Out with the Old, In with the New

The Change.

Sometimes we feel the need for change, the need for something different or something new. At that particular micro second in time, what is it that makes us decide that there is a need for replacement, a change?

Sometimes when we reach a particular point in our lives, we are faced with one, if not numerous alternatives towards a certain approach.

Which one will we take? Which path will ultimately satisfy us fully?

Its interesting to see that when we see a need for change, we do it automatically, usually without complains. But what happens when we're forced to change? We detest and resent and we wish that things would stay the same.

Why is this so?

The only explanation I can confer to is simply because we as human beings are largely insecure. No matter who we are, be it a figurehead in society or just an average citizen, I believe that there is a certain sense of fear in changing.

It is a curious thought that people are fearful of change, but when they see a need and automatically initiates that change, that fear is no longer there.

Call it need recognition if you will, but when change is imminent we set off to accomplish the task of change; thus defining the need for change.

I believe that change, is the process in itself. So what is the action of change?

When we see something that is in need of change, when we see a certain weakness in a system or a strategy or more viciously, when we see someone in a different light as before, what do we do?

This feeling is curious and something which I would like to explore deeper and more in depth, but at a later period; partly due to the complexity of the subject and the way in which I would like to explore the subject matter.

More detail will be released in due timing.

Interesting.

Well, the pass couple of weeks were certainly involving to a huge extend; assignments galore. I hardly had time to think about things I would normally ponder over, which can be a good or a bad thing, depending on the circumstance.

However, this week saw the completion of a variety of projects and assignments which I (and for the part, various teammates) took on.

Amongst the lot, highlights were probably the (much anticipated) music video production which was required of us for the Storyboard Module.

Well, here it is, after weeks of preparation and (careful) planning, the final product,

"Best I Ever Had", Vertical Horizon. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7QqsoYNKFg)

I must say, though the production was not of top quality (due to time constrains during both editing as well as filming), the final product turned up substantially well.

Personal favorite: flashback scene towards the end of the video.

I'm sure all that planning and conceptualization during pre-production has certainly paid off and I'm especially happy and captivated with the entire concept of the video.

I guess this is the gist of producing the video, the satisfaction yield at the end of everything. When you see the production that you and your team have spent so much time working on, with blood (not really), sweat and tears (not really either) all put in, being shown on the big screen, that satisfaction and feeling is dare I say, an out of this world experience.

Yes, it could have been much much better but hey, there's always room for improvement.

Moving on to more festive insights.

The Chinese New Year must-have, Yusheng.

Well officially, Chinese New Year happened a couple of days back but due to the immerse workload, I had to forgo a majority of the proceedings as a result.

I've never actually been a fan of the festival, to be totally honest, until this year that is. I've never truly understood the significance of the festival nor abode strictly to its traditional beliefs.

But however, that insensitive side of me seem to cease of recent times.

I'm curious to know what the younger generation feel and perceive the new year as. Is it just another festival with an additional 2 days off from school? Or is it the time of the year where money comes in the form of red packets which results in an increased intake in pocket money allowance?

That aside, I'd like to think otherwise.

I feel that Chinese New Year (or any festival for that matter) isn't about red packets, tidbits or gambling while wearing red undergarments.

It is a time for the family; its like the creator's way of reserving time so that people can communicate and bond with their kin.

In our modern society, we are constantly on the go, and our minds turn from being primal to being materialistic as we view food from being a sustenance to a need in every consumer's mind.

Deterioration of the human mind perhaps? Will we still remember the humane side of our well being?

I guess this is where festivals such as Chinese New Year comes in. Whether if its to usher in the lunar new year, or to mark the start of a new chapter, I feel that the underlying purpose ultimately lies with spending time building relationships with the people around you, and appreciating them.

So think again, if you see the upcoming festive holidays as "time away from the office" or "days with no school". I'm sure its much more than just that.

I apologize for the short hiatus currently being put into motion but things should be very much on schedule now that major projects are out of the way.

Be sure to check back for updates and the lot.

Embrace change and stay sharp!

*The production as seen in this post solely belongs to the Drool Bits Production team and any unaccredited references and relevance made to the storyline and its characters will result in undesirable consequences.

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Song of the Post



Now playing: Radiohead - Just
via FoxyTunes

Own Time, Own Target, Own Passion

The Rush of our time.

I've been on a mini hiatus of late due to the immerse amount of school work and commitments. The school semester reaches its end which probably explains the increased workload.

However, the coming towards the end of a semester also means the impending arrival of the holidays and big plans are already set for the coming break. But most importantly, it'll involve you guys, yes you guys, the readers of metallic-stains.

I shan't reveal too much here but do check back for updates, though activity will be largely reduced due to the influx of work.

My apologies for that.

Recently, I've been involved in a myriad of projects; most of which I thoroughly enjoy. There were a couple of prominent ones in the process.

The main highlight of the lot has to be the upcoming music video production where we are supposed to produce our very own music video.

Well, being a Drool Bits Production (the makers of Encode/Decode and "Where are you?"), we have decided to incorporate a few not so common approaches to the execution and feel of the music video production.

Imagine.

No spoilers as yet but all I can say is that our dear Audrey's been hard at work for the pass couple of days.

We're currently in the midst of production and certainly very good stuff along the way so be sure to check back on our progress.

A week or so back saw the release of the O level results and the Polytechnic's Open House. My deepest congratulations to all who did well but for those who feel disappointed for whatever reason, fret not and just follow your dreams no matter what.

It was, in a way, a very nostalgic period for me personally as well. Barely a year ago, I was in that situation whist making the transition from secondary to tertiary education.

Sure, it was an audacious and trying process but I can safely (and happily) say that I've found what I'm looking for.

My tertiary education made me realize that its not about what you do or how well you do it, its about how much do you like doing it.

Many a time in life, we find ourselves doing things which we either don't enjoy, things we are forced into doing or even things which we simply have to do.

This can be dangerous, I feel. I look at the people around me every time I get the opportunity to take the morning bus or train (which is filled with working professionals)and I think its sad to see that they are living their lives with simply "no choice at all" and that they are just "in it for the money"; clearly, they don't enjoy whatever they're doing.

I pondered on the reason for such a phenomenon.

Are we really slaves to the dollars of our pockets in our society?

I'd really hope not.

We live in such a materialistic world and I guess that's the main culprit behind such occurrences. Many individuals give up on their dreams as they are either too radical, impractical or are just able to find a "better" alternative.

While making the transition to tertiary education, I knew that it was there and then which would decide my future and whatever I would probably be doing for the rest of my life.

So thus, here I am now.

While many might not understand why I would lug Audrey around, in search of pictures, compose a 10000 word post or spend day and night working on a particular production or project, I can safely identify the reason.

It just keeps going on, doesn't it?

Its not about the money, its not about the time, its all about personal satisfaction and creative satisfaction.

They say that if you enjoy whatever you're doing, its not considered work anymore.

To an extend, that statement holds its validity but to me, I draw reward from satisfaction.

However, I'm pretty sure that each and every individual will have his or her own form of satisfaction thus I'll post this to you guys out there,

What is Satisfaction to you?

I'll be looking forward to your reactions but in the meantime, reflect and ask yourself if you're truly happy with whatever you're doing with your life as of right now.

If not, how can you improve? If so, how can you keep it up or strengthen this way of living?

For me personally, I feel that the media has not only roused my interest but also has given me a platform to express myself freely and creatively, and in that sense, I find my satisfaction.

No matter how obtuse or eccentric your idea of satisfaction may be, if that's what floats you boat, hey don't let anyone put you down.

Plenty to think about for the time being and be sure to check back regularly for updates and content. Looking forward to all your feedback and comments to the topic.

Metallic-stains will be involved in a major upcoming project though details will be slowly revealed over the weeks.

Keep Chasing those Dreams!

*Unauthorized use of content from this post without the permission of either the owner or the management team of metallic-stains will result in undesirable consequences. For more visual works, feel free to click the external links at Audrey's Playground. Audrey has been hard at work.

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Song of the Post



Now playing: Vertical Horizon - Best I Ever Had
via FoxyTunes

If a Picture paints a thousand words

Its more than pointing and shooting.

Its been awhile since I last featured or talked about a particular subject matter amongst my post so for today's post, we'll be talking about producing a good picture and my personal rational and interpretation behind pictures.

So before you can say "pic spam!", let me warn you that you've been told...

A different perspective to things oblivious to the naked eye.

Well, I can safely say that I'm by no means, a professional photographer (or anywhere near that association as yet) but I guess producing both still images in the form of photographs as well as moving images in the form of movie and film productions can be considered as recent interests.

Both of which has grown into something deeper than mere passing interest.

Creation is satisfying to some while the Created Product is satisfying to the masses; Creation here being the process while the other, the final product. And that being said, I guess my interest for both aspects of creation has sprouted from the very basis of my course of study.

The Media is vast and ever changing.

While some like to convey their thoughts and ideas via literature, others tend to be more visual and thus convey their perceptions through films and the such. We also have a few others who communicate via still images.

Yes, different mediums are and can be used to communicate and accentuate your ideas, thoughts, beliefs or even perspective, if executed in a suitable method.

Literature, Film and Photos are just examples of different mediums.

And well, for me personally, its a tough internal conflict between the three.

I mean I love to actually write down my ideas, thoughts and perception (as seen here on metallic-stains); I love to make films (as cultivated through my course of study) and hope to make and product short but effective and powerful films in the near future.

Clearly, the newest contender here being the epitome of imaging.

Well, some of you guys out there might have notice a little addition to the link bar to the right and as mentioned in the previous posts, the new member of the management team has indeed widen and developed my interest in the said field.

While metallic-stains stands as my literal take on life, my pictures will (hopefully) represent my visual take on the big picture.

Some of my more visual works can be viewed here, http://www.flickr.com/photos/33694436@N07/ though I'm always open to comments and critical insights regarding my photos, both technically and idealistically.

Technical and Idealistic execution are both important aspects of a picture.

On a technical front, I'm pretty sure that I've got loads more to learn to even consider myself as a photographer. This comes with experience and guidance, things which I consider myself in vital need which (hopefully again) will come in time.

Thus, I chose to work towards my idealistic take on photo taking.

There are millions of photographers out there in the world but the sole appeal of the medium is simple because it gives the people to present their unique perceptions and ideas in the form of pictures.

Well, to me, I feel strongly about the idea and "feel" that the picture is giving me. What is it trying to say? What emotion is it trying to portray?

To me, a good picture means a mind provoking experience, though not always in a negative manner. A good picture should set the viewer thinking and relating.

There are numerous pictures out there on the net and I for one have certainly seen quite a number of good pictures out there, some even able to put my mind into a mental frenzy.

Yes, it is quite appealing and interesting to explore uncharted perceptions and ideas using this medium.

I have an aim every time I interact with Audrey (refer to previous posts for more clarification about the entity). Exploring perceptions has always been something that I value with high regard on a personal level and that is what I aim, every single time I look through her eyes in preparation for a shot.

Thus as we come to the end of this rather concise post, I would like some feedback and advice on the relevant topic;

Which is more important, the Technical or Idealistic aspect of a picture?

Remember to check back for some awesome material coming up and with that I'll see you guys around and hoped you've enjoyed this little feature as much as I did while taking the photos.

Keep Snapping!

*Pleas refer to the team's flickr page for more visual works. The uncredited use of materials from the above feature post without the knowledge of the management team of metallic-stains will result in negative consequences. Please, let creativity and ideas thrive, stamp out plagiarism.

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Whatever's Good in the Pot.
Now playing: New Found Glory - I Don't Wanna Know
via FoxyTunes

As We Say Goodbye

Another year comes while another passes.

First post of the new year, though I admit, it is a little delayed. I guess its due to the bulk of activities as well as the various colorful new year celebrations which I was involved in over the past couple of days.

A difference in the numbers on your calender? I won't presume its that simple. The start of the new year yields much significance as it indicates changes and growth and more importantly, development.

Well, at the start of a new year, I'm pretty sure that the usual cliche surrounds us; new year resolutions, new year wishes, fireworks and the traditional countdown. From squeezing amongst the thronging crowds in hopes of getting the best view of the fireworks display at the stroke of midnight (from wherever you guys are in the world), to writing up new year resolutions on your personal diary or web blog, I'm pretty sure we've "been there, done that".

However here at metallic-stains, we tend to do things a little differently. So instead of the new year's resolution you may see on numerous sites, I'll be doing up a little "new year's appreciation", something which I think, we take for granted in our busy and hectic lives nowadays.

Such memories and reminisces.

Looking Back At Year 2008

Well, the year 2008 has been a turning point in my life, as in individual and also as a 17 year old youngster (understatement, perhaps?). I've undergone a huge change, at least to me personally, especially emotionally, largely due to certain events which happened during the course of the year.

To put it in one sweet statement; I've climbed and fell as I hit the bottom before reaching for the ladder of life again to climb back up.

Certainly the highlight of the year was my new experience in a totally different educational environment in the form of a polytechnic. I've met new people who have taught me things I would have never known or be able to acquire through the medium of the internet; things that can only be derived from real life experience.

I also found my passion. No, we're not talking about an individual here but my passion for the media. Ironically, I've never thought that this was meant to be until I took my first step into the world of media. It was then that I realized that it was a sign.

Pretty deep stuff there but I guess its the little things like that which defines and crafts the outline for the rest of your lives.

I wouldn't have survived, or kept going, without the people around me of course and this would be a great opportunity to show my appreciation via a couple of mentions.

To Mum and Dad, thank you. Thank you for believing in me throughout the years (especially year 2008) and standing by me even when hope was seemingly lost and even though I rarely show it, I really appreciate everything that you guys have done for me, to shape and guide me onto the right path in life. It is family which will stand by you no matter what you become, or how you end up, cause they are after all, your family.

To God Mum, though you'll probably not read this (due to language constrains and my limitation to articulate in mandarin), thank you for everything you've done for me all these years. From cleaning me up before I could even say "mum mum" (which means food, in baby language. I think) to watching me sling my heavy bag everyday as I head out for a new day at school, you've been there taking care of me and I really appreciate that. Thank you.

To Friends, which play a indispensable role on multiple aspects. I'm sure that everyone around me isn't exactly used to such "statements" from me as I don't often show my appreciation openly but a big thank you as well, for being around me and providing me with the laughs and imparting valuable lessons to me. I thank you guys for being there and being happy.

And finally, to the Readers of metallic-stains, who fuel me with my drive and motivation, I thank you formally for your readership. Your support and feedback structures a irreplaceable position in the foundations of the site as well as within the management team. Without you guys, metallic-stains will not be as it is today and with that, I thank you for everything.

2008 has been memorable indeed.

But what's the use of living in the past with your back facing the future?

One follows another; that's how Time works.

Looking Ahead At 2009

As mentioned in my previous post, the year 2009 will see changes which starts with the very site you're staring at right now. Metallic-stains will undergo a minor management change and content organization, details of which can be referred to in the previous post.

In terms of content on the site, I'm pretty sure that 2009 will see a new influx of experiences and inspirational happenings all around which means that readers will be treated to a feast of content from multiple perspectives and thus, will be able to engage themselves in stimulating topic and share their views in the form of comments or feedback.

In terms of course related work, (a couple of months into) 2009 will see the start of my journey as a year 2 individual. Naturally, I'm embracing newer challenges as well as newer learning experiences. Sure, work might get a little more hectic as compared to whatever previously encountered but what's life without the occasional challenge to strengthen one's resolve and expertise?

2009 will be a tough year for many, due to the evident global economic crisis. Financial activity looks set to slowdown which will incur repercussions for sure on everyone in the society.

But while some see it as a defeat, I see this economic situation as a test. A gauge of the society's ability to make the best out of the worse and recover as soon as possible. Belt tightening will have to be practiced (if not already) but I guess its a form of discipline as well.

As we say goodbye to the old and welcome the new, memories will still put that smile back on your face.

So as we say goodbye to 2008 and welcome 2009, let us reflect on the finest moments of year 2008 and smile for all that's worth.

But a coin has two sides and surely the finest moments will have their negative equivalents. Let us not forget the lessons learn in 2008 and take the valuable experience and knowledge along with us into the new year.

This is a new era, a new chapter in our lives and as we say goodbye, think but don't regret, ponder but don't over analyze and finally, react but be happy and stay positive because at the end of the day, being able to sit back with a smile on your face is the best feeling ever.

I'll see you guys around and once again, Happy 2009!


*The management team of metallic-stains.blogspot.com, would like to extend their thanks to the readers all around the world for continuous support of the blog and also wish everyone a Happy and fruitful 2009.

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Song of the Post



Now playing: Saosin - You're Not Alone
via FoxyTunes