Tuesday, 30 September 2008
Wednesday, 28 May 2008
Initial Portfolio Video
This is my current portfolio video, it is being handed in with the rest of the SPP3 module. Other footage which will be included in my actual portfolio will be available from July, when I go back to London full time.
Monday, 26 May 2008
Friday, 23 May 2008
PRP Presentation Completed
This morning saw the final piece of assessed work for PRP being completed.
The presentation was an overall explanation of the research document and artefacts created, the conclusions that were reached and how those conclusions were reached.
I felt that the presentation went rather well, I was able to concisely and clearly present the information that I wanted to convey, and in the same time frame which had been continuously practised.
The involvement of the two assessors of the presentation I felt to be very positive. The questions posed after the conclusion of the presentation were questions which were answered thoroughly, and some were also asked of my personal opinion on the subject matter.
The assessors made a special mention of my final slide within the presentation, which explain the errors I made through the module, the problems they then meant for me and what I had learnt from them. I felt this slide to be one of the most important parts of my presentation, as my research method for the entire module did cause me problems later of for manipulating the information I had previously gathered. This has in turn taught me a great deal about research, it's importance to any project, and has made me think twice about how I will conduct any research in the future.
The presentation was an overall explanation of the research document and artefacts created, the conclusions that were reached and how those conclusions were reached.
I felt that the presentation went rather well, I was able to concisely and clearly present the information that I wanted to convey, and in the same time frame which had been continuously practised.
The involvement of the two assessors of the presentation I felt to be very positive. The questions posed after the conclusion of the presentation were questions which were answered thoroughly, and some were also asked of my personal opinion on the subject matter.
The assessors made a special mention of my final slide within the presentation, which explain the errors I made through the module, the problems they then meant for me and what I had learnt from them. I felt this slide to be one of the most important parts of my presentation, as my research method for the entire module did cause me problems later of for manipulating the information I had previously gathered. This has in turn taught me a great deal about research, it's importance to any project, and has made me think twice about how I will conduct any research in the future.
Tuesday, 20 May 2008
My return from Mexico
After spending the last two weeks in Mexico, I have returned back to university and ready to continue preparation for my PRP presentation on friday.
Mexico is truly an exciting country, and the highlight of my venture there without a doubt was my trip to Chichen Itza, the seventh new wonder of the world.
Whilst attending the wedding in Mexico, I was asked to actually film the short wedding ceremony, and also film the wedding dinner with the speeches. This went very well and also gave me an unexpected yet vital experience, and has furthermore enhanced me as a multimedia practitioner.
Here is a photo taken of me standing in front of new wonder of the world the Kukulcán pyramid at the centre of Chichen Itza...
Mexico is truly an exciting country, and the highlight of my venture there without a doubt was my trip to Chichen Itza, the seventh new wonder of the world.
Whilst attending the wedding in Mexico, I was asked to actually film the short wedding ceremony, and also film the wedding dinner with the speeches. This went very well and also gave me an unexpected yet vital experience, and has furthermore enhanced me as a multimedia practitioner.
Here is a photo taken of me standing in front of new wonder of the world the Kukulcán pyramid at the centre of Chichen Itza...
Saturday, 3 May 2008
Top Attributes
The Top 12 attributes Employers want from Graduates
(& 3 more for good measure)
Source: Prospects Directory 2001, pg. 31
Ability
What evidence do you possess to show a recruiter you have this ability?
Willingness to Learn
The development through the course at university, and as illustrated without the online portfolio shows the willingness to learn a variety of information.
Commitment
The commitment shown to my football team Nottingham Forest over the last 17 years does most certainly show my commitment and passion I will show to the right cause, even if the situation may not be of the best state.
Annual participation in a charity football match also shows the lengths I will commit to a good cause.
Dependability/ Reliability
The experience shown at handing in every project during the three years of the course in early or meeting the deadline, does not only show the ability to work under pressure and deadlines, but also the reliability that is possessed.
Self-Motivation / Initiative
The production of the major client project in the final year of university, shows the self-motivation that I possess. The project was a very large one, and whilst a smaller and easier project could have been undertaken, the challenge was one that had to be risen too.
Teamwork / Cooperation
The willingness to help in fellow multimedia practitioners work during the final year, is a good example of the co-operation to work with others.
Communication Skills (Oral)
Whilst successful presentations are a good indication of the impressive communication skills that are possessed, the ability to produce a large client project with important members of the city of Nottingham is a greater indication of the ability to communicate, not just to familiar faces, but those held in a higher regard.
Interpersonal Skills
The ability to communicate often with the location managers for the live client project, and the decision to allow filming at a wide variety of locations.
Communication Skills (Written)
The development of the online journal is a very good indication of the communication skills possessed via a written medium.
Drive/ Energy / Enthusiasm
The passion at which each project is undertaken, and specifically the lengthy time taken on each project and care taken in the production of the work shows the effort and enthusiasm which is needed and used for each piece of work undertaken.
Self-Management / Organisational Skills
With multiple projects during the final year needing to be worked on and completed, the organisation to get each project worked on to a very good standard and the time management structures that were in place is a good indication of self-management.
Desire to Achieve/ Motivation
The personal development as a multimedia practitioner during the course has shown that with the desire and motivation to improve, improvements are made.
Problem Solving Ability/ Analytical Skills
The ability shown in the final presentation within the research module to display and explain clearly and concisely a broad amount of information. Furthermore the acceptance of problems during the module, and evaluating and changing those problems shows a good example of problem solving.
Information Handling Skills
The production of a series of podcasts is a good example of a vast amount of research and information, and then condensing the information into only relevant points, and displaying that information over the broadcast.
Technical & Professional Skills
The proven ability to use a variety of hardware and software throughout the three years at university shows a good sense of professionalism and ability to use a variety of technology.
Leadership
The leadership of multiple projects during the final two years of the course, and the invention and production of a podcast series shows a good example of entrepreneurship and leadership for a variety of tasks.
(& 3 more for good measure)
Source: Prospects Directory 2001, pg. 31
Ability
What evidence do you possess to show a recruiter you have this ability?
Willingness to Learn
The development through the course at university, and as illustrated without the online portfolio shows the willingness to learn a variety of information.
Commitment
The commitment shown to my football team Nottingham Forest over the last 17 years does most certainly show my commitment and passion I will show to the right cause, even if the situation may not be of the best state.
Annual participation in a charity football match also shows the lengths I will commit to a good cause.
Dependability/ Reliability
The experience shown at handing in every project during the three years of the course in early or meeting the deadline, does not only show the ability to work under pressure and deadlines, but also the reliability that is possessed.
Self-Motivation / Initiative
The production of the major client project in the final year of university, shows the self-motivation that I possess. The project was a very large one, and whilst a smaller and easier project could have been undertaken, the challenge was one that had to be risen too.
Teamwork / Cooperation
The willingness to help in fellow multimedia practitioners work during the final year, is a good example of the co-operation to work with others.
Communication Skills (Oral)
Whilst successful presentations are a good indication of the impressive communication skills that are possessed, the ability to produce a large client project with important members of the city of Nottingham is a greater indication of the ability to communicate, not just to familiar faces, but those held in a higher regard.
Interpersonal Skills
The ability to communicate often with the location managers for the live client project, and the decision to allow filming at a wide variety of locations.
Communication Skills (Written)
The development of the online journal is a very good indication of the communication skills possessed via a written medium.
Drive/ Energy / Enthusiasm
The passion at which each project is undertaken, and specifically the lengthy time taken on each project and care taken in the production of the work shows the effort and enthusiasm which is needed and used for each piece of work undertaken.
Self-Management / Organisational Skills
With multiple projects during the final year needing to be worked on and completed, the organisation to get each project worked on to a very good standard and the time management structures that were in place is a good indication of self-management.
Desire to Achieve/ Motivation
The personal development as a multimedia practitioner during the course has shown that with the desire and motivation to improve, improvements are made.
Problem Solving Ability/ Analytical Skills
The ability shown in the final presentation within the research module to display and explain clearly and concisely a broad amount of information. Furthermore the acceptance of problems during the module, and evaluating and changing those problems shows a good example of problem solving.
Information Handling Skills
The production of a series of podcasts is a good example of a vast amount of research and information, and then condensing the information into only relevant points, and displaying that information over the broadcast.
Technical & Professional Skills
The proven ability to use a variety of hardware and software throughout the three years at university shows a good sense of professionalism and ability to use a variety of technology.
Leadership
The leadership of multiple projects during the final two years of the course, and the invention and production of a podcast series shows a good example of entrepreneurship and leadership for a variety of tasks.
Friday, 2 May 2008
Personal Goals
Look again at your background strengths and areas for improvement. Do any of these relate to your personal goals?
Refer to the SMART model of goal setting for tips on how to formulate goals that are achievable and give you the greatest chance of success.
You may find it useful to record your goals and ambitions under the following headings:
Travel:
I would like to travel in my lifetime to as many of the Wonders of the World as possible
Exercise/ Sport:
I would like to continue playing in as many charity football matches as possible, also would like to get a short term career in sports radio production and reporting
Language:
I would furthermore like to enhance my knowledge in foreign language, most specifically the Italian language
Creative:
I would like to continue my creative writing, and complete at least one full length script
Clubs and societies:
I will strive to continue to be a member of as many different societies that I can be, and that will aid my development
Hobbies:
I would like to play sport for many years to come, also continue my podcast series and develop the standard within them
Refer to the SMART model of goal setting for tips on how to formulate goals that are achievable and give you the greatest chance of success.
You may find it useful to record your goals and ambitions under the following headings:
Travel:
I would like to travel in my lifetime to as many of the Wonders of the World as possible
Exercise/ Sport:
I would like to continue playing in as many charity football matches as possible, also would like to get a short term career in sports radio production and reporting
Language:
I would furthermore like to enhance my knowledge in foreign language, most specifically the Italian language
Creative:
I would like to continue my creative writing, and complete at least one full length script
Clubs and societies:
I will strive to continue to be a member of as many different societies that I can be, and that will aid my development
Hobbies:
I would like to play sport for many years to come, also continue my podcast series and develop the standard within them
Acedemic Goals
Look again at your background strengths and areas for improvement. Which of these relate to your academic goals?
Each of the improvements and strengths are subjects related to multimedia, and will be areas of my development and skills that will be valuable to achieving a good degree
What is your motivation for studying?
The motivation is being successful in the long term, and initially this will be achieved by receiving a good degree
Did the skills audit you completed highlight any particular areas on which to concentrate academically?
None which were not already made aware of
What qualification are you studying for? (HND, BA, BSc, MA, MSc, PhD, etc)
BA
Are you aiming for a particular grade, either for personal satisfaction or to meet job or sponsorship requirements, etc?
If at least a 2:1 is not achieved, I will seriously re-evaluate if this is the career sector I will enter
Are there any areas you would like to specialise in during the course?
On reflection, I would liked to of produced more audio work, as opposed to focuses on web design
What are your long-term academic ambitions?
Finish this course with a degree of at least a 2:1 standard, and begin full time work
Do you intend to continue your studies in the future?
No
After answering the questions above and referring to the SMART goal model in the PDP Guide set your academic goals:
My academic goals…Is to achieve a degree of at least a 2:1 standard.
Personal Goals
Each of the improvements and strengths are subjects related to multimedia, and will be areas of my development and skills that will be valuable to achieving a good degree
What is your motivation for studying?
The motivation is being successful in the long term, and initially this will be achieved by receiving a good degree
Did the skills audit you completed highlight any particular areas on which to concentrate academically?
None which were not already made aware of
What qualification are you studying for? (HND, BA, BSc, MA, MSc, PhD, etc)
BA
Are you aiming for a particular grade, either for personal satisfaction or to meet job or sponsorship requirements, etc?
If at least a 2:1 is not achieved, I will seriously re-evaluate if this is the career sector I will enter
Are there any areas you would like to specialise in during the course?
On reflection, I would liked to of produced more audio work, as opposed to focuses on web design
What are your long-term academic ambitions?
Finish this course with a degree of at least a 2:1 standard, and begin full time work
Do you intend to continue your studies in the future?
No
After answering the questions above and referring to the SMART goal model in the PDP Guide set your academic goals:
My academic goals…Is to achieve a degree of at least a 2:1 standard.
Personal Goals
Thursday, 1 May 2008
Artefact: Six Evaluation Submitted Online
Artefact: Six is an over view of the previous five artefacts, and successfully discusses how the role of a news gatherer has changed, specifically over the last 25 years.
The artefact provides more in depth knowledge and understanding of the information that was researched in previous artefacts, and relates the topic of research for each of the previous five artefacts, to how it has effected the news gatherer and the role of a news gatherer.
Two very important interviews with both the BBC East Midlands news editor, and with a BBC East Midlands broadcast journalist were extremely important for this artefact. The interviews provided a greater understanding on the role of a news gatherer, and the specific changes which have occurred to the role in recent years.
Unfortunately this artefact contains the vast majority of information which should have been included in previous artefacts, however this research module has taught me that whilst I was progressing through each artefact, my initial research methods was incorrect. Whilst initially doing a vast amount of research on a broad subject matter, instead of narrowing down the information to answer the specific research question, I continued to research the broad subject area and this had hindered my progress in each artefact to relate the research to the specific research question.
Realising the error of my ways, this sixth artefact (whilst an overview of the previous artefacts), has also expanded the research from the previous attempts to answer the initial research question, and whilst relating it to previous artefacts, has shown a greater depth of knowledge.
This artefact has established that whilst initially thinking the development in technology had a direct impact in the change of the role of a news gatherer, it is a much more complex situation, as the technology has not been the only impact.
The artefact provides more in depth knowledge and understanding of the information that was researched in previous artefacts, and relates the topic of research for each of the previous five artefacts, to how it has effected the news gatherer and the role of a news gatherer.
Two very important interviews with both the BBC East Midlands news editor, and with a BBC East Midlands broadcast journalist were extremely important for this artefact. The interviews provided a greater understanding on the role of a news gatherer, and the specific changes which have occurred to the role in recent years.
Unfortunately this artefact contains the vast majority of information which should have been included in previous artefacts, however this research module has taught me that whilst I was progressing through each artefact, my initial research methods was incorrect. Whilst initially doing a vast amount of research on a broad subject matter, instead of narrowing down the information to answer the specific research question, I continued to research the broad subject area and this had hindered my progress in each artefact to relate the research to the specific research question.
Realising the error of my ways, this sixth artefact (whilst an overview of the previous artefacts), has also expanded the research from the previous attempts to answer the initial research question, and whilst relating it to previous artefacts, has shown a greater depth of knowledge.
This artefact has established that whilst initially thinking the development in technology had a direct impact in the change of the role of a news gatherer, it is a much more complex situation, as the technology has not been the only impact.
Artefact: Five Evaluation Submitted Online
Artefact: Five continues from the previous artefact, and examined in more depth the effect that accessibility and interactivity has had on news.
This artefact allowed members of the public to create a news article after being given the task of creating "a news article on the effect that extreme weather conditions are having on the local area”. Each news article would be completed with a questionnaire which established the decision making processes which were made by each member of the public, and see the impact they had on the news article.
Originally more members of the public were contacted about creating their own version of a news article, unfortunately only three final news articles were received. Ideally more news articles would have been preferred to evaluate findings and their significance.
The idea of getting people to create a news article was to compare and evaluate each news article and establish what effect user generated news had on the role of a news gatherer. The findings resulted in discovering that the relationship between the news gatherer and the audience is changing, as the audience is shifting from being a passive viewer of news to now actively seeking to be a part of news.
This artefact has established that the addition of user generated news articles has given the news gatherer an alternative source of where to gather news information and content from, and has also allowed professional news gatherers to be able to include user footage in their news articles if the news gatherer is unable to attend the scene.
Each producer of the news article felt the single most important feature of a news article is the content. These audience demands have meant the news gatherer has had to adapt their approach to producing news articles to what is expected from the audience.
This artefact allowed members of the public to create a news article after being given the task of creating "a news article on the effect that extreme weather conditions are having on the local area”. Each news article would be completed with a questionnaire which established the decision making processes which were made by each member of the public, and see the impact they had on the news article.
Originally more members of the public were contacted about creating their own version of a news article, unfortunately only three final news articles were received. Ideally more news articles would have been preferred to evaluate findings and their significance.
The idea of getting people to create a news article was to compare and evaluate each news article and establish what effect user generated news had on the role of a news gatherer. The findings resulted in discovering that the relationship between the news gatherer and the audience is changing, as the audience is shifting from being a passive viewer of news to now actively seeking to be a part of news.
This artefact has established that the addition of user generated news articles has given the news gatherer an alternative source of where to gather news information and content from, and has also allowed professional news gatherers to be able to include user footage in their news articles if the news gatherer is unable to attend the scene.
Each producer of the news article felt the single most important feature of a news article is the content. These audience demands have meant the news gatherer has had to adapt their approach to producing news articles to what is expected from the audience.
Thursday, 17 April 2008
Live Client Project Evaluation Essay
The initial research of the project involved researching and watching promotional videos. The two promotional videos which I particularly focussed on were one for the newly opened Tram Network and the other was for the First Generation I-Pod. Whilst both were different in their style and approach to promote the differing products, what did become apparent was that the most important part to both promotional videos were the interviews used. The interviews gave greater depth into the subject and this will be something I will look to focus for my promotional video.
The first part to the initial research of the project was research into the City of Nottingham. This research was of the main sights and attractions within the city of Nottingham, from here, this provided a list of locations and then contact details for each of these locations. I also contacted Nottingham City Council’s Tourist department for advice, this research provided further links, ideas and information for the project.
The official beginning of the project was the first meeting with the client project, the Chief Executive of Nottingham Forest, Mark Arthur. The meeting provided us both with an idea of what was required for the project, how it would be achieved.
The method for filming the video was a long and length process. When each location was filmed, I made sure that a lot of footage was recorded at the location, more than was likely to be needed. This was done to ensure that during the editing process there would be enough footage to edit, ensuring the perfect shots. The process of gaining access to film at each location was the longest process of the entire project, and also was the most hassle. Out of all the locations filmed at, only two locations were agreed upon in a short time period, but the particular locations replying to my contacting of their facilities. The other locations required more precision and tact in gaining a response to the filming requests. Filming at St Pancras International was initially agreed upon with the head of media and marketing, but only one week before filming a different member of staff at the location contacted me demanding the universities public liability insurance. This situation made me realise just how much planning and attention to detail was required when it comes to filming out on location, and even if it appears that filming at the location was agreed upon, those plans can change only days before the proposed shoot.
The editing of the footage took a long time due to the length of the promotional video, but due to extensive pre-production work, this was all allotted within the work schedule. The pre-production process was covered in detail and with precision, so when it came to the filming and editing processes, the workload was already laid out and prepared so all the work could be completed in good time.
One of the editing decisions which took along time deciding upon was how to change from each section of the promotional video, e.g. from Locations to Transportation. Eventually I decided that this would be done using Photoshop to create a photo of the first shot of the next scene, and using a visual effect, then to transition from the photo into the footage. This was done to separate each different section within the promotional video, but also because the editing effects makes the video flow continuously. Music was added to each of these section headings for an aesthetic effect. Originally the music was left out, and whilst the still images looked good, the lack of audio with the pictures felt like something was missing.
Along with the promotional video, I initially decided that a promotional package would have to be created for the project, not just a promotional video. Whilst this did entail an awful lot of work, it was a challenge that I was looking forward to. Deciding what the package would entail was a slightly lengthy process, but eventually I decided upon a DVD which as well as the promotional video would include an interactive menu with the interviews in full, the press release of the new stadium and production photos, along with a DVD label and cover. These decisions were made as I felt each of the features would enhance the promotional package. The main DVD feature I feel is the interviews shown in full, this is because it allows greater inside into what the interviewees thoughts are on the subject, without having to edit them down to fit into a specific time frame.
The DVD cover I am especially proud of as it was created in Photoshop, which is software I am not as fluent in as I would have liked. I decided that Photoshop was the best picture editing software, so it was chosen to create the DVD cover. This did mean that I had to use software which I was uncomfortable with, so I made an effort to put time into using it before I started creating the cover. Ultimately, using Photoshop has enhanced my knowledge and skills of the software hugely, and whilst creating a very professional looking DVD cover, I feel it is more important as a multimedia practitioner that my skills within a major piece of software have been enhanced.
Unfortunately several major problems were encountered with this project. The first problem was with agreeing upon locations and interviews to be undertaken and filmed. For some locations in particular towards the end of the pre-production process, I would be in contact with the location on a daily basis, and unfortunately some locations which were planned to be filmed at could not be filmed due to the lack of response that I was receiving. Fortunately the project was started as early as possible, this did mean that during the pre-production process (whilst some locations response time was very poor) because I had started early that with more pressure enforced for a response from locations and individuals, filming was agreed at locations with enough time to film at the location before editing the project.
Undertaking such a large project could ultimately have been a problem in itself. A smaller scaled project could have been chosen however my interest of this subject and the relevance of the subject to this specific moment in time too, indicated that it was a project that I should undertake. Unfortunately, with two other major modules both producing a mass amount of work at the same time, the time management of each individual module at times became difficult to manage. My attempt to solve this problem was achieved by using my online journal extensively. By continuously keeping the journal up to date, it also worked as a diary which allowed me to manage my time in a more organised manor.
The biggest problem that was encountered was during the most important interview of the entire project, with the client of the project, the chief executive of Nottingham Forest Football Club. The filming equipment was hired from the university, and whilst appearing to be in working order, after filming a very good interview with the client, upon attempting to playback the footage for editing, I noticed that the footage had not recorded properly, and horizontal black lines appeared all throughout the recording, along with the audio being inconsistent. This was the worst thing that could have happened to the project, as it set me back a substantial time stalling the continuation of the project. I was just extremely fortunate that the client agreed to another interview which was rescheduled as his interview was pivotal to the project.
The final problem with the project was that the tutor of the project was un-expectantly unavailable for feedback of the project until four days before the final hand in of the project. Unfortunately due to finding out about this situation at the last minute, this problem could not be solved, and whilst not receiving feedback for the project from the tutor of the project, others have stated how impressed they are with the work, and I am hoping that the feedback received from those unrelated to the project and my own personal opinions show good judgement.
My biggest finding for this project was how intensive the pre-production and production processes were. Being an individual project, yet having to agree filming at several major locations in Nottingham along with East Midlands Airport and St Pancras International as well as interviews and securing footage that could be used within the project required hard work and a lot of time. Whilst not initially realising just how much time was required to produce the project, it has opened my eyes to just how important the pre-production and planning stage of any large project are.
I learnt just how important relevant feedback is to any project. My predicament did mean that I was unable to gain any relevant feedback of the edited work, and without receiving the feedback, it was even more apparent that when is received, it is crucial to take it on board, analyse the feedback and to not be afraid to make changes to the work.
The project confirmed just how important good time management can be to a project. With numerous other projects ongoing at the same time, being able to keep to a strict working schedule is essential to minimise the workload, but maximise the output and standard of the work.
The one consideration which I ultimately decided against was to alter the voiceovers used within the ‘locations’ section of the promotional video. I initially felt that possibly too many statistics and information were used whilst describing each location, however upon evaluating the situation myself, I decided that this was not the case. However, in future projects I will make a special effort to match the voiceover exactly to the images that are to be seen as the same time as the audio will be heard.
With more time available, I would have liked to of conducted more interviews and filmed at some more locations. Unfortunately due to the time frame of this project this was unfeasible this time, however in future it will be something I will look at.
Whilst specifically designed for laptops (as the client of the project stated that the DVD would be watched on laptops) on some televisions when the DVD is watched, the screen size is altered to that when watched on computers and laptops. The picture on some televisions is cropped which shows the promotional video without a certain portion of each side of the picture shown. Whilst this potential problem does not matter due to the hardware that will be used to watch the promotional video, it is a problem that would be better off addressed and resolved.
The first part to the initial research of the project was research into the City of Nottingham. This research was of the main sights and attractions within the city of Nottingham, from here, this provided a list of locations and then contact details for each of these locations. I also contacted Nottingham City Council’s Tourist department for advice, this research provided further links, ideas and information for the project.
The official beginning of the project was the first meeting with the client project, the Chief Executive of Nottingham Forest, Mark Arthur. The meeting provided us both with an idea of what was required for the project, how it would be achieved.
The method for filming the video was a long and length process. When each location was filmed, I made sure that a lot of footage was recorded at the location, more than was likely to be needed. This was done to ensure that during the editing process there would be enough footage to edit, ensuring the perfect shots. The process of gaining access to film at each location was the longest process of the entire project, and also was the most hassle. Out of all the locations filmed at, only two locations were agreed upon in a short time period, but the particular locations replying to my contacting of their facilities. The other locations required more precision and tact in gaining a response to the filming requests. Filming at St Pancras International was initially agreed upon with the head of media and marketing, but only one week before filming a different member of staff at the location contacted me demanding the universities public liability insurance. This situation made me realise just how much planning and attention to detail was required when it comes to filming out on location, and even if it appears that filming at the location was agreed upon, those plans can change only days before the proposed shoot.
The editing of the footage took a long time due to the length of the promotional video, but due to extensive pre-production work, this was all allotted within the work schedule. The pre-production process was covered in detail and with precision, so when it came to the filming and editing processes, the workload was already laid out and prepared so all the work could be completed in good time.
One of the editing decisions which took along time deciding upon was how to change from each section of the promotional video, e.g. from Locations to Transportation. Eventually I decided that this would be done using Photoshop to create a photo of the first shot of the next scene, and using a visual effect, then to transition from the photo into the footage. This was done to separate each different section within the promotional video, but also because the editing effects makes the video flow continuously. Music was added to each of these section headings for an aesthetic effect. Originally the music was left out, and whilst the still images looked good, the lack of audio with the pictures felt like something was missing.
Along with the promotional video, I initially decided that a promotional package would have to be created for the project, not just a promotional video. Whilst this did entail an awful lot of work, it was a challenge that I was looking forward to. Deciding what the package would entail was a slightly lengthy process, but eventually I decided upon a DVD which as well as the promotional video would include an interactive menu with the interviews in full, the press release of the new stadium and production photos, along with a DVD label and cover. These decisions were made as I felt each of the features would enhance the promotional package. The main DVD feature I feel is the interviews shown in full, this is because it allows greater inside into what the interviewees thoughts are on the subject, without having to edit them down to fit into a specific time frame.
The DVD cover I am especially proud of as it was created in Photoshop, which is software I am not as fluent in as I would have liked. I decided that Photoshop was the best picture editing software, so it was chosen to create the DVD cover. This did mean that I had to use software which I was uncomfortable with, so I made an effort to put time into using it before I started creating the cover. Ultimately, using Photoshop has enhanced my knowledge and skills of the software hugely, and whilst creating a very professional looking DVD cover, I feel it is more important as a multimedia practitioner that my skills within a major piece of software have been enhanced.
Unfortunately several major problems were encountered with this project. The first problem was with agreeing upon locations and interviews to be undertaken and filmed. For some locations in particular towards the end of the pre-production process, I would be in contact with the location on a daily basis, and unfortunately some locations which were planned to be filmed at could not be filmed due to the lack of response that I was receiving. Fortunately the project was started as early as possible, this did mean that during the pre-production process (whilst some locations response time was very poor) because I had started early that with more pressure enforced for a response from locations and individuals, filming was agreed at locations with enough time to film at the location before editing the project.
Undertaking such a large project could ultimately have been a problem in itself. A smaller scaled project could have been chosen however my interest of this subject and the relevance of the subject to this specific moment in time too, indicated that it was a project that I should undertake. Unfortunately, with two other major modules both producing a mass amount of work at the same time, the time management of each individual module at times became difficult to manage. My attempt to solve this problem was achieved by using my online journal extensively. By continuously keeping the journal up to date, it also worked as a diary which allowed me to manage my time in a more organised manor.
The biggest problem that was encountered was during the most important interview of the entire project, with the client of the project, the chief executive of Nottingham Forest Football Club. The filming equipment was hired from the university, and whilst appearing to be in working order, after filming a very good interview with the client, upon attempting to playback the footage for editing, I noticed that the footage had not recorded properly, and horizontal black lines appeared all throughout the recording, along with the audio being inconsistent. This was the worst thing that could have happened to the project, as it set me back a substantial time stalling the continuation of the project. I was just extremely fortunate that the client agreed to another interview which was rescheduled as his interview was pivotal to the project.
The final problem with the project was that the tutor of the project was un-expectantly unavailable for feedback of the project until four days before the final hand in of the project. Unfortunately due to finding out about this situation at the last minute, this problem could not be solved, and whilst not receiving feedback for the project from the tutor of the project, others have stated how impressed they are with the work, and I am hoping that the feedback received from those unrelated to the project and my own personal opinions show good judgement.
My biggest finding for this project was how intensive the pre-production and production processes were. Being an individual project, yet having to agree filming at several major locations in Nottingham along with East Midlands Airport and St Pancras International as well as interviews and securing footage that could be used within the project required hard work and a lot of time. Whilst not initially realising just how much time was required to produce the project, it has opened my eyes to just how important the pre-production and planning stage of any large project are.
I learnt just how important relevant feedback is to any project. My predicament did mean that I was unable to gain any relevant feedback of the edited work, and without receiving the feedback, it was even more apparent that when is received, it is crucial to take it on board, analyse the feedback and to not be afraid to make changes to the work.
The project confirmed just how important good time management can be to a project. With numerous other projects ongoing at the same time, being able to keep to a strict working schedule is essential to minimise the workload, but maximise the output and standard of the work.
The one consideration which I ultimately decided against was to alter the voiceovers used within the ‘locations’ section of the promotional video. I initially felt that possibly too many statistics and information were used whilst describing each location, however upon evaluating the situation myself, I decided that this was not the case. However, in future projects I will make a special effort to match the voiceover exactly to the images that are to be seen as the same time as the audio will be heard.
With more time available, I would have liked to of conducted more interviews and filmed at some more locations. Unfortunately due to the time frame of this project this was unfeasible this time, however in future it will be something I will look at.
Whilst specifically designed for laptops (as the client of the project stated that the DVD would be watched on laptops) on some televisions when the DVD is watched, the screen size is altered to that when watched on computers and laptops. The picture on some televisions is cropped which shows the promotional video without a certain portion of each side of the picture shown. Whilst this potential problem does not matter due to the hardware that will be used to watch the promotional video, it is a problem that would be better off addressed and resolved.
Simulated Client Project Evaluation Essay
The initial research of the project involved watching television adverts to gain a grasp of how television adverts advertised their products. Unfortunately despite researching on the internet, not many insect repellent adverts were found, however I watched similar adverts which helped get an insight into how different products were advertised.
I decided that the advert would be a comedic advert as it would be difficult to advertise an insect repellent in a serious advert with little resources and only in thirty seconds. I watched the old John Smiths adverts, these were parody adverts which were very short and unrelated to the product, however they received a cult following due to their humour, and the concept of the adverts which worked very well. I decided that the John Smiths adverts would be a good example of an advert to get ideas from. I also decided that the advert for the insect repellent will be a comedy, which will largely not be associated to the insect repellent.
Insect repellent products were researched in terms of the appearance of the product and the packaging. Whilst having a clean plastic silver spray bottle with no packaging, this was considered perfect to use as the insect repellent. A label was made specifically for the insect repellent, which was made on a white label and importantly contained the name of the repellent as well as a description of the repellent and the logo. It was important to make the text used on the label very clear to read especially on camera, and the idea of making a label for the repellent was felt a necessity for the advert due to this being a creative project.
I decided that securing a location where access would be unlimited and flexible would be in the best interest for producing the advert. This allowed easy and regular access into the filming location, during the pre-production stage of the project and during the planning stage of the project, which allows altercations to be made to the filming concept.
The one actor chosen was freely available, this allowed a filming schedule which even if subject to change would not alter the timeframe of filming the advert.
Filming of the first scene was very ambitious, by setting the scene as a hot and sunny location but without being able to get to the location was a big challenge. The decision was made to film a poster of a sunny beach, whilst slightly moving the handheld camera. Effects were added to the recorded footage, the main effect to be used was a ‘blur’. Hawaiian music was also added to the footage for the same reason as the visual effects, with the music aiming to resemble a hot and sunny location with it’s relaxed and exotic sound. The filming of the poster alone does not have the desired effect, however the addition of effects, and most notably the ‘blur’ effect does allow the footage to resemble a beach and the concept of sunshine and enjoyment. The addition of Hawaiian music did have the desired effect to the footage, without being overbearing.
The main section of the advert was the filming of the actor outside in ‘his’ back garden, in extremely diverse conditions to that of the previous scene. The diversity of this scene is a reality check from the previous scene which was an imaginary image of where the actor believed he was. The change from the two different scenes was very important, as from the happiness of the first scene it was essential to merge into the following scene in a dramatic change. This was done using sound effect of a car crash and a visual effect of the motion of the screen moving from left to right and back numerous times, before the new scene has emerged fully onto the screen. The addition of the car crash sound effect was used to add the drama of moving from one scene to another and this effect works well as the sound effect takes over directly from the Hawaiian music. The visual effect works in tandem with the sound effect, and the idea behind the visual effect was for the audio to dictate the violent screen movement and to appear as a drastic change to the advert, similar to a car crash. Originally the sound effect was the only effect used in the transition between the two scenes, however I thought that the visual effect would further dramatise the transition and it was added to the advert.
The main section of the advert was the scene from which the transition ended. The actor is sat in holiday clothes looking as though he was on holiday at a location similar to the first scene, but in reality he is sat in his back garden next to a large table which contains the insect repellent amongst holiday items. After initially filming the scene with the actor sat by the table from a mid-range distance, during the editing process I discovered that the actor and the other end of the table were not able to be seen fully on screen. This prompted a re-shoot of the scene in which the camera was placed a little further back and the actor was placed nearer the table. After the re-shoot, both the actor and table were more central to the shot making the scene appear better on screen. The scene contained cut shots from the first shot of the actor sat down next to the table, to a close up of the insect repellent being used. The next shot is of a hand pressing down on the insect repellent onto a fly on a cocktail, and as the spray is released, the fly disappears.
This was filmed with one crew member removing the fly after filming the use of the insect repellent, and editing out the in-between shots to allow a smooth transition for the effect to work. This was done to show the insect repellent in use, but was filmed and edited in a manor which kept its comical approach.
The final scene of the advert was the necessary three second pack shot of the insect repellent. The pack shot was filmed using an extreme close up shot of the label. I personally felt that the pack shot was not too important and could not be merged into the main content of the advert itself.
The main problem with this project was trying to get the message and concept of the project across in a short thirty second advert. With the advert being extremely short, it was difficult to get the style I wanted to impose of the advert to come across, and the concept of the advert. The way I attempted to overcome this problem was by rethinking how the advert was going to be filmed and edited. I decided that the length of the shots would be generally shorter to impose more images during the advert.
The most important realisation of this project was that to convey a concept across successfully in a very short time frame, a lot of planning of the timing of the shots had to be done. I learnt that even during the pre-production process, the initial timing of the shots would be subject to change upon seeing how the shots come across on camera.
I also learnt that for my development as a multimedia practitioner, I need to spend more time planning the length of shots during the pre-production process. Whilst the length of the shots could be altered during editing, it would allow for a greater understanding of what was exactly needed during the filming process.
I also discovered that by finishing full edits of the work earlier and gaining feedback from the tutor of this project, the work can be discussed in full and enhanced. The feedback from somebody who understands the project can give a different perspective of the project, which can embark on reasoned debate alternative ideas on the edited work.
The biggest improvement I would make on reflection would be by re-shooting the pack shot at the end of the advert. At the time I did not appreciate that much time should be spent on the pack shot, but looking back it is one of the most important shots within the advert, as it is a close-up of the product being sold. If the pack shot was to be re-shot, I would attempt to relate the pack shot to the rest of the advert by filming the shot outside on the table next to where the actor was sat.
I decided that the advert would be a comedic advert as it would be difficult to advertise an insect repellent in a serious advert with little resources and only in thirty seconds. I watched the old John Smiths adverts, these were parody adverts which were very short and unrelated to the product, however they received a cult following due to their humour, and the concept of the adverts which worked very well. I decided that the John Smiths adverts would be a good example of an advert to get ideas from. I also decided that the advert for the insect repellent will be a comedy, which will largely not be associated to the insect repellent.
Insect repellent products were researched in terms of the appearance of the product and the packaging. Whilst having a clean plastic silver spray bottle with no packaging, this was considered perfect to use as the insect repellent. A label was made specifically for the insect repellent, which was made on a white label and importantly contained the name of the repellent as well as a description of the repellent and the logo. It was important to make the text used on the label very clear to read especially on camera, and the idea of making a label for the repellent was felt a necessity for the advert due to this being a creative project.
I decided that securing a location where access would be unlimited and flexible would be in the best interest for producing the advert. This allowed easy and regular access into the filming location, during the pre-production stage of the project and during the planning stage of the project, which allows altercations to be made to the filming concept.
The one actor chosen was freely available, this allowed a filming schedule which even if subject to change would not alter the timeframe of filming the advert.
Filming of the first scene was very ambitious, by setting the scene as a hot and sunny location but without being able to get to the location was a big challenge. The decision was made to film a poster of a sunny beach, whilst slightly moving the handheld camera. Effects were added to the recorded footage, the main effect to be used was a ‘blur’. Hawaiian music was also added to the footage for the same reason as the visual effects, with the music aiming to resemble a hot and sunny location with it’s relaxed and exotic sound. The filming of the poster alone does not have the desired effect, however the addition of effects, and most notably the ‘blur’ effect does allow the footage to resemble a beach and the concept of sunshine and enjoyment. The addition of Hawaiian music did have the desired effect to the footage, without being overbearing.
The main section of the advert was the filming of the actor outside in ‘his’ back garden, in extremely diverse conditions to that of the previous scene. The diversity of this scene is a reality check from the previous scene which was an imaginary image of where the actor believed he was. The change from the two different scenes was very important, as from the happiness of the first scene it was essential to merge into the following scene in a dramatic change. This was done using sound effect of a car crash and a visual effect of the motion of the screen moving from left to right and back numerous times, before the new scene has emerged fully onto the screen. The addition of the car crash sound effect was used to add the drama of moving from one scene to another and this effect works well as the sound effect takes over directly from the Hawaiian music. The visual effect works in tandem with the sound effect, and the idea behind the visual effect was for the audio to dictate the violent screen movement and to appear as a drastic change to the advert, similar to a car crash. Originally the sound effect was the only effect used in the transition between the two scenes, however I thought that the visual effect would further dramatise the transition and it was added to the advert.
The main section of the advert was the scene from which the transition ended. The actor is sat in holiday clothes looking as though he was on holiday at a location similar to the first scene, but in reality he is sat in his back garden next to a large table which contains the insect repellent amongst holiday items. After initially filming the scene with the actor sat by the table from a mid-range distance, during the editing process I discovered that the actor and the other end of the table were not able to be seen fully on screen. This prompted a re-shoot of the scene in which the camera was placed a little further back and the actor was placed nearer the table. After the re-shoot, both the actor and table were more central to the shot making the scene appear better on screen. The scene contained cut shots from the first shot of the actor sat down next to the table, to a close up of the insect repellent being used. The next shot is of a hand pressing down on the insect repellent onto a fly on a cocktail, and as the spray is released, the fly disappears.
This was filmed with one crew member removing the fly after filming the use of the insect repellent, and editing out the in-between shots to allow a smooth transition for the effect to work. This was done to show the insect repellent in use, but was filmed and edited in a manor which kept its comical approach.
The final scene of the advert was the necessary three second pack shot of the insect repellent. The pack shot was filmed using an extreme close up shot of the label. I personally felt that the pack shot was not too important and could not be merged into the main content of the advert itself.
The main problem with this project was trying to get the message and concept of the project across in a short thirty second advert. With the advert being extremely short, it was difficult to get the style I wanted to impose of the advert to come across, and the concept of the advert. The way I attempted to overcome this problem was by rethinking how the advert was going to be filmed and edited. I decided that the length of the shots would be generally shorter to impose more images during the advert.
The most important realisation of this project was that to convey a concept across successfully in a very short time frame, a lot of planning of the timing of the shots had to be done. I learnt that even during the pre-production process, the initial timing of the shots would be subject to change upon seeing how the shots come across on camera.
I also learnt that for my development as a multimedia practitioner, I need to spend more time planning the length of shots during the pre-production process. Whilst the length of the shots could be altered during editing, it would allow for a greater understanding of what was exactly needed during the filming process.
I also discovered that by finishing full edits of the work earlier and gaining feedback from the tutor of this project, the work can be discussed in full and enhanced. The feedback from somebody who understands the project can give a different perspective of the project, which can embark on reasoned debate alternative ideas on the edited work.
The biggest improvement I would make on reflection would be by re-shooting the pack shot at the end of the advert. At the time I did not appreciate that much time should be spent on the pack shot, but looking back it is one of the most important shots within the advert, as it is a close-up of the product being sold. If the pack shot was to be re-shot, I would attempt to relate the pack shot to the rest of the advert by filming the shot outside on the table next to where the actor was sat.
Monday, 14 April 2008
Client Project Completed and Handed In
This morning the client project was finally handed in, after final completion and review yesterday.
Despite being due an extension on the project; due to the tutor of the project being unavailable for feedback until only hours before the hand in deadline and with being handed equipment that did not work at a crucial stage of the process, the extension was opprobriously declined.
The client project is now completed, along with a completed evaluation in the form of an essay for both the short client project, and this live client project, which will be posted on this journal over the next couple of days.
Over the coming weeks I will have a chance to reflect on this project and evaluation my development as a multimedia practitioner, along with how I produced with the in accordance to my original working schedule, and how I documented the production process throughout the project.
Despite being due an extension on the project; due to the tutor of the project being unavailable for feedback until only hours before the hand in deadline and with being handed equipment that did not work at a crucial stage of the process, the extension was opprobriously declined.
The client project is now completed, along with a completed evaluation in the form of an essay for both the short client project, and this live client project, which will be posted on this journal over the next couple of days.
Over the coming weeks I will have a chance to reflect on this project and evaluation my development as a multimedia practitioner, along with how I produced with the in accordance to my original working schedule, and how I documented the production process throughout the project.
Saturday, 12 April 2008
DVD Cover Created
The natural progression from completing the DVD was the completion of a DVD cover which would surround the DVD jewel case.
The cover was made in Photoshop, an important image software, which I am not too familiar with, however I decided that Photoshop was not only the best piece of software to create the cover in, but was also a piece of software that I feel I needed to have more experience with, thus this choice would once again enhance my skills as a multimedia practitioner.
The first choice taken was to create the background from the the two images of the artist impressions I received of the new super stadium. The day photo was the background of the front and the spine, and the night photo has been merged with the day photo and is on the back.
I wanted the front to be very simple, by displaying the name of the DVD, and also a phtoo of the World Cup trophy standing out from the background. This is similar with the spine, with just the name of the DVD being displayed.
The back of the cover contains the most amount of content. The back contains screen shots, technical information, and text explaining the project and the DVD. I felt it was most important to separate all the different content into sections, allowing the content to not appear all clustered and over bearing.
The cover was altered many times to get the best look, the most important change (which was the final change), was to add an outer shadow to all the text, which brings it out from the background, and makes it much more readable and presentable.
The cover is one of the things I am most proud about in this project, and the feedback I have had (obviously I have received no feedback from the University, it is against their policy) has been very good.
The cover was made in Photoshop, an important image software, which I am not too familiar with, however I decided that Photoshop was not only the best piece of software to create the cover in, but was also a piece of software that I feel I needed to have more experience with, thus this choice would once again enhance my skills as a multimedia practitioner.
The first choice taken was to create the background from the the two images of the artist impressions I received of the new super stadium. The day photo was the background of the front and the spine, and the night photo has been merged with the day photo and is on the back.
I wanted the front to be very simple, by displaying the name of the DVD, and also a phtoo of the World Cup trophy standing out from the background. This is similar with the spine, with just the name of the DVD being displayed.
The back of the cover contains the most amount of content. The back contains screen shots, technical information, and text explaining the project and the DVD. I felt it was most important to separate all the different content into sections, allowing the content to not appear all clustered and over bearing.
The cover was altered many times to get the best look, the most important change (which was the final change), was to add an outer shadow to all the text, which brings it out from the background, and makes it much more readable and presentable.
The cover is one of the things I am most proud about in this project, and the feedback I have had (obviously I have received no feedback from the University, it is against their policy) has been very good.
Friday, 11 April 2008
Areas of Improvements
1. A key area for improvement for me is...
The way the second stage of research is conducted within a project
A source of feedback that supports this is...
The end result of the first four artefacts, and the end result of the research document. The feedback received from my final personal research project presentation
Specific quotations include...
“The artefact does not answer the question it is supposed to” PRP tutor
This relates to the following areas of knowledge and skills:
Research
2. A key area for improvement for me is...
Filming of location without changing the idea of what shots would look better at the time of filming
A source of feedback that supports this is...
The feedback from a crew member during filming of the client project
This relates to the following areas of knowledge and skills:
Decisiveness, Pre-Production, Planning,
3. A key area for improvement for me is...
Enhancing skills in Flash
A source of feedback that supports this is...
The inability to be able to create a website or JavaScript within the software
This relates to the following areas of knowledge and skills:
Adobe Flash, Animation, JavaScript, Programming
The way the second stage of research is conducted within a project
A source of feedback that supports this is...
The end result of the first four artefacts, and the end result of the research document. The feedback received from my final personal research project presentation
Specific quotations include...
“The artefact does not answer the question it is supposed to” PRP tutor
This relates to the following areas of knowledge and skills:
Research
2. A key area for improvement for me is...
Filming of location without changing the idea of what shots would look better at the time of filming
A source of feedback that supports this is...
The feedback from a crew member during filming of the client project
This relates to the following areas of knowledge and skills:
Decisiveness, Pre-Production, Planning,
3. A key area for improvement for me is...
Enhancing skills in Flash
A source of feedback that supports this is...
The inability to be able to create a website or JavaScript within the software
This relates to the following areas of knowledge and skills:
Adobe Flash, Animation, JavaScript, Programming
Thursday, 10 April 2008
DVD Menu Created
One day has been spent on the creation of the DVD menu, and now the menu has been completed.
Creation of the DVD menu has enhanced my skills as a multimedia practitioner as despite having used the DVD menu creation software Adobe Encore before, this experience has improved my familiarity with the software.
I decided to keep the menu itself simplistic, but with keeping it in line with the style and approach of the Promotion Video.
The DVD menu has full accessibility to each section, and has good usability.
With more time, I feel I could of improved the DVD menu, by improving my technical skills with the software, or even attempt to create the DVD menu using different software. But with the time the menu was made in, I am overall fairly happy with the DVD menu, as the accessibility to each part of the menu is the main importance, and that works well.
Upon loading, the menu begins with a short video which leads into the main menu. This video is the same video that opens the Promotional Video itself, however without the music.
The main menu is the starting point for the viewer, with access to all sections of the DVD.
The main special feature contained on the DVD menu is the ability to watch each recorded interview in full.
The official press release of the new super stadium can be accessed by looking at the screen shots placed on the menu.
The final additional special feature is a series of photos taking, whilst filming out of location.
Creation of the DVD menu has enhanced my skills as a multimedia practitioner as despite having used the DVD menu creation software Adobe Encore before, this experience has improved my familiarity with the software.
I decided to keep the menu itself simplistic, but with keeping it in line with the style and approach of the Promotion Video.
The DVD menu has full accessibility to each section, and has good usability.
With more time, I feel I could of improved the DVD menu, by improving my technical skills with the software, or even attempt to create the DVD menu using different software. But with the time the menu was made in, I am overall fairly happy with the DVD menu, as the accessibility to each part of the menu is the main importance, and that works well.
Upon loading, the menu begins with a short video which leads into the main menu. This video is the same video that opens the Promotional Video itself, however without the music.
The main menu is the starting point for the viewer, with access to all sections of the DVD.
The main special feature contained on the DVD menu is the ability to watch each recorded interview in full.
The official press release of the new super stadium can be accessed by looking at the screen shots placed on the menu.
The final additional special feature is a series of photos taking, whilst filming out of location.
Tuesday, 8 April 2008
Client Project Menu Decided
The decision making process of the content of the menu for the Promotional Video is now complete.
The menu will contain special features, and these have now been decided upon. Unfortunately using the DVD menu creation software Adobe Encore, you are unable to contain links to external web sites, and this was a feature than I was initially wanting.
With this in mind, the special features contained on the DVD menu have been subject to change, but the most important feature in addition to the whole Promotional Video, was originally going to be, and still is full edits of each interview filmed.
In addition, two other 'special features' will be included on the DVD menu, screen shots of the press release for the new super stadium and promotional photos of the production of the Promotional Video.
The menu will contain special features, and these have now been decided upon. Unfortunately using the DVD menu creation software Adobe Encore, you are unable to contain links to external web sites, and this was a feature than I was initially wanting.
With this in mind, the special features contained on the DVD menu have been subject to change, but the most important feature in addition to the whole Promotional Video, was originally going to be, and still is full edits of each interview filmed.
In addition, two other 'special features' will be included on the DVD menu, screen shots of the press release for the new super stadium and promotional photos of the production of the Promotional Video.
Artefact: Four Evaluation Submitted Online
Artefact: Four followings on from the previous artefact, establishing the impact digital technology had on television broadcast news in regards to the accessibility and interactivity of news.
The artefact was re-edited and re-formatted and uploaded onto the video sharing website YouTube, placed onto an iPod and onto a portable computer system, a PSP. The most important part to this artefact was the evaluation, as this focuses on what impact the digital technology had on the industry.
The lower cost of recording equipment and editing systems and software have enabled anybody to create their own news story. With the addition of video sharing websites allowing a platform for these news stories to be shown, this artefact raised the question of whether there was still a need for professional news makers.
The professional news industries retaliated by introducing interactive news, which allows the viewer to decide which news they want to watch and when they want to watch it.
Whilst content in video sharing websites are viewed millions of times per day, for an individual news article to be seen by a large audience is going to be difficult. This re-establishes the importance of brand power and advertising and the impact it has on the audience for their decision of where to watch the news. However, the decreasing viewing figures of broadcast news has happened for a reason, and this could be down to the audience being more accepting of alternative news where the content is of more importance but the production values will not be as high, or a general change in culture with viewers not wanting to receive their news from television.
This artefact has established that the audience watching broadcast television news is rapidly declining and the accessibility of technology could be directly linked with this trend. This puts more pressure onto the professional news reporters but also allows news makers to publish their news articles to a wider audience, at a lower cost.
[Edit: Evaluation submitted online at 11:40, 21st April 2008.]
The artefact was re-edited and re-formatted and uploaded onto the video sharing website YouTube, placed onto an iPod and onto a portable computer system, a PSP. The most important part to this artefact was the evaluation, as this focuses on what impact the digital technology had on the industry.
The lower cost of recording equipment and editing systems and software have enabled anybody to create their own news story. With the addition of video sharing websites allowing a platform for these news stories to be shown, this artefact raised the question of whether there was still a need for professional news makers.
The professional news industries retaliated by introducing interactive news, which allows the viewer to decide which news they want to watch and when they want to watch it.
Whilst content in video sharing websites are viewed millions of times per day, for an individual news article to be seen by a large audience is going to be difficult. This re-establishes the importance of brand power and advertising and the impact it has on the audience for their decision of where to watch the news. However, the decreasing viewing figures of broadcast news has happened for a reason, and this could be down to the audience being more accepting of alternative news where the content is of more importance but the production values will not be as high, or a general change in culture with viewers not wanting to receive their news from television.
This artefact has established that the audience watching broadcast television news is rapidly declining and the accessibility of technology could be directly linked with this trend. This puts more pressure onto the professional news reporters but also allows news makers to publish their news articles to a wider audience, at a lower cost.
[Edit: Evaluation submitted online at 11:40, 21st April 2008.]
Sunday, 6 April 2008
Still Awaiting Client Tutor's Feedback
With the final work due in a week tomorrow, I am still awaiting anxiously the feedback from the client tutor project.
After frantically sending a copy of the first edit of the promotional video to the tutor, and sending multiple emails asking if the DVD was received, and asking for any comments / feedback from the video, at present nothing has been received.
Unfortunately time is running out, but hopefully feedback will not be too long in coming...
After frantically sending a copy of the first edit of the promotional video to the tutor, and sending multiple emails asking if the DVD was received, and asking for any comments / feedback from the video, at present nothing has been received.
Unfortunately time is running out, but hopefully feedback will not be too long in coming...
Wednesday, 2 April 2008
Disaster Resolved
Earlier this morning, I had a very strong element of luck.
Speaking to the owner of Save Dave Clothing who is a very good friend of mine replied to my SOS call and offered to create the needed data disk DVD on my behalf! Feel delighted, I handed over the external hard drive with the .avi file of the promotional video on, and he proceeded to create the DVD for me and hand it back to me an hour later.
The DVD then was straight away taken down to the post office, weighed and sent to my tutor. Now he has the only copy of the first edit of the promotional video, I will hopefully be receiving confirmation that the DVD has been received and feedback about the video, which I can take on board and potentially look to make changes to the video.
Speaking to the owner of Save Dave Clothing who is a very good friend of mine replied to my SOS call and offered to create the needed data disk DVD on my behalf! Feel delighted, I handed over the external hard drive with the .avi file of the promotional video on, and he proceeded to create the DVD for me and hand it back to me an hour later.
The DVD then was straight away taken down to the post office, weighed and sent to my tutor. Now he has the only copy of the first edit of the promotional video, I will hopefully be receiving confirmation that the DVD has been received and feedback about the video, which I can take on board and potentially look to make changes to the video.
Disaster Strikes!!!
After making very good progress by completing the first edit of the promotional video, the next logical step was to place the completed edit onto a DVD...
...However only minutes later after searching the house (quietly I must add) for a DVD writer, it occurred to me that there is not actually one here in the house! There is one which is used a lot but that is on the PC up north at university.
Considering feedback for the edit is needed ASAP, truth be told I do not know what to do! Basically the early hours of tomorrow morning will be involving ringing around contacts I know, asking to pull in a big favour, will it work...I doubt it, however there is no other way of moving on with this project without this taking place...so here's hoping!
...However only minutes later after searching the house (quietly I must add) for a DVD writer, it occurred to me that there is not actually one here in the house! There is one which is used a lot but that is on the PC up north at university.
Considering feedback for the edit is needed ASAP, truth be told I do not know what to do! Basically the early hours of tomorrow morning will be involving ringing around contacts I know, asking to pull in a big favour, will it work...I doubt it, however there is no other way of moving on with this project without this taking place...so here's hoping!
First Edit of Promotional Video Complete!!
All of the hard work; hours spent in conversations over the phone, planning, filming, and editing has finally seemed worth it, as now the first edit of the promotional video is complete.
With help from my good friends at 13th Hour Band I was allowed to listen to their music catalogue and if there was anything that would work well in the project I was able to use it. So a small piece of music is used in the background for each topic header used in the video.
With the finalised first edit, it now means that I can place the promotional video onto a DVD and send it via post to my project tutor for some essential feedback, so possible changes and enhancements can be made.
Unfortunately as to the agreement, as some of the footage and interviews are not permitted to be shown in the public domain (and the fact the video is over 3.7gb) the video will not be posted on this online journal.
With help from my good friends at 13th Hour Band I was allowed to listen to their music catalogue and if there was anything that would work well in the project I was able to use it. So a small piece of music is used in the background for each topic header used in the video.
With the finalised first edit, it now means that I can place the promotional video onto a DVD and send it via post to my project tutor for some essential feedback, so possible changes and enhancements can be made.
Unfortunately as to the agreement, as some of the footage and interviews are not permitted to be shown in the public domain (and the fact the video is over 3.7gb) the video will not be posted on this online journal.
Tuesday, 1 April 2008
Visual Effects Added to Video
The visual effects have now been added to the promotional video.
The effects include video layers over the top of the background video shown, and also some motion movement working effectively as animation of some still pictures (such as the artist impressions of Nottingham's new super stadium).
One of the early visual effects is old footage from when the City Ground hosted Euro 1996 appears on the video from the background goal of the current City Ground:
(This technique has been used a few times throughout the video, but it is felt it is effective.)
When discussing trams within the city and future tram developments which coincide with the opening of the city's new super stadium, slow dissolving transition effects have been used:
The effects include video layers over the top of the background video shown, and also some motion movement working effectively as animation of some still pictures (such as the artist impressions of Nottingham's new super stadium).
One of the early visual effects is old footage from when the City Ground hosted Euro 1996 appears on the video from the background goal of the current City Ground:
(This technique has been used a few times throughout the video, but it is felt it is effective.)
When discussing trams within the city and future tram developments which coincide with the opening of the city's new super stadium, slow dissolving transition effects have been used:
Creating Headings in Photoshop
The Promotional Video has different sections, and with each section a screen was wanted with the name of the section, and a related background.
Through the reliable method of trial and error, it was decided that using Photoshop the first frame of each section would be held still, and with a visual effect / filter over the image and the text explaining the section, this still shot would then transition into the beginning of the section.
Unfortunately I had never really been too happy with using Adobe Photoshop, so this provided a perfect opportunity to increase my Photoshop skills and enhance myself as a multimedia practitioner.
The process was as follows:
The still shot of the first clip was used and opened in photoshop:
By selected the Filter Section, apply the 'Cutout' Filter, and the following options:
The original picture is transformed into a unique style which allows the transition to work well:
This completes the simple yet effective Photoshop work. The text is added by creating a 'title' in Adobe Premier Pro, as is the transition from one screen to the other:
Through the reliable method of trial and error, it was decided that using Photoshop the first frame of each section would be held still, and with a visual effect / filter over the image and the text explaining the section, this still shot would then transition into the beginning of the section.
Unfortunately I had never really been too happy with using Adobe Photoshop, so this provided a perfect opportunity to increase my Photoshop skills and enhance myself as a multimedia practitioner.
The process was as follows:
The still shot of the first clip was used and opened in photoshop:
By selected the Filter Section, apply the 'Cutout' Filter, and the following options:
The original picture is transformed into a unique style which allows the transition to work well:
This completes the simple yet effective Photoshop work. The text is added by creating a 'title' in Adobe Premier Pro, as is the transition from one screen to the other:
Monday, 31 March 2008
Web Hosting Situation Sorted
Temporarily a web hosting service has been agreed upon and joined.
The web host was found at Http://www.freevirtualservers.com, and they offer free web hosting, which issues 100mb of web space, 100mb bandwidth each month, amongst some other less important factors, such as 10 email addresses.
As the website address is already owned, web hosting is needed to get the website online and onto the World Wide Web, and this free solution will address the problem.
This situation is only temperamental until at least the new student loan comes through, as with the more podcasts added, and the more the podcasts are listened too, the more space will be needed which will bring the need for a better web host.
The only unfortunate thing with this service is that the service will take at least seven days to work...as they say nothing is ever 'free'.
The web host was found at Http://www.freevirtualservers.com, and they offer free web hosting, which issues 100mb of web space, 100mb bandwidth each month, amongst some other less important factors, such as 10 email addresses.
As the website address is already owned, web hosting is needed to get the website online and onto the World Wide Web, and this free solution will address the problem.
This situation is only temperamental until at least the new student loan comes through, as with the more podcasts added, and the more the podcasts are listened too, the more space will be needed which will bring the need for a better web host.
The only unfortunate thing with this service is that the service will take at least seven days to work...as they say nothing is ever 'free'.
Website Completed
...effectively anyway!
With the website's design completed, these last couple of days has just seen minor tweaks and mainly the addition of content to the individual pages and links to all throughout the website.
The website now is very friendly for the user to use with a very good navigation system to take the user all throughout the website. Links to the various sections of the website have been duplicated to different places within the pages.
The main link system can be seen at the bottom of the website pages, all the main sections from within the website can be navigated to from here:
These links will vary throughout time, as they are links to the most popular / important sections of the website:
The links on the right hand side of the page work similar to an RSS feed. These links contain a snippet of information about where they are linked too, and are going to be links to new / updated sections of the website:
(An RSS feed for the website will be looked into, upon more podcasts being produced.)
This idea was seen on a very popular website, and works well as a navigation tool. The idea is that just below the page / section headline, the links are to the section where the user currently is, and links to how the section can be reached will also be there, ensuring for example that is the user wants to search through all the podcasts, the user can easily get back to the link where all the podcasts are displayed from individual podcast pages:
With the website's design completed, these last couple of days has just seen minor tweaks and mainly the addition of content to the individual pages and links to all throughout the website.
The website now is very friendly for the user to use with a very good navigation system to take the user all throughout the website. Links to the various sections of the website have been duplicated to different places within the pages.
The main link system can be seen at the bottom of the website pages, all the main sections from within the website can be navigated to from here:
These links will vary throughout time, as they are links to the most popular / important sections of the website:
The links on the right hand side of the page work similar to an RSS feed. These links contain a snippet of information about where they are linked too, and are going to be links to new / updated sections of the website:
(An RSS feed for the website will be looked into, upon more podcasts being produced.)
This idea was seen on a very popular website, and works well as a navigation tool. The idea is that just below the page / section headline, the links are to the section where the user currently is, and links to how the section can be reached will also be there, ensuring for example that is the user wants to search through all the podcasts, the user can easily get back to the link where all the podcasts are displayed from individual podcast pages:
Saturday, 29 March 2008
Website Design Complete
The Podcast's website design is now finalized.
Although originally adapted from a template, the changes make the new design very accessible and usable, which are two of the most important factors to any website.
Brief content will be added to each section over the weekend, and the website will aim to be completed at least to some extent by Monday.
Although originally adapted from a template, the changes make the new design very accessible and usable, which are two of the most important factors to any website.
Brief content will be added to each section over the weekend, and the website will aim to be completed at least to some extent by Monday.
Friday, 28 March 2008
Visual Footage Editing Complete
All of the visual footage captured has now been edited to create a first edit.
This first edit has been completed without the addition of sound (specifically voice overs) but is a step in the right direction.
The edit also has all the transitions in place from one clip to another. I am pretty happy with the edit in truth, all that is needed now is the addition of sound and the visual effects, which will look to be completed by the end of next week!
This first edit has been completed without the addition of sound (specifically voice overs) but is a step in the right direction.
The edit also has all the transitions in place from one clip to another. I am pretty happy with the edit in truth, all that is needed now is the addition of sound and the visual effects, which will look to be completed by the end of next week!
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
Podcast Website U-Turn Decision
After contemplating the two different web site designs amongst others and how they would work practically for the website about the Podcasts, a dramatic u-turn decision has been reached.
It has been decided that the first website design idea will be the design that will be used for the website.
The decision was finally reached whilst playing around with the design idea in more detail using the web site editing software Adobe Dreamweaver.
Design work on the web site will be conducted this week, with the aim of finishing the design work by the end of this week.
It has been decided that the first website design idea will be the design that will be used for the website.
The decision was finally reached whilst playing around with the design idea in more detail using the web site editing software Adobe Dreamweaver.
Design work on the web site will be conducted this week, with the aim of finishing the design work by the end of this week.
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
Voiceovers Recorded
All the voice overs for the promotional video have been recorded.
Starting late last night, I have found myself reporting this news straight after finishing the last one. The research was initially finished into the voice over script, and then recording of the voice over audio began. So all in all the 'all-nighter' which happened for the completion of this work was well worth it...
Using a dynamic microphone (borrowed from university), the voice overs were recorded directly onto the latest version of the audio editing software Sony Sound Forge.
Now with all the voice overs recorded, all of the footage and files to be used are completed.
Starting late last night, I have found myself reporting this news straight after finishing the last one. The research was initially finished into the voice over script, and then recording of the voice over audio began. So all in all the 'all-nighter' which happened for the completion of this work was well worth it...
Using a dynamic microphone (borrowed from university), the voice overs were recorded directly onto the latest version of the audio editing software Sony Sound Forge.
Now with all the voice overs recorded, all of the footage and files to be used are completed.
Saturday, 22 March 2008
All Video Footage Collected and Received
Finally all of the visual footage for the promotional video has now been received and collected.
Whilst editing of the footage is already underway, having all of the visual footage allows for editing of the individual footage to be collated together and edited in tandem with one another.
With all the visual footage completed, start on the voice-over audio work will commence after Easter, the idea is to complete all the audio work in one long session, as the research into the script has been ongoing...
Whilst editing of the footage is already underway, having all of the visual footage allows for editing of the individual footage to be collated together and edited in tandem with one another.
With all the visual footage completed, start on the voice-over audio work will commence after Easter, the idea is to complete all the audio work in one long session, as the research into the script has been ongoing...
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
Field Located for Filming
The final visual location to film has been decided.
The location of a field has been sought after, as it will be used in the first scene of the video. The first scene contains the field representing the wide open space in which the new Nottingham's new super stadium will be built, with historical videos of Nottingham's sporting history appearing on top.
The field contains public access and is a walkway, the location is also a very large area with plenty of opportunity to move around in and film.
The location of a field has been sought after, as it will be used in the first scene of the video. The first scene contains the field representing the wide open space in which the new Nottingham's new super stadium will be built, with historical videos of Nottingham's sporting history appearing on top.
The field contains public access and is a walkway, the location is also a very large area with plenty of opportunity to move around in and film.
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
Media Group Pictures Received!
Almost to my surprise, the photo's of Nottingham's new super stadium were received via email to my inbox this morning.
Two photo's were received of the new stadium, both are artist impressions of the stadium and its surroundings, one from during the daytime, and the other during the nightime.
The pictures are of a good quality, and are large pictures however due to the fact these pictures have not been released in the public domain, I shall not be posting them on this online journal.
A press release document was also received which made interesting reading, and also added more information to the new super stadium and its project. This provided valuable wider reading and gave greater depth to what the stadium will aim to achieve.
Ideally this pictures were to be received a number of days / weeks ago, however the problem was neither the Media Group's nor my own, so I thank them for their co-operation and from here the pictures can be added onto the project.
Two photo's were received of the new stadium, both are artist impressions of the stadium and its surroundings, one from during the daytime, and the other during the nightime.
The pictures are of a good quality, and are large pictures however due to the fact these pictures have not been released in the public domain, I shall not be posting them on this online journal.
A press release document was also received which made interesting reading, and also added more information to the new super stadium and its project. This provided valuable wider reading and gave greater depth to what the stadium will aim to achieve.
Ideally this pictures were to be received a number of days / weeks ago, however the problem was neither the Media Group's nor my own, so I thank them for their co-operation and from here the pictures can be added onto the project.
Footage of Nottingham Playhouse Edited
The original footage of Nottingham Playhouse has been edited and added to the promotional video project timeline.
The originally recorded footage of the Playhouse added up to 9 minutes and 12 seconds, and the editing of the footage has cut down the time drastically.
Looking back at the original footage, it was unfortunate that filming inside the auditorium was not allowed, and that the only filming from within the building allowed was of the concourse. Filming of the auditorium or backstage would of been very beneficial to the filming of the theatre, however, nothing could of been done regarding this situation.
The originally recorded footage of the Playhouse added up to 9 minutes and 12 seconds, and the editing of the footage has cut down the time drastically.
Looking back at the original footage, it was unfortunate that filming inside the auditorium was not allowed, and that the only filming from within the building allowed was of the concourse. Filming of the auditorium or backstage would of been very beneficial to the filming of the theatre, however, nothing could of been done regarding this situation.
Monday, 17 March 2008
Edit of Footage Started
Today has seen the beginning of the first full edit of the collected footage thus far for the promotional video.
The footage that has been edited today has been footage of; Town Hall, The Tales of Robin Hood and Nottingham Castle.
Intentionally quite a large amount of footage was recorded during the filming processes at each destination, due to the editing process being considered the most important part of the video. The exact amount of footage recorded of the three destinations were:
Town Hall: 14 minutes 42 seconds
Tales of Robin Hood: 5 minutes 10 seconds
Nottingham Castle: 7 minutes 13 seconds
From these lengths of footage, the edited footage for all of the destinations should be close much closer to the same length of time, and reduced dramatically.
This has now been achieved, but also taken into consideration were the links to the specific destinations from elsewhere, e.g. Market Square attached to the filming of Town Hall.
The footage that has been edited today has been footage of; Town Hall, The Tales of Robin Hood and Nottingham Castle.
Intentionally quite a large amount of footage was recorded during the filming processes at each destination, due to the editing process being considered the most important part of the video. The exact amount of footage recorded of the three destinations were:
Town Hall: 14 minutes 42 seconds
Tales of Robin Hood: 5 minutes 10 seconds
Nottingham Castle: 7 minutes 13 seconds
From these lengths of footage, the edited footage for all of the destinations should be close much closer to the same length of time, and reduced dramatically.
This has now been achieved, but also taken into consideration were the links to the specific destinations from elsewhere, e.g. Market Square attached to the filming of Town Hall.
Re-Contacting Media Group
After awaiting graphic images of Nottingham's new super stadium to arrive from Media Group, it was decided that they should be contacted once again to see if they were still on board with sending the unseen pictures for use with the promotional video.
The phone call established that for some unknown reason the university email address that was provided simply had not received the email sent from Media Group, as the email had been sent twice!
The conversation continued and the situation has hopefully been rectified by supplying another email address from another provider which will hopefully receive the pictures when they are re-sent tomorrow morning.
The phone call established that for some unknown reason the university email address that was provided simply had not received the email sent from Media Group, as the email had been sent twice!
The conversation continued and the situation has hopefully been rectified by supplying another email address from another provider which will hopefully receive the pictures when they are re-sent tomorrow morning.
Sunday, 16 March 2008
Artefact: Two Evaluation Submitted Online
Artefact: Two shows broadcast news from the late 1980s. With the news story remaining the same, this artefact attempted to see the state broadcast news was in, and the direction it would be heading into.
Digital technology was starting to be introduced however the first signs of the technology did not show any sign of improvements over the current Betacam technology. During this time, the footage had to be recorded at a high quality, as to distribute the news story, the story would be edited offline onto a lower grade tape.
The role of the news gathered was looking after the journalism and content of the news piece, and still had very little knowledge and dealings with the equipment; large crews were needed to film the news story.
The state of the broadcast news industry at the time had improved further. News was still of the utmost importance with more money being invested into it (and a lot more than into entertainment programming), and with news story’s being able to be longer in length, this allowed for more freedom for the editing of a news story. News gatherers were now able to travel abroad to record news stories, even if the news story was for a regional news TV station.
The first female camera operator was in the mid 1980s, this was a drastic change from the camera operator previously always being male.
Sky News was introduced in the late part of the 1980s, this started a new news revolution by introducing 24 hour news channel. Parliament being televised for the first time in 1989 would change political reporting forever.
This artefact has established that the late 1980s to early 1990s was the period of time were news was at the forefront of television, but it will be interesting to see if the new digital technology had much impact on the importance of news.
[Edit: Evaluation submitted online at 11:00, 16th April 2008.]
Digital technology was starting to be introduced however the first signs of the technology did not show any sign of improvements over the current Betacam technology. During this time, the footage had to be recorded at a high quality, as to distribute the news story, the story would be edited offline onto a lower grade tape.
The role of the news gathered was looking after the journalism and content of the news piece, and still had very little knowledge and dealings with the equipment; large crews were needed to film the news story.
The state of the broadcast news industry at the time had improved further. News was still of the utmost importance with more money being invested into it (and a lot more than into entertainment programming), and with news story’s being able to be longer in length, this allowed for more freedom for the editing of a news story. News gatherers were now able to travel abroad to record news stories, even if the news story was for a regional news TV station.
The first female camera operator was in the mid 1980s, this was a drastic change from the camera operator previously always being male.
Sky News was introduced in the late part of the 1980s, this started a new news revolution by introducing 24 hour news channel. Parliament being televised for the first time in 1989 would change political reporting forever.
This artefact has established that the late 1980s to early 1990s was the period of time were news was at the forefront of television, but it will be interesting to see if the new digital technology had much impact on the importance of news.
[Edit: Evaluation submitted online at 11:00, 16th April 2008.]
Saturday, 15 March 2008
Flash Header for Podcast Website
As previously mentioned, I have been attempting to enhance my non existent Flash skills by creating a header for the podcast website.
The header will remain a still at the end of the animation, and the three buttons in the bottom right hand corner will be use able buttons with links to the relevant web pages (hopefully).
The flash header has been exported as a .avi movie file which can be seen, however the picture quality is very poor in relation to the flash file, to decrease the loading time...
The header will remain a still at the end of the animation, and the three buttons in the bottom right hand corner will be use able buttons with links to the relevant web pages (hopefully).
The flash header has been exported as a .avi movie file which can be seen, however the picture quality is very poor in relation to the flash file, to decrease the loading time...
Thursday, 13 March 2008
First Careers Meeting
At 3pm today I had my first meeting with a career's advisor at the university. I had ventured into the building earlier in the morning, and arranged a fifteen minute appointment with a general career's advisor. Unfortunately the employee who specialises in multimedia / media was not in, and will not be back until after Easter, I decided that despite being constantly busy with university work, deadlines and on going deadlines, I would still have my first meeting.
I was quick to bring up the point about how my CV should look or should be designed, as mine is at least two years old, and I am fairly sure is almost redundant compared to my situation now.
The meeting was quite successful as we discussed CV's, covering letters, and what jobs I have looked at, and what I would like to do after my education. I would like to say that the meeting has suddenly sparked me into thinking about my life after university, but unfortunately I have been thinking about that for quite some time, and whilst working through the PDP work and have been looking at available jobs constantly, the unexpected huge workload of the course has really not helped me pursue any of this further.
However, with only the small matter of the biggest project we have had at university due in just after Easter, it was agreed with the advisor that I do attempt to try and revamp my CV, and attempt to write a covering letter to a company I have looked at. Whilst this was always going to be the case over Easter anyway (ideally), it has arguable given some more momentum in which to attempt to do this.
When I do come back to university after Easter, I will be booking a meeting with the specialist employee in my education study.
I was quick to bring up the point about how my CV should look or should be designed, as mine is at least two years old, and I am fairly sure is almost redundant compared to my situation now.
The meeting was quite successful as we discussed CV's, covering letters, and what jobs I have looked at, and what I would like to do after my education. I would like to say that the meeting has suddenly sparked me into thinking about my life after university, but unfortunately I have been thinking about that for quite some time, and whilst working through the PDP work and have been looking at available jobs constantly, the unexpected huge workload of the course has really not helped me pursue any of this further.
However, with only the small matter of the biggest project we have had at university due in just after Easter, it was agreed with the advisor that I do attempt to try and revamp my CV, and attempt to write a covering letter to a company I have looked at. Whilst this was always going to be the case over Easter anyway (ideally), it has arguable given some more momentum in which to attempt to do this.
When I do come back to university after Easter, I will be booking a meeting with the specialist employee in my education study.
Wednesday, 12 March 2008
Podcast Website Idea: Two
After all but deciding that the first design idea is a good design but not suitable for the content, a second design idea has been created, and is well under way.
This design idea is a more neutral idea but so far is working well and I am happy.
Underneath the 'Co-Hosts Required' heading, the text there is irrelevant at present, but as this is only the design stage this does not matter too much but the general idea of the text comes across clearly.
The main heading at the top of the page is temperamental, as I have invested some time recently into using Flash CS3, and am attempting to enhance my skills using the software, as I have previously attempting to steer clear of Flash.
This design idea is a more neutral idea but so far is working well and I am happy.
Underneath the 'Co-Hosts Required' heading, the text there is irrelevant at present, but as this is only the design stage this does not matter too much but the general idea of the text comes across clearly.
The main heading at the top of the page is temperamental, as I have invested some time recently into using Flash CS3, and am attempting to enhance my skills using the software, as I have previously attempting to steer clear of Flash.
Tuesday, 11 March 2008
Response From BBC Sports Organisor
After contacting the BBC East Midlands Sports Organiser Mark Shardlow, this evening I received the email I had been waiting for, and I was not disappointed.
After enquiring as to whether there would be any chance of using footage from Euro 96, when the City Ground and Nottingham hosted the last major football tournament in the country and past historical sporting events in Nottingham, I had received a much greater response than I had anticipated.
Mark had very kindly compiled a DVD of 14 minutes worth of BBC footage from 1996, and other historical events, which he had compiled personally and placed on the disk, which he had left at the BBC Nottingham reception for my to collect.
I shall be collecting the DVD first thing tomorrow morning, and I would like to extend a huge thanks to Mark Shardlow.
After enquiring as to whether there would be any chance of using footage from Euro 96, when the City Ground and Nottingham hosted the last major football tournament in the country and past historical sporting events in Nottingham, I had received a much greater response than I had anticipated.
Mark had very kindly compiled a DVD of 14 minutes worth of BBC footage from 1996, and other historical events, which he had compiled personally and placed on the disk, which he had left at the BBC Nottingham reception for my to collect.
I shall be collecting the DVD first thing tomorrow morning, and I would like to extend a huge thanks to Mark Shardlow.
The DVD from BBC
Earlier this morning I talk a brisk walk in the Nottingham windy fresh air to the BBC Nottingham building, where Mark Shardlow had kindly compiled a 14 minute DVD of required footage which was waiting at reception.
With anticipation in the air (which was almost as strong and the wind) I collected the DVD and walked back to my property at a more than leisurely pace.
When I returned back to my property, and watched the DVD all the way through, I was even happier. The footage on the DVD was footage that I would never had of been able to acquire, let alone find who owned the rights to use it!
I would once again like to thank Mark Shardlow for the help he has given me in this project, and I thought I would attach some shots of the variety of the footage.
A shot of one of the Euro 96 matches to be contested at the City Ground
A shot of an interview which is taking place in Market Square, which is highly decorated with Euro 96 themed events.
A shot of the biggest sporting history the city of Nottingham has had, Nottingham Forest lifting the European Cup Trophy.
With anticipation in the air (which was almost as strong and the wind) I collected the DVD and walked back to my property at a more than leisurely pace.
When I returned back to my property, and watched the DVD all the way through, I was even happier. The footage on the DVD was footage that I would never had of been able to acquire, let alone find who owned the rights to use it!
I would once again like to thank Mark Shardlow for the help he has given me in this project, and I thought I would attach some shots of the variety of the footage.
A shot of one of the Euro 96 matches to be contested at the City Ground
A shot of an interview which is taking place in Market Square, which is highly decorated with Euro 96 themed events.
A shot of the biggest sporting history the city of Nottingham has had, Nottingham Forest lifting the European Cup Trophy.
Monday, 10 March 2008
Filming Interview with Counsillor Trimble (Take Two)
The forth and final interview to be filmed was with Councillor David Trimble, whom just over an hour ago was busy in a meeting.
Unfortunately the crew who had assisted me earlier had prior commitments (understandably) so that left the orchestrator of the project to become a one-man-band and go solo.
Upon arriving at Town Hall, I picked up the badge which I had earlier filled in, and anxiously waited to be collected for the interview.
Fifteen minutes later, Counsillor Trimble himself came down and greeted me, followed by traveling up to his office. The office was quite compact, but the use of lighting from the two large windows in the room made up for that fact.
The interview was conducted problem free, and ran very smoothly.
Unfortunately the crew who had assisted me earlier had prior commitments (understandably) so that left the orchestrator of the project to become a one-man-band and go solo.
Upon arriving at Town Hall, I picked up the badge which I had earlier filled in, and anxiously waited to be collected for the interview.
Fifteen minutes later, Counsillor Trimble himself came down and greeted me, followed by traveling up to his office. The office was quite compact, but the use of lighting from the two large windows in the room made up for that fact.
The interview was conducted problem free, and ran very smoothly.
Sunday, 9 March 2008
Filming Interview with Matt Rolfe (Tales of Robin Hood Contact)
The third interview to be filmed was with Matt Rolfe, who was met during the filming of The Tales of Robin Hood.
Whilst meeting outside Town Hall in the Lace Market, due to a 'Free Guantanemo' protest just outside Town Hall, instead of contemplating filming the interview on Market Square, it was decided to head towards Nottingham Castle.
The interview ran smoothly, and personally I like the background to the interview, as whilst Matt was speaking a lot of the history and culture of Nottingham, having the Castle walls in the background of the interview added context to the interview.
Whilst meeting outside Town Hall in the Lace Market, due to a 'Free Guantanemo' protest just outside Town Hall, instead of contemplating filming the interview on Market Square, it was decided to head towards Nottingham Castle.
The interview ran smoothly, and personally I like the background to the interview, as whilst Matt was speaking a lot of the history and culture of Nottingham, having the Castle walls in the background of the interview added context to the interview.
Friday, 7 March 2008
Filming Interview with Sarah Clarke
The second interview to be filmed was with Sarah Clarke, who works for Nottingham City Council, but was imperil in getting the Brian Clough Statue installed, has a keen interest in football and has a strong knowledge of the city and sport within the city.
The interview was held in Lawrence House, and upon arrival the crew and I had to sign in and receive a badge needed for entry, after this moment we were collected and taken into a medium sized well lit room where the equipment was set-up.
The interview was held in Lawrence House, and upon arrival the crew and I had to sign in and receive a badge needed for entry, after this moment we were collected and taken into a medium sized well lit room where the equipment was set-up.
Filming Interview with Client (TAKE TWO)
The first interview to be re-filmed was with the client of this project.
The original interview stuck monumental disaster as a faulty camera was issued (as documented earlier within this online journal) so this was the follow up interview after the client had kindly agreed to re-shot the interview
The interview which was originally filmed in the trophy room at the City Ground, was a perfect setting, however unfortunately the same venue could not be used. Initially we attempted to set up the filming of the re-shoot in a small hosting room, and whilst as a back-drop there was some good memorabilia painting the walls, unfortunately the lighting was far too poor to gain a good visual picture.
We then moved into a better lit and more casual looking room, which whilst not containing any club memorabilia to make the audience initially aware of where we were filming from, the colour scheme of red is very appropriate due to the club's main colour being red.
The crew then set-up the equipment and after testing the equipment many more times than required, the filming began.
Despite being aware of the questions which were being posed to him, the client remained completely professional, and gave highly detailed and insightful answers, which came across well on camera.
The original interview stuck monumental disaster as a faulty camera was issued (as documented earlier within this online journal) so this was the follow up interview after the client had kindly agreed to re-shot the interview
The interview which was originally filmed in the trophy room at the City Ground, was a perfect setting, however unfortunately the same venue could not be used. Initially we attempted to set up the filming of the re-shoot in a small hosting room, and whilst as a back-drop there was some good memorabilia painting the walls, unfortunately the lighting was far too poor to gain a good visual picture.
We then moved into a better lit and more casual looking room, which whilst not containing any club memorabilia to make the audience initially aware of where we were filming from, the colour scheme of red is very appropriate due to the club's main colour being red.
The crew then set-up the equipment and after testing the equipment many more times than required, the filming began.
Despite being aware of the questions which were being posed to him, the client remained completely professional, and gave highly detailed and insightful answers, which came across well on camera.
Required Equipment not Allocated!!
Not for the first time, upon arriving to collect the equipment that was ordered over one week ago, the desired equipment was not in 'stock'.
Whilst in urgent need of a K6 directional microphone for the two interviews to be held later today they were issued to fellow multimedia practitioner students and therefore I was left with a sonic microphone.
The reason a K6 microphone was requested was due to the need of the microphone for interviews, being given a sonic microphone means that to record the adequate sound the interviewee is more than likely going to have to hold the microphone which changes the whole feel or the interviews and will change the interviews, thus the project drastically!
I hope this will be taken into account upon marking the project.
Whilst in urgent need of a K6 directional microphone for the two interviews to be held later today they were issued to fellow multimedia practitioner students and therefore I was left with a sonic microphone.
The reason a K6 microphone was requested was due to the need of the microphone for interviews, being given a sonic microphone means that to record the adequate sound the interviewee is more than likely going to have to hold the microphone which changes the whole feel or the interviews and will change the interviews, thus the project drastically!
I hope this will be taken into account upon marking the project.
Podcast Website Idea: One Evaluation
Whilst the layout of the design is quite a nice one, I am not sure it fits in with the idea of the podcasts. My impressions of the design are that it comes across more like a design for a more creative idea, and something that could contain more media and a larger variety of media.
This said, it would make more sense to contemplate this design idea for my online portfolio instead of for my podcasts, as it would appear more appropriate.
The spacing of the design is very nice, and allows for a good amount of content, and a good selection of links to be added. I personally like to addition of the window on the right, which could be used as a mini-feed displaying the latest two (or three) news stories.
The links at the bottom are also very apparent and easy to be seen and used, which allows for good site user interaction.
This said, it would make more sense to contemplate this design idea for my online portfolio instead of for my podcasts, as it would appear more appropriate.
The spacing of the design is very nice, and allows for a good amount of content, and a good selection of links to be added. I personally like to addition of the window on the right, which could be used as a mini-feed displaying the latest two (or three) news stories.
The links at the bottom are also very apparent and easy to be seen and used, which allows for good site user interaction.
Thursday, 6 March 2008
Podcast Website Idea: One
Having purchased two domains names; one for my online portfolio and one for my podcasts, it was felt it was time to put more emphasis onto creating designs for the websites, and despite the huge work schedule, recently more time has been invested into design ideas and attempts for websites.
The way of thinking is that attempting to create a website for the podcasts first, will mean that the experience and knowledge gained during the process will allow for a better website to be made for the online portfolio.
The first design idea contains a flash banner in the top (which is not shown) and whilst some content has been added, it is only the basic content and more will be added at a later date.
The way of thinking is that attempting to create a website for the podcasts first, will mean that the experience and knowledge gained during the process will allow for a better website to be made for the online portfolio.
The first design idea contains a flash banner in the top (which is not shown) and whilst some content has been added, it is only the basic content and more will be added at a later date.
Wednesday, 5 March 2008
Filming Interviews Confirmed With Counsellors
After waiting a long while to hear back from the contact within Town Hall in regards to conducting interviews with people within the city council, I had the phone call I was longing for.
At 11.00am this morning I received the phone call from Stephan Richeux who is the senior communications officer for Nottingham City Council.
Stephan had explaining how he had been speaking to colleges and had found two suitable candidates to be interviewed, and that they were both willing to participate in the project.
Filming an interview with Counsellor David Trimble will commence at 12.00pm on Monday, 10th March.
Filming an interview with Sarah Clarke will commence after the interview with my client at 12.30pm, on Friday, 7th March.
At 11.00am this morning I received the phone call from Stephan Richeux who is the senior communications officer for Nottingham City Council.
Stephan had explaining how he had been speaking to colleges and had found two suitable candidates to be interviewed, and that they were both willing to participate in the project.
Filming an interview with Counsellor David Trimble will commence at 12.00pm on Monday, 10th March.
Filming an interview with Sarah Clarke will commence after the interview with my client at 12.30pm, on Friday, 7th March.
Tuesday, 4 March 2008
Visual Images of Trent Bridge Received
After contacting Bowles Associates in regards to getting some computer images of the new Trent Bridge design, at 1.00pm today I received an email containing two artist impressions images.
As the images are displayed on a leaflet which can be picked up by the general public (from the reception at Trent Bridge or the Club Shop), it is accepted that they can be posted on this online journal.
These images will be used and merged with visual footage of the Trent Bridge test from the Ashes 2005 series, which are being used to show the historical and future of sport in Nottingham.
As the images are displayed on a leaflet which can be picked up by the general public (from the reception at Trent Bridge or the Club Shop), it is accepted that they can be posted on this online journal.
These images will be used and merged with visual footage of the Trent Bridge test from the Ashes 2005 series, which are being used to show the historical and future of sport in Nottingham.
Friday, 29 February 2008
Filming at St Pancras International
The next location to be filmed was St Pancras International.
The purpose of filming at St Pancras International, is to show the very strong links to Nottingham that the station has, with East Midlands trains stationing there, and the international links with the Eurostar also residing at the station.
After arriving at the station, I headed outside to filming some of the very large building from the outside.
Heading back inside, it was only too clear that the building contained amazing architecture which could be seen all around the station.
The purpose of filming at St Pancras International, is to show the very strong links to Nottingham that the station has, with East Midlands trains stationing there, and the international links with the Eurostar also residing at the station.
After arriving at the station, I headed outside to filming some of the very large building from the outside.
Heading back inside, it was only too clear that the building contained amazing architecture which could be seen all around the station.
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