We started by exploring a range of VFX tutorials to identify which visual effects would best support the storytelling and mood of our short film. The chosen VFX technique will play a crucial role in enhancing both the narrative and overall atmosphere.
Each group was assigned a tarot card to develop a story around. Our group was given Card 5: “What is Going Against You”, which means someone is pretending to be kind, but using you for their benefits.
Fig. 3.1.1. Tarot Card Theme
Based on the meaning of the card, we brainstormed several ideas and developed the following storyline. We also incorporated a number of visual and thematic references to support our concept.
Fig. 3.1.2. Final Project Proposal
After completing the proposal, all of our ideas were organized and summarized clearly to serve as the foundation for our storyboard. The storyboard was then created to guide us throughout the filming process, helping us visualize the sequence of scenes and the required compositions.
Fig. 3.1.3. Storyboard
During the filming process, several adjustments were made to improve the storyline and adapt to the resources available, such as room layout, lighting conditions, and on-set situations. Below is the documentation of our filmmaking process.
3.2. Filming Process We experimented with various camera angles, lighting setups, and lenses to capture the most effective shots. To allow greater flexibility in post-production, we filmed in F-Log, which supports a more dynamic and detailed color grading process. Additionally, we creatively crafted fake blood using a mixture of cornstarch, water, and food coloring.
Fig. 3.2.1. Filming Process Documentation
Fig. 3.2.2. Filming Process Documentation
3.3. Post Production
During post-production, we applied several editing techniques, including composition adjustments, color grading, visual effects (VFX), and sound effects (SFX).
Visual Effect 1
Fig. 3.3.1. VFX #1: Adding Text and Masking
To begin, we imported all the required video clips into the project. Our first task was to experiment with ways to introduce the VFX card naturally within the scene. We started by carefully masking the card to separate it from the background, laying the groundwork for further visual effects.
Once isolated, we added the message “Never Charge With Money.” To make the text visually striking and emphasize its importance, we applied a glow effect using a plug-in. This gave the text a more dramatic, magical presence.
Fig. 3.3.2. VFX #1: Graph Editor
Then we focused on animating the VFX elements by adjusting their position, opacity, and rotation. To make the movement feel smooth and realistic, we fine-tuned each keyframe through the graph editor. This process involved several rounds of trial and error to get the timing and motion just right for the scene.
Fig. 3.3.3. VFX #1: Final
After perfecting the animation, we integrated the VFX back into the main video clips, enhancing the overall visual storytelling.
Visual Effect 2
Fig. 3.3.4. VFX #2: Assets
The second VFX task was to create the illusion of the tarot cards moving as if guided by a mystical force. we began by importing all the necessary files, including magical VFX assets downloaded from YouTube that would help sell the illusion.
We had a total of five cards to animate, so the first step was designing their visuals in Photoshop. After finalizing the designs, we imported the files into After Effects for animation.
Fig. 3.3.5. VFX #2: Masking
To simulate movement, each card was individually masked and attached to a Null Object, allowing us to control their rotation and position in a unified way. This setup made the floating motion feel fluid and magical. I also overlaid magical energy effects on each card to further enhance the illusion.
Fig. 3.3.6. VFX #2: Final
Once the animations were complete, we pre-composed them into a single sequence to keep the timeline clean and organized.
Visual Effect 3
Fig. 3.3.7. VFX #3: Revealing Card
To reveal the image, we applied straightforward yet effective VFX techniques. We first aligned the image precisely with the card by adjusting its position and scale to ensure a seamless fit. Then, we animated the opacity to create a smooth, gradual fade-in timed with the tarot reader’s finger snap. To elevate the visual impact, we added a magical energy effect around the reader’s hand, enhancing the illusion and making the transition feel more vivid and enchanting.
Visual Effect 4
Fig. 3.3.8. VFX #4: Assets
Creating the levitation VFX came with several challenges, but with some guidance and experimentation, we were able to achieve a result that felt both impactful and believable. we used a combination of position keyframes and a Null Object to control the tarot reader’s motion throughout the scene.
Fig. 3.3.9. VFX #4: Process
The process began with carefully photo-brushing the tarot reader’s body and shadow to cleanly separate them from the background. This allowed more flexibility during animation and made the transitions smoother.
One of the key challenges was making the fall look convincing. Initially, the movement lacked a true sense of gravity, so we increased the speed to enhance the falling effect. After multiple revisions, we decided to add a body rotation, having the tarot reader fall headfirst to make the motion feel more natural and dramatic. The effectiveness of this levitation scene relied heavily on precise position adjustments and fine-tuned animation timing.
Premiere Pro Editing Process
Fig. 3.3.10. Color Correction Process in Adobe Premiere Pro
The color grading and correction process involved several steps, including basic correction, curves, color wheels, and secondary HSL adjustments. For the basic correction, we aimed to achieve a warm, yellowish tone by increasing the temperature and adjusting the tint. Since we intended to create a dark, mysterious atmosphere, the exposure was reduced by 0.4 stops, and highlights were decreased by 26.5%. Additional luminance values were fine-tuned to support the desired mood. We also adjusted the contrast, blacks, and whites to enhance the overall tone, resulting in a cinematic blend of dark brown and yellow hues.
During the filming process, we also used smartphones as external microphones to capture clearer audio by placing them closer to the subject. To synchronize the audio with the video (dubbing), we relied on the clapperboard's clap sound as a reference point and manually aligned the soundwaves in Adobe Premiere Pro.
Additional sound effects and ambient sounds were sourced from the internet to enhance the atmosphere. These SFX elements contributed significantly to creating a more horror-driven, mysterious, and thrilling tone. All audio tracks were carefully adjusted for volume and enhanced with fade-in and fade-out effects to ensure a smooth and harmonious blend with the visuals.
Fig. 3.12. Video Editing Process #1: Adding Text
Since our film features minimal dialogue to preserve its mysterious tone while still ensuring clarity for the audience, we included text on a black screen to provide context. The font we chose evokes a timeless Hollywood style, enhancing the cinematic feel.
Fig. 3.13. Video Editing Process #2: Adjusting Composition
We also adjusted the composition to ensure the viewer's attention is directed toward the intended focal point, in this case the card. The card reveals a crucial detail: the Tarot reader was not supposed to charge money for her services. However, she did, which ultimately leads to her punishment by death at the end of the story.
4. FINAL OUTCOME
Fig. 4.1. Final Project Film 'Tarot' Final Outcome
5. REFLECTION
Experience
Working on this project was both challenging and rewarding. From ideation to final editing, I had the opportunity to explore a complete production pipeline, from pre-production planning to post-production VFX and sound design. One of the most valuable aspects of the experience was learning to collaborate efficiently within a team setting, especially when it came to brainstorming, distributing tasks, and making creative decisions under tight deadlines. I also gained confidence in using both Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro, learning how to troubleshoot technical issues and refine visual storytelling through consistent practice and feedback.
Observation
Throughout the production, I observed how small adjustments in visual effects and sound design could significantly impact the mood and pacing of the film. For instance, tweaking the speed and rotation of the levitation scene completely changed the perceived realism of the fall. I also noticed how important pre-visualization (such as storyboarding and proposals) is for guiding the production process. Having a clear visual reference made it easier to align the team’s creative direction and helped us stay focused, especially when on-set conditions didn’t go as planned.
Findings
One key finding was how effective the integration of VFX, SFX, and color grading can be in enhancing narrative clarity and emotional impact. By combining masked animations, glow effects, and carefully chosen color palettes, we were able to elevate the visual storytelling and convey supernatural elements in a believable way. Additionally, the importance of audio became very apparent—layered ambient sounds and strategic volume control turned otherwise simple scenes into intense and immersive moments. This project affirmed that even low-budget productions can achieve a high level of polish with creativity, planning, and proper use of digital tools.
Comments
Post a Comment