Unit X 2017: Key Blog Post 1: Research

Unit X: 2017 -- William Wilde

March 2017

This Unit X project is a studio practice working collaboratively with a client to produce a short piece of animation intended to promote/ advertise the artist. Our client is William Wilde, a fashion artist known for his work with latex. Within the brief the client has stated what he would like to be produced; a short animation of exactly thirty seconds inspired by the story of Cinderella. In response to the projects start as a group we have taken a number of actions to prepare and organise ourselves for the project.

To begin research we attended a workshop where we learnt about the generation of ideas through a number of activates as a group. Brainstorming and organising ideas to generate concepts and could become our chosen idea. As a group member I have taken it upon myself to prepare the group’s organisation by establishing a means of group communication using social media and a board organisation website, ‘Trello’. Using Facebook messenger the group can effectively communicate with each other with all members being notified instantly. Using Trello I have created a number of boards to organise the groups thoughts and ideas, and to monitor our progress throughout this project. This allows individual members to be assigned tasks, monitor their progress and archive all of our work.

As a group we decided to individually research and generate ideas initially, following this we held meetings to discuss our found research. Through brainstorming and sharing ideas we combined and created new ones with interesting results. Through my research I started with artist himself William Wilde. I started following his Instagram and browsed his website to begin generating ideas, from this I produced a mood-board of his work. This allowed me visualise William Wilde’s work, observing shapes, colours, composition etc. Another mood-board I generated was of the story of Cinderella, because the client would like this work to be based/inspired by the story of Cinderella. Using these two mood boards I brainstormed ideas in ways to connect these two worlds; how these ideas can be combined into a single thirty second video.

Within the brief the client has stated he would like ideas which are: “Outside the box, Original, Dynamic, Engaging, Edgy, Evocative/Visceral, Provocative, and Sexy”. Knowing this I had to purposely avoid first ideas as they could be seen as predictable and dull. Through my research I found many iterations of the story of Cinderella which I used for inspiration.

Being a group project I gathered my ideas and shred them with the group, this way we discussed all of our ideas and took elements from each other’s to produce a concept together. From this we intend to produce ideas from the concept we have created, discuss production ideas and the direction we wish to go with the concept.

Overall the research stage of Unit X has been a challenging one due to a number of factors. The overall course has been poorly planned regarding deadlines and timetables causing students to prioritise between different units causing group members to not-attend sessions which would have improved our Unit X. Due to the number of stacked deadlines within the space of two weeks caused limitations in the effectiveness of the group because very member was busy with other projects. Reflecting upon my performance during this time; I believe I have worked the best I could have with my group for Unit X with external factors effecting us all. If the deadlines were spaced evenly, or were earlier to allow time for projects to end and begin; I would have worked far more effectively allowing myself to truly devote my focus and time on this Unit X project.

In addition I am disappointed by the lack of communication regarding this Unit X, because we had no notification of who the client would be or what the unit would entail. However other students from other practices like ‘Fashion’ had been told who they could be working and the unit would be about. As animation students we were left in the dark regarding unit x, beginning the unit in the midst of another four units. With the information I have now I would not have chosen this unit for Unit X.

Regarding future plans as a group, we anticipate that we will give greater focus to this project as the deadlines have passed, and that we will be able to work effectively.

Viral Advert Project: Videos

March 2017

Viral Advert Video, my section.

Viral Advert Breakdown.

Pitch Bible Presentation Evaluation

Presentation 

March 2017

On the 22^nd we had to present our ideas in front of our tutor and the rest of the class. These are ideas we have developed over the past couple of months to prepare us for the presentation. This was supposed to simulate what it would be like presenting an idea in front of producers, directors etc.

I was the first to present; I had printed booklets (bibles) of the show to give to the tutors.

 I also brought the model of the 58, the ship I had commissioned by Micheal Tharme; an external modeller. Another asset I created was a PowerPoint to visually support what I would be talking about.

I felt very nervous presenting my idea; considering the time I was using and thinking carefully of every word I was using. Because I had to translate my idea as clearly as possible. With practice and rehearsals I structured the presentation in separate sections which I followed. This allowed me to not repeat information. We were given 10 minutes to present, which I completed in within time; I also had time to take a question.

If I had to present again I would improve by: clearly showing the title of the show; upon reflection I found that I had not said the name of the show at the beginning. I small but very important detail that I feel frustrated that I missed on the day. I would also have engaged with the model effectively, by passing it around the room for closer inspection and adding another element to the presentation. I felt like I was moving a lot around the front of the room as I was moving forward to not hide behind the desk; however I needed to return to click the next slide. I would improve this by staying behind the desk, and not concern myself with positioning.

Overall I feel the presentation went well, but could have gone better. I will apply what I have learnt to future presentations I may give. 

Lighting And Depth Manipulation

Nuke Workshop

March 2017

During this workshop we were taught about the manipulation of depth and light within a shot. These elements can be manipulated easily using the correct nodes within Nuke. What I have learnt today I can apply to my shot as part of the Viral Advert project. Find notes below:

Pitch Bible: Expanded Research

Pitch Bible Development Research

March 2017

To broaden my understanding I decided to stretch myself and research other medias and how they are visualised, to possibly apply these to my own work. I watched the theatre show ‘City of Glass’ and took part in the art exhibit ‘Rock Art’. These were two different events which I would not normally attend; however I believe these have been beneficial experiences, developing my understanding of the art world today.

From the ‘City of Glass’ I learnt about effects, and how they can be used effectively, this was shown by the amazing use of projectors and lights to portray time and thoughts. Of course being in a theatre this is effective as you gain a new visual dimension of the character. I intend to develop my own work in this way; to impress and show this in a new and engaging way.

I did not enjoy the Rock Art event, it was not impressive but I could understand what the work was about. The theme of collaboration caught my interest as part of the exhibit was a functioning club which featured speakers, artists and musicians the artist knows. This made me think on how to portray a theme or idea, how would I do that? Would the audience understand what I’m trying to communicate? However I did enjoy browsing the artist’s personal collection of comics and graphic novels he had collected over the past 40 years. I contemplated about how difficult it must be to stand out amongst other artists, seeing the comics and thinking how to stand out on the shelf. 

Pitch Bible Evaluation

Animation Development. Pitch Bible: Evaluation

Introduction

This project required us to produce a pitch bible; a booklet of information regarding an idea to be published on a medium, this could be a new film, television show, short film etc. This would also be presented as a pitch, to sell the idea effectively and professionally to replicate the conditions we would face in the future. Within this essay I will be reflecting on the overall project and progress through it.

Initial Research and Inspiration

I attended a number of workshops with Steve about how to create a pitch bible, what we would need to do for the project and examples of other pitch bibles. I found these sessions very useful to guide me in the right direction and generate ideas. Using an idea I have had for a long time (from a young age) because over the years I have taken the time to expand my imagined universe. However I now needed to apply the professional principles and organise my imagination in a way it can be understood and presented. This was a challenge because I needed to remember that no-one else knows about my idea and that all information needs to be shared.

I have been inspired by a number of sources over the years including film, games, TV etc. To begin illustrating ideas I searched through old sketch books for reference and remember my ideas. Then I started to develop these characters further; because my characters closely resembled other characters and were cliché. I found this very important to be different otherwise my ideas would always stand in shadow of others; reading research from other artists I found ways to push my character designs and their personalities.  This was a challenge throughout the project because I was very conscious of what ideas have been repeated and what is currently popular; this made me paranoid and conscious of everything I made.

Contacts

Planning the project and presentation I anticipated challenges I would not be able to face alone. Therefore I took the opportunity to contact professionals to assist with my project. This way my time is saved and the best quality of work can be produced to present professionally. Firstly I contacted my brother: Matthew Bowden who is a carpenter. Knowing this I asked him to build a set which the characters would be embedded. Maintaining contact throughout creating the set, measurements and materials were exchanged.

Another professional I contacted is called Michael Tharme who I met at the Manchester Animation Festival, we were both volunteers and talked to each other. Michael is a professional modeller who creates models and rigs for stop motion productions. For my production this was a perfect opportunity to create the ship I had designed. I intended to both have images of the ship integrated into a background and bring the model to the presentation. Throughout production I maintained contact with Michael, sending messages and images to each other using social media. At first I sent designs and inspiration references, and throughout Michael sent me images of his progress. This was a fantastic way to work, recording progress and monitoring the design. I would definitely work with Michael again for his services and professional attitude for future productions/collaborations.

Production

During production I created: the booklet, all assets for the booklet, the presentation, and the set. To begin I planned the necessary pages I would need within this booklet to be both efficient and effective in delivering my idea. After I had planned the pages I had to create the, mainly using Photoshop to both create the pages and artwork for the pages. I used a weathered metal design to portray the style of the show, as inspired by diesel punk. Creating sketches of the characters, turnarounds, and action sequences for the pages which then coloured in Photoshop.

However the medium of the show would be 3D, therefore I had to create a shot to portray what the final product could look like. Using a pre-made rig as a base; I manipulated it to look like one of the characters in the show. Creating a unique helmet model as this is an important element to the character’s identity. Posing the character in a seated and stood position in Maya, planning what the character would appear to do in the shot.

Once Matthew completed the set, I went on to paint it with spray paint as a base coat. Using everyday items and rubbish, I began to create the set which the character would be embedded. I decided to use rubbish because one of the points of the show is to promote recycling; therefore I am following the show’s message.  For colour and composition I chose to colour these items to make them appear part of the show’s universe; portraying everyday items as enlarged and interesting gadgets and gizmos.

 Once the set was created I booked the stop motion studio to photograph the set. Using controlled lighting within the studio I took photographs with a  DSLR from the AV store. I experimented with a range of lights and intensities to offer a range choices when I imported the character. 

Presentation

In preparation for the presentation I created a PowerPoint, this would be an effective asset to use for a presentation. During a presentation it is important to keep the audience engaged, one way to do this is through visual stimulation; therefore I decided to use PowerPoint to both visualise what I would be saying and support in presenting. With feedback and guidance I have used purple visual assets within the PowerPoint as I will use this as support to what I will be saying during the presentation.

Taking preparations further I created notes which I will use to help me deliver the presentation. Keeping information clear and brief to ensure the presentation is within the ten minute limit. I do not like to give presentations as I feel nervous and anticipate problems; however I always try to stay calm and practice will improve my presentation skills.

To create a unique experience, I decided to bring other elements to the presentation. I decided to bring the model of the ship of the show to the presentation for the audience to engage with the model. This would be the ship used in the show and the audience has a unique experience during the presentation.

Conclusion

In conclusion this has been a challenging yet rewarding project. I feel I have worked very hard to complete everything on time, alongside other demanding projects. This project required multiple mediums and use of software’s including Photoshop and Maya. In addition contacting professionals was a new experience with positive results unlike previous group projects. I feel much more comfortable working alone on a project such as this with external contacts. I believe I have worked effectively through difficulties with other projects as well as this one. 

Pitch Bible: Planning

March 2017

Continuing work on the pitch bible, I have planned a layout for the pages for the booklet. This booklet will be printed and handed out the audience to keep as reference and get a closer look at the details of the show. By planning the number of pages and layout, this is an organised system which I can follow.

As well as the booklets, I will be presenting a presentation which will be projected on the wall behind me. This will be visual support for the booklet, allowing the audience to visualise what I am talking about. As well as provide a structure to the presentation: a beginning, middle and end.

When I have completed the assets for my presentation, I will plan how I will present my work. This will be done by rehearsing and timing myself. This will ensure my presentation is both concise and clear, making it effective in delivery and content.

I plan to present my work with:

-          A PowerPoint

-          Booklets

-          Models

This will allow the audience to engage with the presentation, not only sit and listen but to engage with the model. Providing a new element to the presentation. 

Teaser Trailer: Reflect Reflection

March 2017

(Project: January 2017) 

Receiving a 72 with my teaser trailer I am very pleased with the result; in addition I received feedback on my work which I will reflect upon now. I have already reflected upon the video and process but I will now reflect upon the feedback received.

Reflecting on the technical issues I faced, I failed to reflect upon the creative choices I made. Choosing ‘Journey to the centre of the Earth’ I wanted to show imagery of the globe, and travelling: being inspired by such films like the Indiana Jones’ films. This is a well known and stylised theme of adventure which I wanted to capture within the teaser trailer.

A teaser trailer intends to entice the audience, not revealing too much information, but enough to capture their interest. In a short time I intended to show what the film is about and what it could entail. Because of this I chose imagery of maps and globes, this worked as a stylised adventure trope, and imagery of circles: imagery of the earth.

In addition I used footage of large digging machines to portray a journey, to illustrate a great task must be taken to reach the centre of the earth. I had gathered a range of footage of digging machines, but with feedback I focused on finding imagery with circular shapes, this way to keep the trailer consistent.

Using colour correction I intended to keep the colours consistent, colours of orange, browns and blacks for an aged and weathered look to portray history. This representation of history or aged artefacts are often associated with treasure: which I wanted to include in my trailer.

Overall I am pleased with the outcome of the trailer, however I would improve upon the footage used. Having used footage which is royalty free limits what footage I can use, as I would have used more appropriate or different footage which would have been effective. Despite this I believe I have used the footage the best I could, knowing my feedback I understand I will spend more time noticing harsh lines, which can be covered with blurs to create a smoother image/transition. I will improve my knowledge and skills with visual effects with practice and continued use of Nuke. 

Pitch Bible: Development

February/ March 2017

For the animation development project we are required to present our pitch to the group and tutors. For the presentation I must produce shots of what my show would look like. My show is a blend between 3D animated characters and physical sets to produce an eye-catching and memorable style. I intend for the ship within the show to be shown as a model during flight and a set interior. I have been inspired by such works like Star Wars and Red Dwarf for their practical effects and physical models.

Therefore I contacted a professional modeller to create the model of the ship: as i do not have the skills or knowledge to produce an effective model to present. With this model I intend to embed it within a shot to produce a number of beauty shots: to show the audience what the final product would look like. Throughout the project I have maintained contact with Mike about the progress of the model, negotiating rates, problems and rearranging deadlines for the model to be ready before the presentation. In addition to the beauty shots, I also intend to bring the model to the presentation as a physical prop to allow the audience to engage and get a closer look.

As well as the ship, I had to create a set for the beauty shots featuring a 3D character. However i did mot have the time or funds to hire a professional; therefore I created a basic set myself. Contacting a carpenter to produce the base of the set; then I created and painted the props which feature in the shot. Using everyday objects, i recycled them to become props within the scene, spraying and painting them to become embedded within the scene. If I had more time, and funds I would have hired a professional to create the set as this would have given me more time to effectively work on the characters and to produce a better set.

Once I had created the set and props, I took photographs within the studio using lighting and a camera. This way I could take the best quality pictures under the best conditions compared to a camera phone in a spare room.

After that I imported the shots from the camera and began to embed the 3D character of Jinn into the scene. To do this I had to understand the lighting within the scene, understand the direction of the lights and the photographic principles such as the aperture and depth of the shot. This way I could embed the character within the shot effectively with believably.

Overall this has been an intense time with this project, having to manage my time, learn new things and contact professionals. I have learnt a lot in this time, about my capabilities, the skills I have learnt and developed and the work involved to produce an effective pitch. I will continue work by completing the booklet, the presentation and the ship in flight shots. 

Nuke Workshop 4 & Applying Effects

Nuke Workshop

March 2017

Within this workshop we learnt about particle effects within Nuke. I see how this can help my project by applying these particle effects to the portal and footage we have filmed. I took notes throughout the workshop as seen below:

After the workshop I decided to apply what I had learnt to my project. I took the footage I had collecting during filming; imported it into Nuke and started the foundations of what will become the final shot.

I started with the over-shoulder shot where the actor would place his arm through the screen. I had to breakdown the shot to develop an understanding on how to apply the necessary effects. I found this difficult as I have never taken the time to understand how to create a visual effect. Visual effects are different from what I have done previously as the focus on both detail and believably.

To tackle this problem I started with fundamentals of the shot, what will be the main actions; I then plan to move onto details such as the portal effect and particles. This way I can focus on how the shot will look, such as timing, then use the details such as the portal to cover mistakes and adjust lighting.

I plan to continue work on the planned shots; I will need time to both understand my intended shot(s) and the software.