HOW DID YOU USE MEDIA TECHNOLOGIES IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND RESEARCH, PLANNING AND EVALUATION STAGES?

2. CATEGORIES OF TECHNOLOGY
HOW DID YOU USE MEDIA TECHNOLOGIES
IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND
RESEARCH, PLANNING AND
RECORDING EQUIPMENT
EDITING SOFTWARE
ARTISTIC PLATFORMS
The most primordial of technology was that which we used to film
with. We required a variety of tools to capture audio and visual
content, as well as supporting equipment to help in the shooting
process.
In constructing our production post-filming, the software needed to
create a professional effect played a huge role in the overall quality of
the film.
In producing both ancillary tasks, I used a variety of programs to
create, develop and fine-tune the aesthetic of each product.

3. RECORDING EQUIPMENT
Canon 70D 20.2MP Digital Camera
As last year, we used the same Canon camera to
record footage. Reliable in image quality and its
built-in microphone, there were no doubts that this
was the best camera available to us.
Although I used this camera last year, I discovered
some new features that revolutionised how we used
this equipment. The camera has an auto-focus
function which gave us the option between manual
focus (useful for shots where we wanted a focus-
from-blur or visa versa) or automatic. By
experimenting with inbuilt features, we learned how
to get the best from the camera in low light, outside,
and with moving image.
Note: With the mobile and easy-to-use nature of
this camera, each member of the group was
able to use and experiment with the technology,
resulting in a combination of our imaginative
ideas.

4. RECORDING EQUIPMENT
At some points we recorded audio from a considerable
distance. While the clarity of sound is good from the
camera at close range, an external mic is needed
after a certain distance. Learning from last year where
we used the mic continuously, we found that using a
combination of the external mic and the camera’s
inbuilt function provided the best audio effect.
Capturing professional shots requires dynamic use of
angles, movement and proximity; all of which are
helped through the use of a tripod. We used this not
only as stand alone, but also hand held as the screw-
top function provides a steady base for the camera
allowing us to film a smooth, flowing shot.
Note: Within our group we had collectively made
three previous films, meaning that we all
contributed learned skills and ideas. In filming, we
switched between handheld and tripod recording
to produce a variety of shot types and effects.

5. EDITING SOFTWARE
The second component in constructing a cohesive
and aesthetically powerful film is through the use of
editing. Final Cut Pro is a recognised software used
by professionals, and it took some practice to get
the best out of each feature!
Previously I had perceived editing as a way of
cutting and cropping shots into a chronological
order, but with this product we used functions such
as colour correction, transitions, dimension and
depth features as well as fine-tuning audio or
soundtrack. We used this software on an Apple
Mac, using the internet to draw music from and
music programs to edit the soundtrack.
Note: Each group member worked on a different part
of editing; music, credits, colour and visual, or shot
order. The practicality of the mac and this particular
software made it easy to make contributions.

6. EDITING SOFTWARE
In developing my blog as a catalyst for the
research, planning and production of my film, I
used a myriad of websites to construct my blog.
Through experience with Blogger, I used this
platform to present my blog. My data, images and
research came through the internet and Google,
including videos (and music research) from
YouTube, questionnaire results from Survey
Monkey and mixed websites for critics comments
and information.
The research and planning stages were vital to the
development and stability of our narrative, as well
as supporting our knowledge of specific genre
codes and conventions.
Note: Features of Blogger, such as the labels
function, allows me to categorise posts for
accessibility, and the optional search bar is a
convenient addition to my page for people searching
for something specific.

7. ARTISTIC PLATFORMS
In planning and production of my ancillary tasks,
choosing the most dependable software was my
main priority. Having found that the Mac lacked an
inbuilt photo editor, I struggled to find a website that
allowed the diversity and functionality I wanted
when thinking about the elements of my poster. I
reverted to a reliable old favourite, Microsoft Word.
With shape placement, colour editing, layering and
font tools I was able to seamlessly construct an
intricate and visually powerful poster. I used the
same program for my review page as I relied on the
same adaptability and ease of use to realise my
vision for the review spread.
Note: I have previously used Adobe Fireworks to
create a poster. While this software has a variety of
functions, I always go back to the diversity and ease-
of-use that Microsoft Word provides. I have used it in
developing draft and preliminary versions of my poster

8. ARTISTIC PLATFORMS
While I used Word in the construction and general
editing of my ancillary tasks, I did use online tools to
edit images. I used PicMonkey on the Apple Mac to
experiment with visual effects.
Ultimately, the edits I created with this website were
only part of draft versions of my poster. However,
exploring different ways of producing an artistic
product allowed me greater room to help achieve the
desired effect.
The two examples on the left are of images I created
with this software. While they didn’t make the final cut,
I loved the overlay shape effect that PicMonkey
offered that I couldn’t produce on Word.
Note: I found that through researching existing
products and using these programs to replicate them, I
discovered specific elements in each product that
made it look professional. From here, I chose a
software that allowed me to produce this effect.