VIDEO PRODUCTION PROCESS
Pre-Production
The process began with research to gather high-quality images that would capture the unique charm and atmosphere of Budapest, my hometown, for the video. I used Google Images to collect visuals that showcased the city's iconic landmarks, scenic views, and holiday spirit. Since the theme of the video was centered around Christmas, I also searched for festive and seasonal images that conveyed a warm, magical vibe. To complement the visuals, I carefully selected holiday-themed music from UppBeat.io. I chose an uplifting and modern track that would set the tone for the video while keeping the mood pleasant and engaging. For narration, I used ChatGPT to generate a script. I provided specific instructions regarding the style, tone, and length, ensuring that the script would fit seamlessly into the overall video.
Production
During the production phase, I moved into video editing using Camtasia. This tool was ideal for arranging the visuals, as it allowed me to work with multiple images efficiently. I imported all the selected images, placed them in a timeline, and added transitions between them to create a smooth flow. To enhance the narrative structure, I included section titles throughout the video, helping to guide the viewer’s attention and provide context for each segment. Afterward, I recorded my narration directly in Camtasia, ensuring that my voice aligned perfectly with the visuals. Since the background music track was shorter than the length of the video, I looped the track to ensure consistent audio throughout. I carefully synchronized the music, narration, and visuals to create a polished, cohesive piece. After several test runs, I made final adjustments before exporting the video as an MP4 file.
Post-Production
In the post-production stage, I uploaded the completed video to YouTube. I added an attention-grabbing title, "Budapest Wonderland: A Magical Christmas Tour," and included a brief description to provide context for viewers. I made the video public so that it could be easily shared with others. The entire process was incredibly enjoyable, and creating this video left me with a deep sense of nostalgia, inspiring me to revisit my beautiful hometown.