Sunderland Culture

1. SUNDERLAND CULTURE
EVALUATION
So, firstly I interpreted the brief
and assessed what I needed to
do. I learned that the brief I
had been given is about
Sunderland Culture, so I
discussed what defined culture
and the questions I should ask
my audience. I then described
my target audience, so I could
grasp a greater understanding
of who I was aiming this project at. I also discussed the potential issues I may have had when filming
this project. I pointed out that it could be hard to film in certain places, due to a lot of people being
there who don’t want to be on camera.
Over the summer I began gathering some ideas for my project, and I decided that I was going to do a
documentary about
content creation in
Sunderland. I chose
this topic because I
really enjoy content
creation, and I can
discuss what it’s like to
create content in the
local area. I did some
initial location
scouting, as well as
look at the equipment I
would need in order to
film the documentary.
Once I’d gathered all that information, I made a prototype video of the arcade segment. I really
enjoyed creating this video because it was fun to film in the arcade. I learned that I wasn’t allowed to
film in the Seaburn arcade, so I would have to film in Sunderland Bowl.
Once all that was done, I began researching into my client Sunderland Culture. I looked into who
they are, what they do, and how they operate. I learned that they operate in the places such as the
Fire station, National Glass Centre, and the Washington Arts Centre. After that, I researched into
some existing products, and I began with Sunderland’s city of culture video from 2021. This was the
video they used to try and win the competition in 2021. This video helped broaden my
understanding of the city of culture videos. I also looked at Coventry’s winning video from 2021, as
well as some print products. The print products helped with my thumbnail, because I got to see
images that reflect regional identity.

2. Not to mention, I also looked at some YouTube videos from content creators from Sunderland, so I
could learn more about the local YouTube scene.
I then researched into some existing
documentaries, more specifically Sunderland
Till I Die season two. I chose this one because
it’s set in Sunderland, so it is relative to the
brief and my project. I summarised each
episode, as well as analysed some of the
different camera angles used. Not to mention,
I researched into the soundtrack, more
specifically the song used in the intro
sequence (Shipyards – The Lake Poets). After
that, I researched into the different media
theories used in the documentary. This is all
helpful information.
With me creating a documentary I also
researched into the six different types of
documentaries. I decided that I wanted to
create a Participatory documentary because I
enjoy creating my own videos.
I also did some research into the history of
Sunderland, as well as the history of content
creation. These posts helped me grasp a deeper
understanding of the two topics I was basing my
project about. I believe learning history helps you
understand the backstory of certain topics.
Once I had completed my research on content
creation and Sunderland, I researched into different

3. technical codes. I looked into camera
terminology, editing terminology, sound
terminology, and MIS-EN-SCENE
terminology. This helped me grasp a
deeper understanding of different
camera angles, editing techniques, sound
types, and setting the tone of the film. It
was helpful information, that helped me
describe the different things I did in my
project.
However, I also researched into different
media theories because I wanted to
widen my understanding of them. I
wrote down and described a bunch of
media theories that could be relevant to
the production of my documentary.
Uses and Gratification theory applied to my documentary because people would watch my
documentary to learn more
about content creation in
Sunderland, as well as further
their understanding on the area.
Theories of representation also
linked to my product because
Sunderland culture links to local
identity and representation,
which was expressed in my
documentary.
As well as this, theory of ethnicity
also linked to Sunderland Culture for the similar reasons, just this theory links more to religion and
lifestyle. Theory of identity also fitted into my documentary because my documentary will get you to
consider your local identity, and whether it restricts or enhances your creativity. Due to my
documentary being about content creation, Postmodernism also ties into my idea because I will talk
about social media within the area.
I then did my audience profile, so I could grasp a deeper understanding of what my audience is like.
The first thing I looked at was the Psychographics, Demographics, and Social Grade. This helped me
understand the circumstances of my audience. After that, I did a PowerPoint where I gathered a
bunch of information about Target Audience’s.
Google forms is a good way to grasp a deeper understanding of your audience, so I ended up making
one of those and sharing it with the class. I asked questions about their age, social grade, gender,
hobbies, opinion on Sunderland, whether they create content, and does Sunderland enhance or
restrict their creativity. Once I gathered all my answers, I made an audience profile.
Next up was my pitch, and I made sure to make a nice, detailed PowerPoint, so I could really sell my
idea. I went into depth about what my video could include, as well as my intended project timeline.
Not to mention, I also discussed different shots, ideas, transitions, and locations. Then I discussed

4. my response to setbacks, as well as entertaining
Generation Z. After that, I pitched my idea to three
different people and got their feedback. They all
liked my idea, and that was great to hear.
Pitching your idea is always good for
communication. One of my clients really liked my
research on Mackem slang, because thought it was
relevant to the topic of Sunderland Culture. My
clients also gave their opinions on Sunderland as an
area, with one of them suggesting that "it's nothing
you need to go out of your way to see". The
conversation was very interesting, and all 3 clients
would green light my product. If I were to re-do the
pitch, I would talk about the resources and
equipment I would need to film the documentary, as
well as the budget for my documentary. All this
research really helped me inform ideas about what I can create. Plus, the forms and focus groups
have been a great source of communication.
PRE-PRODUCTION
For my pre-production, I began with my location
scouting/release forms. I filled in all the necessary
information, and upon attending Sunderland Bowl, I enquired
whether permission was needed to film in their building. I
was told that I was free to film if I didn't film anyone who
didn't give consent. Of course, that meant that I had a green
light to film and didn't need written permission.
Once those were filled out, I moved onto the risk assessment
forms. I made sure to fill out the important information, such
as the production name, location, telephone number, and
dates. I then did the hazard lists on both forms. For this I put
the letter Y in any section that I deemed as a possible risk.
Then once I identified the potential risks, I explained them in
greater detail at the bottom and listed who could be effective. These processes could aid me in the
future because they are a key part of professional practise.
I then did my equipment lists and discussed why I needed the selected equipment. Some of them
are self-explanatory, however I made sure to explain why I was taking an extra phone camera.
Getting multiple camera angles was something I wanted to do, and I am glad I was able to do that.
These equipment lists will help me, and the consumer grasp a deeper understanding of what
equipment I need to film my project. I want to make sure I am as prepared as possible when creating
my documentary. I made these equipment lists on PowerPoint, and I used the Calibri body font. I
used a sans serif font to make my work easier to read.
For my storyboard I decided to create multiple drafts. My first draft was drawn with a brown pencil
and looked amateur, so I got some feedback from Neil and created draft two. This one looked so

5. much better, and I explained my ideas in more detail. Not to
mention, the soundtrack was also something I discussed. Plus,
I visualised both drafts, so you could get a better idea of what
I was going for. By using shots, I was able to put together a
visual storyboard.
this process has helped me grasp a better understanding of
how to create a storyboard. I upgraded my original storyboard
because I thought it was simplistic. The feedback I received
was helpful and it helped me improve the quality of my
storyboard. I added the sound I will use, as well as better
illustrations. I also made a visual storyboard, so the consumer
can see what I'm trying to create. If I were to do a professional
storyboard, I would work with an artist because art isn't my
strong point.
Once those were out the
way, I began writing my
script. I used Celtx for this
process because their
layout looks very
professional. I wasn’t a huge fan of the first script I wrote, I felt
as if it didn’t focus enough on content creation. So, I wrote
another one and I used draft two for my project.
By writing these scripts, I was making sure I was well prepared for
production. My script helped me stay on track, and cover
everything. Not to mention, I explained all the changes I made
and why I made them. This is all problem solving.
Due to me using some layers, memes, and clips in my documentary, I made sure to justify why I was
using some clips. Not to mention, I also went over the copyright rules to explain how what I was
doing was complying with the rules. Fair use is very important for professional practise, and if you
don’t comply with the rules, you could get sued. This is helpful information to know. Not to mention,
I listed all the videos I was using and added some images explaining fair dealing and copyright rules.
Thankfully, I mainly used my own footage.
PRODUCTION
Now that’s cleared up, let’s talk about my Production Diary. For this process, I took pictures of what I
was doing, using, and recording then explained them in detail. This helped my client grasp a better
idea of what I was creating, and the camera settings I was using. I made sure to use effects like
Portrait Video and Colour Point to make my project look more professional. Portrait Video blurs the
background, and Colour Paint makes it black and white. A lot of documentaries blur the background
during interview segments, so I made sure to do it as well. It helps draw attention away from the
background and allows the consumer to focus on the person. If I used an effect, I made sure to add
the logo of said effect to my image. It makes everything easier to understand.

6. If I made multiple drafts of one segment, I’d make a comparison video, so you could see the
differences between the two drafts. I would then explain why I decided to re-shoot the segment.
This shows my client the problems I came across and how I solved them. Problem solving is a key
part of this unit. Not to mention, I have also explained the equipment I used and why I used them.
This is key information for professional practice. This process allowed me to document the
production of my documentary. By utilizing advanced camera modes, I was able to capture some
great shots, and enhance my technical skill.
POST-PRODUCTION
For the editing phase I used two different editing software’s, Kinemaster and Splice. Kinemaster was
my main editing software for this process, but I used Splice for some transitions. I like using multiple
editing software's because I can utilize their respective features. Similarly, to the production diary, I
took screen shots of what I was doing and explained all the effects I used. This helps my client
understand the different editing techniques I used. By experimenting with different effects, I am
improving my technical skill.
By developing these skills, I am becoming a better editor and a more accomplished media student.
Having these skills will increase my chances of finding work in the industry. By explaining what I am
doing, I am effectively communicating my skills.
I have explained the wide variety of editing techniques I have used, and why I decided to implement
them. I have also experimented with graphics and used my character stills at certain points in the
documentary. I made sure to be as clear and professional as possible, when analysing my product.
Personally, my favourite edit was my intro. I really enjoyed creating the sequence and implementing
the keyboard sound effect at the end. Speaking of sound effects, I used Video MP3 Converter to
convert my video files to audio files. This was crucial for my voice overs.

7. For the end credits I used an app called Text Scroll, it's a good app for creating end credits. I simply
filled in the boxes, then chose my font and background. The font I chose was called Roboto, and I
stuck with the black background. I then clicked play presentation and used AZ Screen Recorder to
record it. I then opened Kinemaster and merged it with the end of my intro I made on Canva. This
time I cut off the start and left in the text wipe at the end. I did this to signify the end of the
documentary. I then opened splice and added my logo sequence at the end. I made this logo
sequence for my show reel, but I really like it, so I've made it a regular thing in my projects. This
works well for brand identity, because I am maintaining an element of consistency.
MY PRODUCT
I exported my first draft to my gallery and uploaded it to YouTube. Once I did that, I created a
Google Form where I asked people for feedback.
The first question I asked was whether my documentary met the brief. Thankfully, all eleven people
said yes. this was really reassuring, because I am glad to know that I spent my time effectively. I
deliberately spoke about content creation in Sunderland, so my documentary would meet the
Sunderland Culture brief. Meeting the brief is also a big part of professional practice, so I was
pleased that my audience felt that I met the brief.
I did receive a few improvements, and they were to add some more transitions and use my logo as a
watermark. So, I used Spice and Kinemaster to add the transitions and the water mark. I wanted to
implement as much feedback as possible, so I could show that the feedback I was receiving was
effective. I showed screen shots of my editing software and explained the changes I made. You can
see how I have approached my problems and solved them.

8. Once draft two was uploaded to YouTube, I then looked to receive more feedback. However, this
time I chose to do a focus group. So, I gathered three of my peers and showed them my
documentary. I really enjoyed the focus group because I received some honest feedback. I’m happy
to see that people have been honest with me throughout this process. I received some new
feedback and that was to blur my bankcard and add one more transition. I made the changes and
documented the process.
When I edited my focus group video, I made sure to put the documentary at the top of the screen,
so you can see what they were watching. After that was all completed, I uploaded my final draft to
YouTube. You can see all three drafts on my blog, and you can see how my project has evolved.
In conclusion, I am happy satisfied with the results from the feedback process. By receiving
feedback, I have been able to gather the necessary information I needed in order to improve my
documentary. I added transitions, effects, and logos that made my product far more polished. Not to
mention, I also made a nice thumbnail, so I have also done some print work. I used Picsart to create
a nice thumbnail for the documentary. I made sure to include some pictures of Sunderland, for the
sake of regional identity.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, this project has been a success. I have developed new skills ranging from camera
modes, editing techniques, social skills, and script writing. I have communicated each step of this
process and have solved all the problems I have been faced with. By discussing my ideas and work
with my peers, I have been able to receive some crucial feedback, that has helped improve my final
product.

9. By researching into my client, I have been able to broaden my knowledge on Sunderland culture, as
well as the city of culture title. I have used a wide variety of research including videos, articles, and
Netflix shows. Researching technical codes really enhanced my knowledge on cinematography,
hence why I used so many effects in my documentary. When researching into the different types of
documentaries, I was able to find out that I wanted to do a participatory documentary.
The research I did into media theories was helpful, because I was able to see which theories applied
to my product. Not to mention, it’s really good information to know because it helps you understand
why certain film makers decide to go down specific routes. It explains why they chose to portray
their characters in a specific way.
When pitching my idea, I was able to pick-up first-hand experience of what it’s like to try and
convince people to invest in your product. It’s great to experience something that is so commonly
done in the media industry. By showcasing my work, I have been able to build my confidence, so if I
was to ever pitch an idea to a company, I would be prepared for what was coming. I can now
confidently speak to large groups of people. Not to mention, receiving feedback has really helped
me prepare for the hard truths of the industry because not everyone will see eye to eye with you,
and you will receive criticism that you don’t particularly agree with. But it is important to remain
professional and respect the opinions of others.
I have been able to participate in professional practise throughout this project and researching into
the rules of copyright will help me stay away from legal trouble. By filling in risk assessment sheets,
and location/scouting release forms, I have been able to receive first-hand experiences of the things
you need to do in order to legally create a project. The scripts and storyboards have also helped me
understand how people plan things in the film industry.
I have been able to meet the deadline, which shows that I have managed my time accordingly. I have
really enjoyed creating this project and I will use the skills I have developed in my future creations.