Photoshop Practice (Alex Preston)

Using photoshop I created an opie version of a photo of myself. Using multiple-tools on the image I created a new look, a cartoon-ish view of myself.this was based of work from Julian Opie for his work on the "Blur" cover art. First i had to ensure the image was the correct size, I used the Marquee selection tool to resize the image. I used multiple tool to create this look; Including paint bucket to fill in colours, the lasso tool to select specific sections for re-colouring, paint brush/pencil for highlighting the facial features. I also ensured a understood the importance of layers in the creation of the product. But during this exercise I found out my complete lack of skill in photoshop and my short level of patience.

Rough Cut

The rough cut was quite choppy. This was mainly due to the compression when exporting the project. When it comes to the final version however, I will be sure that the video is exported, retaining as much quality as possible. In addition, it was clear after we placed the clip on YouTube, that the video doesn't appear to flow as easy as we anticipated. We will take that on board with the final version also.

On the other hand, I do think that the footage we captured was high in quality, before exporting. Also, I think that the location suited the music well, and that the lip, and band, syncing was very good. I did realise that the number of shots we used in the opening 30 seconds were biased towards the band, rather than the narrative. To achieve a better outcome, we have realised that more shots of our narrative (Jane) should be present. I would like to note however, that the surplus shots between 20 and 26 seconds were to temporarily fill the pause; though we shall be vastly improving this section as well.

Upon editing the filming, it was clear that the footage of the second narrative (Jane) were of poor quality, and required reshooting. The rough cut only incorporates some theories, which are present in many music videos. At this moment, the boldest being the use of thought beats. However, we are in the middle of including Goodwin's theory regarding the Star's image; whereby the lead singer receives the most attention from the camera. Unfortunately, at the moment, many of the edits are ordinary straight cuts, with no use of transitions between the two narratives.

Digipak Experimentation - Alex Preston

As my skill level is beginner, the ability to use any effects at all in Photoshop was a plus for me. I tried many different effects, one or two worked. With more time I believe I can create a image that encompasses many skills to a good level. But as it stands I should not let near the program Photoshop for the safety and sanity of the team.

Shooting Schedule

Recce Shots (Band)

Simple Head-shots of the band 

These shots were test shots for a test digipac experiment.

Audience Research

Moodboard (Make-up, Costumes)

Moodboard Logo Creation

Lyrics Breakdown

Storyboard

Digipac Experimentation

Initially I made one altered image using Photoshop. I added suitable text over the band members to show the information typically found.

However, as my skill level is what intermediate, if not high; I decided to go further. In the second image below, I've shown my knowledge of airbrushing, as I've smoothed over the complexion of each band member; as well as remove the background shadows and applying a clean white background. Also, I used the burn and dodge tools to highlight the mains areas on the faces, by using the dodge tool to illuminate the cheek bones and nose.

For the third and final image, I replicated the layer, making the top layer an overlay. As you can see, the light difference is amplified, resulting in an image with more definition and contrast. As these were merely experimentations; in the final digipac, I will be sure to spend longer, adding more effects to the design.

Animatic