning to begin next week. Although this is slightly out of timeframe to what I had hoped, between two of us, we should be able to get it done more efficiently. 

Also next week, I have planned out a tech demo with Lee for the green screen. This will allow me to gain knowledge (in the setting up and use) of the green screen and maybe even carry out some simple test shots. This will help when I am planning out the shoot of the final piece. In the next few weeks (before the shoot), I plan on doing some more complex shots with the green screen in order to gain more experience before applying it to a real shoot.

I have now imported the Catterick Garrison footage on the Avid editing suite and have began editing little bits of it (colour grading for example) in order gain some experience in the new software. I plan on editing together a small piece with the footage (1 minute long) and putting it in After Effects in order to start playing with the software.  

The History of SFX

This image is retained from: http://www.filmsite.org/visualeffects13.html

The following information is found at: Special Effects: The History and Technique by Richard Rickitt, Foreword by Ray Harryhausen. Published in 2006 by Aurum Press Ltd. 

• The Rains Came (1939) won an early Academy Award for its use of special effects. They used a split screen combination of live action/miniatures in order to present the devastation cause by earthquakes and floods.
• Ben Hur (1925) required a full scale Circus Maximus and a fleet of seven hugs Roman galleys - on location in Italy. However, the burning of the galleys; bad weather and Italian labour disputes resulted in the production being brought back to California. They completely remade the sets with a significient use of miniatures. 
• UFA (Germany's largest studio) used Fritz Lang as their star director. His two part epic Die Niebelungen (1924) was filmed on huge studio sets and featured a 60ft mechanical dragon. This production also exploited the Shuftan process. This process used mirrors to combine full-sized sets with miniatures. This is a technique that German cinema would later become famous for. 
• By 1930, Lang had left Germany for Hollywood, although he was one of the last to take flight. Lang lingered in Germany to produce Frau im Mond (1929). Lang wanted to make this film as accurate as possible, although it was science fiction. He hired Professor Hermann Oberth (who went on to design the Nazi's V-1 rocket bomb) and Willy Ley (who went on to design rockets for the USA) to work as consultants on the film. However, the Gestapo later conviscated the model rockets and prints of the film because the rocket construction was considered too 'revealing'. 
• Orson Welle's Citizen Kane (1941) used a range of matte paintings, miniatures, animation and optical printing techniques. In the same year, the Academy Awards created a special effects category, which Citizen Kane was not nominated. This is believed to be because the special effects in the film went 'unnoticed'. 
• Hollywood's troubles came about after the invention of television and the US anti-trust investigation in the 50s,  forcing studios to separate production and exhibition activities. Once-profitable theatres were closing by the thousands as film audiences around the world declined by millions. In order to compete with television, the 60s brought about production of spectacular historical epics. Twentieth Century Fox's production of Cleopatra (1963) saw a boom in budget and extras. It is reported that $6,500 was spent on a crown of real gold; 10,000 extras were employed in  periodic costumes; 'Alexandria' was rebuilt as a 20 acre set of huge palaces and temples; a 12 acre reconstruction of Rome's forum was bigger than the original; and Cleopatra's barge was a full scale vessell was built at the cost of $250,000. The finished film cost $44 million ($300 million today) and its failure at the box office almost bankrupted Fox. 
• In the 60s, Hollywood continued the theme of excess. The movies produced generally became more fast paced, action packed and violent. The beginning of the decade saw the release of Psycho (1960) (shocking audiences by the graphic horror) and the first James Bond film Dr No (1962) (delighting audiences with a new style of macho action). This resulted in the presence of on screen violence being extended (audiences responded positively to faster chases, fiercer fights and big explosions). The Great Escape (1963) saw the makers crashing real planes instead of models to add shock effect. 
• The 60s boom of realism saw a dip in the traditional skills of special effects departments. Instead of the matte artist/model maker rendering a city, the epics of the time had to have reality. For example, full scale aircraft being flown into trees by living pilots to film a plane crash.  

Industrial Light and Magic (ILM)

This company was founded by George Lucas during the production of Star Wars: A New Hope (1977, Directed by George Lucas). It is in association with LucasFilms Ltd. and Skywalker Sound. 

Image obtained from: http://www.ilm.com/ on 23/10/2014

Industrial Light and Magic was founded in the May of 1975. However, in the December of 2012, LucasFilm was acquired by the Walt Disney Company.

Throughout its duration, ILM has been nominated 29 times for an Academy Award (winning 15) and 17 times for a BAFTA (winning 15).

The Abyss (1989) featured the first 3D modeling of water.

ILM blended photography with self built physical sets with CGI, that included trees, extras and buildings. This was for the The Avengers (2012) where they evidently built a digitally enhanced New York.

Skywalker Sound has been nominated for 45 Academy Awards, of which winning 19.

When Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark was being put together, Steven Spielberg was hoping to direct a James Bond film. However, George Lucas convinced him to direct Indiana Jones, telling him he 'had something better'.

THX 1138 was extensively restored using ILM's 'digital intermediate' process. After the original negative was scanned, digital colour correction was applied thus creating a new digital master.

References:
http://lucasfilm.com/
http://www.ilm.com/