Sophomore Chase Acton expresses himself by editing and creating YouTube videos using custom-made special effects

By Tommy Sneider
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What kinds of videos do you make?
It’s for my classes and they’re like action and things like that. I’ve done it for TV lab.

What type of equipment do you use?
I just use a normal camera and then just throw it on my computer and edit it.

How did you start making videos?
I got into it through friends a couple of years ago. We just decided to just make a video.

What do you like most about making videos?
Everybody likes them and everybody’s reactions. I usually get pretty good reactions; they’re pretty entertained by them.

And least?
Probably when something gets messed up. Sometimes I’ve had a shot for a video and the tape got messed up so I had to remake it.

In general, how long are the videos that you make?
They’re usually five to 10 minutes.

How much time does it usually take to make a video?
It takes a couple days depending on how long it is.

Where did you learn how to make videos?
It was at school and I kind of just learned by myself when I was doing it.

Do you plan to become a professional or is it just more of a hobby?
It’s just a hobby right now. I might consider it in the future.

Is there any way to get better at making movies or is it more a natural talent?
The more you make, the better you get like for editing and that kind of stuff.

What types of special effects do you use?
I don’t have a whole lot of special effects but just like cool titles. It’s like some 3-D titles and stuff like that.

Who is your favorite movie director and why?
I really don’t have one.

What is the most exciting part about making the videos?
Just after you edit it and when it all comes together and it looks good.

What advice do you have for others who want to get interested in it?
Just don’t worry if your first couple movies don’t come out good. Just keep practicing.

Do you have any goals for yourself for making other videos?
It’s pretty much just whatever. I just shoot one whenever I feel like making one.

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5 STEPS TO CREATING YOUR OWN FILM

1. Development: This is where the idea gets turned into a script.
2. Pre-production: This is where all the planning happens; storyboards, casting, location scouting, contracts and shot lists are all taken care of.
3. Production: This is the actual shooting of the film on location or in a studio.
4. Post-production: This is where the film is edited. Sound is fixed and added. Titles and credits are added.
5. Distribution or Exhibition: This is where the film is shown at a festival, sold or distributed to theaters or video stores.

JAMES PETERSON / SOURCE