Digital Photography & Imaging - Project 4

1/6/2023 - 6/7/2023 : (Week 9- Week 14)
Ting Wen Yi / 0361799 / Group 3
Digital Photography & Imaging / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media
Project 4: Cinemograph - Self-Titled


CONTENT

1. Instructions
2. Project 4: Cinemograph - Self-Titled
3. Feedback
4. Reflections


INSTRUCTIONS

 

Project 3: Cinemograph - Self-Titled

Self-titled is an exploration project for the students to express their own individuality and reflect their personality into digital art self-expression. The main idea is to build up self-confidence and discover their interest. 

1. Idea Development 
  • Write a biography about yourself
  • Write a statement about your work 
2. Design Direction
  • Create a sketch for your work.
  • Create a digital poster for your work.
3.Execution and Post Production
  • Import your Final Poster to After Effects
  • Develop the composition techniques using Digital Photography & Graphic Design.
4. Submission 
  • Animate your composition in After Effects
  • Attach your video progress.

PROJECT 3: CINEMAGRAPH - SELF TITLED

 
1. Biography

Intro

My name is Ting Wen Yi, but my friends call me Bernice. I am currently a first-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media. The path I find myself on today, immersed in the world of animation and illustration, was not always the one I envisioned for myself. Allow me to recount my journey and illuminate how my experiences, including my prior studies in Interior Design, have molded me into the artist I am today.

Paragraph 1

Before embarking on my current creative journey, I dedicated my time to studying and exploring the world of Interior Design. I pursued a Diploma in Interior Design, immersing myself in the principles of space, aesthetics, and functionality. Although I found joy in transforming physical spaces, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing. Deep down, I yearned to express my emotions and personality in a different way. It was then that I stumbled upon illustration and animation, and I realized they held the key to unlocking my artistic potential.

Paragraph 2

My previous studies taught me valuable skills, such as the importance of sketching and the thinking process behind creating captivating designs. These skills continue to be the foundation of my artistic journey. Moreover, the attention to detail that I cultivated while studying Interior Design has seamlessly transferred to my artwork, resulting in pieces that are both visually engaging and easy to comprehend.

Summary

A passionate artist pursuing a Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media and eager to explore the endless possibilities of the creative world and share my unique artistic voice.


2. Research & Inspiration

Figure 1.1 Case Study 1

This poster design offers an interesting case study to examine the proportion of the wings in relation to the human figure. The wings are shown with an impressive span, extending outward from person's back. The size and scale of the wings are often exaggerated to emphasize their significance and symbolic importance.

Figure 1.2 Case Study 2

The design features the iconic Mockingjay bird, a powerful symbol of rebellion and hope within the story. The poster typically showcases the Mockingjay perched on a branch, with its wings spread wide, representing freedom and defiance. The bird is often shown holding an arrow in its beak, representing strength and the fight for justice. The imagery is often surrounded by a backdrop of fire or flames, symbolizing the turbulent and oppressive world of Panem.

Figure 1.3 Case Study 3

The Lucifer poster design presents a striking visual representation of the character's duality. It features a composition that showcases Lucifer from two different angles—one side portraying his angelic nature, and the other side revealing his devilish persona.

The angelic side of the poster typically shows Lucifer with pristine white wings, radiating a sense of purity and divine presence. His expression may reflect serenity and calmness, embodying his celestial origins.

On the opposite side, the devilish persona is portrayed with darker elements. This can include devil wings, a mischievous grin, or fiery details that symbolize his rebellious nature and connection to the underworld. The devilish side may also incorporate darker hues or a smoky background, adding an air of mystery and intrigue.

3. Sketches

Sketch 1

Figure 2.1 Sketch 1 - Week 11 (16/6/2023)


In my artwork, I am drawn to the realm of science fiction. As an introverted person, I have discovered a profound means of self-expression through my artistic creations. With a desire to push my boundaries, I visualize myself soaring through the skies, breaking through my comfort zone. My artwork shows two contrasting worlds, symbolizing the transformative journey I undertake.  

Sketch 2

Figure 2.2 Sketch 2 - Week 11 (16/6/2023)

Another idea I explore in my artwork is an angel flying over a burning city. It represents the idea of overcoming challenges and difficulties. It symbolizes resilience and the strength to rise above obstacles, ultimately becoming stronger.

Summary

 I use art as a means of self-expression. I aim to challenge myself and break through my comfort zone by portraying myself flying and breaking barriers. My goal is to inspire others to push their own boundaries and find strength through artistic expression.

4. Photographs

  
Figure 3.1 Photographs of Myself - Week 11 (18/6/2023)

I took a few photos of myself with the help of my sister. Since I already have an idea of how I want my poster to look, it's easier for me to pose and capture the right angles.

5. Mock Ups

Attempt 1

  
Figure 4.1 Elements- Week 11 (19/6/2023)

I found the corresponding pictures to match my sketch, but I have slightly changed the idea for my first poster. Instead of having a two-sided city with one side upside down, I've decided to go with a different concept. I now want to edit myself high above the sky, as if I have broken through glass and am flying freely.

Figure 4.2 Masking - Week 11 (19/6/2023)

I carefully masked myself out in the photos.

Figure 4.3 Inserting Images - Week 11 (19/6/2023)

Then, I placed all the necessary items into the background. As I mentioned before, I wanted to create a shattered glass effect. So, I carefully cropped out pieces of shattered glass and placed them appropriately in the composition.

Figure 4.4 Layers - Week 11 (19/6/2023)

For the last step, I edited and played around with the colors and saturation. Since I wanted a blue-like filter, I adjusted the hue and saturation for each item in the composition. I also made adjustments to the background color to achieve the desired effect.

Figure 4.5 First Poster Attempt - Week 11 (19/6/2023)

Attempt 2

  
Figure 5.1 Elements- Week 11 (19/6/2023)

For my second attempt, I followed the same process of finding suitable pictures that matched my sketch.

Figure 5.2 Inserting Images - Week 11 (19/6/2023)

I inserted all the pictures into the composition according to my sketch and personal preferences.

Figure 5.3 Layers - Week 11 (19/6/2023)

After placing all the images, I proceeded to adjust the filters and hues. However, I encountered a challenge in making myself look like a seamless part of the poster. I had to edit the colors of each individual flame to ensure they appeared consistent.

Figure 5.4 Second Poster Attempt - Week 11 (19/6/2023)

Final Poster Design

Figure 5.5 Final Poster Design - Week 12 (23/6/2023)

6. Animating

Figure 6.1 Animating in After Effects - Week 12 (25/6/2023)

I animated the wings, making them flip gracefully. I also attempted to animate the rising smoke, giving it a lifelike movement. I also rotated the fire ring, creating a rolling effect. To create a realistic burning effect with the fire in the picture, I adjusted the opacity. By manipulating the transparency levels, I aimed to mimic the flickering and dynamic nature of flames. While it may be challenging to achieve a fully realistic effect in a static image, adjusting the opacity helps to convey the idea of a burning fire and adds depth to the overall composition.

Pre-final Animations

Figure 6.2 "Wings of Resilience" First Attempt - Week 12 (25/6/2023)

For my first attempt, I also added background music to enhance the overall experience. I've chosen "From the Ashes" by ILLENIUM as the music for my poster. This song captures the message I want to convey in my portrait, which is about overcoming challenges and becoming stronger despite difficult circumstances. "From the Ashes" reflects the idea of rising above adversity and transforming myself, just like me shown in the portrait.

Final Animated Poster

Figure 7.1 "Wings of Resilience" Final Animated Poster - Week 12 (25/6/2023)

I named my poster "Wings of Resilience" because it captures the essence of the concept I portrayed. 

Concept:
I portray myself as a flying angel with fiery wings, surrounded by an abandoned city. It symbolizes my triumph over challenges, resilience, and the ability to grow stronger. The fire on my wings represents the trials I've overcome, bringing transformation and renewal. Despite the city's desolation, I shine with hope and strength. The fire ring on my back reminds me of my inner strength, offering protection and continuous growth. This portrait conveys the message that we can overcome anything by harnessing our inner fire and emerging stronger from adversity.

Music : ILLENIUM – From The Ashes Ft. Skylar Grey
 

FEEDBACK

Week 12: Proceed with composition 2, animate the wings, make the anchor point from the centre to inner a bit so that the wings can swing/rotate smoothly.


REFLECTIONS

Experience
From this exercise, I learned to express myself through art. I applied the techniques I had learned previously and incorporated them into this exercise. Additionally, I acquired the skill of using Adobe After Effects to animate pictures. Personally, I found the process of animating to be incredibly cool and enjoyable. Undoubtedly, there were moments when I encountered difficulties and the process proved to be time-consuming. However, the gratification of witnessing the animation come to life made every moment worthwhile.

Observation
I observed that engaging in this exercise provided me with a valuable learning opportunity. Through the process of animating, I gained firsthand experience in expressing myself through art and honing my technical skills.

Findings
I found that the process of animating requires a tremendous amount of patience. Every movement and transition needs to be meticulously adjusted frame by frame, which can be quite painstaking. However, despite the challenges, I do feel a strong sense of accomplishment and fulfillment now that I've completed all the exercises.

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