Precious (2024)
“Precious” is a cinematic nature film that I made for the Postproduction module. It was filmed at Carr Mill Dam, much like Hidden Worlds, and uses colour grading to convey the contrast between Autumn and Winter. It also utilizes strong compositions and sound design to romanticise nature and make it look beautiful, where the title “Precious” comes from.
My compositions were well-researched and thought out. It took several shoots before I was truly happy with my footage, due to lack of experience with filming cinematically and learning to use the gimbal. I used a variety of wide shots, panning shots, and close-ups, which helped ensure diversity and kept the cinematography fresh. However, some of my shots are overexposed due to me still learning the ropes of trying to film cinematically.
My sound design was also effective, and I like how I used a combination of original and sourced sound effects to create an immersive and authentic sound design which captures the woodland beautifully. Similarly, the harp music boasts heavenly connotations which mesh well with the “Precious” theme.
My main issue with this film looking back, however, is that my idea was too similar to the Hidden Worlds idea, in that they were both filmed in the same location and have a peaceful theme. The issue with this is that this film wasn’t as original or innovative as it could’ve been. I feel like I should have been more ambitious with my Postproduction film and opted for the postproduction route instead of the cinematic route, as that would’ve took me out of my comfort zone more and I could have scored a higher grade.
Overall, however, this was a solid film on its own and the production experience was transformative in terms of my compositing and colour grading skills especially. However, I feel like I should have made my Postproduction film more distinct from the Hidden Worlds and explored the creative potential of the module, rather than sticking to what is familiar.
