Inspired by the loss of her father, Luong Ying-ngai’s one-minute video, If You Were Here, highlights the importance of familyTwo years ago, I joined the “Make a Video” contest organised by Unicef Hong Kong. I saw that people were not always willing to open their hearts to make friends. Therefore, I made my first one-minute video entitled “True Friendship?”
Since then, I have been fascinated by video making, and I have started to learn more techniques. Whenever I have time, I take photos and shoot videos with my friends. I joined the campus TV and photography club, and have produced videos on various topics. I have also produced promotional videos for the student union. Some friends even call me a “videographer” and invite me to help them make videos.
The experience I gained from “Make a Video” made me realise that film is not just about popular TV dramas or comedies. It serves as a channel for us to express our ideas. While it may be embarrassing to express one’s thoughts verbally, videos enable us to express ourselves more freely. Parent-child relationships can also be improved by means of videos.
This year, I joined the contest once again with the idea of making a video about cherishing family. Three years ago, my father passed away due to a heart attack. We had a close relationship when I was small. However, we drifted apart as I grew up. I was no longer interested in hearing his stories or telling him about my worries. Not until he passed away did I begin to regret this and cherish the present.
Nowadays, parent-child relationships are distant and teenagers often take things for granted. It is time they learn to treasure their loved ones before it’s too late. I hope everyone will come to realise the importance of family and show their love and appreciation for their parents.
Unicef HK’s “Make A Video” competition gives young people a chance to express themselves through video. The project is co-organised by Hong Kong Arts Centre’s IVFA, with support from Hang Seng Bank and Young Post. Check out the videos here. Email your feedback to [email protected]
Edited by Pete Spurrier