Planning Digipak - Miss Miller

Digipaks have a number of elements which differ from jewel CD cases, one of the most noticeable differences being that Digipak's often include more content than a jewel CD case. This is as digipaks have 6 sides of content for the audience to look at and read so there is a lot more artwork for the album, being different from just buying or purchasing the normal jewel CD case. Digipak's have a lot of significance to an artists image as it shows the artists audiences that they are cared about and that every individual has significance to the artist. It also shows that they have a lot more content to create and release towards their audiences because of the digipak additional content oppose to the standard jewel CD case. Digipaks also include extra songs as well as better picture quality compared to that of CD's. This encourages loyal fans to buy this digipak for the extra content provided by their favourite artist. 

I will be creating my own digipak for my group and I's created artist, in the aim of trying to make it appealing towards the target audience and to promote the artist. I will try to achieve this through the use of indie genre conventions throughout, shown by the use of various micro elements portraying macro meanings. Planning is very important towards creating an effective digipak. This is as doing prior planning I can get a better idea of what I am going to include when I go to create the actual thing, so that Im not going into the task not knowing what elements to have in it, and to what effect this will be done. 

There are a number of elements which are within my mock version of the digipak, the first being the use of colours. One example of this can be taken from the top right hand corner image, of the artist leaning beside a tree playing his guitar. The colours within the image are all very basic, the artist wearing full black. This shows the contrast in visuals between the artist and the rest of his surroundings, which makes the outfit of the artist standout further. This is effective as black is a common colour within the indie genre as it portrays the artist as being dull and plain. The target audience may find the contrast in colours appealing and the portrayal of the artist due to it relating towards the indie genre, and that fans of the artists are more than likely going to belong to the niche target audience, therefore providing with an artist portrayal which is what they would expect. This helps further promote the artist as it makes it clearer through the contrasting colours that he belongs within the indie genre of music. 

I have conformed to the conventions of the genre within my mock digipak. One clear example where this is evident within is with the middle right frame, where I have drawn a guitar in the middle of the frame. The presence of musical instruments, more specifically guitars are very conventional to the indie genre, often being associated with artists within advertisements, music videos and various other things. This is appealing for the target audience as it portrays the artist as clearly being an indie artist and belonging to the genre, which they may like as fans of the indie genre and artist like to associate him with his genre of music, making it clearly evident to others that he belongs to the indie genre of music. This helps promote the artist for this reason, as it lets people know straight away as soon as they look at the digipak that he belongs to the indie genre due to the presence of the guitar directly in the middle of the frame, being the only image there which draws more significance towards it. This makes people that might not be fans of the indie genre to know that the artist is indie and likes to show this to others, to draw in more fans from within that genre. For this reason I have converted to have various genre conventions present throughout to assist towards creating an indie like image for the artist, and to make the visuals more appealing to fans of the genre, providing with visuals which they will be used to seeing, helping towards making my artists digipak look similar to that of real life counterparts. This wouldn't differ too much from a jewel CD case as indie artists would probably have some sort of musical instrument within it also, but having it on the digipak helps towards emphasising the presence of these conventions. 

I have included a various number of images within my mock digipak, one in particular being seen at the top right hand corner of the digipak, the front cover of the digipak showing the artists dull and worried facial expression which is shown through a direct mode of address. This is effective towards promoting the image as the artists face has been made to be the main focus of the visuals on the front page, allowing for his face to get more exposure to a larger number of people. The use of this image within my digipak is also appeals towards our target audience as through the facial expressions of the artist being highlighted, alongside the artist showing a direct mode of address might make the viewer feel as if they are getting a closer and more personal  insight towards the artist as an individual. Through this, the viewer may be able to create a relationship between the artist, due to the front cover making the artist come across as if he is addressing just the person seeing it.  

The design/ layout of my mock digipak helps towards promoting my artist and making it appealing towards the target audience. One example which I have drawn to try and achieve this is evident with the two middle frames, one being of the guitar and the other being the personal message of the artist. Both items are placed in the middle of the digipak, and are the first things seen when first viewing it, because of this I have included two important elements towards appealing towards the target audience and promoting the artist, with the attention of drawing even more attention towards them. Drawing more attention towards the use of the iconography of the guitar helps towards promoting the artist as it makes it clear towards people that are unfamiliar with the artist that he does in fact belong to the indie genre of music , and creates that type of music, drawing in fans of that niche target audience. Having the personal message in the middle is appealing towards the target audience as it is directed to the viewer, making it easier for the viewer to be able to build a relationship with the artist through making the personal message clearer. 

The typography has a lot of significance towards the name of the artist on the front and back cover of the digipak. This is as for the artists name, it is done in a handwriting like font, and can be seen within the mock digipak. The use of this is effective towards appealing towards promoting the artist as it makes the artist come across as being someone who appreciates his fans, and that he has a close bond with them through the personal touch of the use of handwriting as the artists name. This is appealing for the target audience as they might feel as if they have a more personal bond between the artist. and that they are being given a more personal portrayal of the artist throughout the images of the digipak. Through this connection, the viewer is more likely to build a relationship with the artist through including elements such as this, it might make them feel as if the artist is addressing them and only them, providing with a "personal" touch. 

The use of language throughout my digipak has importance, the most noticeable form of this being evident within the personal message of the artist, as it is a long written message. An example from within the text written is "I really appreciate the continued support". This helps towards further promoting the artist as it shows the artist in a positive light, making any new potential fans potentially like him through his appreciation of his fans. This could potentially result in the artist getting a larger fan base, ultimately leading towards more sales of additional content such as digipaks. This is appealing for the target audience as it demonstrates how the artist and the viewer have a relationship, and that every individual fan is appreciated. This creates a generally likable image as it shows him giving back credit to those that help him progress throughout, which the viewer may appreciate as the artist is shown in a down to earth light which the viewer may be able to relate towards; oppose to a big named star who shows no appreciation to there fans. 

Miss Georgiou - Filming schedule

A filming schedule is an important thing to have, this is for a number of reasons. This is as time allocated towards the filming of a production can be used efficiently through organizing what time and date every individual frame will be filmed. This avoids confusion towards what will be filmed on certain days and what items will be within the shots, avoiding any confusion between filming crews. More importantly it helps towards time wasting, as every shot will be planned out individually, giving everyone a better insight towards what will take place and when. Without a proper filming schedule being established, the filming time will be very unorganized and can result in the wrong things being filmed, unnecessary stress, time wasting; all of which is avoided through creating one.

We followed our filming schedule to an extent, except not for certain segments. The shots located between frame 58-73 where we originally intended upon filming in another location in Liverpool street, yet this fell through due to time issues with not being able to return to the location easily. This was because of both time restrictions and availability of other individuals which we required to film for the following from, so because of this, we found time as a group to film in another location closer by, on the same date stated within the schedule. This enabled us to finish off filming the remainder of the performance segments of the music video, and made the shots possible to film because of the convenience of the location, as we required the assistance of others, and requesting them to travel too far away would discourage them to partake in the video, so filming in this location suited well in the end because as a group we managed to gather the assistance of three other individuals, evident in the new playing location scenes.

Another additional change which was made during filming relates towards the equipment, more specifically the tripod. We intended upon using it within all of our shots from 1-92, yet when coming to filming it was only used on a few occasions. An example of a shot where we did use the tripod was during the time lapse shots, where we left the camera on the tripod for about 5 minutes while our artist played. This was due to the cameraman's preference of filming and how they felt as if the tripod made filming in a busy and congested area too much of a task, so due to the crowds and other obstacles a lot of the filming took place using a handheld. During the shots taking place at Buckhurst station however the tripod was also used there just because the filming location was clear of commuters, so we felt this needed to increase the quality and stability of the visuals.

With exception with the Liverpool street scenes, we changed the shots where the artist would be shown partaking in performance only shots against a brick wall (taking place within the 58-73 frames). This was replaced with further shots in the new playing location of Loughton. This was done as during the filming of the music video, having a urban wall scene of just performance on its own wouldn't fit with the flow of the visuals of the narrative, and in turn would make the visuals choppy and take less importance away from the connotations shown throughout the visuals of the video.
One shot we included which wasn't originally within our filming schedule was a reaction shot of the mugger stealing the money basket. We incorporated this shot into the new playing location to vary the use of shots, as well as conveying more emotion towards the viewer as it emphasises the artists negative emotions and struggles which he experiences. Alongside this it suits the progression of the narrative through showing this emotion, as his circumstances are shown as getting gradually worse at the visuals continued.

I have learnt that with a filming schedule, not everything can always go to plan, and certain shots may have to be changed along the way. This is as when going to film certain shots, they can sometimes sound better than how they might look in person, so other alternatives shots are taken and can look better within the other shots. Although the filming schedule was still essential and very useful towards our production as my group and I followed the majority of the shots we planned, I have found that it is most important for providing with a basis for filming so that dates are planned and shots can be filmed as planned.

Miss Geogiou - Risk Assessment

There are a number of purposes towards creating a risk assessment. Thinking about potential risks and hazards before going to film is essential as we will be better prepared with how to deal with them if they happen to become an issue, as we would have thought about potential back up plans. Also, thinking about potential health hazards and risks should help them not become an issue when filming, as my group and I have established a number of potential issues which we will be weary of, as being aware of what might happen should help prevent it from actually happening.

This is particularly more important to consider before filming for this reason as through establishing potential issues back up plans can be prepared in the event of any of the hazards occurring. It ensures the safety of everyone taking part in the filming, including the actors, those filming and members of the public.

One risk which we didn't have within our risk assessment took place when we were filming in Liverpool street. When filming one of of our performance shots, we encountered an individual who was highly intoxicated who offered my group and I alcoholic beverages. Despite repeatedly declining the gentleman's offer, he unsighted, yet he eventfully walked off as my group and I continued to film This is high risk as one group member is under the legal age limit for drinking. We had to repeat to him multiple times we weren't genuine buskers and that we didn't want his offer, which he walked off shortly after doing this. Other than this we didn't encounter any other risk issues which we didn't previously consider.

I have learnt that having a risk assessment is needed as that way when going to film we are aware of potential hazards. Although having a risk assessment is important, from my experience now I now appreciate that it is very important to still be weary of our environment as there are a number of issues which could potentially happen which we might not originally be aware could happen.

More specifically for when we went to film in the suburban area of Loughton to film the indoor scenes and the cab scenes, we done a number of things to ensure we stayed safe asa group. For the glass we insured that when filming with them that all extra members that were not being filmed kepta good distance just in case they fell and smash, although we ensured this didn't happen through being extra careful with the glasses and taking time to organise and film the shot. For the potential risk of alcohol, we replaced vodka with water and wine with ribena, just to ensure that we didnt encounter any issues using real alcohol and the potential risks that comes alongside this. For the issue of weather, we brought an umbrella with us which if it was to rain we could put over the camera, but luckily the weather was good on every occasion. For the trains/ gaps, when filming we stayed safe but making sure that our safety as a group was prioritised and that we wouldn't film unless we felt safe in a suitable location, which we done. Trailing leads was not an issue during filming as we worked around this by ensuring the cameras were fully charged beforehand.

We insured that we stayed safe in Liverpool street during the busy hours where we film in both locations. In both locations, we ensured that crowds wouldn't pose a threat to our safety by filming well away from excessively large crowds, avoiding any potential risks and hazards because of this.

1) Elaborate on the points that you have included within your conclusion, by explaining what you did in more detail, to prevent the risks from occurring and how this has prepared you for future productions and filming

Miss Georgiou - Storyboard

There are a number of purposes behind creating a storyboard. In the case of my group and I, they were used to plan the filming of our music video. This is a vital stage within the planning of our production. This is as it gives a clear idea of what will be included within every shot, but rather than just stating what will visually be seen, elements such as sound, editing and actors for example will also be mentioned alongside the narrative description of what is actually taking place. Within our storyboards, there is a small box placed above which allowed my group and I to show what the scene would actually look like, providing with a pre production idea following the details as mentioned bellow. Storyboards are essential towards creating a high quality production, while making the process easier and stress free. This is as it provides with prior planning of what my group and I will go out to film, which will enable the planning of time, dates and other things to be stress free and manageable. Within having this stage of planning, it could result in the production being rushed and filming time to not be used efficiently, as it would be unknown as to what we would be filmed and where.  

Both our primary and secondary research my group and I conducted was essential towards not only finding out who our target audience would be and what content we should include to ensure that we are aiming it towards them, but also to see what general fans of the indie genre would like to see included within the indie genre. Alongside this, it was essential towards helping my group and I plan our storyboards. The primary research being our vox pops and questionnaires, which we conducted ourselves first hand to gather opinions on a number of different elements relating towards the indie genre. Whereas the secondary research is what is demonstrated throughout the research and planning blogs. A lot of this research we have discovered mainly through looking online, often analyzing official music videos via YouTube. Overall, our research helped us find many things that fans prefer to see in a music video and the sort of elements and conventions that were most popular. From this, it helped towards the creation of the storyboard as certain conventions such as the use of lighting was included to help appeal towards our target audience and fans of the indie genre. In regards to our production, it helped my group and I see what conventions people prefer to see. Also, it shows how they wish for the artist to be portrayal, alongside what style of video they'd prefer and also the sort of special effects such as lighting included. We gathered that many like to see an indie music video to include a strong narrative, usually consisting of a hard hitting narrative showing a certain message towards the viewer. From finding out this from the research, we have incorporated just that into our storyboards, which is evidently seen under the narrative description section, describing the purpose of certain shots. The research also showed how many expected the artist to be a relatable character that they could connect to, which can also be seen underneath the iconography section in our storyboards, as we tried to emphasis the sad and worried facial expressions of the artist, alongside this showing the clothes the artist is wearing, which aren't extravagant or flashy, rather being forms of clothing the everyday public would be familiar with but also while doing so they will show the artist as being in a poor state/ position in his life and his strive in to get into the music industry. 

For the actual story boarding process of this work,  we needed to include a number of things throughout the frames including;  the shot duration, a mock visual of the shot, cinematography, actors, editing, sound, iconography, lighting, location and narrative description. The cinematography section often being the most significant and varying as it relates towards how the shot itself will be shown, and through what particular technique which often differed from frame to frame. Examples of this taken from my group and I's storyboard our forms of cinematography such as close-ups, long shots or two shots. This allows my group and I to be better informed when filming, showing the position the camera will be in for the shot itself, as well as what actors will be present and the iconography use throughout, overall showing what will be included and the general idea of the shot. 

Lighting is another element present within our storyboard production. The main uses of this throughout often consists of high key, low key and natural key lighting. This tells us the effects we have to add in after filming in regards with the lighting, evidently showing how the editing process is also shown and planned within the storyboard as some of the lighting will be edited in at a later stage, once again emphasizing the importance of a storyboard. Although for natural lighting that will be within the raw footage shown, and the other two forms of lighting mentioned will have to be edited in, which my group and I have a better insight towards when they will be edited in and to what effect this is done. 

Another element of the storyboard is the location, which is an essential part of the information shown. This is as not only do we need to know where the specific shots will take place, but also this links with planning our filming schedule. By writing the location of each individual shot in every frame of our story board, it allows for my group and I to refer back to it so we know when will we need to be in certain places and where, overall helping us towards organizing ourselves towards the whole timing process, which is essential due to filming restrictions in regards to the time allocated.

Iconography was also an important factor towards our storyboards. It tells us specifically not only the items and costumes we will need in specific frames, but also the facial expressions that the actors will be showing, allowing for certain feelings to be conveyed to the target audience through this. Alongside this, the iconography in our storyboard prepares us for what props we need for when we are going to film, and to what effect they will be used and during point in the narrative. Also, it shows what costumes the actors need to wear, which is often a very important element towards the portrayal of feeling towards the viewer which in turn influences how the concept will be shown throughout the visuals. As a whole it allows for more organization again for the whole filming process, giving a better insight towards smaller features within certain segments.  

What actors will be within each shot is also evident on the storyboard. This is important towards the core of the scene as we need to know who is needed and in what segment. An example of this from the storyboard can be taken when Tahir (a helper of the groups dad) is present in a shot which takes place in a house, however he won't be needed for any scenes taking place on liverpool street for example, providing with no reason to take him there. However Jake, Charlie and I are all involved in the liverpool street scene and will all need to act, which means we all need to be there. This also helps our overall organisation, as it tells us specifically who we need at specific points, allowing for there to be less confusion over who will be needed where and when. 

The sound use within each individual frame is also present within the storyboard. There is a very limited variety of sound in my group and I's music video, the only two appearances being when the artist speaks to the taxi driver, which takes place right at the beginning of the video (being the use of digetic sound). This takes place shortly before the song plays, which happens shortly after and is included throughout the entirety of the frames, being refereed to as "song continues" after the first frame where it begins to play.  

Despite editing not playing an active part towards the actual filming of the shots as it takes place after woulds, it will be an extremely important element towards my group and I's music video after filming. This is as we will add in special effects, transitions and other visuals to make our video more appealing and interesting. One example of this can be taken throughout the entirety of the production, that being adding in a saturation filter at a later stage to show throughout. Although it can be argued that it is not essential to put in our storyboards as it is not used when we are filming; the storyboards having a large amount of significance towards the planning of shots, it is still an important element to include. This is as writing in the editing section in each individual frame allows us to know when and where to specifically use editing, what shots will be included in and the type of editing we are going to use within this particular segment. Doing this helps with the production as it allows for additional preparation to be made; my group and I being more aware as to what form of editing will be included when, which gives us a better insight towards how certain scenes will link towards each other. 

Lastly, the narrative description is a vital part of our storyboards. It tells us specifically what is actually going on not only in the shot, but also the narrative itself and as we gradually film more and more. Referring to our storyboards will evidently tell us how far we are into our narrative, and what point of the narrative we our up to. The narrative description is arguably one of the most important elements of the storyboard, as without including it the shots wont make as much sense, as it might not have been very clear in the drawings or other descriptions as to what will be included within that certain segment. Alongside this, looking back on the shots my group and I would be unaware towards the purpose of each cell, which through including a narrative description eradicates this issue as it allows for the general idea of the scene to be made clearer. 

I believe that my group and I were organised well when it came towards planning and creating the storyboard. This also included how we would organised who completed what within the task. The group put in an equal amount of effort as a whole, although admittedly Jake and Charlie wrote more the frames, doing it during free time while myself was busy, although when together we all contributed ideals towards the table. The idea behind the narrative Jake was more driven towards creating, whereas charlie and myself came up with the addition details to add in alongside this, myself often providing with the shots including, trying to add in a variety to allow for diverse visuals. We used time in lesson and our free time outside of the lessons to fill in the boxes, also using time at home to do this, as we split 23 storyboard sheets between the three of us with Charlie and myself taking 8 sheets home to finish, leaving Jake with the last 7. Although by this point the narrative descriptions and other elements were basically all done minus some frames being exceptions, although at home we completed the drawings for the individual frames. As a group we decided that my workload for the production will come after the filming process as I will be in charge of the editing process; my contribution towards the creation of the storyboard being slightly less than my fellow group members as my expectations come at a later stage.