Project Name: VLB: Enhancing Lives
Client/Production Company: Texas Veterans Land Board/1820 Productions
Date: June, 2022
Role: Editor
Project Description:
The "Enhancing Lives" campaign effectively highlights the role of the Veterans Land Board (VLB) in positively impacting the lives of veterans. Korey Miller, the director at 1820 Productions, spearheaded the creative vision for this campaign. The concept is dynamic, featuring transitions and practical effects that symbolize the transition from military service to civilian life. The primary objective of the campaign is to clearly convey how the VLB aids veterans in purchasing and improving their homes.
Challenges & Solutions:
The primary challenge of this project was to create a seamless shot depicting a military individual's transition back to civilian life, enhanced by practical effects to emphasize the change. Additionally, it was crucial to ensure that the color grading, music, and sound design reinforced the military setting without overwhelming the narrative. However, during production, we encountered technical difficulties with the single-shot approach. Consequently, we opted to edit the spot, as seen in its final version. This edit involved cutting between wide shots and close-ups, featuring the actor in uniform and an altered uniform designed for easy removal. We faced a hurdle with one shot that did not match in lighting. To resolve this, I employed a digital shadow effect across the actor, creating a convincing match cut.
Choosing the right music was a critical part of the process. It needed to strike a balance between being heroic and inspiring, while avoiding clichés typical of military-themed content. I drew inspiration from the soundtrack of "Top Gun: Maverick," which I felt captured a contemporary yet appropriately understated patriotic tone. This influence helped in selecting music that complemented the spot without overpowering its message, while also giving this spot a unique sound that stands out against most military ads.
Choosing the right music was a critical part of the process. It needed to strike a balance between being heroic and inspiring, while avoiding clichés typical of military-themed content. I drew inspiration from the soundtrack of "Top Gun: Maverick," which I felt captured a contemporary yet appropriately understated patriotic tone. This influence helped in selecting music that complemented the spot without overpowering its message, while also giving this spot a unique sound that stands out against most military ads.
Techniques & Tools Used:
Adobe Premiere Pro was instrumental in every stage of the editing process for this spot. Initially, I used it to create an animatic, providing the director with a visual representation of what the final edit might look like. This helped in planning the execution on set. During filming, I was present as both the Digital Imaging Technician (DIT) and for assembling the footage alongside the director.
The color correction was a collaborative effort with Company3, ensuring that the visual tone perfectly matched our vision. The final audio mix was expertly handled by Dallas Audio Post, adding another layer of professionalism to the spot.
