ESPRESSO FILM
In this article, we share our first experience in creating a short film about preparing a homemade espresso. This freestyle project began with the intention of training ourselves to get back into video production. This project gave us the opportunity to explore video production focused on presenting a manufacturing process and consumer products.
The Idea Behind This Video
Initially, we planned to make a classic preparation video for platforms like TikTok or YouTube Shorts as a training exercise. However, after a few slow-motion test shots with supplementary lighting, we realized that this idea had real potential.
An Afternoon to Test the Concept
To be honest, we originally intended to do simple test shots, but after seeing some sequences, we decided to shoot a few more scenes to complete the espresso-making process. Since we were at home with our children, we had to shoot the video as quickly as possible, within an hour or two at most.
Quick Improvisation
Unable to think of complex shots, we decided to keep it simple. One light, and we chose to plunge much of the scene into shadow to hide the clutter while creating a contrasting dynamic. In hindsight, we should have gone for more refined and creative shots. For example, we had a transparent glass table available, which could have served as a platform to film the coffee falling into the portafilter from below.
Challenges Faced
My wife, playing the barista, had never made espresso before. So, I took on the role of barista behind the scenes and teacher while taking the time to compose and adjust the various shots. In general, teamwork is much more efficient for creating this type of video. I’d even say that a professional barista would have helped achieve much better shots and recording in S-Log 3 could have produced a better dynamic range.
Serendipity
Serendipity played a part, as the somewhat harsh and frankly failed extractions ended up adding a unique touch to the video, especially when combined with Vivaldi's “Summer” piece. This dynamic perfectly matched the contrasting and energetic visual, bringing a dramatic dimension to the extraction process and speeding up the tempo.
Lessons Learned
Filming never goes exactly as planned; it’s more of a series of events that lead to a compromise from the original vision. In our opinion, it’s important to remain flexible and go with the flow to take advantage of serendipity and embrace a certain letting go. Much like life, video production is a mix of order and chaos and we have to deal with balancing both.
Update
To fully realize our idea, we took a little more time to create more dynamic shots and edit a "Whiplash" version with the tempo pushed to the maximum.
We have a preference for contemplative shots, but we also wanted to experiment with an approach more in line with current trends to assess the video's performance. In the end, it turned out to be an excellent exercise for improving our editing skills, even though we still lack technique in managing speed variations and transitions.