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Showing posts from September, 2025

From Raw Clips to Polished Video

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After filming all my footage, I moved on to the editing stage. I started by reviewing every take carefully. I looked for the strongest shots that captured the emotions and gestures I wanted to convey. I also identified any clips that had mistakes, awkward movements, or unnecessary pauses. Trimming those moments was the first step to keeping the video clear and concise. Next, I arranged the clips in the order I had planned in my storyboard. I checked the pacing to make sure each shot lasted just the right amount of time. Some scenes needed to be shortened, while others needed a little more time to let the action register with the viewer. I paid special attention to transitions between clips. Any jumpiness or awkward cuts were smoothed out to make the video flow naturally. Sound was another key part of editing. I removed the original audio from filming because it did not match the final vision. Then, I spent time searching for the perfect background music. I tried several songs before fi...

Carrying out the vision

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Today, on the 28th, I was supposed to film my Bible commercial with the help of my friend. I waited for a response from them, but my phone stayed silent the entire time. I checked my texts more times than I want to admit, hoping they would answer. When they didn’t reply at all, I decided I couldn’t just sit around wasting the day. I grabbed my props and headed to the library alone, determined to make something happen. When I got there, I realized it was closed, which only added to my frustration. It felt like every plan I had carefully made was falling apart. I stood outside for a moment, disappointed that I couldn’t use the space from my storyboard. Instead of giving up, I forced myself to think quickly and adapt. I went back home and turned my living space into a filming area. I set up the Bible and table to keep the focus clear. I experimented with different angles using my phone camera and natural lighting from the windows. I adjusted blinds to get the right brightness and mood. I ...

Plans delayed, vision ahead

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Yesterday, on the 27th, I planned to film my Bible commercial. I had prepared the storyboard, props, and everything I needed for recording. I was ready to act and direct myself in the library. I wanted to record today, but my friend, who helps me with filming, was unavailable. I realized I couldn’t record safely or effectively without someone to operate the camera. I decided it would be best to reschedule rather than try to do it alone. I checked the library and made sure the spaces were still available for tomorrow. I prepared my backpack and the props so everything would be ready for the next day. I reviewed the camera angles I wanted to use. I practiced my movements and expressions while imagining the shots. I organized the Bible and table props to make setup faster tomorrow. I rehearsed my gestures and facial expressions to convey curiosity and reflection. I thought about lighting and how I could position myself to catch it naturally. I reviewed my storyboard and planned the flow o...

Storyboard Blog

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Scene 1 (0–4 sec) Camera/Visuals: Wide establishing shot of a quiet library. Rows of bookshelves stretch across the screen. Warm but slightly dim lighting. A student walks in slowly, carrying a backpack, looking uncertain. Action: The student pauses at the entrance, scanning the shelves. Mood: Curious, searching. On-Screen Text (optional):  “In a world full of voices…” Scene 2 (4–8 sec) Camera/Visuals: Medium shot of the student walking between shelves, pulling a random heavy book. The book feels unhelpful, and they set it back with a sigh. Action: Their shoulders drop slightly, showing disappointment. Mood: Restless, searching for guidance. On-Screen Text (optional):  “…we search for truth, for answers.” Scene 3 (8–12 sec) Camera/Visuals: Close-up of the student’s hand brushing along book spines until it stops on a Bible. A soft shaft of light falls naturally on it (no over-dramatization, just subtle emphasis). Action: The student carefully pulls the Bible out, holding it wit...

Planning Blog

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Props The main prop for the commercial will be a study Bible. Supporting props may include a notebook or devotional journal, pens, and a backpack to represent students using the Bible during school and after-school activities. Optional props such as headphones or a coffee cup can help create a relaxed, reflective atmosphere in certain scenes. Costumes Actors will wear casual, everyday student outfits to keep the commercial relatable. Clothing may include jeans, leggings, joggers, t-shirts, hoodies, or sweaters comfortable pieces that reflect typical student life. Sneakers and backpacks will be added to complete the look. Schedule - 09/20/2025: Watch and analyze inspirational/student commercials to see how they inspire students and get ideas. - 09/24/2025: Finalize props, costumes, locations, and backup plan. - 09/26/2025: Develop a storyboard for the 30–45 second commercial. - 09/28/2025: Film library, study, and reflective scenes. - 09/30/2025: Edit footage, add music, and complete th...

Research Blog: Commercial Pitches

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Water Bottle CAMS •  High angle • Wide shot (WS) • Tracking shot Editing • Fast editing • Jump cut • Dissolve Sound • Diegetic sound: water pouring, bottles clinking • Non-diegetic sound: loud, fun music • Dialogue Mise-en-Scène (CLAMPS) • Gym • Towels • Water bottles • Students moving • Bright lighting Study Bible CAMS • High angle • Close-up (CU) • Pan Editing • Split screen • Jump cut • Dissolve Sound • Diegetic sound: pages flipping, writing • Non-diegetic sound: soft, uplifting music • Voiceover • Ambient sound Mise-en-Scène (CLAMPS) • Study room / Library • Bible • Journal and pen • Warm lighting/color design • Props arranged neatly

Pitch Blog

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  Pitch 1: My first idea was to create a commercial for a reusable water bottle designed for students. The commercial would show how the water bottle helps students stay hydrated throughout the day while being eco-friendly. I thought it would be fun to film because I could include different scenes, like students carrying the bottle in classrooms, at sports practices, and during after-school activities. I could also show ways to personalize the bottle, such as using colors or stickers, to make it more appealing. This idea is practical and relatable because many students use water bottles, and it could promote healthy habits and environmental awareness. I liked that it would give me a chance to practice filming, editing, and using creative camera angles.   Pitch 2: My second idea was to create a commercial for a study Bible or devotional journal. The commercial would show how this item can help students grow spiritually, find guidance, and stay inspired throughout their school y...

Group blog

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 Helloo everyone, for this  project, I decided to work alone. I have worked in groups before and enjoyed collaborating, but this year my schedule has been very busy with school activities and after-school commitments. Coordinating meeting times with others would have been difficult, and I didn’t want to inconvenience anyone. Working independently felt like the best option for me. I have completed projects alone before, but this time I wanted to challenge myself even more. Working alone gives me the freedom to explore my own ideas and follow my creative vision. I can make decisions on my own and see the project through from start to finish. This independence allows me to test my skills in new ways and discover strengths I didn’t know I had. Another benefit of working alone is being able to set my own pace. I can organize my time efficiently and work on different parts of the project as I see fit. There is no waiting for others to finish tasks or adjusting to someone else’s sche...

Intro Blog

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Helllooo, my name is Keisha Thervil, and I am a sophomore at Fort Lauderdale High School. I live in Florida, which means most days come with sunshine and heat, something I have gotten used to over the years. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling when I can, even though I have not been to many places yet. I also like picking up new hobbies and finding little ways to challenge myself. Reading has always been one of my favorite activities because it gives me the chance to step into different worlds and learn from stories in a way that feels personal. Growing up, I never really knew what I wanted to be. When people asked me that big question, “What do you want to do in the future?” I usually came up with a quick answer, but the truth was I was not sure. For a while, I leaned toward law because I liked the idea of helping people, and it seemed like a steady path. But deep down, I never felt fully confident in that choice. Over time, I realized it is okay not to have everything figured out. R...