Video production is an art that requires a combination of technical and creative skills. In this article, we will explore the behind-the-scenes process of creating “Confluence,” a short documentary film that was created with limited resources and a great deal of creativity.

The Challenge of Video Production with Limited Resources

“Confluence” is a perfect example of how a high quality product can be created with limited resources. The team behind the project had no money and had to steal time between projects. However, instead of seeing this as an obstacle, they saw it as an opportunity to inspire creativity.

The team had a minimal camera package and access to events, so they synthesized a creative approach to documentary filmmaking that was distinct to them. Inspired in part by their admiration for Thai auteur Apichatpong Weerasethakul and his permission to viewers that “you can even sleep if you want to,” as well as their interest in slow cinema, they employed a meditative look at documentary filmmaking in their film, “Confluence.”

The Filming Technique of “Confluencia”.

“Confluence” was filmed during Moonroom’s PHASE 2019 series celebrating AAPI Heritage Month by highlighting AAPI artists with underground art and music exhibits. In its three years of programming, the event had never been documented. It was important to the team to share the stories and capture this event, as it was essential to its moment in time. However, they wanted to take a practical and utilitarian approach so as not to complicate the effort or exceed their means.

They knew the performance spaces would be crowded and low light, so they had to keep things light and simple. They decided they would be better served shooting with a long lens, and decided to shoot exclusively on a single 80mm f1.9 vintage Mamiya Sekor – C adapted to BMPCC4K with a Metabones XL speedbooster.

The Creative Meditative Process

When filming, the following rules were given, not unlike an initial meditation practice: be as still as possible, with attention focused on the breath, allowing the mind, and the camera, to wander if they did, with a gentle reminder to return to stillness and breathing.

This was a meditative creative process, which became a sensory and attentive contemplation for visualization. “Confluence” became an experiment in applying a meditative gaze to its subjects, and letting the narrative be guided by them.

The Importance of Creativity in Video Production

Video production is a field that requires a great deal of creativity. Whether you are working with a limited budget or have access to unlimited resources, the ability to think creatively and find innovative solutions to challenges is essential.

“Confluence,” the team proved that creativity can overcome any obstacle. Despite having minimal equipment and a limited budget, they were able to create a documentary that captured the essence of an important event and told a story in a unique and engaging way.

Conclusion

Video production is an art that requires a combination of technical and creative skills. “Confluence” is a perfect example of how a high quality product can be created with limited resources. The team behind the project proved that creativity can overcome any obstacle and that it is possible to tell a story in a unique and engaging way, even with minimal equipment and a limited budget.

If you are interested in video production and would like to learn more about how you can use your creativity to overcome the challenges, we invite you to explore the services offered by Sayit. Whether you are interested in corporate, advertising or social media video production, Sayit.video has the experience and creativity to help you create a high quality video product that tells your story in a unique and engaging way.