Digital Photography and Imaging: Week 10

2/6/2025 - 29/6/2025 (Week 10)

Alicia Lo Yann Wei (0357917)

Digital Photography and Imaging / Bachelor of Mass Communications in Digital Media Production (Hons)

W10: PROJECT 4: SELF-TITLED (IDEA DEVELOPMENT)

1.0 INSTRUCTION

2.0 LECTURE

W10: Intro to After Effects

What is Adobe After Effects?

• A software used for creating motion graphics, visual effects, and animation.
• Animates vector (Illustrator) and raster (Photoshop) art to tell stories through movement.
• Allows integration of real-world media like photos and videos.
• Focuses more on creating dynamic visuals than traditional editing.

Compositing Layers in Photoshop

• Photoshop is used to prepare and organize layers before animation.
• Each visual element should be placed on a separate layer.
• Rename and arrange layers clearly for better workflow in After Effects.
• Well-organized PSD files make it easier to animate elements later.

Compositing Layers in After Effects

• After Effects is used for compositing and animating layers from various sources.
• Supports importing images, videos, vectors, and layered files (e.g., from Photoshop/Illustrator).
• All layers should be organized and structured properly for efficient animation.
• Does not embed media—it links to original files (keep assets in the correct file paths).
• Requires synchronization with external platforms like Photoshop and Illustrator.

3.0 EXERCISES

3.1 Task Assigned 

Project 4: Self-Titled 

For Project 4, we are tasked with creating a self-titled animation based on our Project 2 Poster design. 

By animating our previous poster work, we are challenged to transform a static design into something dynamic and engaging. This also gives us the opportunity to rethink how motion, timing, and visual storytelling can enhance our self-expression. 

Part 1: Idea Development 

This week, we were assigned to develop our ideas by writing a personal biography and a statement about our work. For me, this was a chance to reflect on how my background, personality, and passions shape the work I produce. I began thinking about what inspires me creatively, how I approach design tasks, and what elements I consistently gravitate toward. 

1. Write a biography about myself

2. Write a statement about my work

MOODBOARD 

FEEDBACK

Mr. Fauzi guided us by explaining that the biography should reflect who we are as individuals. He encouraged us to include things like our creative approach, personal interests, and hobbies, especially if they influence the way we think or create.

5.0 REFLECTION

For me, this project provided an opportunity to reflect on what defines my creative voice and how I can express it through motion. Working in a moving format allowed me to explore how design elements interact over time, pushing me to think beyond static layouts. It made me more aware of the stylistic choices I naturally lean toward, and how to carry those choices into animation in a way that still feels authentic to my work. This experience helped strengthen my understanding of how to translate my visual style into dynamic storytelling.