MediaArtTutorials

Digital Mixed Media Animation – Part 1

Samples from test (work-in-progress) video compositions.

Objective

Create a 30-second storytelling short using video footage. This video will become the foundation for your final mixed-media animation project. You will record video, convert it into printable frames, and later enhance it using hand-drawn and physical elements.

This first stage focuses on structure, clarity, and visual storytelling using DaVinci Resolve.

Materials Required

Smartphone or personal camera
Computer with DaVinci Resolve (download here)

DaVinci Resolve is also available for Tablets through the corresponding App Store, but editing on tablets is not recommended due to limited screen space and functionality.
Optional: Headphones (recommended for audio design)
Optional: tripod or phone stabilizer

Activities

Complete the following in order. Ask your professor or TA for support or feedback.

[15 min] Conceptualize Your Project

Work in groups. Open a Word or Google Doc and answer the following:

Conceptual

What message or emotion will your story convey?
How will the story unfold in 30 seconds? (Beginning → Middle → End)
References
- How to TELL A STORY in 30 seconds
- Transforming my Cinematography with Mixed Media Animation Vol. 2

Artistic and Technical

Where will you film? (Indoors is recommended for consistent artificial lighting)
What framing or composition styles will you use?

For this project, you may use close-ups, medium close-ups, medium shots, cowboy shots, medium full shots, and full shots.
Consider how each framing choice offers a distinct perspective and supports your storytelling goals.

➡️ Export as PDF
📄 Filename: Group-#-Notes.pdf (Replace # with your group number)

Include both names + student numbers

[10 min] Set Up Your Equipment

Prepare your device for filming.

Required Settings:

Activate gridlines for framing
Record in high resolution (1080p minimum)
Lock focus and exposure if possible
Clean your lens and stabilize the shot

Tutorials (Choose based on your device):

Enable Gridlines

General Recommendations

Improvements by device

[40 min] Record

Film your raw material for the 30-second short.

Tips:

Record more than you need so you have options
Keep shots stable and well-lit
Apply cinematic techniques from class:
- Composition Structures: Rule of Thirds, Symmetry, Leading Lines, etc.
- Camera Shots: Close-Up, Medium Shot, Full Shot, etc.
- Angles: Eye-level, High, Low, Tilted

References

[20 min] Edit Your Video in DaVinci Resolve

Edit your 30-second video using DaVinci Resolve.

Review the tutorials: Video Editing in DaVinci Resolve

Editing Guidelines:

Final video must be in black and white
Avoid underexposure — make sure brightness reveals detail
Ensure smooth pacing and clear storytelling
Use simple transitions and cuts (no text or sound yet)

➡️ Export as MP4
📄 Filename: Group-#-Video.mp4

Additional Resources

[10m] Create Printable Frame Grids

Start by converting your video into still frames using the tutorial provided.

You should get 480 frames or individual images after exporting your video.
Divide the frames evenly among your group. Each student must have 160 frames/images.
Each student will design their own printable grid layout using their assigned frames:

Paper Size: Letter (8.5 × 11 in)
Orientation: Portrait or Landscape
Maximum: 2 columns per page, 8 images in total per page.
Keep all frames evenly spaced and the same size
Suggested tools: PowerPoint, Keynote, Canva, Google Slides, etc.

➡️ Export as PDF
📄 Filename: Lastname-Name-Frames.pdf

📌 Print your grid in black and white and bring it to class for Part 2.
⚠️ Failure to bring your printed frames will result in a grade deduction.

📤 Submissions

Type	File Name	Who Submits
Group	`Group-#-Notes.pdf`	One per group
Group	`Group-#-Video.mp4`	One per group
Individual	`Lastname-Name-Frames.pdf`	Each student

⚠️ Follow the submission protocols carefully. Incorrect submissions may result in lost points.