Projects like this are especially challenging and thrilling, where we collate a mixture of archival and current material, moving and still images, mixed with a soundtrack of voice-over, sound design and music.
A simple slideshow-style edit was originally briefed to me, but I felt for the information-heavy 15-minute running time we needed something much more dynamic to help engage the viewer.
The client could only send me some basic material so I took the initiative and scoured through their archives over several days, gathering as much material as we needed to help bring the story to life.
Here's a clip from the opening section:
Chaos
I sometimes use abstract imagery, often those in-between parts of shots filmed but not intended for use. In this case, I used out-of-focus lights and whip-pans, along with fast and slow motion, to help create a sense of chaos and confusion for one particular section:
Projection Mapping
I employed a technique to make some of the static photos a touch more dynamic. It involves dividing an image into several planes and projecting it in 3D space. A camera can then be added to the scene for movement:
The importance of negative space & music
In this wrap-up section of the edit I have the screen go black for a couple of seconds to function as a palate cleanser near the end of the 15-minute runtime which, up to here, has been visually busy and information heavy.
Music is such an important part of the viewing experience so I'm very careful with what I choose to best complement the story being told and evoke the appropriate feeling. In this clip I've dipped the voice-over so you can hear the music in isolation; without words it should still leave the viewer feeling uplifted and inspired:
This film helped Sony employees across the world reflect on the cultural and historical significance of their company since its inception and reignite their passion for innovation looking towards the future.
