Research

Existing Products – Future Self (Website)
For my research, I am looking at the website for a brand called ‘Future Self’ which is a clothing brand about self
development as your future self will be grateful.
Firstly, I am looking at the website design and layout to get some inspiration for my brand.
Looking at the home page, I can see that this website has a minimal style with a monochrome colour scheme where the
colour is added in the pictures. I really like how the style works as only the key information is used – brand name, menu,
cart and shop now. This makes the buyer have a very easy experience as it is quick and effective.
Another aspect that works really well is the colour scheme. The white header creates a frame above the slideshow and as
white works with any picture, the slideshow isn’t affected. To go with the white header, they have used black text and black
symbols to create a strong contrast between the two. It also makes the brand name stand out for the buyer, making the
name more rememberable. I like how they have swapped the colours on the pictures as the text is in white and the ‘shop
now’ button is black contrasting to the header above. Using this colour scheme ensures that the audience of the brand is
wider as these colour aren’t associated with a gender. This means that the buyer knows this is a brand with male and
female clothing.
Next, I have seen that there is a slideshow below the heading which shows their main product categories straight away –
new in, tops, joggers and hoodies. The first image is the most recent product which is the most expensive so that would
make the higher profit product seen the most. The slideshow works well as it is four categories of products rather than an
individual so you can select the section you are looking for. I think this works well for the buyer as it is easy to access and
makes you to the products without leaving the website. You could also access the categories in the menu if you aren't on
the home page.
Looking at this website has helped me to develop a better idea for my design and it has helped me to think about the
aesthetic and use of the website. I will be using the simple design and the simple navigation around the website which will
need some experimenting as I haven’t created a website before.

Existing Products – Future Self (Website)
Carrying on with the website I have seen that below the slideshow there is another section, shown on left, for the
categories with some new pictures. I like there are two categories on the page at once, so the pictures aren’t too big. To the
left of the pictures, there is the white background with black text in the same font from the slideshow. Keeping this theme
through the website helps to keep the modern look and to keep the identity of the brand the same.
Another aspect to the website is the menu slide which appears when you select the three-line symbol. On the menu screen
there are the categories, about and advice for deliveries etc. I like that the menu screen looks clean and simple with the
black text to link to the rest of the website.
However, there are a few things that I am not a fan of for this website.
1. I don’t like that there the three sections for the categories as it seems too much with the two on the home page. I think
I will have the one on the home page and then on the menu screen too for when you aren’t on the home page.
2. I do like that below the category section, there all the Instagram posts. However, I don’t like that the posts take up most
of the screen so you can’t see the whole section.
3. I don’t like that when you are on the product pages, the page doesn’t go down very far after the products, so you don’t
have much room to see the price and product name. I would say that having the page slightly longer would make the
page more useable for the buyer. You could make the page longer with social media links.
After looking at these aspects I have learnt that it could be better to have the product category and then a short portfolio of
your products for the buyer to have a quick look. I would also say to have the contact information including the social media
links at the bottom of the pages to make them slightly longer.

Existing Products – Future Self (Photos)
For my first photo, I have chosen one with a unique idea. This effect would
have been done in post-production as it has been made to look like the
clothes are floating. To get this image, they have used the main colour for
each outfit as the text on the t-shirt to make the hoodie act as a
background. They have used the same outfit style for the three models to
create the theme look. The location is outside so the lighting is natural and
the background links to the blue and green t-shirts. I really like this idea as I
haven’t seen it before so it would be good to think of a similar idea to do for
my website and products.
This is one of the photos from the outdoor backdrop photo shoot which is
my favourite photo shoot from this brand. The lighting is natural as it is
outside and there are no shadows which means it was cloudy. I would say
that works better than it being sunny as you wouldn’t be able to control the
shadows. The colour scheme of this photo shoot works well as the backdrop
creates a boarder between the contrasting green and brown. It also works
well as the colours are solid, not patterned as that would take away the
effect of the backdrop. The angle of the camera is a level angle, zoomed out
enough to get a full body shot which works as you can see the top of the
backdrop. This also makes the model look taller as his leg is down closer to
the camera giving this illusion.
Next, I have chosen a simpler photo which is showing the bottom of the
joggers as the logo is there. They have gone for a minimal design with this
image as it is a plain background with the product. They have used the dark
grey joggers to contrast to the pale green joggers as they want to show that
there are designs for everyone. For this image, I would say they have used
studio lights and then added some objects in front to create the shadow
effect as it looks like a window. I like the idea of having a range of model
photos and then also a range of product photos to show more for the buyer.
For this photo, they have used a brighter background to contrast from the
darker products as they have used the dark grey tracksuit. The lighting is
natural as the neon lights are from a street or an arcade front which works
really well as the design is retro so having these neon lights helps to
highlight their ideas. The camera angle is slightly lower than a level shot so
the top of the models head would line up with the neon lights in the
background. The pose of the model works as it looks like he about to take
the hood down so there is some movement in the photo rather than it
looking like a studio photo shoot. I like this idea as they have used
lighting/backgrounds to show what style they have gone for when creating
these products.
For a different collection, they have used the hoodie design as the
background which works really well as the colours from the hoodie don’t
overlap the colours on the background. They have gone for a minimal design
as it emphasises on the hoodie design as the colour scheme is smaller than
other photos. The background is just two walls as they didn’t need a big set
for it, they have then been able to control the lighting with studio lights to
get the right shadows. Using two models works well as one has the hood up
and the other down to show the product more. I also think two models
works well as they are angled differently to again, show more od the
product. I like this idea as the colour schemes of the product and the
background are the same.
For my final photo, I have looked at the mirror photo shoot trend as I think it
could work really well for my brand as it would reflect light. With this idea, I
can customise the boarder of the mirror and even have a colour scheme for
each t-shirt/hoodie to highlight the colour collection. To get the shot for the
mirror photos, the angle will be slightly to the side as you don’t want to get
the camera in shot as it takes away from the effect. Using the mirror also
makes it easy to change location for the shots as you can lean the mirror on
anything. I like this idea as it adds more to the photo shoot rather than it
being regular photos.

Existing Products – Future Self (Products)
a
Here are the front pages for the products in this brand. I really like that they have been hung on a rail instead of it being the front on shot like regular brands as it creates a bit of variety and shows this brand
isn’t like the rest. For some products, there are multiple colours so they have hung all three of them on the rail for one photo. I think that works better as you can see the colours straight away rather than
clicking on the product and then swapping the colours. I would say that if there was a larger range on colours, then it would be too much for one photo but the three colours work. The designers have also
used the same colour scheme to link the pages together as there are white boxes with black text for the product and prices. Then there are black boxes with white text for the sold out sign. I would say that
taking the price off the sold out products doesn’t help as some people would want to buy the product when it is back in stock. For example, the joggers are all out of stock so there is no way to see the price
of them for when they come back and this could mean that some people won’t have enough money at the time.

Existing Products – Future Self (Products)
Once you have selected a product, this page comes up which shows more photos of the product. You can see
that the top banner has stayed the same as it has the main aspects for the website such as the menu, home
button and cart. To get to the photos, you have to scroll down the page which also has all the other products.
I don’t like this ideas as much as the page is very long and the photos don’t fit on the screen properly. To the
side of the photos, there is a section with the name, price, ‘select options’ button and description which is for
the size and adding to cart. As you can see the designers have used the black in the photos, in the top banner
and in the side section to carry on with the theme. In the side section, there is the black box with the white
text again as it makes that part stand out as it is they key aspect.
After the main page for the product, you select the button which say ‘select options’ which takes you to a new
page where it has a slide show of the photos you have seen but they are smaller so you can see the whole
photo. This page has the same aspects as before – price and description, it also has the sizes to select for
adding it to your cart and a size guide. Having the size guide there really helps as it is the main piece of
information that helps to decide what you will be buying.
Once you have selected your size, you can add it to your cart and then this page appears. The top banner has
been used again and below that is ‘Your Cart’ in the same font and colour as the rest of the page. The next
aspect is each item in your cart with a photo, the name, size, price and quantity with the option to add more
of an item there. Below that is the total of the products, the ways you can pay and the checkout button which
is a black box with white text.
Overall, the products are presented very professionally and in a unique way which makes this brand stand out
more. However, I think that the first page when you select a product doesn’t work as well as it could as you
have to scroll down for the photos instead of there being a slideshow like the second page of a product.

Existing Products – Future Self (Advert)
a
I have found an advert for Future Self which helps me as I have found a whole package from one brand as I want to create all the same aspects for my brand. When watching
the advert, you can tell that there is a retro look as the starting clip is putting a vinyl on. Once the advert starts, you can also see there is a screen effect to empathises on
the retro style and design as it is the main style of the products. I would say that at the start, it focuses on modelling, then there is a short section where they are playing in
the arcade and then they go back to the modelling and products. I have also realised that the locations in the advert are the same as the photo shoot which links them
together better. In the advert you can also see that they are showing sections with the photographer and then showing the modelling poses to make it look like they are in a
photo shoot. At the end of the advert the final clip is a cassette tape which links back to the start with the retro style as they were used before technology developed. As a
whole the advert is at a slower, calmer pace to show off the clothing better with whole body shots and then also close ups for the logos. I would say the slower pace works
better especially if it is about mental health as you want to create a calm atmosphere for your brand to encourage people to visit your website. In the advert, all the
locations haven’t been in a studio with the studio lights, they have been regular locations with the lighting from that location. This makes the advert look better as it is
realistic and shows that the brand doesn’t want to trick the buyers. For the colour scheme, the best location was the arcade as it had the red like the crop top and had the
same aesthetic as the outfits. Overall, this advert works really well as it shows the new collection however, I think I will add more effects when editing such as text.

Existing Products – Future Self (Extra)
Social media:
I have seen on their Instagram account for Future Self that they have uploaded a range of images.
They have used all the images taken from the photo shoots as they have done multiple for the
new collections they have released. They have also created slideshows for the Instagram stories
about new products and new pop-up shops that they were doing at that time. This helps to
promote the brand as many people use Instagram and won’t find it any other way.
Looking at their account, you can tell when they release new collections as the colour scheme
changes. I like how the colour changes as it makes it clear what is happening with brand. For the
most recent collection, the colour options contrast each other making the account have a better
aesthetic and the transition from one collection to another stands out more.
I would say that it would be useful to start an Instagram page with a few posts to show how the
social media part could be done if the brand was developed into an actual brand.
Desktop vs Phone for the website:
When looking at the website, I found that all the negatives I found
on the desktop’s website (pictures being too large) were fixed on
the phone’s website which makes me think that this brand and
website was designed for phones rather than desktops as the
owner is a social media influencer, so he uses his phone a lot.
Having the website for the phone means that you will get the
better experience if you are using your phone as the pictures will
fit the screen.
This has made me think about how I can make both websites work
so the functionality is at its best as that is the main aspect needed
to be right when designing a website.

Existing Products – Other Brands
Here is the recently updated Gym Shark website with a
minimal style making the website easy to use. For the
home page, they have shown that there are products for
both genders and using subheadings and menus, they
have sections for each category. The colour scheme is
more relaxed with some brighter colours around the
website.
The home page of the ASOS website has a main picture
where the colour is added as the website is based of black
and white. The website is easy to navigate with the
menus which works well as there are many categories. At
the top of the page there is a search bar which makes
shopping easier as you search for the key words and then
you can browse the range.
The Nike website has a white base colour to create the
bright look where they add the colours in the photos. The
photos show models outside and travelling as Nike is a
massive company for running. This helps as it shows what
they have done and what people are capable to do.
For each product, there is a range of pictures. There is a
larger main photo with the model facing the camera, then
there are smaller pictures above and below the main
picture with different poses to show the product. I like
how there is a range of sizes to have all the photos visible
on one page. I also like that there is a short video in the
top right corner of the pictures to show the model and
the product.
For the product pages, there is the first picture with the
model facing the camera as it shows the best angle for
the product when being worn. To the left of the main
picture, there are more options to see the product which
you select to see it bigger. This works well as it gives the
buyer the 360 degree view of the product. Sometimes
there is a short video like gym shark which shows the
process of the poses and angles.
Nike have used the same size pictures for all of them and
instead of having the option for a slideshow. This works
well as you can see a full picture and then some of the
next picture making the buyer want to see more. I also
like how they have used different models, male and
female as it shows what the product looks like on
different body types and to show that some products are
unisex.

Audience Research
For my first part of my audience research, I created a form to help develop my idea of what my audience will be. The form has eight questions
with most of them relating to brands and prices to guide me on those aspects. The answers to the form will determine what style I will use and
what content I will create to cater for my target audience. For my first two questions, I gained some background knowledge about the people
taking the form as the age and gender will play a big part of my next steps as I don’t want to be creating content that isn’t for the correct age
group and correct gender.
I decided to use Microsoft Forms for my audience research as it is an easy way to create a form and was what I needed for this. Using Microsoft
Forms worked as I could have multiple answer questions and long answer questions which meant I could gain extra detail from the people
answering as they have answered with a wide range of brands and prices.
I published this form on my social media and sent it to my dad who gave it to one of his classes as he is a teacher. This worked well as I got a range
of older teenagers to answer which was my initial target audience as mental health is a big problem for teenagers. I didn’t have any resources to
send the form to older people, but I would say that teenagers and young adults are my main age groups but as it is a brand, anyone can buy from
it. If this brand would be developed further, I am sure it will be easy to widen the target audience for more people.
I would say that my most useful questions were the questions about how much you would pay as I want to create an affordable brand whilst
making enough profit to donate to charity and to expand the brand. These answers will have the biggest influence on my brand out of all the
questions from the form.
Before I created the form, I had an idea of what the results will be but there are a few brands that I haven’t heard of and the price range for the t-
shirt and the hoodie is a lot larger than I thought it would be which shows that some people will spend lots of clothing.

Audience Research
From this question about the gender of the people taking the form, I have realised that creating a unisex brand is the best option as it doubles my
target audience rather than focusing on one gender. I would also say having a unisex brand means that non-binary people will still want to buy
from here and transgender people will still be able to wear this brand as there is no gender associated with it.
My product will appeal to my target audience by using a range of colours and showing that colours shouldn’t have a gender associated with them
like society does today. At the moment, yellow and orange are the main colours that I think I will use as they don’t have any genders associated
with them such as blue and pink. I will create a range of products, some for boys such as a bolder design on a phone case, some for girls such as
crop tops and most of the products will be for both such as hoodies and t-shirts. Even if I create the products with the intention of one gender
buying them, the other gender will still be able to buy them as less items are being associated with genders.

Audience Research
From this question about the age of the people taking this form, I have realised that teenagers would be a great target audience as they want to
create a more sustainable world and teenagers struggle with mental health, so they want to starting improving that too. Before I published this
form, I did think that teenagers would be the best target audience as they want to buy new clothes and want to help spread a message which will
make the world a better place with more positivity.
My product will appeal to my target audience as I will create a range of ideas and have a wide range of advertisement such as social media for
reaching different audiences. I will also create my website to have a minimal design which will mean that the website is very clean and easy to
navigate which helps the buyer and could increase the chance of them buying a product as it is a quick process.

Audience Research
From this question about the price of a t-shirt, I have realised that there is a wide range
of prices that people would pay. As teenagers don’t make much money if they work,
they will only spend their money on what they need and lots of teenagers will start
saving for a car etc. As you can see from the pie chart that the most common price is
around £20 which would work out enough to expand the brand and to also donate a
large amount to charity.
My product will appeal for my target audience as I will sell my products at an affordable
price whilst donating to charity and using sustainable materials for the clothing and the
packaging. I would say that the price is a main factor for people visiting the website
from other advertisements as if they know they won’t be able to afford it, then there is
no point for them to visit.

Audience Research
Observation:
What this says about my audience:
How will your product appeal to this audience:
From this question about the prices of hoodies, I have realised that like the t-shirt
prices, there is a wide range of opinions for how much people would pay. As I have said
before, my target audience is for people at a younger age, so they won’t have a lot of
money spare after the bills etc. As you can see the most common price is around £25-
£35 which was around my estimations. I will decide on the price for a hoodie by adding
£10-£15 on the t-shirt price as that is the average from other brands that I have seen. I
will also be thinking about the profit whilst keeping charities and sustainability in mind
with the materials and packaging.
My product will appeal to my target audience as I will create an affordable price whilst
having enough profit to expand the brand with sustainable materials. From this
question, I have learnt that there are people who will buy your product whatever the
price, so it is my job to find the balance between profit and affordability.

Audience Research
From this question about charity, I have realised that many people would pay a bit more if they knew they were donating to charity by buying
through that brand. From the people I have asked 85% said they would spend a bit more if a percentage of the profit would go to a charity. This
helps as I can then work out how much profit I would need to have to have a large amount going to some charities.
My product will appeal to my target audience as I could have the donation sum as the first slide on the slideshow for the home page. I will also
have a page which explains that the products will be slightly more expensive for the charities, it will also explain how much will go to charity, it
will also explain what charities the money will go to and there will also be a page for the sustainability of the brand.

Audience Research
From this question about brands online, I have realised that ASOS is a loved brand as it
has a wide range of products and a wide range of brands in one place. I have also
realised that some main reasons people love the brand they said is because of the
quality of the product, how trendy the products are and how easy the website is to
navigate from the home page to the order complete page.
My product will appeal to my target audience as I will create a range of trendy designs,
using high quality products/materials which will be sold on a simple website to make
the user’s experience calm and relaxed. I would say that as technology grows and now
that people haven’t been able to go to shops due to Covid, more people will be using
online shopping as their main purchases as it is more convenient for them. As more
people will be spending more time online shopping, then the website I create must be
very easy for anyone to understand.
Brand Why
Amazon You can buy anything there, Delivery.
Pretty Little Things Online shopping.
Hollister Clear website.
Superdry High quality products.
Carhartt High quality products.
Brand Why
ASOS Wide range, Clear website, Lots of brands.
Depop Cheap, Sustainable, Helps small businesses.
Nike Reliable
Urban Outfitters Trendy products, High quality products.
H&M Simple website.
North Face High quality product, good CSR.

Audience Research
From this question about advertisement, I have realised that the main way people learn
about deals from a brand is by emails when you subscribe to the emailing list. This is the
most effective way as it is easy to gather emails which means many people will be able
to access the deals. Another effective way to announce deals and releases is with the
use of Instagram as having a social media account will widen the audience you attract as
more people will see your account.
My product will appeal to my target audience as could set a demo social media account
with the photo shoots and product photos. If my brand was developed further, I would
learn how to make an emailing list as that is the number one advertisement process for
my target audience.

Audience Research
From this question about a sustainable and ethically correct brand, I have realised that like the charity question, 85% of people are more likely to
buy from this brand if they knew it was sustainable and ethically correct unlike other brands. I would say that having a sustainable and ethical
brand would increase the sales as they are large issues within the clothing industry, so emphasising to the buyer that those problems don’t occur
in this brand would encourage the them to buy. After this question was answered, it made me think that it would be useful to do some research
into sustainable materials and packaging to show what I would do if this brand was developed.
My product would appeal to my target audience as I would want to have minimum effect on the environment and not to source products from
factories that don’t treat the works correctly. I would have to do lots of research into finding the right sources to print the products but one I have
done that, I will be able to create a sustainable, ethically correct and positive brand.

Secondary Research
From these statistics you see that
fashion is one of the larger industries
with 555,000 people employed in the
UK. You can also see that there are
many brands that are worth billions
of dollars due to the large number of
sales every year.
These statics show and help me to
expand my knowledge on the
industry that my project is based on.
Using these statics helps me to
understand the sections of fashion
and to discover what new things I
could research or talk about for if my
brand was developed.

Secondary Research
From these questions, I have realised that there is a large amount people that are wanting to help the environment with fashion. People have
said that they are willing to pay more if the brand is eco-friendly rather than if the brand wasn’t eco-friendly which means I can do some research
on what age group are the most eco-friendly. In this answer, they have said that the people answering the question would want to pay on average
6% more than the original price which would could be a few more pounds. From these statics, that the brand should make that they are eco-
friendly stand out to attract new people to buy from them as some people will only buy from these types of brands.
This research has helped as I will do some research on what age group would be best for my eco-friendly audience. This will then help as I can use
my audience research and secondary research to create the perfect target audience for my brand.

Secondary Research
From these questions about what age group/generation are the most concerned about the environment, I have discovered that Gen Z are very
aware of climate change and what industries have a negative effect on our planet. Gen Z have said that protecting the environment is one of their
main core values and one of the biggest challenge that we will face in our lifetime. I would say that out of all the generations, Gen Z would be the
generation to recover the planet from climate change as there are many activist starting at a young age.
These questions has helped to support my audience research as Gen Z would also want to support an eco-friendly brand.

Secondary Research
From this question, I have realised that both genders care about the environment and there isn’t a big difference between them. From the age
groups, 35-44 are the most interested in sustainability which I think that 18 below would be more interested in sustainability if they were an age
group in this survey.
This helps my audience research as I am wanting to create a unisex brand to make it for everyone which would mean I have the possibility of
more customers buying from my brand.

Subject Research – Mental Health
Disorder Meaning Facts
Anxiety Disorder For people with an anxiety disorder, feelings like stress, panic and worry
can be near constant, severe and hard to control.
10 million people in the UK are affected
15% of those with mixed anxiety and depressive disorder are
receiving treatment
21p is spent on research annually for every person affected in the
UK
Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD)
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental
disorder that affects an individual's concentration and attention.
8% of the population are affected by ADHD
4 in every 5 adults aren't getting any treatment for their emotional
or mental health
£800k is spent on research each year into ADHD in the UK
Autism Spectrum
Disorder (ASD)
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disorder
characterised by difficulty with social interaction and communication.
1 in every 100 people are affected by autism
7 in 10 people with autism have a mental health condition such as
anxiety or depression
£2 million is spent on research each year into Autism in the UK
Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects a person’s
mood, energy and ability to function.
1 - 3% of people are affected by bipolar disorder
10 years is how long it takes on average to receive an accurate
diagnosis
1.6% UK mental health research expenditure goes towards bipolar
disorder
Borderline
Personality
Disorder (BPD)
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a personality disorder that
affects how a person perceives themselves and relates to other people.
1 in 20 is estimated to be living with a personality disorder
78% of all in-patient personality disorder cases in the UK are
diagnosed in women
Around 1 in 100 people have borderline personality disorder
Depression Depression is more than being in a low mood - it can leave people
feeling severely sad, empty, hopeless or guilty for weeks, months or
even years.
1 in 10 people are affected by depression in the UK
By 2030 depression is predicted to be the world’s biggest health
problem
Only £1.55 is spent on research each year for every person
affected in the UK

Subject Research – Mental Health
As you can see from these tables, there are a range of mental health disorders which are being researched. Some effect loads of people, some
don’t affect many people, but they all need to be looked at. For example, Schizophrenia can shorten the life expectancy by 20 years so there has
been more money budgeted for them.
This research will help me to create a page on the website for mental health disorders to teach other people, so they are more aware.
Disorder Meaning Facts
Eating Disorders An eating disorder is when a person’s relationship with food becomes
abnormal, forcing them to change their eating habits and behaviours.
725,000 people are affected by eating disorders each year in the
UK
1 in 5 females aged 16–24 has an eating disorder
Women are more than twice as likely to have an eating disorder
than men
Obsessive
Compulsive
Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder which
causes people to experience obsessive thoughts followed by compulsive
behaviours.
1 in 100 people are affected by OCD
50% of people with OCD fall into the ‘severe’ category
89 pence is spent on research each year for every person affected
in the UK
Post-Traumatic
Stress Disorder
(PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is triggered by events in a person’s
life that involve real or threatened death, severe injury or sexual assault.
2 million people in the UK are affected by PTSD
1 in 4 of those living with PTSD get treatment
£400k is spent on research on PTSD each year in the UK
Schizophrenia Schizophrenia disrupts how someone thinks, their understanding and
perception of the world around them and what they may see or hear.
1 - 2% of people are affected by schizophrenia
20 years average reduced life expectancy for those with the
condition
£5.1 million is spent on research into schizophrenia each year in
the UK
Suicide Suicide is the act of intentionally ending your own life. 7,000 people in the UK take their own life each year
90% of people who die by suicide have a mental health condition
at the time of their death
For young men suicide is the leading cause of death

Subject Research – CSR
Corporate Social Responsibility:
Corporate Social Responsibility is a management concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business
operations and interactions with their stakeholders. The Board of Directors shall make sure that the company spends in every financial year,
minimum 2% of the average net profits made during the 3 immediately preceding financial years as per CSR policy. This means a careful
consideration of human rights, the community, environment, and society in which it operates will take place.
Learning about the CSR teaches you about the manufacturing of the products and it makes sure that all workers are being treated to the standard
humans should be. I won't be needed to expand on this in my project, but it would be a good thing to talk about for if my brand was developed as
I wouldn’t want the workers to be treated wrongly.

Practical Research – Logo on Products with Photoshop
For my first experiment I have been looking at how I can add
logos/designs onto products such as t-shirt. I started off with
finding a plain t-shirt to use as my base colour. I then started to
design my simple logo with three circles and arranged them
overlapping. After this I filled the circles to match the t-shirt and
added ‘circle’ to show what text would look like. Finally, I resized
and moved all the layers into position make it look more realistic.
Doing this experiment showed me that I won’t have to manufacture
all my products for the photo shoots which will save money and
time. This also helps as I can create a wider range of products
without having to do research on how to manufacture that product
with my design.

Practical Research – Logo on Products with Photoshop
For my next experiment, I decided to try using the logo on a t-shirt that was on an angle as it would mean I could take a better range of photos. To get the logo, I set the
inside of the shapes to have no fill by using the button shown on the picture with the red line across. This new button that I have learnt about in this experiment will help
me as I can expand my logo and have it useable on all backgrounds. Once I had fixed the inside of the circle, I was then able to use the eraser to get rid of the inner lines to
make the circles look like they have a colour inside. I then grouped the text and circles together to add on top of the t-shirt shown. I was able to angle the corners
individually, to create the effect that the logo is on the angle t-shirt. Being able to move each corner gives me more options for my final products as I can complete my
photo shoots earlier than if I had to order some products with my designs on. I will have a mixture of printed products such as t-shirts and hoodies and then also some
products with the logo added in Photoshop. I have also learnt about Adobe Dimensions which would make the prototyping for products easier than using Photoshop as you
can change the shadows, colours and camera angles to create professional design.
Expanding from my last experiment, I was able to understand how I can create better logos and add them to more products. I will also have a look at Adobe Dimensions to
see if I can learn the basics and to see if this will help my work later in the project.

Practical Research – Logo on Products with Dimension
For this experiment, I have used Adobe Dimensions to see what I can do for my brand and product photos as I didn’t want to spend loads of money on them. Using
Dimensions has been a useful experiment as you can see the process above of changing aspects. You are able to add a large range of products, choose from a range of
materials in any colour, choose a background or a background colour, choose different lighting options and angles, change the height, size and shape of the products and
save different camera angles that you want to use later on for the best photo. Once you have your products and layout, you can add your own design to the products as
Dimension is used for product prototyping which saves money and means that you can show the develop of each product without manufacturing them all.
I will be using Adobe Dimensions rather than Photoshop to add my logo to products as Dimensions is made for this process, so it has more options, more aspects and more
suitable tools for the process. I also think that using Dimensions will help to show the development of products with many screen shoots when I change smaller aspects.

Practical Research – Neon Effect in Photoshop
My next experiment was looking at a cool effect on Photoshop with a neon glow. The steps to create the effect are as follows which was shown in an Adobe tutorial.
Firstly, I found a model to be able to frame with the square. I then changed the settings of the pen as shown above with no fill and 15 pixels wide, so the outline was bold
enough to see. I then drew four lines with the pen tool by clicking at each corner and then pressing escape when I was done. This made a new layer with the square on.
Next, I needed to select ‘convert to smart object’ so I could edit it and then also select ’add new mask layer’ for when erasing the sections. Next, I double clicked on the
new layer and added outer glow with the settings of opacity 50% and then you can play around with how large you want the neon to be. I then added the inner glow
effect which created a blend from the lines to the outer glow. After I had the effects on, I needed to use the eraser to remove the sections of the square where the model
is in front. I did this by putting the model layer on top and changing the opacity to 50% to make it easier for me to see where I needed to erase. I was able to change the
eraser settings, mainly the size of the brush as there were some smaller sections.
This experiment has been useful as it has given me a new idea for my post-production as it helps to show that my brand is different. I am also thinking of using this style
with the neon glow for my advert by looking into Adobe After Effects.

Practical Research – Colour Effect in Photoshop
My next experiment was looking at the colour selective effect where only one colour can be seen where the rest of the picture is in black and white. I followed a YouTube
video to create this effect. To start with you size your photo to the page and then select that layer. Next, go to select – colour range and use the sampled colour to eye
drop the exact colour. You can then change the fuzziness to ensure all of the colour is selected. Next press ‘OK’ and go to select – inverse and add a new black and white
adjustment layer so the selected section turns to black and white. I have tired with a few pictures and noticed that the colour needs to be solid and you can add a colour
balance under the black and white layer. This means that you can edit the coloured section without effecting the background.
This experiment has given me another option for post-production as I could use this to highlight my first collection as there will be a range of colours. I also like this effect
as it is very simple to do with it having a strong effect on the overall image.

Practical Research – Dissolve Effect in Photoshop
For this experiment, I wanted to try something that was more complicated to learn some new skills. I won’t be using this in my project, so I haven’t got all the
screenshots, but I have the tutorial link if I need it again. The process helped me learn a range of things:
1. I learnt that if you hold alt and add a new mask layer, then that layer won’t be visible unless you erase it.
2. I learnt if you use the lasso tool and draw around the subject, then go to edit – fill – content aware and press ok the subject will disappear.
3. I learnt you can stretch the picture by using filter – liquify which is the section that makes the dissolve part.
4. I learnt that control J duplicates the layer which is quicker than using the mouse.
5. I learnt how to make a new brush with the lasso tool. You hold shift to get multiple shapes and then go edit – define brush preset which is the way the picture looks
like it is dissolving.

Practical Research – Marble Background in Photoshop
Here I have been looking at a simple way to make a marble
background. I had found a few tutorials, but they got too
complicated for this simple experiment. I decided to use the
liquify effect as shown above. I started with an image and
then went filter - liquify and selected the forward warp tool
which is the tool that makes this effect. You can also change
the size of the brush if you want to have small or larger swirls.
This effect is a possibility for a background for some of my
photos. This background would work the best for product
photos instead of model photos

Practical Research – Marble Background with Products in Photoshop
After my last experiment with the marble effect, I wanted to try and
experiment with a new way to present my products for my website. To do
this experiment, I used the results from my last experiment and then added
the products. To cut around the product, I used the smart object tool with
the product layer selected as it only works when you select you will edit. As I
haven’t used this tool before, I wasn’t sure how effective it would be
compared to the lasso tool. After using the smart object tool, I knew that I
could have used this tool and saved loads of time in my last project because
it is a lot quicker than the lasso tool. I will definitely be using the smart
object tool in this project as I will be able to add different backgrounds to the
products. As shown here, I will be using the marble effect as a main aspect in
my colour collection as the logos will be in a variety of colours.
Completing this experiment meant I have learnt about the smart object tool
which will speed up the process and give the design a finished look.

Practical Research – Own Design Background with Products in Photoshop
I wanted to try and make my own background for my next experiment to see what I could do instead of finding an image online. I started by using rectangles with no
outline, that were different widths and then changed the colour for my own colour scheme. Once I had the correct colours and sizes, I used the liquify tool create the wave
looks. I decided to go for a more minimal design compared to the marble effect which works well too. I then added the products to see what the final image would be.
First, I decided to try blue to green which looks good but wouldn’t work for my idea as I will only have one colour on the products, so I tried again with blue. I really like the
blue colour scheme as it would work better with the products. I also thought that making my own background could mean that I would be able to use the eyedrop tool to
get the colour from the product, into the background linking them together.
From this experiment I have thought that it would be best to have the front and back of one product on the same background instead of having multiple, but this is
something that will be easy to experiment with when I have all the aspects. I will also experiment with the marble background and my own background for the best option.

Practical Research – Portable Studio
Here is the portable studio that I used for my next experiment. I wanted to have a look at possible angles and features for the photo shoot, so I took some photos of my
hoodie in the portable studio. With the portable studio, you can control the lighting which reflects off all the sides. You can also change the background colour easily, in
person or when editing. To get a better lighting balance, you can also have the front shut and then take pictures through the three holes shown. There is also a hole on
the top to get a higher angle which worked for some of my photos.

Practical Research – Photo shoot (Black Background)
My first background in this experiment was black which would
work for any colour and product. I started by taking three close up
photos to show the different features such as the band on the
arm. The portable studio works really well for the close up photos
as you don’t see the curve of the box. I then decided to try some
more photos but showing more of the product. This didn’t work
as well as you could see the curve of the background and the
background also had some imperfections in it. To fix the
background, I found two ways. The first way was, in Photoshop,
you can add a level adjustment layer so you can move the blacks
to be darker which doesn’t effect the hoodie. This works well until
the background gets too dark and you can’t see the curve
anymore. The other way was using the marque tool to select the
section and then right click to select ‘content-aware fill’. Once you
have this setting, Photoshop will fill in that area to make it look
like the rest of the background.

Practical Research – Photo shoot (White Background)
My next background was the white background as I wanted to
experiment to see what works best for these types of photos.
I decided to do all close up shots for the white as the wider
shots didn’t work in the portable studio. I would say looking
at these photos, the black background works better than the
white as it creates more of a contrast from hoodie. As you can
see I have used the same compositions from the first photo
shoot which makes easier to compare. For the first image, I
prefer having the hood flat, so there is only one colour instead
of the background as well which takes away from the photo.
Next I tried different angles for the stripe on the sleeve to see
what looks more professional and I realised that the angled
photo looks better as the sleeve doesn’t have to be perfectly
parallel to the background like the first example. Next, I used
the strings in the hood as the close up which works well as
the contrast from the string and the background make the
photo look professional. Finally I tried a close up of the pocket
which works well as the start and end of the pocket opening
frame the photo. Overall, these photo ideas could be used for
my website as they show of the smaller details that I have
thought about.
When taking the photos, I decided to screenshot my screen as
I can show that I was using the grid to have the product in 2/3
of the shot and also it helped to make the product parallel
with the background. I was also able to use a leveller which
helped to create an even angle rather than it being lower.
As there are a few imperfections to the hoodie, I am able to
get rid of them by using the clone stamp which was the first
tool I learnt in Photoshop so I know all the keyboard short
cuts.

Practical Research – Photo shoot (Blue Background)
My final background was a bright blue
which can change depending on the
lighting. I started with the three close up
shots which works well but for this
hoodie, the contrast isn’t strong enough.
However with a white t-shirt, the blue
could look really good. The pencil case
works better as the blues contrast more
as the darker shades look better on the
brighter backgrounds. In the first image, I
have used the grid to have the black
stripe in the right line so half of the
photo is the background.
From this photo shoot experiment, I have
learnt about a new piece of equipment
that I will be using for my products – the
portable studio. This will work well for
the close up photos as I can change the
background with card or on Photoshop. I
have learnt that I will need to use the
photography studio for the whole
product photos with a contrasting
background to make it easier to cut
around to add on to the marble
background. This experiment has also
helped me to have a clearer idea on what
I will need to do for the photography
aspect of my project.

Practical Research – Photo shoot with same person twice
Here I have tried an effect to have the same person twice in the same photo. This would be useful for showing the front and back of the t-shirt in
the same photo. I took two photos with the camera in the exact same position and then added them to Photoshop. Firstly, I tried erasing half of
the photo to show the one underneath, but the lighting slightly changed so it didn’t work. To fix this, I used the smart object tool which selected
the model so I could then erase the background and keep the lighting the same. This is an option for my outdoor photo shoot which I will practice
in my practice photo shoot to see if it will work.

Practical Research – Photo shoot at Location
Here, I have shown the first section of my practise photo shoot. I like
the stop motion idea when on the swing as that could line up with a
beat. This will be good for front and back of the t-shirt, I could have
each picture with a different coloured t-shirt on. I have then tried
having the park in the background which looks good as it is very
colour. I have tried the zip wire with the back visible. I have tried the
top of an apparatus with the sky as the background. I have also tried
the cricket field as the background.
All of these would work well as they all are natures and the park
shows a playful side. I will use the stop motion idea and then
depending on the weather, choose some of the other backgrounds.
The things I would change about these for the actual photos, would
be having the brightness fixed as in the last photo, the sky isn’t visible
as the exposure wasn't balanced enough. I will also fix this problem
when editing the photos.

Practical Research – Photo shoot at Location
Here, I have shown the second section of my photo shoot. I have looked at the backdrop idea and experimented with a black background and a white background. I like the
black as it contrasts from the white t-shirts so they will stand out more. I also like the black as it will link to the product pages as they will have black backgrounds. The white
background could not have a big enough contrast that I need and the material looks more see through than the black one. I will use the black background for my actual photos
as it will have a greater effect. I have then tried another location near a stream as the yellow and orange t-shirts will suit the daffodils. This is another great location as it has
the openness and natures side to help push the message about positivity. For my final location, I have tried an open field which works well as all my other locations are more
enclosed or have things around them. This location could be useful to not have any distractions from the t-shirt design.
The thing I would change about these photos, would be making them brighter for a better sky as the grey doesn’t fit the message of the brand.

Practical Research – Final Products
Here are my main experiments that are harder to see in this PowerPoint. All of my experiments will influence my work as I have learnt something from all of them.
Completing these experiments has helped me to gain a clearer idea on what steps I need to take in planning and production to create a professional brand.

Bibliography
1. Adobe. 2019. Make a neon effect. [ONLINE] Available at: https://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop/how-to/neon-
effect.html. [Accessed 11 March 2021].
2. Deyes, A., 2021. Future Self Clothing. [online] Future Self. Available at: https://www.futureselfshop.com.
[Accessed 11 March 2021].
3. Monster Post. 2021. 20 Best Photoshop Video Tutorials to Watch in 2020. [online] Available at:
<https://www.templatemonster.com/blog/20-best-photoshop-tutorials [Accessed 6 April 2020].
4. MQ Mental Health. 2021. Mental Health Conditions | MQ Mental Health Research. [ONLINE] Available
at: https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/whyresearch/conditions/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAnKeCBhDPARIsAFDTLTJbEpiH5
GOW74zSyTUANezQGymCDJQwL_sxpCvVDWC_32itQNth28waAo21EALw_wcB. [Accessed 11 March 2021].
5. Sign into your Microsoft account. 2021. Sign into your Microsoft account. [ONLINE] Available
at: https://www.office.com/launch/forms?auth=1. [Accessed 11 March 2021].
6. Website Builder Tips. 2021. Wix vs Squarespace in 2021 — Choosing the Best Website Builder. [online]
Available at: <https://www.websitebuildertips.com/comparison/wix-vs-
squarespace/?utm_campaign=ma_websitebuildertips_bi_wix_uk^73196818972&experiment_id=172977424
3^^462266265336^wix%20vs%20squarespace^e&gclid=CjwKCAjwgOGCBhAlEiwA7FUXkq9a_cKm_KQn7oy_k
WyfwMEauSFgVpPr8MUZBox1hqx2K7MYeKmD_xoC2NkQAvD_BwE> [Accessed 22 March 2021].

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