"An Abstract Photograph draws away from that which is realistic or literal. It draws away from natural appearances and recognizable subjects in the actual world. Some people even say it departs from true meaning, existence, and reality itself. It stands apart from the concrete whole with its purpose instead depending on conceptual meaning and intrinsic form... Here’s the acid test: If you look at a photo and there’s a voice inside you that says 'What is it?'… Well, there you go. It’s an abstract photograph."
John Suler, Professor of Psychology
Project Overview
"Growth" is a dynamic exploration of abstract videography, aiming to create a visually captivating title sequence that embodies the essence of abstract art. This project involved capturing footage with a DSLR camera, utilizing advanced techniques in editing and color grading within Adobe Premiere. The goal was to produce a 30 to 60-second video that conveys abstract concepts through meticulously crafted visuals and soundscapes.
Concept and Execution
Drawing inspiration from the 1916 art exhibition "Abstract Photography," which emphasized the appreciation of extraordinary design over literal subject matter, this project focuses on capturing abstract imagery that defies realistic representation. The sequence showcases a departure from the familiar, embracing the concept of intrinsic form, where meaning is derived from visual design rather than recognizable subjects. The challenge was to create footage that prompts viewers to ask "What is it?"—a hallmark of successful abstract photography, as defined by John Suler.
You can see some of the unused shots above.
This project was inspired by the abstract and organic shapes and patterns that nature offers. In the final sequence, only shots of various leaf textures were left in order to maintain consistency.
Technical Approach
The project required precise control over technical elements such as ISO settings and lighting to ensure high-quality video capture. With a recommendation to keep ISO at 100 to avoid digital artifacts, the use of external lighting sources was essential for achieving clarity and depth in the footage. Various lenses, including macro and wide-angle, were utilized to explore different perspectives and capture intricate details that contribute to the abstract nature of the video.
Color Grading and Emotional Resonance
An integral part of the project was the application of color grading to enhance the emotional impact of the sequence. By referencing the color theory of a selected professional film, the color grading aimed to evoke specific emotional responses. The chosen film is Amélie (2001), directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. The film was chosen due to its striking color palette, that evokes the feelings of nostalgia and reconciliation. The footage was graded to align with emotional words chosen to resonate with the intended audience, ensuring that the color palette enhanced the overall mood and tone of the sequence.
Music and Editing
The final sequence was edited to two different music selections, each tailored to complement the emotional words and color grading. This dual approach allowed for an exploration of how varying soundscapes influence the perception of the abstract visuals. The editing process involved aligning the video cuts with the rhythm and mood of each music track, demonstrating the interplay between visual and auditory elements.
Final Presentation
The project culminated in the submission of two final versions of the title sequence, each with its own music alternative. The sequences were presented with a focus on achieving a natural resolution to a black frame, maintaining the continuity of the abstract theme. The work was entered into the SXSW Title Sequence Competition, showcasing the creative and technical skills developed throughout the project.
Outcome
"Growth" serves as a testament to the ability to transform abstract concepts into compelling visual narratives. Through careful consideration of design, color theory, and sound, the project successfully demonstrated the potential of abstract videography to create a high production value experience.
