The document summarizes the planned resources and equipment that will be used in a fashion magazine production. A car will be used to access rural photography locations. A Nikon D810 camera with 36.3 megapixels will be used to take high-quality professional photos. A tripod may be used for some shots but could make images look too perfect. An iPhone will be used to record behind-the-scenes vlogs. Natural lighting and an umbrella will be used for outdoor shoots. A laptop and photo editing software will be used to design the magazine and billboard. Various fonts and layers in design software will be leveraged to make the publications eye-catching.
2. Car
Although it seems obvious, a
car is something which I will
need to use in my production
in order to access
picturesque locations such as
Leicestershire’s countryside.
This will show a variety from
the urban look we see in a
lot of fashion magazines.
3. Photography
The camera which I will use for the majority of the pictures in my production is a Nikon D810 camera which I
will source from the media department at my college. I used this camera last year when taking photos for my
rock music magazine and it will be beneficial to me because it has a high resolution of 36.3 megapixels. This
will mean that the images in my production will look more professional because they will have more precision
which will make my institution look of a higher status as we have paid attention to detail. This is important in a
fashion magazine because it is all about looking closely at the materials, textures and colours so that the
reader has a greater understanding of the product which gives them an idea about what the product will look
like on them. Especially this is important when taking close up shots as the makeup skills can be used which will
mean that the products can be identified more clearly, which will mean that the Dyer Star Theory can take
place as they will see the model as a star in commodity because they are more likely to want to purchase a
product if they can see and identify it clearly. If my images have more precision, it will give the reader an
insight into what the readers look like in real life so that the reader feels closer to them which means that they
will feel valued as they will feel more interlinked with the industry, hence, interactivity will be at a high which
means that the reader is more likely to get involved. The camera is important when taking long shots as it also
has a flash so it will absorb all of the mise-en scene which means that the image will look more interesting to
the reader as they will be more to look at which means that young fashionistas will find more inspiration for
their own look. It is arguable whether a detailed shot can cause the hypodermic needle theory can take place
as a lot of young people absorb what they see in the media and feel the need to follow the hegemony set by
the reader. Additionally, when taking images outside, it will pay greater detail to the landscape which will make
my images look more vibrant and make the locations more identifiable. This is important when using a regional
magazine because it will increase tourism to particular locations as The Dyer Star Theory will take place
because they will want to follow the life of a celebrity and ‘hang out’ in the same locations as this will make
the reader feel superior. Finally, as I have previously mentioned, the camera has a flash function which is
important when taking photos in a dark location because it brings the image to life by giving it light but also as
there is a dark background, the model will stand out which will instantly make them seem more important to
the reader.
4. Reviews of Nikon D810
The reviews above of the Nikon D810 show that although it is a very expensive
camera, the images are of an extremely high quality which is crucial to bring
more respect to my institution and make it look more professional. Especially in
our new digitalized world when we expect HD, high resolution quality so the
positive reviews have assured me that this is a trust worthy source and will
allow my magazine, billboard and website to look elite.
5. Tripod
A tripod is a three legged portable frame which is used as a form of
stability to hold the frame and weight of a camera when taking photos.
The purpose is to give images a straight and professional look as the
images will not be disproportionate. The benefits of the professional look
is that it will make images look of a higher quality which means that my
institution will appear more superior and respected by the audience,
therefore, people are more likely going to read my products. Therefore,
if I use this in my production, it will be for long shots when taking images
of individuals because it will ensure all of the mise-en scene can be seen
clearly within the frame which will make it look more interesting to the
reader. However I am uncertain whether I will use it because sometimes
images can look too perfect which does not give them a rough or tough
look which can add formality which will not appeal to my youthful target
audience who prefer to be inspired by casual looks ( as my survey results
suggested). I will source a tripod from the college media department
however it is unlikely that it will be used however I have borrowed it in
case I want my images to have a perfect and untouched look so that my
products look varied and therefore more interesting to the reader.
6. iPhone 5c
Even though I will not use the iPhone to take photos, it is still an important resource to
use in my production as I will record vlogs on my phone to show evidence of my
photoshoots and to symbolize my progress throughout my production. The camera is
only a 12 megapixel camera so it would not be useful to use for my production as the
images would look of a lower quality and make my institution appear unprofessional to
the reader. Also, as the phone is not the newest iPhone product, it would also make
the images appear more dated to the reader. However creating vlogs is a way of
building a climax and giving the reader hints about what to expect when the read the
products so it will build suspense and create a buzz around the publication of my
products. Additionally, as an iPhone has been used, it is a relatable form of technology
as many young people will use this too so it will make it more relatable to them and
could even encourage interactivity as many of my audience start to vlog. Therefore, it
will influence people in my region to become more active on social media, this could
influence social solidarity as part of The Uses and Gratifications Theory because it will
mean young people will come together and share their interests on social media.
7. Lighting
Most of my images will be taken in daylight and therefore they will include natural light which will therefore
make them look more ‘natural’ and bright which means that the images will look more professional as they
will overall have a clear and more pristine finish. This is why many shots will be taken outside as natural
lighting gives the reader a realistic and clear perception of the model which will make them feel as though
they can see the model on a personal level. This is because we often don’t see models in real life but it will
make the reader feel closer through a clear image which will therefore make the reader feel special. Also, by
taking my images outside, it will influence more people to visit the local gems in their community, especially
young people who often sit and sloth around inside. Therefore, it will influence them to become more active,
this opens the door for escapism to take place as part of The Uses and Gratifications Theory, this is because
if readers feel inspired to go out and visit places in Leicester/Leicestershire, they may revisit the site or
repurchase the magazine to find more information for the future. I intend to shoot my photos in overcast
weather conditions however with a little sunlight breaking through the clouds, this is because the weather
will be what is expected for the time of year which will make it feel more realistic for my autumnal themed
magazine. But additionally, if the weather is overcast it means that my images are less likely going to be
ruined from the sunlight which may weaken the quality of my images, make them too bright, create
unattractive shadows which will enlarge features but also make the model squint. Therefore, by shooting in
overcast conditions, it will mean that there is less vertical light and this emphasizes the importance of
checking the weather forecast beforehand. It will also mean that the female gaze effect is more likely to
take place as both male and female readers will see the models as more attractive and therefore they are
more likely to idolize the model and want to follow them. This highlights the idea from The Dyer Star Theory
to take place because the reader will see the model as a star in construction and by idolizing the model this
can be achieved.
8. Lighting
However, when lighting is specifically needed either when my images are in a low key lighting room which
will set a curious and secretive atmosphere as usually low key lighting has sexual connotations or horror
connotations so the reader will then feel curious over what to expect. I will then need a brighter light and
this can be used from a lamp as this will create low key lighting which will make an image look more
private and more intriguing to the audience. However, if I cannot get enough light in general, a useful
form of photography equipment is a strobe light which can be used to get a highly illuminated image and
this would be important to create connotations to catwalk show as this is the light used at these events.
But also, a strobe light used against a darker background would illuminate the model and make them stand
out so they appear more eye-catching to the reader. This would be extremely useful to use when taking
images of makeup and hair as it would again give the images more precision and make them stand out so
that my institution appears more professional to the reader and give them greater inspiration of beauty
skills which means that The Uses and Gratifications Theory can be achieved as the reader will feel as
though they have gained personal identity if they gain confidence from having more knowledge about
makeup skills; which also means The Uses and Gratifications Theory plays the role of educating the reader.
A professional form of lighting is using alloy light stands with the light shielded which means that the light
is subtle yet adds brightness to the image, this is useful when you only want to illuminate particular
features such as the face as this will mean that it will be the key area of focus. The benefits of
illuminating a person(s) face is that in the media industry, it helps to create brand identity and to make
the product recognisable due to a model which is associated with it, therefore, if people are attracted to
the model too through the male and female gaze effect it means that the institution is more likely to grow
in popularity. Hence, why this is likely going to be a form of lighting equipment which is used on my
billboard, this is because if the model stands out, it will become more memorable to the reader.
9. Lighting Equipment
Some other lighting equipment which is essential in the photography business is using an
umbrella. Now to most people, this is something which is used to shield us from the rain
however to professional photographers, it is a valuable form of equipment which is used to block
out sunlight from above ( vertical light) when shooting outdoors if there isn't any cover from
other factors such as trees. This is will only be used when shooting outside and if the weather is
unfortunately bright and sunny. This is because vertical light can ruin the image by making it
look completely unrepresentative for example it can create or enhance dark circles under the
eyes which will make the models look tired and unhealthy. This is not something which I want to
promote in my production as it will not influence iconography as the models will look unhealthy
and not be positive idols for my target audience. This is so that young people will take care of
themselves and not party too hard at regional events as my institution could be scapegoated for
the ill health of the young and lead to a tarnished reputation, meaning that it cannot grow in
popularity. This is because it would influence the negative stereotype of models or individuals in
the fashion industry to emerge for example, the stereotypical view that models ‘starve
themselves’ will be reintroduced which could trigger body image issues among my target
audience. It may seem as though an umbrella will make my images look darker however they
will look more vivid and bright, without unattractive lighting so it will make the models look
fresh, to reflect the ‘fresh’ and new looks in the industry. An umbrella will be my primary
resource which is beneficial as it can be used whenever it is needed so it is more reliable. As I
used this in my production last year, I already have an awareness of how they are used correctly
however the video clip on the next slide was used to refresh my memory so that I have complete
understanding of how to make my images look pristine and professional.
10. How to use an umbrella in photography:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0fpgzWxppc
• Light weight and versatile
• Useful for soft light, for
example, images where I
will want my models to look
more reserved and innocent
to anchor the connotations
in the image.
• Portable, so it can be used
in multiple locations
• Tie down with sand bags or
something heavy so that it
does not fly away.
11. Apple Mac
The apple mac is a form of software that I will use
to access particular software such as Photoshop
which will mean that I will have instant access to
editing my photos. As I can use these at college, it
will make it a free software which means that more
money can be spent on extra props or accessorizes
for my product. However, this will not be where
the majority of my photo editing takes place
because the apple macs are actually quite old and
can take a very long time to load which is
frustrating as well as time consuming. This is due
to the outdated technology conflicting with the
new technology from Adobe Photoshop, therefore it
is less likely to function smoothly. However, it is
important to consider that this is crucial starting
point to editing my images in college hour.
12. Acer Laptop
The acer laptop is probably the most important form of
equipment in the list. Although it is not the most well
known or respected laptop brand it will be crucial to use
when accessing Paint. Net from home ( a photo editing
software) as this will be used to create my billboard and
my magazine. It will be also useful to access screen
recording software such as Ice Cream Screen Recorder
which is how I will symbolize the progress of my editing
through screen recording which will guide how I am able to
use the photo editing software. I can also access web 2.0
on here so it will be useful to find inspiration from the
internet. As it is my own laptop, it is a primary source
however to prevent a disaster similar to my production in
year 12, when my laptop broke, I will scan the laptop for
any threatening viruses to ensure my production can
continue smoothly without disruption.
13. Font Space
Font Space is an online font website which is available on web 2.0. The site allows you to chose
from lots of different fonts to use for typography and this can include bold fonts that are suitable
for the logo and also font that could be used for the cover lines and subheadings of my products so
that they stand out and are more eye catching to the reader. You can also decide whether you want
to use serif or sans serif fonts which will allow you to choose whether to take a formal, traditional
look or a modern and contemporary look; showing how the site will make your products look
diverse. Another useful tool is that you can select certain themes that will suit a particular
category, for example, if I searched fashion or girly in the search engine, it would come up with
suitable fonts that would suit my target audience and dominant house style. This software will be
used throughout my production as I want to make my products look exciting and so that this will
increase engagement among my target audience. This is because my products will look intriguing as
the fonts will stand out from the conventional Arial which appear boring and over-used. By using
font space , the Uses and Gratifications Theory as the aim of escapism can be achieved as the
reader will feel as though my products are a distraction from University and college work,
therefore, they will associate my product with relaxation. Font space also allows you to change the
size of the fonts so this will be important when I am trying to promote the importance of different
features or celebrities. Thus, the larger the font, the more likely people are going to read
particular features so this will increase interactivity among my regional target audience. A benefit
is that when the fonts are copied and pasted to the clipboard, they do not show any logo or
watermark associated with font space which will make my magazine look original so audiences will
feel it is more reliable to which will encourage more people to read it.
14. Paint.NET
Paint.NET is a free software that can be downloaded onto a PC which allows you to edit images and
text. It also allows you to build products such as posters which is why the use of layers in this software
is useful when I will be creating my magazine and also my billboard as it will help to make it look
realistic. Using layers is extremely important when using Paint.NET as it is how you build a product and
if you make a mistake, it will only effect the layer you are on. This prevents it from becoming time
consuming if you have to erase lots of work as this could eventually become disruptive to the
production process. Also, the layer tool will allow me to lap my masthead or logo ( on my magazine
and billboard) on top of the image which will allow the logo to stand out and connote its importance
on the page. Not only will this make the page look impressive to the reader which will build more
respect for my institution but it will also allow the logo to become familiar to audiences which is
crucial when gaining popularity as it becomes recognized on a mass scale. Placing the logo over the
main image will be beneficial in industries, for example, when my magazine is placed on the shelves, it
will help with identification so more people will feel inclined to purchase. The benefit of this software
being available on PC is that it is accessible and will make it a lot easier when I begin to create and
edit my production. However, Paint.NET is useful for producing a product and building it however for
actually editing my images so that they stand out and have more precision, other software will be
useful to use.
15. Adobe Photoshop
Photoshop is a graphics editor which was greater in 1998. You do have to pay to use
Photoshop however you can apply for free trials which is how I will use this in my
production as it is the only accessible way. However, as I can only use it for a temporary
amount of time it may mean that my production will end up looking rushed and
incomplete which would mean that oppositional reading would take place as my
products would not realistic to the audience as they would appear unprofessional. This
software will be used once I have chosen my images to edit and I now what to improve
them, for example, one of my models has bright blue hair, so I may tame it down with
the colour corrector tool so it looks as though it is more catered to the fashion industry
rather than the rock subculture. Another useful tool in Photoshop which makes the
models look healthy is airbrushing which is when the tool removes typically unattractive
assets such as dark under eye circles so that the models will look more uplifted and
awake. However, it is extremely important that this is used in moderation as I do not
want to portray unrealistic standards which will make women feel as though the media
is making them look a particular way, so to prevent the media from appearing forceful,
this will be used in a slightly unnoticeable way to prevent criticism over body image and
self confidence. One key tool on Photoshop is adjusting the brightness of the images
which is often a tool that needs to be used as although natural light provides high key
lighting, it does not have the professional, studio look which readers expect. Therefore,
in my production the brightness tool will enhance the light in the image which will make
it have a more clear and pristine finish and this will meet the audiences expectations
and meeting the conventional, refreshing look that the fashion industry provides us with.
16. Instagram
Instagram is a social media mobile site where you can edit and share images and
videos online with friends and peers. It was created in 2010 but is now one of the
most popular forms of social media in the world. Now even though it is not the
most professional form of image editing to use, it still has detailed tools which will
help me to make my product look more elite, for example, brightness, sharpness,
vignette which will all help to make my images look of a higher quality. Also, it is a
relatable source and if the readers discover that the institution used this to edit
their photos, the reader feels as though they can explore photography and the
editing process in a cheap and affordable way. The software is free after all which
means that it is easy to access but also as it is installed on my mobile device and I
have been using the software since 2012, I have a greater understanding of how to
use specific tools which may mean that my images will be more impressive as I will
not be confused by particular features. I will feel more confident using this too
which may mean I will feel more stimulated to work towards making my images
have a polished look however if I used a complicated software, it could end up
looking messy and incomplete which would not attract readers.
17. WIX
WIX is a website builder and was created in 2006 which connotes that it is modern
technology and will be useful to use to make my website look contemporary and futuristic.
This is important for my younger target audience who will want to be impressed by the
variety of house styles which WIX has to offer which will then make my production look up
to date and relevant. It is described as a ‘freemium business model’ which is when the site
can be used free of charge however you have to pay for additional features on the
magazine. However, it is still important that this software is free as it connotes that it is
accessible and will help small institutions like mine to grow and develop which will show
how the industry no longer has to be imperialised by big companies. The benefit of WIX is
that you do not have to create the site from scratch through creating a html, it simply gives
you a website where you can create your own domain name and either use templates or
start editing your website from scratch. I am going to start my website from scratch
because I will want to show individuality so that my institution looks original which is
crucial in order for my institution to stand out from other companies. Therefore, if it
connotes differentiation, it will invite a wider demographic and allow my institution to
grow in popularity. WIX can be accessed on Web 2.0 on PC which means that I can
constantly interact with my site to make changes as it is constantly accessible, therefore,
my site will always appear relevant which will continue audiences to be stimulated and
interested. Even though I have already watched one tutorial, I will need to watch more to
ensure I am prepared to use this in my production.