Much of my effort over the past few weeks has been in learning about using AfterEffects and Premier Pro. These are two pieces of Adobe software that I haven't used before, but have wanted to try. Now I have a project with which to move forward in learning them. The work has been a combination of watching tutorials and experimenting. So far I have been using my own images, videos, and graphics created in Photoshop and Illustrator. I am also working on storyboard and script for the second part of the projection. ( It will have three sections.)
I have been tinkering with adding sounds and music, but am far from being satisfied with the results. I have been using sites found on the Creative Commons site. I would like to record some sounds, however, developing the visuals is the priority right now.
Another app I've been using is Procreate, which has the option of making animated mp4 files from drawings, and also time lapse videos. It's a bit challenging to get them to work properly when imported into AfterEffects.
The next essential step will be learning how to actually use the content I am creating in making projection mapping. I have been looking at a few tutorials and projects by Ryan Rakowski, and he is using a small set made out of foam core to project onto.
I am considering that this may be the way to begin, rather than attempting to project onto a building. That may come later, but I realize that the learning curve is steep, and the equipment is expensive. I have one small projector, and access to a second one from school if needed. But Rakowski explains in his YouTube tutorial that he created the projection using only AfterEffects, and used only a laptop an small projector to achieve his effects.
Jordan Nash created a more detailed tutorial in which he covers every aspect of projection mapping from sofftware, hardware, finding/creating content, examples of projection mapping for different purposes, other resources, and the technical aspects of putting it all together.
So, next steps:
Complete storyboards/scripts for the next section of video to be created.
Continue to create content
Build a model to project onto
Learn the masking techniques in AfterEffects
Add music/sound
Learn and experiment with setting the videos up to project properly
Ultimately, be able to both show this work and teach students how to do projection mapping.
References:
Legal Music for Videos-Creative Commons
Rakowski, R., 3D Mapping in Adobe AfterEffects
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Nash, J., xEssentials E21 Projection Mapping using After Effects
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