attention-span ( The Economic Times , 2018 ). TikTok users have a considerably shorter time to convey narratives ; hence professional techniques , and in this case , broader cinematic shifts in modes of production , are employed in response to alternative formats . This is prominent within this video in the series of shots when Sierra jumps up , runs to the mirror , and studies her new reflection . This is conveyed in a succession of three short shots ; sitting at her desk , she begins to move off-screen ; a shot of her feet running across the ground , and then her standing facing the mirror . Few seconds elapse , yet the audience can quickly infer the movement ; hence the narrative can immediately progress . This demonstrates how Sierra incorporates traditional standards of production and further engages in broader industrial shifts .
The video is cinematically rich in elements that provide a substantial argument for viewing it as a professional product , or at least parallel to professional standards . The video ’ s millions of views and
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likes further situates the video in the professional realm as they demonstrate a type of societal value despite lack of payment . However , the video also contains a strong sense of amateurism through a combination of overall aesthetic and subject matter . Sierra ’ s central position within the narratives signify an element of ‘ play ’ as she creates a semifictional story in which she is the main character , digitally creating a space for her to act out fantasies or imagined ideas . TikTok allows for this as it operates as a virtual playground by providing a ‘ recreational space manifested in electronic media ’ that allows users to insert themselves into fictional characters and setting ( Bresnick , 2019 , p . 1 ). Play is an essential aspect of TikTok to consider as amateurism is inexplicably grounded in leisure and hence play ( Zimmermann , 2007 , p . 278 ). This allotment of time is the location in which amateurs begin , and continue , to practice professions . Acknowledging how technology like TikTok provides digital play / leisure time demonstrates the amateurism within Sierra ’ s videos .
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