All hail the midi-chlorians

The internet has fundamentally changed the way in which information can be shared. Almost instantly allowing groups of like minded individuals to share ideas across geographical boundaries which would have made it nearly impossible to do. Which brings us to the way we consume media. From personal experience, content is crucial in preserving a gaming community. Slow content release can cause drops in active players, and a lack of players correlates with a drop-in revenue. From the social media perspective, platform creators like snap chat and Facebook are constantly trying to release new features. Sometimes they end up copying successful ones like snap chat stories and how Facebook has now integrated that into their own platform. Netflix is also an entertainment medium that must constantly update their collection to keep customers entertained, or at least keep them from visiting other providers like Hulu for fresh and new content.

Star Wars is an interesting case, especially as depicted by the readings. Its following is enormous, conventions happen every year at various locations. Fan content is a thriving situation where fans utilize content and come up with new and alternative ways to add content to a universe with many followers. According to Jenkins (2012) “When AtomFilms launched an official Star Wars fan film contest in 2003, they received more than 250 submissions. Although the ardor has died down somewhat, the 2005 competition received more than 150 submission” (p. 131). The relationship between LucasArts and their audience is unique, it allows the fans to have a connection where fans can participate in the creation of content because of their devotion to it. Fan culture, using the internet has been able to expand and share their creations. Before the internet, production companies owned all right, almost like an all-powerful entity that had full control of the product they created. However, LucasArts gets involved with the fans, even hold contest and judge the work that’s based on their product. According to Jenkins (2012) “Hats off to Lucas for recognizing that this is happening and giving the public a chance to participate in a universe they know and love. There’s nothing else like this out there. No other producer has gone this far” (p. 149).

 

 

and……ACTION !

I will start out with the two milestones accomplished by our group. The first, is being able to meet up in person as much as we have. Because every member holds full time jobs, it has been somewhat difficult to sync our watches like spies do in movies. However, we have remarkably found the time to meet, brainstorm ideas for the project. This also includes a hefty amount of time that includes laughing at our video recording bloopers. For us, it feels like a milestone to simply have the time windows become perfectly aligned between our cluttered schedules. The second milestone would have to be having an almost finalized dialog / script, and accumulating a lot of video recording material. Our most recent meeting lead to a very creative influx, which included video for several scenes in our project, testing different hardware (cameras and smartphones). Basically, being able to transition from storyboard and script, into live action with all of its quirks.

We as a group are moving in the right direction, but there could be choppy seas ahead. There are a couple of hurdles that we anticipate in the near future. One of them being the editing, because there is so much material that’s been recorded so far. Collectively, this will be a hurdle that we can manage together, it will take a lot of communication in order to deliver a good product. The second hurdle that i foresee for the group, is making sure that we get the audio correctly. So far it’s been good, mostly due to indoor recordings. However, we need to make sure the outdoors part comes out with the same level of quality.

 

From a personal perspective, this group is very creative, and tech savvy. This is a good thing because i don’t feel like i am very creative, at least not to their level. Yesterday’s work included a lot of different angles, different lighting situations and several improvisations which will make the outcome that much better . 

Gathering resources

Since we began our brainstorming sessions we have come a long way even with some scheduling obstacles. We are attempting to utilize multiple shots to depict our story, this is an aspect we have decided to be crucial in the way it will help drive forward the message of this final project presentation. For the previous blog assignments, Google searches have been the primary method to locate images and music. According to Lessig (2012) “Limiting the freedom of some people to copy create more speech” (p.158). Understanding these laws helped me realize how easily they can be broken, if not using the proper usage rights. However, having access to material fosters imagination and our ability to create more information as indicated by Lessig. Having access to the creative commons search engine has changed everything, especially for someone not very well versed on copyright laws.

1) For an image, I chose this one depicting individuals talking and it incorporates aspects of a two shot and near shot length. Because we have been discussing the incorporation of multiple shot angles, this picture seems to describe that aspect for our assignment.

2) Regarding music aspect, this up beat dance pop track fit the description from what I was imagining. I think it would be a great addition to the project, especially since we are trying to convey a positive message. The beat is quite catchy, and with summer around the corner it feels like something we could use during certain portions of the video project.

3) For the video portion, I found this interview between actress Emma Watson and late night talk show host, Jimmy Kimmel. What I found interesting about this video is that different camera angles being used. It incorporates eye level angles, wide and near shot lengths, close-ups, medium shots.

Eye of the Storm..

Before the storyboard:

Creativity seems to be very plentiful in our group. Not just saying that to be positive about this blog project. During our last class session, we had to practice some of the techniques learned in class. Low angle, high angle, close up , extreme close up. What made this practice at the end of the class was the group’s decision to work on the stairwell and outside. Lorena had the great idea of utilizing the angles provided by the stairs in order to incorporate low and high angles. While brainstorming how to record close ups and extreme close ups, Albert suggested going outside. We had more space to record the wide shot, close and extreme close ups. Kaylin suggested recording from two different locations, that way we could use natural lighting and also incorporate some of the buildings structure to create shaded areas with different lighting intensities. For our storyboard, i have collected a number of images from possible filming locations, and incorporated them into the storyboards background. Story wise, we continue to discuss the exact topic that that we’ll utilize for the project. We have a “group-me” channel, google slide and document to help use discuss the project as it continues to evolve from idea to reality. I hope the project continues on a positive direction, a completed and well rounded video being the final product.

After the storyboard

According to Mandiberg (2012), Author Lawrence Lessig indicates that what made sense in one  period might not make sense in another. In this context, our group experienced some changes after brainstorming the storyboard. Although it sounds negative, it was positive throughout. One of the things that changed was the possible locations for us to film the project. Another was the incorporation of more angles in comparison to the previous ideas. Both which enhance our original group ideas. I think that the one element that we’ll eventually include in the project is clear audio recordings. Another is finding a way to use lighting to the best of our abilities. The storyboard portion helped highlight the fact that it isn’t an all encompassing script for the events occurring during filming. Merely a guideline to help us understand the general idea for each scene. Our process began by deciding on the topic for the film, followed by choosing the appropriate scenario. Instead of sketching it, we’re exploring the use of a free storyboard application. It allows for pictures to be added to the background of each scenario, and also lets us draw some high quality stick figures to represent us. Our ultimate vision involves a well organized video project, with rehearsed lines, utilizing multiple angles, and other techniques.

 

Do. Or do not. There is no try.

Project 

I’ll have to admit, that trying to come up with a good idea for this midterm was a lot tougher than I expected. Basically, made me question my own existence, who am I? what are my hobbies? Is there a god? Perhaps the last one is a bit of an exaggeration, but the creative process for the assignment had me panicking a few times. Originally, plans to visit family in Wisconsin were dashed by the winter storm that swept through the east coast for most spring break. This derailed plan for a travel video idea, and had to resort to plan B. I had early access to a game that was to be released on March 21^st, so I figured I would do a video review about Mass Effect: Andromeda. Mainly geared towards an audience eager to get reviews and tips about game settings, customization, and character creation. However, technical difficulties kept getting in the way while using screencast-o-matic. Switching between the game screen and the recording app controls kept causing the game to crash. At this point I had to go to plan C, basically attempting the same thing but with a different game. To my relief there were no application errors this time around. Now that I have found a prospect on what would eventually become the midterm assignment, several recordings were made. At this point in the process, the winter storm had subsided enough where I had access to the school’s computer lab. Given the fact that Microsoft discontinued the movie maker software, this caused some delays and frustration. Having your projects on hold due to software issues can cause a lot of panic, frustration and stress. However, I discovered the importance of alternate plans whenever you work on a project, circumstances arise unexpectedly. Fulfillment came when the editing process was completed, managing to shorten the original recording time by a full minute, as well as adding music to the background. The first google search yielded an mp3 music file that fit the projects frustrations. Nothing like elevator music playing while you wait.

Group Work

Group work isn’t peoples most favorite activity, we have all had that one experience that hinders a fully positive outlook on the whole endeavor. Personally, group work is fine, especially through google docs. It allows for easy participation among team members, and the built-in chat feature helps a lot when you happen to have questions and need to clarify a point or two. According to the readings, authors Hyde, et al. (2012), While the attribution of each contribution made by each author is logged on the history tab of each page, attribution is primarily used as a moderation and accountability tool (p. 53). Google documents also records activity by the users assigned to the document. This contribution history allows for a better understanding of how each member is helping with the overall construction of the document. In the past, I have experienced issues with team members. In one occasion, the professor reached out to the group and set up a meeting to inform us of an imbalance in the groups contribution. The member in question ended up picking up the pace and helping finish the project on time. As the Hyde article denote, these types of history logs serve as an accountability tool, helps everyone see what’s happening and who is doing what.

Kelly’s Top 5

For this weeks assignment, i have listed my top 5 blog picks. Each with their own creative was that express the authors passion. Each representing a broad collection of topics, sports, video games, food, and healthy life choices.

1. https://retrocampblog.wordpress.com/
   1. As a gamer, I’d have to say that this is a very interesting blog. Beyond the gaming interest, it provides visitors with technical knowledge on how to build their very own retro gaming console. Nostalgia is another reason that I enjoyed this blog, and the tutorial video. For a pastime, video games provide a plethora of entertainment value, it allows your imagination to wonder with the same effect as a good book. Albert did a great job with the step by step video tutorial, and I encourage others to visit his blog. If you would like some history on retro gaming, tutorials on how to build you own retro gaming console, be sure to visit this blog.
2. https://justgoshootblog.wordpress.com/
   1. We all take photos, some will use proper tools and equipment such as photoshop and a good camera. Others like myself will use a smartphone. Either way, Jeffrey’s blog has you covered with a great video tutorial on how to edit an image from its original raw format. What I liked about this blog besides the tutorial, is the clean layout with two distinctive features. 1) Lots of Pictures, and 2) Photography vocabulary. I encourage everyone to visit Jeffrey’s Photography blog, with its clean layout, easy navigation, extensive photo samples and helpful tutorial, you will learn something new about your classmate’s talents and the art of photography.
3. https://airjordancollection.wordpress.com/
   1. When it comes to shoes, I wear them although reluctantly. They’re nothing but foot protection form the environment and all the hazards out there. However, Atish’s blog was very helpful in explaining the devotion from individuals about the coveted Air Jordan brand. If you’re interested in learning about how the Air Jordan brand got started. It also helps explain the brands silhouette logo, who it represents and the legend it’s modeled after. The video is quite interesting, fluid and with some cool effects. Particularly liked the initial section when the protagonist jumps into the shoes. Clean blog page, informative, with a creative video about different kinds of air Jordan’s, make sure to visit this blog.
4. https://happyandhealthy365blog.wordpress.com/
   1. College can be very stressful, and sometimes the choices we make can have negative effects on our health. Emily’s blog is a breath of fresh air, providing its users with a clean lay out packed with a wealth of information. I encourage you to visit this blog, there are several topics being discussed, and each illustrated by with healthy meal choices. Under the “Get Moving” blog you will find a very inspirational video, if it doesn’t get you moving, snowboarding or wanting to jump into a foam pit I don’t know what will. It also highlights the talent of the blog’s creator. Be sure to visit, and learn about ways to remain healthy and active while enduring the pressures from college life.
5. https://robbysfoodblog.wordpress.com/
   1. Robby’s blog is creative, and it must do with food. All hail the sandwich, and the interesting posts about different kinds of sandwiches and where to get them. Going to curacao for that “sea fruit” sandwich would be difficult; however, Robby did a good job describing locales for his followers. Another highlight was the video, edited well to maintain its entertainment value. Overall, the blog is very entertaining, the video is a nice compliment to it as well since it provides a contrast between a well-organized layout against an over the top personality of action Bronson

 

Directors Cut

 

My first go at video editing was both rewarding and somewhat frustrating. The first hurtle came in the form of Windows Movie maker no longer being available for downloads since January 10^th 2017. This of course ruled out both my laptop and PC. I had to work on the project at two different locations, at home to do the screencast-O-matic recordings, and on a campus computer lab to do the editing. After all of that was settled down, the actual editing was quite enjoyable. There were so many options to choose form in terms of graphics and effects to add to the video itself. Learning about the artists was another aspect that I enjoyed very much, Steven Megin is the graphical designer whose website I compared to the artists Kekai Kotaku. Both very talented individuals within their own rights. Mr. Kotakus art seem very familiar, which it was since at one point in life I dabbed into online gaming through Guild Wars.

Regarding the Bogost article, I find it very revealing since a lot of the data cited is from 10 years ago. If we compare what’s happening today in the world of video games, and Bogost opinions from data studied a decade ago. We can see that indeed video games have become an artistic expression mecca for all kinds of artists. In terms of using video games to experience and discover political identity, I can’t think of a better example than Role Playing Games like Mass Effect. These genera have players go on a journey where they must make choices depending on their action every step of the way. Some effects are not as clear right away, and it’s not until one approaches the end of the journey that we can experience the positive and negative effects from past decisions. Perhaps something like that could be implemented where the player must make choices, and seeing those effects helps them identify with a political opinion.

The calm before the Storm …

Producing the audio podcast was quite entertaining. Personally, the toughest task was choosing the songs, looking in my music library I came across two gems. “Fly me to the Moon” by the legendary Frank Sinatra, and “Wait and bleed” by Slipknot. From a genera standpoint, completely different types of music style. However, there’s something that they share, how they start out slowly and transition into a much faster paced tone. For the Video analyzation portion of this blog, I checked the RedLetterMedia.com link. While browsing though the videos on the front page I came across one called “Starship Troopers-re: Review”. It called my attention since that movie happens to be one of my favorite sci-fi of all time. The video uses an interview format between what it appears to be co-host Mike Stoklasa and Jay Bauman. The focal point of the set has the audience facing a stage, with both the hosts sitting across from each other. This set seems to enable a better “interview like” experience. As they discuss the movie plot, actors involved, the camera angles switch from its neutral position from the crowds point of view, to focusing between each speaker as they make their points. Audio seems to be recorded through microphones on their clothing, near their jacket collars. Lighting seems peculiar, as when host mike on the right side of the screen has the camera focused on him. You’re able to see less direct lighting than on jay in the left side of the screen. Perhaps they’re using a light fixture from above the hosts. As the interview/discussion goes on, they show movie clips to illustrate to the audience the points they’re making regarding the review. They seem to borrow from other sources, such as movie review shows like Siskel & Ebert form the late 90’s.

Mic Check ..1..2

 

Sound editing, before we get into the possible integration of this skill into my future endeavors as an IT professional, lets time travel back in time. Its march of 2008, just finished basic training and was starting my technical training at naval air station Pensacola. One morning our class was working on special fasteners and bolts for aircraft’s, when the instructor called my name and asked me to get the crescent wrench from the tool box. Followed by a yes sir, I turned around and walked toward the toolbox with only one thought in mind. What the hell is a crescent wrench? A this point I knew there was trouble, I had never changed a car tire, or dealt with tools except for hammer, screwdriver and a snow shovel.  Anxiety starts to kick in and with everyone watching, all I can think about now is solving this problem. Crescent wrench, alright looks like a crescent moon, I’ve got this. I returned with a pair of vice grips, not a crescent wrench. What does it all have to do with using audio editing as part of my future job or hobby? This is blog number two, and I’ve never edited audio of any kind. However, I look forward to learning a new skill like the ones discussed in last week’s class about image editing through Pixlr. Regarding audio editing, I honestly have no experience. Garageband and audacity sound familiar, but never had the necessity to use them. The closest thing to audio editing would be audio recording classes on my iPhone, and later deleting the dead spots from the original recording. Developing new skills is always helpful, and never know when they may become handy. Producing audio clips and adding them to presentations, or getting an IT job for a company deeply involved in the music industry. Learning new things is always helpful, it helps us grow.