Chung Yan Yu &Chung Cheuk Ki Semester-end Project

Nostalgic Echoes: A Field Recording of Our Childhood Memories

For our mid-semester project on childhood memories, we initially focused on Jumpin Gym U.S.A. However, we realized that one location alone couldn’t fully represent our entire childhood experiences. 

To expand our content, we decided to incorporate 360-video and field recording, creating a sequel to our previous project. This time, we introduced storytelling elements to make the content more captivating, while also including specific sounds to build a complete and relatable narrative. We are excited to see how this project develops and engages our audience with a more immersive experience.

360-video:
We learned 360-video and added it to our project, filming not only Jumpin Gym U.S.A. but also the Ferris wheel, since it is a specific site that captured our childhood curiosity and fascination.



 
(Figure.1 The 360-view of the Ferris wheel) 360-view in Jumpin Gym U.S.A. is listed below:


Reflections on 360-video:
Following the shooting, we found the sound experience on the Ferris wheel lacking, despite its fascinating view. Conversely, the recordings at Jumpin Gym U.S.A. turned out well. However, we felt it wasn’t sufficient for our final project. Consequently, we made the decision to forgo 360-videos and instead focus on creating a narrative through field recording.

Storytelling through field recordings:
Our project transcends mere recollection of childhood memories in Hong Kong. We have meticulously designed a two-day itinerary to actualize our childhood aspirations, visiting long-desired destinations and engaging in cherished activities. By leveraging the H3 recorder, we offer an all-encompassing auditory experience, that ignite the audience’s imagination and allow them to relive their own childhood wonders.
What we included in the two routines:

Weekday routine
Transporting us back in time, this recording recreates our cherished weekday afternoon routine as children. As the afterschool bell rang, we eagerly tuned in to TVB’s local children’s program, “After School,” providing immense entertainment. Following that, we indulged in cartoons and dramas. Finally, we gathered with our family for a wholesome dinner, completing the nostalgic experience.

Weekend routine
We embark on a weekend visit to Jumpin Gym U.S.A. This time, instead of merely capturing the ambience as we did in our previous project, we actively engage with and play various games that evoke our nostalgic memories. As a result, our recordings capture not only the sounds of the arcade machines but also our genuine emotions and responses during these interactive moments.
 

Reflection
It is fun to temporarily forget what’s on our minds, and do childish things without any worries. However, I can see how things changed from the past to recently in the project. I pictured the sites very crowded before going there. But turns out only a few kids were there. It makes me sad to see such situations. Maybe kids nowadays are busy with their schoolworks, or they choose to play video games. (Chung Cheuk Ki)

 

This assignment allows me to relive what I missed in my childhood. We recorded at different places, including the Ferris wheel, playground, and Jumpin Gym U.S.A. Playing at Jumpin Gym U.S.A. was particularly amusing. I ho