So, here’s the thing—I actually kind of changed my CCRs midway through! Well, not the scripts—they stayed the same—but the overall concept shifted a bit. Originally, I had planned to do the “answering the web’s most asked questions” idea, which is super popular right now. But as I was brainstorming, I started wondering how I could make it more creative and unique to me.
Then it hit me—reflection! I was literally sitting there reflecting, and the idea of tying that into a diary theme just clicked. It felt like such a natural fit, especially since teenage girls (which I am, of course) are so often stereotyped as being diary writers. Not that this was why I chose the idea, but it definitely added to the charm. Once the idea struck, I knew I had to do it.
Production Challenges (and Wins!)
Now, let’s talk about actually producing the CCRs. Honestly? It was a process—and I mean that in the most dramatic way possible. I’m such a perfectionist, so I retook shots so many times. It wasn’t the most fun part of the journey, but hey, it had to be done.
CCR #1: Director’s Commentary
For my first CCR, I stuck with the director’s commentary idea. I wanted the focus to be on me as the director, so I chose a very neutral and clean setup. The location? My living room. After moving some things around, I created a simple, distraction-free background. I felt this neutral look was key to keeping the audience’s attention on what I was saying—essential for a director’s commentary.
But, of course, there was a problem (yay…not really). I had planned some side-profile shots to make the video more dynamic—because, let’s face it, I didn’t want the entire video to just be me staring straight into the camera. My original setup was on the right side of the living room, but…not great. I realized it just looked awkward—a door and my yellow walls weren’t exactly visually appealing. So, I quickly changed and switched to the left side of the living room. This way, I could incorporate the other couch, which added depth and worked way better as a background.
Then came the outfit decision. Knowing how important mise-en-scene is, I chose a black shirt—it’s neutral, doesn’t distract from the beige and yellow background, and helps keep the focus on me. Three hours later (yes, THREE HOURS), CCR #1 was finally done. Between trying not to repeat myself, memorizing the script, and adjusting the setup, it was a lot of work. Totally worth it, though!
CCR #2: Dear Diary
Now, let me just say—I had way more fun with CCR #2! This one followed the diary concept, where I reflect on my film in the form of writing in a journal. The vibe was cozy and thoughtful, so I leaned into that for the setup.
I actually filmed this one at night. Why? Because I wanted to mimic the idea that people typically write in their diaries at the end of the day, in a quiet, cozy atmosphere. To bring that warmth into the scene, I used a lamp as my soft lighting source. It added such a beautiful, warm touch to the entire video, and I was so happy with how it looked.
For my outfit, I went with a pink top and sweatpants. The pink top was inspired, I think, by Mean Girls—you know, the whole diary/vibes thing. Even if it was subconscious, I couldn’t resist the connection! Plus, the pink popped on camera, especially in the mid and wide shots I used. This CCR definitely felt more dynamic because I incorporated different camera angles, and I even got help from my mom for some of the shots.
Conclusion
Filming everything took two days (I did one CCR each day), and overall, it was such a blast. It felt so much more creative and personal, and I can’t wait to start editing everything together!
Looking back, I’m so glad I allowed myself to rethink and refine my ideas. The diary concept added a special, creative twist that made CCR #2 feel uniquely me. Now it’s time to bring it all together in post-production. Let the editing begin!
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