Planning for Preliminary Task #1

I initially wanted to do just one preliminary task but I have decided to do two, so I could work on editing techniques that will be essential for my film opening. I wanted to take on the challenge of recreating a TikTok with a masking transition. I am currently using DaVinci Resolve 19 for editing.

Here is the original TikTok for reference:

What is a Masking Transition?

A masking transition is a technique in editing where part of the frame is hidden, or "masked", to reveal a new scene or subject. It's used to smoothly blend two shots, creating a seamless transition.

There wasn't much planning beforehand. One night I was drinking some tea while watching editing tutorials. In that moment I decided to start filming.

1.

My first scene was of me typing on my laptop. I set my phone horizontally but realised that the Vase of roses in the background was taking all of the attention away from the laptop. So, I switched it out for a tall candle to make the shot feel warmer and cozier but not completely empty.

First Shot

Final Shot

2.

I initially filmed the second scene in the kitchen, but the light was to harsh, creating unflattering contrasts and shadows. I wanted a cozy, warm shot of a cup of tea but the harsh lighting didn't match the vibe of the first scene.

First Shot

The next day, natural light filled the living room, giving me the brightness I needed. The only issues was the busy background, so i used a family album with a wallpaper-like texture as a simpler, cleaner backdrop, and it worked perfectly on camera.

Final Shot

3.

For the third scene, I filmed myself closing a Bible, and I loved how the golden edges of the pages matched the aesthetic of the first two scenes. In the original TikTok, the man writes in a notebook, so I mirrored that by bookmarking the page I was reading and then closing the book, leading into the next scene.

Before starting this project, I asked my dad to film anything he thought was weird while I was shooting. It ended up with this moment...

Behind-The-Scene

4.

For the fourth and final scene, I filmed myself tying my shoelaces in the backyard garden. It was midday, slightly cloudy but the lighting worked out perfectly.

Time Lapse of me editing the Opening Scene

In the next post I will talk about my journey with the project and of course the Final Product :)