Project 2 – Video

Project 2: Place-Based Video Story

Final Deliverable

Create a 2-4 minute video story that explores a story connected to a specific location in Maine (or elsewhere) with which you have a particular relationship. Draw inspiration/tips from models in each week’s video and readings and your own searches. You can begin capturing video clips and photos and “room tone” (or outdoor ambiance sound) from the first week, but setting up your project storyboard will save time, effort and lead to a better story. If your location is away, PLAN YOUR TRIP NOW.

StoryBoard Template  Storyboard  Sample    Video Tips for Place baased Story

Your final video should show thoughtful use of:

• Story structure and visual narrative: This Changes Because
• Original media capture (footage, images, sound)
• Creative references or models (e.g., mention the model and specific tips you used for your project.)
• Editing, sound design, and pacing

Stage 1:Prep

Begin crafting your story idea and looking for models. You can review/use models from this class Schedule and/or find your own.

For your story, answer the following questions:

1. Description: Write a description of your basic story. Who, What, Where, When , How & Why will help establish the story basics. Use class “Finding Your Story” for ideas and materials.
2. Location: What location(s) will you use & why? How does the location support your story and vice versa?
3. Define each of the three basic story terms for your story: This?  Changes?  Because?  to establish basic story plot/structure.
4. Post two models you have found with lists of tips or techniques you will borrow.
5. Add any challenges you might face; as well as any questions you have.
6. Use category 2a for this prep and then just add to this post for Stage 1 below (Project 2a)

Stage 1: Inspiration & Storyboard (Project 2a)

• Draft a story board describing your concept and story idea. This should be a 6+ visual images/clips with titles & descriptions addressing what changes and why. Use this template, or one of your own.
• Gather inspiration models (film clips, images, artworks, etc.) and make a list of key features you’ll adapt.
• Capture a few short sample video clip to test your approach (e.g., location, lighting, movement). 8-12 seconds is ideal, a few shorter videos (rather than one long one) can give you options. This is unedited capture video with explanation of what changes and why. You may use a “practice location”.
• Upload you video to your @maine.edu YouTube channel
• Post to course site:
  • Canva URL for your storyboard  and Youtube URL of your sample video
  • Two model videos that inspire you; add URLS– and list 2-3 tips from each.
  • Shot list for at least 6 scenes showing what changes because.
  • Title: Project 2a–YourName
  • Featured image, short excerpt, and category “Project 2a”

Stage 2: Storyboard Update & Test Media (Project 2b)

• Update your storyboard and shot list for your video.
• If you can, expand your 3 part story This Changes Because into 5 parts. Describe each of the following:
  1. situation – whats the starting point
  2. desire – what does the character want
  3. conflict – what gets in the way
  4. change – what happens that shifts something
  5. result – how does it end
• Updated storyboard shot list & video URLs (if videos are embedded in Storyboard–say so)
• Title: Project 2b–YourName
• Featured image, short excerpt, and category “Project 2b”

Stage 3: Media Capture & First Draft (Project 2c)

• If you haven’t already, capture the primary photos, footage and audio for your story.
• Update your storyboard based on what you actually captured.
• Begin editing and create a first draft video edit (rough cut with sequencing of your main footage).
• Bring your captured media (on hard drive) to class for editing support.
• Provide feedback: review and comment on at least two classmates’ final projects.
• Post to course site:
  • Youtube URL of your first draft video edit
  • Updated storyboard
  • Title: Project 2c–YourName
  • Featured image, short excerpt, and category “Project 2c”

Stage 4: Revision, Sound & Final (Project 2d)

• Refine your video with edits, pacing, and transitions.
• Add background audio, sound effects, and/or voiceover as needed.
• Capture extra B-roll or key clips if you need to strengthen your story.
• Complete a brief reflection identifying:
  • strongest capture decision,
  • strongest story decision,
  • biggest revision,
  • next production skill to improve.
• Post to course site:
  • Youtube URL of your final polished video
  • Add 1-2 paragraph description of project, reflection, intended audience.
  • Title: Project 2d–YourName
  • Featured image, and category “Project 2d”