Video & Sound Production | Final Project
Video & Sound Production | Final Project: Visual Effects Video
16/6/25 - 14/7/25 (Week 9 - Week 14)Hu Yao Ping | 0376768
Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media | Taylor's University
Video & Sound Production
Final Project
[Table of Contents]
1.Instruction
2.Final Project
3.Feedback
4.Reflection
[Instructions]
[Project]
For our final project, we created a visual effects 1 minute short film inspired by the Tarot card we drew — The Devil — which shaped our script, theme, and overall creative direction.
Detailed Description:
As part of the project, Mr. Martin had each group draw a Tarot card to determine the theme of their film. Our group drew The Devil, which inspired us to develop a dark and symbolic narrative. We started by writing a script based on this theme, then created 9 storyboard sketches to visualize the key scenes and planned camera shots.
To ensure a thorough and organized production process, we compiled all pre-production materials into a PowerPoint presentation that included:
- VFX Tutorial (techniques and tools reference)
- Theme & Synopsis
- References and Moodboard
- Story Breakdown
- Shot List
- Storyboard
The following is our presentation showcasing the entire planning phase
before filming:
Fig 1.1 Final PPT
We officially began filming in a clean, well-lit room that we carefully prepared with lighting, tripods, and other equipment. We tested a professional camera, a DJI stabilizer, and a smartphone, ultimately choosing the DJI for its excellent video quality and portability.
After setting up, we spent time fine-tuning the lighting and experimenting with angles to create the right atmosphere. Following our script and storyboard, we methodically shot each scene, reviewing takes to ensure quality.
Throughout the process, our team stayed focused and worked closely to solve any issues, making sure every detail was well executed. This project strengthened our technical skills and teamwork.
Fig 1.2 Shooting process
Fig 1.2 Shooting process
After completing the shoot, we moved on to the post-production phase and officially began editing the video. We first imported the footage into Adobe Premiere Pro and arranged the clips according to the sequence outlined in our original script and storyboard.
Once the basic editing was complete, we brought the footage into Adobe After Effects to add visual effects. One of our key goals was to create an old TV "freeze-frame" effect. We also applied various post-production techniques such as frame extraction and interpolation, color grading, dithering, lighting effects, blur, glow, speed adjustments, and motion blur.
To achieve these effects accurately, we referred to several tutorials on YouTube and experimented with different settings until we got the results we wanted.
Fig 2.1 Editing process PR
Final outcome:
Fig 2.5 Final video
[Feedback]
Week 9 (16/6/25)
This week, we finalized our script and storyboard based on the Tarot theme "The Devil". We submitted our storyboard for Mr. Martin’s approval and received positive feedback on our visual direction. However, he advised us to simplify some transitions and reduce unnecessary shots to stay within the 15-shot limit. We also began preparing the production equipment and scouting a suitable indoor location.
Week 10 (23/6/25)
We officially began shooting this week. After setting up our equipment — including lights, tripods, and the DJI stabilizer — we spent time testing the camera angles and lighting.
Week 11 (30/6/25)
This week, we finalized our script and storyboard based on the Tarot theme "The Devil". We submitted our storyboard for Mr. Martin’s approval and received positive feedback on our visual direction. However, he advised us to simplify some transitions and reduce unnecessary shots to stay within the 15-shot limit. We also began preparing the production equipment and scouting a suitable indoor location.
Week 10 (23/6/25)
We officially began shooting this week. After setting up our equipment — including lights, tripods, and the DJI stabilizer — we spent time testing the camera angles and lighting.
Week 11 (30/6/25)
All main scenes were shot this week. We followed our storyboard
closely, shooting 9 planned scenes. We faced some challenges with timing
and actor coordination but resolved them through multiple takes and
clear cue calling. Mr. Martin reminded us to shoot with post-production
in mind, particularly for scenes involving VFX. We also began organizing
footage for editing.
Week 12 (7/7/25)
We entered the editing phase this week. Using Adobe Premiere Pro, we arranged the footage according to our original scene structure. Then, we moved into After Effects to begin adding visual effects — including frame glitching, freeze effects, color grading, and distortion. Mr. Martin reviewed our early edits and encouraged us to refine the pacing and add more dynamic sound design for dramatic tension.
Week 13 (14/6/25)
Week 12 (7/7/25)
We entered the editing phase this week. Using Adobe Premiere Pro, we arranged the footage according to our original scene structure. Then, we moved into After Effects to begin adding visual effects — including frame glitching, freeze effects, color grading, and distortion. Mr. Martin reviewed our early edits and encouraged us to refine the pacing and add more dynamic sound design for dramatic tension.
Week 13 (14/6/25)
This week, we focused on polishing the final video. We applied final
adjustments to lighting, contrast, and speed effects, and replaced
scratch audio with our recorded voiceovers and sound
effects.
[Reflection]
Throughout this project, I had the opportunity to experience the complete production cycle of a short visual effects film — from ideation and planning to filming, editing, and final rendering. After randomly drawing the Tarot card “The Devil,” our team brainstormed a concept that symbolized manipulation, fear, and inner conflict.
I actively participated in the pre-production phase, including script development, visual planning, and storyboard creation. During production, I worked as the assistant camera operator, helping with scene coordination, calling out scene and shot numbers, and ensuring smooth takes. In the post-production stage, I was responsible for editing my own version of the final video. This involved using Adobe Premiere Pro for narrative structure and Adobe After Effects to implement VFX such as glitching, color grading, frame distortion, and motion blur.
Observation
I observed that planning was the most crucial part of our success. The detailed storyboard and shot list allowed our filming process to run smoothly. However, even with preparation, lighting adjustments and timing coordination during filming were still challenging. We also found that working with limited shots (under 15) forced us to think more critically about how to tell the story efficiently and visually.
During editing, I realized that even small tweaks in timing, sound, or visual effects could drastically change the mood. The use of glow, grain, and vintage freeze effects gave the video a more eerie and mysterious atmosphere, which suited the theme very well. I also noticed how much impact sound design — especially subtle sound cues and timing — had on the viewer's emotional response.
Findings
This project taught me how to balance creativity and technical precision. I learned how to apply practical VFX techniques to support storytelling rather than just for visual flair. I also strengthened my understanding of collaborative production — clear team communication and defined roles helped us stay organized and efficient.
Most importantly, I discovered the power of constraint. Working with a strict shot limit, two characters, and one location pushed us to focus on meaningful framing, symbolism, and emotion. This limitation ultimately improved the clarity and impact of our story.
Thank You
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