Thursday, 30 January 2014

Task 1 - Regulatory Bodies

Part 1
  1. OfCom regulate the TV and radio sectors, fixed line telecoms, mobiles, postal services, plus the airwaves over which wireless devices operate. 
  2. The ways in which OfCom regulate advertising is by that people in the UK get the best from their communications services and are protected from scams and sharp practices.
  3. ASA stands for; Advertising Standards Authority - They are also another regulation society however this particular company are independent and the only regulator of advertising across all media.
  4. What the ASA and are responsible for is acting on complaints and proactively checking the media to take action against misleading, harmful or offensive advertisements.
  5. The CAP code are the legal rules for advertisers, agencies and media owners to follow. They include general rules which state advertising must be responsible, must not mislead, or offend. Specific rules which cover advertising for children, and ads for specific sectors like alcohol, gambling, motoring, health and financial products.
Part 2



The advert begins very innocent with a young girl and her father boarding a train, and two children no older than 12 lock eyes and smile; within a flash the whole scene changes to the young girl pole dancing on the trains holders. The music becomes provocative and the lights low; the meaning/ concept becomes clear at the end of the advert with the quote "Don't let your child be educated by TV!" Basically informing parents that they should not allow their child to be so wrapped up in watching T.V that it becomes their teacher in how they live their life. The conventions used within the advert, are the basic plot with the pack shot at the end; however in this case it is more a company sending a message advert whereby the audience learn/ gain something. In terms of the audience, it is clear that their target audience are couples- Couples who have children- predominately parents.  

The issues which this particular advert raises is the core fact that a girl younger than 18 has been sexualised in such a manner; which causes disturbance within parents as well as other audiences. The actual content within the advert would be considered explicit content, as the young girl is in fact pole dancing which is something that is frowned upon as a whole  but to see a girl of below 12 to take part in such an action is shocking as well as disturbing.

The ASA state "We will not hesitate to ban any ad that could result in a child’s physical, mental or moral harm. Fortunately, the majority of advertisers are committed to preparing ads in a socially responsible way and working with us to get their ads right."

What we found contradictory about the advertisement is that it's based around minimising the amount of influence that T.V have upon children 'sexually' however the advert is so provocative that it defeats the purpose of actually removing a sexualised mindset and instead reinforcing it by having a child actually do it. Many parents found that the advert was over sexualised and in-appropriate for viewers.

The advert is actually a campaign running within Romania; "Don't Let Your Child Be Educated by TV" A social campaign is to raise the parents' awareness to the risk of allowing their children watch too much television without their supervision. - Social Advertising Romania

Task 4 - Focus Group Questions

Travel/ Gap Year
  1. Are you a fan of travelling?
  2. What would you expect from a travel magazine?
  3. Are you considering taking a gap year, if so what do you plan to do?
  4. Three coverlines; which are '10 Reasons, why YOU should travel' '20 Cheap Getaways' and 'Cold or Hot? - Join us as we list the essentials for wherever you plan to go. - Would any of these catch your eye/ interest you in any way to make you want to buy the magazine?
  5. Which of the names would you think goes best for a travel magazine? Roam, Wander, Voyage, Ipsum (french for travel) or EO (Latin for travel)
Movies/ Films
  1. Are you a fan of Movies?
  2. What would you expect from a movie magazine?
  3. Do you prefer magazines which base around the celebrities within the movie or the actual creators?
  4. Three coverlines; which are
    'Exclusive interview with Quentin Tarantino - from his classics; Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction and his latest Django Unchained.'
    'Your reviews  - See if your review has been featured, and find out what others think of our monthly rank.'
    'Free Posters Inside' - Would any of these catch your eye/ interest you in any way to make you want to buy the magazine?
  5. Which of the names would you think goes best for a travel magazine? Preview, edit, behind the scenes or déménagement (french for movies)

Food/ Reviews
  1. Do you like to cook/ food?
  2. If buying a food magazine, what would you expect?
  3. Would you prefer a 'recipe' magazine only or a magazine which not only gives you recipes but also informs you of places where you can go to eat - which is reasonable in terms of portion and price?
  4. Three coverlines which are :
    'Price and portion - 15 top reasonably priced restaurants within London.'
    'Recipes from all over the world.'
    'Ready Meals - Which of your local supermarkets do the healthiest/ cheapest ready meals.'
  5. Which of the names would you think goes best for a food magazine; nibble, rodo (latin for food), EAT or yum/yummy

Zombie Genre - General Conventions

Plot/ Narrative -
Zombie movies narrative, tend to consist of an individuals story or a group of people who must fight to survive the horrors of a zombie 'apocalypse' - There are two conventional ways in which zombie films tend to go:

Your average day, everything is normal until zombies slowly begin to attack and all of a sudden hell breaks loose. The featured characters, which are usually the 'iconography' of the film must survive within their new world until they either all die or eventually find a safe house... Which is usually where everything begins to go well.

The film begins/ set within a post apocalyptic future in a world which has already been consumed with zombies. Usually an individual who has somehow survived the attack and we watch him/ her go on the hunt for other survivors- He/she eventually finds others, and they create a pact whereby they gradually make their way to safety.

Characters -
The common/ typical characters which you would find within zombie films tend to be pretty tough characters; individuals who have lost someone close to them to zombies. Many often find 'mates' usually with the individual that they survived with. Conventionally, the main character is a male with either one or two females who mostly get into trouble only to be saved at the last minute. 

Iconography -
Within zombie films, they usually revolve around blood. Blood covering the mouth, jaw, neck and chest usually indicates the person is a zombie. Bloody hand prints on t-shirts, walls etc suggests the person wearing the clothing has been attacked by a zombie. Homes with broken doors, and blood/ prints on doors/ walls or even windows suggests that the house did or still does have zombies inside. It has been taking over.

Themes -
The themes within a zombie film are usually little sub-stories that often pop up. The common sorts of themes you are likely to see are the main characters in a struggle to figure out how to kill the zombies. Another common theme would be the suffering of one of the main characters who has to go through the loss of losing their loved one to a zombie or facing the reality that their loved one is a zombie and them having to kill them. The chasing of a character by zombies and the character being saved at the last minute; one final common theme is seeing a main character as they struggle to come to terms with their new world.

Mise-En-Scene -
In terms of the costumes, they are usually ripped, torn, damaged and bloody. The lighting would usually be of a low level to add both atmosphere and create the illusion for zombies to jump out of shadows. Make up for zombies are usually, pale faced/ greyish; to make the zombies look even more pale and less lively- Whereas the make up for the main characters is dependable on their situation. If say they are attacking actual zombies then it will be gory; blood splatters, torn clothing and bruises. Whereas if a scene whereby they are within their hideout then dry blood, fading bruises yet still ripped clothing as it is an apocalypse. In terms of props; they tend to be your average weaponry of guns, sports bats and swords. Cars are used quite a lot; whether it be stolen ones or an one of the characters. The setting for a zombie film tends to be of a isolated world post zombie apocalypse; or the film will begin with a regular environment that gradually turns into nothingness to a zombie apocalypse playground. The usual convention for setting of a Zombie movie takes place within Cities.

Sound -
The typical sort of sound used within zombie films tend to be fast, and tense- when a character is confronted with a zombie; or slow and nervous kind of sounds (violin/ piano) The first is used to create a sense of terror and fear that the main character is in serious and immediate danger; whereas the second is used to create a more built up atmosphere in a way whereby the audience is expecting a zombie to appear but still shocks them in the process.

Wednesday, 29 January 2014

Magazine Concept (Presentation - Script)

Name/ type of the magazine: 
manger, l'amour, errent - (Eat, love, Wander) / Food and Travel Magazine

Audience:
  • 18 and above
    - Aimed at students considering going abroad for charity work or take a gap year; but also those who are older and are considering going abroad- Enjoy travelling as well as trying new things such as helping communities or cooking- learning new recipes and being informed of a variety of restaurants around the world which will be based within features within the actual magazine. - NOT WANTING THE MAGAZINE TO BE TOO YOUTHFUL 
  • Both female and male.
  • All types of ethnicity not restricted. The recipes/ countries will be of a variety. 
  • Lifestyle, those who enjoy cooking/ experiencing new things and travel. - Most likely to be of a niche audience, as they are both two contrasting subjects therefore there will 
  • Individuals who have a passion for both traveling, food and trying new things.
  • Price of magazine: £2.99
  • Monthly Magazine
Layout:
  • Selling line - "Loose yourself as you"
  • Size of magazine will be A5- travel friendly can fit in your everyday bag / ability to be held like a newspaper.
  • The colour scheme is completely dependant on the current issue/ what country the issue bases around for example, if mexico then the colour scheme will be of black, green and red. Whereas if based on the country of Kanaka Maoli (Kingdom of Hawaii) then the colour scheme will base around light colours which remind you of the actual country. 
Inspiration:
  • FOOD & TRAVEL - Magazine - Online issues / Subscriptions £39.50 / Annual magazine, each issue is £3.95
  • The guardian/ the times; for photography inspiration.
Possible Ideas:
"The page of fame" -

What will be mentioned within the particular topic will be a number of countries; ranging from America, India, Singapore all the way to Australia- beside the countries mentioned within the topic there will be mentions of what we think you should do whilst you visit the country persuasive techniques to try and get you to go. Not only places to visit, but restaurants that you should dine at during your stay. Mentioning not only the 'top' restaurants that the country is famous for but minor ones too; which do not receive the love nor the appreciation they deserve.

"Taste the World in Eighty Days"
Traditional recipes from a variety of countries, as you have the 'page of fame' however this topic would consist on a theme. This meaning, that within each issue there will a country which the magazine bases on for example if doing the country 'Mexico' the Main feature line, on the front cover could be advertising this topic. - As the country is Mexico there will be recipes which you can try at home and even send in to the magazine and see if your food has been featured within the next issue.

This will be ongoing, and will last 80 issues each different countries and new recipes. - It will last for 80 days because it is inspiration from the title 'Taste the world in 80 days // Around the world in 80 days' - disperse photos of your layout - Talk about what it is you've included. 

Conventions which I will use throughout the magazine:
In terms of my magazine, there will be your conventional master head alongside some 'splashes' (graphics which are usually used to advertise a competition)  pull quotes and your unconventional 'review' that I will use either on the front cover or within the contents page alongside my 'editors letter' - Upon the front cover, will obviously be your standard bar code as well as the date of the issue/ number.

What the audience will find appealing:
What my audience will find appealing about my magazine, will be the hybrid of both travel and food; how the magazine has mixed both traveling and food together to appeal to both target audiences. The way in which I will target both audiences and why they will find my magazine appealing, is because although it is bases around food and travel those who enjoy food will be able to learn new recipes and the origin of dishes that they adore. Not only this but will be able to learn about countries which either do similar dishes or find cheap deals for travelling; for them individually or family.

Presentation:

Saturday, 25 January 2014

Task 11 - Production Evaluation

This post will base around the preproduction, production and post production of the creation of my music video.

The preproduction of my music video consisted of a variety of storyboards, and brain storms. I originally planned on working individually and filming before my 'early leave' as I left for Pakistan a week prior to 'filming' week however I partnered up with 'Eddi' and we decided to create a split screen music video - Eddi filmed in England, and I in Pakistan; we arranged to film similar shots just in different countries so that the video was based around 'similar' shots but contrasting views; meaning within a urban area you are able to see a variety of things (Eddi filmed Urban) whereas within rural locations it is fairly limited (I filmed rural) Not only this but we wanted the video to have similar shots but shown in a contrasting manner - hence the split screen video.

The production of my music video, consisted of me filming and scouting out locations for where I wanted to film as I was filming within a country which I was unaware of it's 'places' to film. In terms of the filming, it was all done on one camera and the filming mostly on impulse however the shots which I planned were also filmed therefore I had a variety of shots to choose from when editing. As I was away for three weeks I missed the assigned deadline for 'editing week' therefore Eddi had more time to finish his before me.

The post production of my music video was to actually edit chosen videos from my selection to create my finished product, however as stated before I missed the assigned 'editing week' therefore due to my absence; I was solely depending on Eddi to at least have his half of the music video finished in due time so that I had a week to combine them both... This was not the case, what happened was Eddi was no-where finished on time therefore our concept of creating a 'split screen music video' was short lived and we both created two separate music videos. I some how miraculously both converted all 200 shots to a format which the mac approved of and edited and burned all within a week. In terms of how I converted my shots at first I used a website (http://video.online-convert.com/convert-to-mp4) which allowed me to convert my files which were of minimal length for free... Once I reached a point whereby most of my shots were too long to be converted for free I downloaded the application 'Wondershare' which is again like the website allowed me to convert my files into a suitable format... However the issue with this particular app was that it also adds a 'watermark' to my original videos therefore when using the converted files it was essential that I 'cropped' them when editing on iMovie. Thus affecting the quality of my shots, however the way I effectively acted on this problem was by converting my finished product into '1080HD' therefore it's unnoticeable.

In conclusion, my music video came out better than I expected it too. The shots flow well with the lyrics of the song and all the shots flow well together... In comparison to my original idea/ purposes for this music video it is COMPLETELY different from my original intention as initially I was planning on creating a music video for a completely different song as well as film in an entirely contrasting location. In terms of how my music video is 'different' from any other of my peers music videos is due not only to the fact that it was filmed in a unique location but because it didn't have particular cast members within and those shots which I did use were all filmed on impulse with no direction needed. They are genuine real life shots; in terms of the genre of my music video would be a interpretive. As I interpreted the lyrics of the song through my video in my own way- In terms of the industry techniques/ conventions used through my music video range from your industry cutaways to your conventional cutting to a beat. I have infiltrated them both throughout my music video to create a successful and elegant music video.

Thursday, 23 January 2014

Part B - Articles

Travel/ Gap Year:
Coverlines:
  • 10 reasons why YOU should take a gap year.
The coverline will be as followed as '10 reasons why YOU should take a gap year' the article will be based around reasons why students should take a gap year why it benefits them etc therefore the article will be based on manipulation/ persuasive techniques to change the readers opinion on whether or not they should take a year off. - What they can do on a gap year, institutions they can go with. Travelling alone etc. The research that would take place for this article, would be attending actual talks about gap years, checking online for a range of gap year activities/ countries / how much. I think that this particular article will engage my target audience as it is something that individuals within the age of 18 and above would consider doing if attending University, or even if not. 
  • 20 Cheap getaways.
The coverline will be as followed '20 Cheap Getaways' the article or DPS will base around cheap holidays which your everyday student will be able to afford. Whether he/ she is in Uni, thinking of taking a gap year or looking for a quick getaway for the half term/ summer/ winter. In terms of the research that would take place for this particular article, would be mostly done online to find the actual deals as well as attending meetings with travel agents to see how they as a company can offer any 'financial' help or have any deals on offer which aims at students. In terms of capturing my readers attention, it will because the word 'cheap' has been used within the coverline allowing the reader to assume that the getaways must be less expensive than your everyday holiday. Not only this, but because my magazine will aim towards those who are 18 and above it's crucial that finance is considered when creating articles so that it is audience friendly as well as being realistic. 
  • Cold or Hot? - SUB QUOTE - Join us as we list the essentials for wherever you plan to go.
For this particular coverline 'Cold or Hot' I have also added a 'Sub Quote' whereby instead of using a 'pulling quote' which takes a sentence or word from an article to engage the reader I summarised what the actual article will base around - As it is a short and snappy coverline. In terms of what it will entail, will be exactly what the sub quote has mentioned 'The essentials for wherever you plan to go' informing the readers of what they will need when travelling no matter the weather climate. My target audience as stated before aims towards those who are 18 and above therefore it is likely to relate more to an older audience or even young as it will either reinforce what you pack or give you an idea of what you need to pack.


Movies/ Films
Coverlines:

  • Exclusive interview with Quentin Tarantino - SUB QUOTE - from his classics; Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction and his latest Django Unchained.
This particular coverline really speaks for itself- Interview with Quentin Tarantino, the director of both 'Pulp Fiction' and 'Django Unchained' obviously I would not be able to get the actual interview with the likes of such a prestigious director but it was an idea which I know would appeal to my chosen target audience.- However if this idea was to become a reality then it would entail me having to plan a date with Quentin Tarantino's assistance to find out his free time to actually get an interview with him. The reason that I think this particular coverline will interest my readers is because it bases around a well known director who has not only directed movies that the generation of today enjoy but previous too.
  • Your reviews - SUB QUOTE - See if your review has been featured, and find out what others think of our monthly rank.
This coverline is primarily based around the audience and their views what they think about the magazines 'monthly rank' meaning that my magazine with each issue will have a list of new movies that we think that the audience will enjoy. So to engage the audience, the magazine creates a 'review' section within the magazine which allows actual readers to send in 'reviews' which they have written on either particular movies or all - which gives them the chance of their review being posted within the issue. I think this will not only engage the audience, but give the magazine a chance to gain more readers based on how much credit the magazine will gain as they actually 'connect' with their fans/ readers.
  • Free posters inside.

Your conventional magazine essential, posters. Attracting a variety of age groups, the way in which the magazine would go to get these will either alongside with interviews do a photoshoot too or ask permission from the artist/ actor etc to use previous photos from a previous shoot. Of course gaining permission from the actual photographer would be necessary too. The idea of having a poster in your room of your 'favourite' artist/ film/ singer etc is something which appeals to a variety of people not only this but it's eye catching.

Food/ Reviews
Coverlines:

  • Price and portion - 15 top reasonably priced restaurants within London.
This particular coverline would base around an article which I will create for my magazine based around 'Price and Portion' and where in London you as the reader can find a reasonably priced restaurant not only reasonably priced but whether or not you are a consumer are gaining your moneys worth. How I would act to research on this particular article would go out and do some actual research. Find out where it is in London I can in fact find meals which are delicious as well as cheap. Again as it's based around food and the price I think it would appeal to my target audience (16 and above) as it's a subject which appeals to them all. 'Food, and price' 
  • Recipes from all over the world. 
The coverline speaks for itself. I will create an article based around a range of recipes from 'all over the world' allowing the audience to choose which one they want to try/ like - The concept of the article would be to allow individuals who constantly create/ eat the same food to broaden their range. How/ where I would research information for this particular article would be, trying the range of recipes myself as well as going online to search for them, checking books, asking my own family members etc. I think the whole concept of having 'recipes' which are legitly from around the world will strike an interest to the target audience as a whole. 
  • Ready Meals - SUB QUOTE - Which of your local supermarkets do the healthiest/ cheapest ready meals.

'Ready Meals' - Meals which are already ready and all the individual has to do is either heat up the food or remove the packaging and tuck in. Very easy, right? Hmm... but what exactly goes into the food. Are you as a consumer eating food which is cheap and bad for you when you could be purchasing a variety of ingredients and creating your own meal at home from scratch. The article will base around which supermarkets do the best ready meals as a whole. Including, the price as well as the value. How I would research this particular article is by doing my own overt research as well as asking the public. Receiving their feedback, as well as looking at the ingredients of actual meals by supermarkets. I think this particular article will interest the reader because they may be the actual audience which I am aiming this article on - They are the 'specific target audience'

Wednesday, 22 January 2014

Part A - Brainstorm ~ Three Ideas

Travel / Gap Year -
Names:
  • Roam
  • Voyage
  • Wander
  • Journey
  • EO - Latin for 'travel'
Target Audience:
  • 18 and over
  • Those who have a passion/ desire to travel... Want something more from life. Experience, and what to change themselves.
Content:
  • Interviews
  • Articles
  • Photographs - Photos from the actual audience
  • Reviews of inns 
  • Gap year institution reviews - so that students themselves can decide based on actual reviews/ interviews on where they want to go.
Movies / Films -
Names:
  • Ipsum (french for travel)
  • Preview
  • Final Cut
  • Red Carpet
  • Edit
  • Lights, camera action
  • Behind the scenes
Target Audience:
  • 16 and over
  • Those who enjoy watching movies, as well as the background of them the creation.
Content:
  • Instead of the focus being primarily based around the cast/ celebrities I want my magazine to base more around the directors, producers, editors etc. - So that teens who are interested into going into 'film' have a better understanding of the business as well as information as to how their favourite directors/ producers got into the business.
  • Although the primary base will be on directors, producers etc there will still be that essence of celebrity presence within the magazine as I will need a variety of fans for my magazine. 
Food / Reviews -
Names:
  • Nibble
  • Yum
  • Yummy
  • Rodo (latin for food)
  • Eat/ eat/ EAT.
Target Audience:
  • From 13 over.
  • Aimed for those who enjoy cooking, learning new recipes, creating recipes and have a passion for anything food related. 
Content:
  • Magazine will base around food, recipes, reviews, pictures, interviews with chefs etc.
  • Audience recognition, page dedicated to fans handing in their re-creation of a recipe or a recipe they'd like to share. Photographs etc.

Saturday, 18 January 2014

Task 1 - Advert Analysis - T.V Adverts for Music Album

In this post, I shall be discussing three adverts promoting the same product (albums) but for different artists therefore advertised in contrasting ways. The adverts are in order, the first 'Jason Mraz - We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things' the second; 'John Mayer - Continuum' and finally 'Gwen Stefani - The Sweet Escape' all unique albums of different genres and produced by different artists.

Jason Mraz - We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things (advert)
Animated/ Realist.

The advert begins with a wide shot of 'Jason Mraz's' face in animation form; which is also the album art for this particular album. Similar to a collage, however there is moving imagery. Although there is more animation than real life imagery. The real life imagery are clips from 'Jason Mraz - I'm yours' music video; which is also the chosen music bed for this advertisement. There is also an actual cut out picture of Jason, whereby it is just shown for 3-4 seconds near the end. The advert finishes with a pack shot of Jason's album with where and for how much you can buy it for.

In terms of colour, the animation is black and white which is unusual for an animation where you would usually see a bright and colourful cartoon/ animation here we see only a black and white representation of it. The motion picture used however is in full colour, therefore it contrasts well and gives the advert a unique feel to it- and there could in fact be a deeper meaning behind this. Meaning, that when Jason's music is played it brings colour to your life. The advert as a whole is very upbeat and paced whereby everything is moving throughout. The only scene we see of a still shot manner is the end with a 'pack shot' to conclude the ad. There are photographs, which have been used within the advert, but with SFX they are floating/ gliding within the advert. For this advertisement there isn't really any use of camera work as it is animation and the actual real life shots that have been used are previous works of his; however if analysing these shots then they are mostly close ups of Jason lip syncing his lyrics. In terms of editing the whole ad runs on one take. The only edit used; at the end whereby a 'fadeway' is added with Jason's face to morph into the ending shot which is the 'pack shot'.

The music bed is 'Jason Mraz - I'm Yours' one of his most popular songs. There is a voice over, with a very short script, which doesn't bore the audience in any way. Short, snappy and informative- "We sing, we dance, we steal things. Is the new album from Jason Mraz, features the smash hit 'I'm yours' The record that everyone is talking about. The new album from Jason Mraz, out now." Jason Mraz, is the icon.

The advertisement is very conventional in terms of the content that is used throughout, for example the mention of the artists name, product and use of persuasive techniques. "The record that everyone is talking about."- Allowing the audience to believe/ think that he is in fact popular amongst the world. Also the general 'pack shot' at the end which also has the price of the product as well as a store where it can be brought from; tesco. Thus making the advert a conventional 'album' ad. The unique selling point for Jason's ad would be that it is mainly 'animation' not only this but the whole concept of how once you listen to his music your life is turned into colour. It's a very effective ad if viewed within this perspective. The target audience for this advert; I believe that it aims to those who are already fans of his work whether male or female however it has the potential to introduce 'Jason' to a range of other listeners. Ranging from 16 and above.

In conclusion, the advert as a whole is a very effective one. I say this because, it's unique in terms of how Jason has 'advertised' himself. He isn't particular the main focus, but the animation, which in a way is an insight to his mind. That he doesn't take life too seriously, and that's what you should expect from this album. An advertisement, which not only allows him to introduce himself to possible new fans but a reminder to fans that he already has that and he isn't going to change. 

John Mayer - Continuum (Advert)
Realist/ Creative

The advert begins with a back shot of John Mayer walking down the riverside, with his track 'Waiting on the World to Change' playing in the background as well as a voice over introducing us to who he is. "This is the sound of grammy award winner; John Mayer" also a usage of computer graphics as his name is placed on the bottom left for the duration of the ad until it reaches the 'pack shot' which is shown by using a 'pathway' whereby the 'white light' in the top left bleaches the whole screen so that we are transported to the 'pack shot.'

Set in New York, Eastriver. Walking along a bridge. The camera work for this ad are shots from one of his previous work (like Jason Mraz) 'John Mayer - Waiting on the World to Change' music video. Which is also the chosen music bed for this advertisement. In terms of mise-en-scene, it is based around a male walking alone alongside the east river who is feeling the winters wind hence the costume/ pose. Wearing a winters jacket with his hands inside his pockets. The colouring of the ad is quite dull and mainly consists of the colour blue in different shades. Emphasising on the song as well as the advert, it goes well with the SFX when writing the reviews given to his album. "A Great Record" - MOJO In terms of camera work/ editing the shots mostly consist of over the shoulder and tracking shots and when the camera is focused on the subject (John) then it is either a close up or a medium shot. The ending of the advert concludes with a 'pack shot' whereby we are shown the album art work as well as where you can buy it and for how much. Throughout the advert, there are pop ups of text which are actual comments from magazines, websites etc informing the audience of their opinion of John's album.

There is a consistant music bed which is the same song as the music video (pickup shot) for his advertisement- 'John Mayer - Waiting on the World to Change' There is also a voice over, who speaks/ uses persuasive techniques to manipulate the audience into buying his album- "This is the sound of grammy award winner; John Mayer. With his amazing new album 'Continuum'. Twelve very special songs, including the single 'waiting on the world to change' John Mayer, the new album 'Continuum' out Monday"

The unique selling point for this advert could be, that it emphasises on all the good points more than a normal album ad would. Meaning, that because he has won a 'grammy award' it is mentioned. Not only that but a range of good reviews from a variety of people, which also allows him to gain, fans not only through this ad but through them too. The target audience for this advert would be both male and female ranging again from 16 upwards. It's all dependant on what type of music you as an individual listen too. Much like Jason Mraz's advert, John may either gain new fans or reinforce the concept of his music to previous fans.

In conclusion, I believe that the message/ reason behind this advert is simply to inform the audience of John Mayer's new album but at the same time try to grab their attention/ manipulate them into buying it. The way in which they have done this is, by adding within the script that he is indeed a 'Grammy award winner' and the amount of reviews which are shown throughout the ad. The advert again is conventional; what you'd expect for an 'album' ad; emphasising all the good points.

Gwen Stefani - The Sweet Escape (Advert)
Realist/ Dramatic

The advert begins with a side, close up of Gwen's face with the letter 'G' placed on each side and a key between the two all gold -computer graphics added within editing. The key is then elongated and leads a path to a noddy shot of Gwen framed again with the letter 'G' in gold which is also labelled with her name and the album. We are then zoomed into Gwen's glasses and transported into again some of her previous work; her music video 'The Sweet Escape' which is also the name of the album. Within that we are shown a number of shots of Gwen; close up, long shot, two shot lip syncing all the while emphasising that this particular shot is old. Hardly any 'pathways' apart from the beginning, although the advert hardly needs it as it is 20 seconds. Not only this, but there are two music beds and one voice over. The music bed changes with 5 seconds to spare, allowing the audience to hear another song of hers.

The mise-en-scene used within the advert all goes together not only with their actual film but with the computer graphics used afterwards. The wig and clothing in particular, a bleached blonde wig with black and white striped clothing; although it's not what you'd expect it does go well. Not only this but the camera work used; her previous shots (pick ups) also flow well with the ad. In terms of the editing/ computer graphics they have used it again all flows/ fits well with the concept. 

There are two music beds used throughout the advert, and one voice over. The two music beds are, 'The Sweet Escape' and 'Wind it up' both songs which are by the artist 'Gwen. 'Sweet Escape, is also a song on the album but is also the name of the album; therefore it is used to advertise the actual album. The second music bed 'wind it up' is used within the last 5 seconds of the ad with two shots shown from her music video for that too. The reason that this has been added is to inform the audience that she has more music on her album than you'd expect. Or that these are the two music videos she has created so far for these tracks off her new album allowing the audience/ fans to expect more. In terms of the voice over she is again very persuasive in terms of what she says and how she emphasises it. In a way it's almost... Sexual - "This is what you've been waiting for. Pops leading lady, Gwen Stefani presents; The Sweet Escape. The dazzling new album, out now."

The target audience for this particular advert would be mainly females, as it is the queen of pop however it may also aim for males but in this case it is potentially aimed for females. Although the voice over would suggest other wise, as it has a provocative feel to it. The adverts unique selling point would be, that it's based around her music and nothing else. Not only this but her odd colour matches.


In conclusion, the advert as a whole is very effective and unique. The way in which they have portrayed Gwen as a fun loving/ happy upbeat star. They have not only advertised her album, but Gwen as an artist. It's appealing, because in comparison to Jason and John's advert she is actually looking towards the camera giving it a more 'fun'/ open feel to it. All three adverts are based around the artists ‘album’ because of this each artist has contrasting genres therefore each advert is advertised in a unique manner for example, Jason Mraz – pop rock (Animation) John Mayer – Blues rock (Realist) and Gwen Stefani – R&B (Dramatic) In terms of the artist and their genre, the type of form/style that they have advertised within for their chosen album flows well; this being said that if you were to imagine ‘Gwen Stefani’s album’ within an ‘animated’ manner it would take the original effect that you feel from the original away- As the original is realist and dramatic if turned into an animated advert then the affect would be more humorous/ anti-realist…However it would still be as memorable as her original advert due to the conventions still being the same just implemented in another form.

Analysis of the advert Dior Homme ~ Perfume.

Dior Homme - Robert Pattinson

Realist/ Dramatic

Codes and Conventions
Mentions the name/ picture of the perfume. Quite persuasive when showed to their target audience.
Meaning those who live life on the edge and are quite 'rebellious' Hence the usage of 'Robert Pattinson' as it aims at attractive young males/ the female french model 'Camille' is also used to manipulate
the target audience into thinking that they too will have females as gorgeous as Camille by their side.

Mise-en-scene
Set in Los Angelas, black and white.
Based around a couple within their youth wanting to live their life to the fullest and not have a single dull moment. "The dior man, relishes the pleasures of whichever life he's chosen for himself - a life of a thousand possibilities"

Camera work
Perspective shots, wide shots, extreme close ups, birds eye view, close ups, tracking shots, low angles, high angles, over the shoulder, establishing shots.

These shots have been used in particular to emphasise the fast paced life of the two characters within the advert. Also, as the editing hasn't used any 'pathways' the advert as a whole is quite 'fast' therefore the shots taken/ used implement well with not only the concept but the choice of song.

Iconography 
Robert Pattinson and Camille Rowe

Editing
Cut away, pack shot.

Sound 
Sound affect used in the beginning "a giggle"

Music 
Music Bed - Led Zeppelin - Whole Lotta Love

The music has been used to tell a story of both Robert and Camille. "gonna give you my love" Robert will give Camille all of him until there's nothing left, how much he adores her.

When shown the car seen a part within the music there's a 'racing sound' which has been edited to fit with the 'car scene' of the actual advertisement.

In terms of their USP, the fact that they are selling a lifestyle along with their actual product is what's very engaging about this advert. It allows the audience to believe that if they were to buy this product then it's a lifestyle which they already have or will soon need to adapt since it is a perfume which comes with a 'reputation'

Analysis of Lady Gaga Fame Fragrance TV Commerical

Lady Gaga – FAME – Perfume

Anti Realist / Dramatic

Computer Graphics & SFX
Computer graphics have been used to give a sense of a ‘dark/ supernatural’ feel to it. Graphics such as, the cloudy sky, golden body/ statue giant – With men climbing on top of her/ over her.

Music Bed/ Sounds
No voice over, just dramatic music with sound affects such as ‘shattering glass’ and a haunted scream used at the end.

The reasoning behind this, could be that she wants the imagery to be the main attention for the advert. In a way it’s a preview as to what you should expect if you were to buy the perfume e.g.
Men/ women wanting you, chasing you and a sense of being a dark beauty. The name ‘fame’ also emphasises this point, as when you’re famous everyone wants a piece of you. – Another example
of how fame is shown within the advert is through her body and how it has been blown up to emphasise that she is bigger than everyone else.

Delusional / Exaggerated

Misenscene, Camera work, Editing
Usage of wide shots, close ups, extreme close ups, long shots.

It’s a dark advertisement, driven on sex, power and being an icon/ Dramatic advert, beats the daily conventions of your every day perfume ad. 

It’s different and raises the question of when actual producers would play the advert as it is very explicit content. – In comparison to an advert such as ‘Ninna Ricci’s Le’Eau’, which completely contrasts with Lady Gaga’s – Fame. In all aspects, especially lighting, themes, colours, music and concept. Nina’s advert is very innocent whereas Gaga’s is provocative. The colour scheme used within Nina’s is light and playful colours whereas Gaga’s are more dark and mysterious. In a way can be compared/ has more similarities to male perfume adverts, as the concepts are usually similar. Sex, lust and vanity.

In terms of the vanity shown within the advert one particular scene which stands out is Gaga emerges from her own lips/ transforming into a sex icon – Which could be a deeper meaning to her actual
perfume that if you use it you too will transform into a lady with power. “Fame turns you into a monster”

Editing is quite flashy, with a usage of cutaway shots are short ranging from a 3-5 seconds.

Thursday, 16 January 2014

Task 1 - Premilinary Magazine Research

My two chosen magazine front covers are, 'inspire' and 'InStyle' in this report I shall be discussing the different ways in which written and design styles have been used in both magazines.

The first magazine is 'InStyle' this particular magazine is a specialist magazine, whereby it focuses on one specific topic throughout the magazine. So to speak, this particular magazines focus is indeed 'Fashion, style and beauty' which all mix together to create a 'style' hence the name 'InStyle' the masterhead of the magazine to me seems quite bland and boring with both the colour and chosen font so to speak that yes 'Rachel' (lady on the front cover) is covering the masterhead however even without her there it still seems a bit... bland. It is indeed bold and straight, but I personally feel as though it could do with something more. When considering the audience for this magazine it's pretty obvious who their target audience is 'Females, 16 and over' this being because it is a fashion magazine but one which bases around female fashion. "500+ Killer Buys Aviator jackets, hiking boots, lady heels, satchel bags..." This being a cover line on the right placed beside Rachel with an extended 'pull quote' to literally 'pull' (grab the audiences attention) the reader into wanting to buy the magazine. The quote used, emphasises that this magazine is targeted for young women. "Hello Sexy. The boys from Twlight, Glee & True Blood" again another 'coverline' which implies the magazine is aimed for women. In terms of the language used for not only the coverlines but the pull quotes they are quite formal, in a sense that the design is quite 'youthful' but the language used is very mature so that it not only appeals to teenagers but young women etc.

The way in which the magazine's front cover has been laid out is very sophisticated, elegant and tight. The reason as to why I chose these particular words are because the way in which the magazine has been formed is so that the cover lines form around the model (Rachel) so that she is still the main focus of the cover but there is more than just her on the front cover (the coverlines) The photo itself is a mid long shot, allowing the audience to not only view her face but what she is wearing. In terms of her clothing, it is a simple yet stylish 'black dress' which also fits with the colour scheme used on the front cover. When creating a front cover, there is a constant colour repeat in which the norm is to only use three main colours; in which case these are 'silver (grey), white and black' These three colours are repeatedly used on the cover to again emphasise the elegant/ sophisticated look which the layout already gave but the colour scheme gives it that extra something. For example, the colours used for '"New In Style Rules" is a mixture of both grey and white with a 'grafitti' font making it stand out from the rest but the colours have been used in a sense so that they contrast with the backdrop of the photo/ the costume of Rachel.

'Inspire' is a lifestyle magazine, as it bases around real life issues as well as gives information/ help to those of the ranging from the age 19 and above. The magazine, is actually a 'student creation' meaning that it is not a 'global' readers choice as it has been created by students of Canterbury Christ Church University (as shown on the front cover at the bottom left corner) the design of the front cover is plain and simple. A mid action shot, of a protester - no edit, which already in comparison to 'InStyle' completely contrasts in a sense that this magazine is based around telling a story/ getting your message across this being because the amount of content on 'inspire' is one coverline, whereas 'InStyle' have a variety of them bordering their chosen model showing a commercialised side to the magazine when comparing to 'inspire' "A picture says a thousand words" is the thought that pops up when seeing the front cover. 'Demanding freedom' in a bright red, although the colour is bold the font however needs a change: 'InStyle' who use a variety of fonts to emphasise each unique article shows that the content within their magazine is interesting/ fun... While in comparison to 'inspire' the coverlines font is the same as the 'masterhead' showing no sign of an independent style/ range however you could argue that there is no need for a number of coverlines as the front covers chosen photo speaks for itself. The coverline placed on the left hand side 'Demanding Freedom' is an implication/ hint as to what this issue will base around- in comparison to 'InStyle' front cover if there was a lack of cover lines then it would not only be too bland but not be an ordinary convention for a 'specialist' magazine; this being said the cover photo for 'InStyle' has been taken within a studio therefore without any coverlines/ pull quotes the cover will look extremely bland as well as unappealing however again compared to 'Inspire' the magazine is able to have a lack of 'coverlines' yet still look professional/ appealing to the eye because the photo is infact an 'action shot' with nothing removed or added. Giving the cover not only a refreshing look for a magazine, but also a sense that the magazine is 'real' and that the content is too. The language used on the front cover is formal and gripping; meaning that it allows you as a member of the audience to gain an interest in the actual content.