Do the same aesthetics that apply to traditional motion media (fil, tv) apply to web video?
Video for New Media: Developing the Aesthetic and Managing the Workflow Pacific Ballroom, Salon G Tools & Techniques
Intermediate Video production for the multi-media project is the art of adapting the decades old technology and aesthetic of television to the needs and sensibility of new media. This adaptation involves, among other things, the reassessment of issues of dimensionality, continuity, spatial logic and workflow. Attendees to this session will learn strategies of video production and post-production for the new media environment, including methods for subverting the established limitations of traditional motion media. Issues and solutions of postproduction workflow for multiple, simultaneous editors will be particularly stressed. Derek W. Toten, Tulane University
The Continuity System
- creates narrative continuity
- relies on editing and mise-en-scene
- anyone working in narrative filmmaking is expexted to be familiar with
Example
http://www.405themovie.com/
Obvious elements of continuity…
- narrative chain of cause effect
- adherence to 180 degree line (axis of action)
- consistency of screen direction
- 30 degree rule
- use of establishing shots
- eyeline matches
- Shot reverse shot patterns
- match on action
- cutting rhythm dependent on camera distance of the shot (wide shots held longer then close-ups)
“tried and true methods” sometimes violated but held overall.
Less evident details of continuity
- graphic qualities roughly continuous from shot to shot
- figures are balanced and symmetrically deployed within a frame
- lighting consistent
- space of the scene clearly unfolds and does not jar or disorient
Video example of montage of students talking about suggestions for packing for international travel (designed for peers speaking to peers)
more less evident details of continuity
- nothing distracts from the center of attention
Comparison of video clips on their own versus within the context of content in a web site or DVD. Examples aim to avoid having video in its own separate box.
Spatial Logic
Everything about continuity establishes 3D space within the 2d space of a screen. But spatial logic on the web is not as constrained
Dimensionality
Until recently all screens, all videos were 4:3 aspect ratio. Even HDTV is fixed (16:9). Film has established sizes as well.
Web video is not constrained, can work against it. DVD video examples have video on right side of screen, taller than wide.
Workflow For Multiple Editors
Using Vegas Video for production.
For multiple editors considered using Fiber Channel (server based, expensive…). Next, tried local Gigabit network within a LAN for sharing files (one audience member has a lab with 11 stations linked). Other approach is check in check out of portable hard drives. Requires more coordination but practical.
Vegas cannot have multiple timelines drawing from the same media pool.
