RECORDS & REFLECTIONS

A SHORT FORM VIDEO SERIES

THE NEED

What does it look like to show up authentically as an artist in this short form content creation world?

The Approach

“records & reflections” is a series born out of my desire to listen to more of and celebrate my record collection, while practicing my self-filmmaking craft and reflecting on how art has impacted me through these different albums.

It’s a testament to my ability to stay true to myself rather than falling into the copycat and money motivated frameworks of large portions of content creation and make art successfully regardless of the medium or restraints.

Video Example

Direction

The art direction focuses on the core elements of my brand: commitment to authenticity, film emulation, and intentional storytelling.

I approach these with intentional usage of leading lines and perspective, with handheld b-roll to add in a human feel.

My lighting approach is always natural light for these with the occasional bounce to fill in the shadows. These are crafted to feel relatable and real, yet slightly elevated beyond that.

The dance segments are a key to the success of these videos because everyone can relate to vibing out to their favorite track in the safety of their home. It gives the viewer an into my world while relating to their personal stories.

Audio direction builds on the visual approach by utilizing narration, which allows me to tell two stories simultaneously: the experience with a record and the impact of the record.

Design

I kept the design approach cohesive with the typeface that was the mainstay of my brand design in previous years, as well as implementing lowercase titling.

The Process

There is no specific order that I’m going through to break down my collection. Whatever is speaking to me at the time usually earns it a spot on the series. There are records that I buy that I won’t spin until I film one of these, as a right of passage.

I’ve built a system of the shot angles and styles that I want, but also try to add something a little different every time to push myself.

I craft a shot list and film everything first, with a general understanding of what I’ll need to execute the series, then write and record audio afterward.