Evaluation

For my A2 media coursework I first chose the brief; to produce a promotional package for the release of an album that includes a music promo video, together with two of three options. These options were a website homepage for the band, a cover for its release as part of a digipak and a magazine advertisement for the digipak. I chose to complete the digipak and magazine advertisement as part of my ancillary texts. The brief also stated that the product created must have it's own 'identity' for the artist or performer. We were, however, able to use to title of the track but must have produced a new, original branding for the artist or band. This must be constructed to reflect the genre and appeal of the performer.

Before planning my media product I first had to find the codes and conventions of existing products that had the same genre to the track I had chose. Initially I chose the song 'What's My Age Again' by the pop punk band 'Blink-182" (1999 - MCA Records), and was going to follow the idea of a group of teenage boys, how I was also having as the performers in my video, who are reluctant to grow up and so, play continuous pranks on the same girl. However, after attempted filming I soon realised that this idea was not going to work and, therefore, with a new idea in mind, changed my song to 'I'm Lost Without You', also by 'Blink-182'.

The predominance target audience for my music video, I decided, was going to be late teens and people in their early twenties (15-24 years old). They will be both male and female and will predominantly fall within the demographic group C2-E as many of my target audience will be unemployed (due to still being in education) or in a small part time job. Therefore my target audience will be people who are either unemployed/students, semi-skilled and unskilled manual workers and skilled manual workers as some people in their twenties are in full time jobs but are not skilled enough to be classed in the C1 (and above) group.To ensure that my music video targeted my chosen audience I included three characters all of the same age, who were in the middle of my target audience, therefore 18 years old. This helps attract a wide audience as they do not fall within the bottom age range or top of my target audience. I also chose to have all these characters as girls as, due to the idea that the song is by a male artists, I thought that having female characters it would, once again, help attract a wider audience as more people can relate. I chose to aim my music video at this age range as they are not too young, however, old enough to understand and be able to relate to the issues raised throughout my promotional package.

After researching the conventions of music videos of the pop punk genre I soon found out that the predominant conventions is the performance, however, as I could not get hold of a group of people who were able to play instruments, I decided to have my performance element as one person singing. This, therefore, challenges typical conventions existing media products that fall into this genre.
A further conventions of pop punk tracks is to have a narrative being told cut into the performance shots. I, therefore, decided to include this in mine and have the story of two girls who are lost and don't know where their life is heading until they meet each other and their lives start to work out for them, therefore following a conventional narrative structure and character progression. This is where the narrative follows a cause and effect structure and runs linear. As I have included a narrative structure that follows typical conventions I felt it was suitable to have the performance element as just one person singing into the camera and not a group of people.

Another convention that is seen typically throughout music videos is edits to the beat, whether it fast or slow. Therefore, whilst editing my music video I was sure to make sure that, with the beat, my shots also changed. This, therefore, helps to create a successful and real looking media product while helping the audience keep up with the pace of the video.

A further convention of music videos, and predominantly in pop punk tracks, is the idea that the performer puts themselves into the narrative and appears in the story being told i.e in ‘Paramore’s’, ‘Misery Business’ (2007 – Fueled by Ramen) and ‘All Time Low’s’, ‘Coffee Shop Soundtrack’ (2005 – Hopeless Records). Therefore, I chose to feature within my music video and have the final shot as the two girls who story the audience are following throughout the music video with the performer on a beach looking out into the sea. As this shot is shot from the back it connotes that the three girls have turned their backs on the past and the bad things within it and are looking out on to a bright future. The idea of having the characters facing out into the sea connotes endless opportunities as the sea is vast and open to anything.

When shooting and editing my video my initial idea was not the same to my final product. At first, I chose to have no performer in my video, however thought that this did not make it instantly recognisable as a music video and therefore shot lip syncing shots to cut in with the narrative part of my video. Also, initially, I did not have the stop motion photograph sequence that runs throughout my video. However, I chose to include this as it makes my video original and helps it stand out from others. It also links with conventions of pop punk music videos as they are predominantly quirky and do not follow typical music video conventions. Initially, I just had the three girls acting out the scene that is shown through the photographs, however, I believe adding the photograph idea gives my video the extra element to make it a pop punk video whilst also creating an individual and different video.

Although I have only used one shot predominantly, a medium shot, the camera shots within the photographs are varied. For example, I have used a long shot when introducing the characters in the photograph sequence. This sets the location up and exaggerates how alone the two character are in the frame. The idea of using a beach/shore scene within the mise en scene was to show how small and alone the characters look compared to the background and setting. Both characters are dressed in normal clothes, however the colour scheme of their costume are similar. Both characters are dressed in black bottoms and cream tops. This connotes that despite being different people they are both the same in what they seek and how they are feeling.

When showing the characters facial expressions I have used a medium close up within my shots. This shows the characters expressions more clearly and gives the audience a clear view as to how they are feeling. This creates empathy with the characters and helps put them in the position of the characters. These were shot from a straight on angle to connote the blank feeling the characters are feeling; they are neither happy or sad, and therefore neither a high or low angle shot has been used. However, once the characters have met and are shown together, the shot switches to a low angle shot to show the characters in a better light and connotes power and the realisation that things are getting better. The final shots I have used have been the two characters smiling coming down a bridge, facing the camera. This creates parallelism with the first shots used however has positive connotations. The first shots show the two girls walking separately up a bridge, with their back to the camera connoting the idea that they are walking away from the world. However, towards the end of the video the shot switches and the girls are seen with their bodies towards the camera, walking together with a happy expression. This connotes that they are now content with where they are and are happy with the way their life is. This also reflects the idea that they are able to live in the world with no fear as they are coming ‘back down the earth’ via walking down the bridge. Cut into this end sequence is a shot of the performer laughing into the camera and therefore, shows once again that all the characters are happy with the way their life is and are certain not to take life too seriously.

This element could be a factor as to why my music video is post modern. This shows that the media text is self reflexive and aware of the fact that my music video is fictional and is only that of a media text. This is shown through the idea that the performer is acting out of character and could be classed as her being ‘off guard’ and acting in a way that would be considered unnatural for what the role that she is playing.

The lighting within the performance element of my music video has a strong spotlight coming from the left hand side of the frame. This adds to the connotations of contrast within my music video as one side of the performers face is being hit by the light and therefore connotes light and the happiness element that runs throughout my music video. The opposite side of the performers face, however, is not being hit by the light and therefore connotes a darkness and the unhappy and lost element of the music video.

Pop punk music videos have a prominent edits as cuts. This, therefore, was reflected in my own music video. However, during some shots I decided to use a dissolve effect to connote the idea of ‘going back in time’ and looking at the images. This creates a dreaming effect and lets the audience know that what has happened is in the past. I, therefore, added a sepia tone effect on top to connote an ‘old movie’ effect and ensure the audience were well aware of the fact that these shots reflected the past. To add to this further I faded the last shot of the photograph sequence into a shot where all three girls are stood with their backs to the camera in the location where the two characters ‘found’ each other. This connotes the idea that the three girls are revisiting their past, however the fact that they are looking out onto the sea connotes that they are looking out onto a bright future together and an endless amount of possibilities. The contrast of having some shots in sepia and others in colour, link with the black and white/colour contrast that runs through my ancillary texts. This helps create a link between all three products further, and brings the three products together as a promotional package.

When designing my ancillary texts, I was sure to make sure there was a link between them and my video, however, wanted to make sure that it was not too obvious and the connections where within the connotations of the piece. I also made sure that the ideas were simplistic and were kept minimal as this is common in pop punk album releases and therefore makes my product a recognisable pop punk product.

When designing my digipak, I was clear on the idea that I wanted the theme to run around the idea of addiction, specifically drug addictions, the strength it takes to get through them and the effect they have on people. This is also a big theme throughout pop punk music and therefore thought it would link well with my product. Although there is not a automatic link between the two ancillary texts (digipak and magazine advertisement/poster) the connotations behind them are the same. For instance, my music video is, ultimately, about struggles with life and how hard it is to get through when there is no one around to help you. Similarly, with my digipak the ideas that surround it are to do with struggles to get through an addiction and the effect it can have on you.

A further theme that is also apparent in existing pop punk albums is one of contrast, and the idea that, despite how happy and fine people may appear on the outside, inside it could be, and most of the time is, a complete different story. This is also reflected throughout the music and the general pop punk sound; a predominant pop melody with guitar rifts, creating the punk element and a more rock and alternative sounding track. Therefore, I chose to use this theme in my own ancillary products.

The images I chose were, originally, all going to signify and be clear as images that were showing drugs and the different kind of drugs. I chose to use the idea of drugs as they are something that many teenagers (the target audience of my product) experiment with and are prominent in the teenage lifestyle. This will help with my promotional package as the audience will find it relatable and therefore be more obliged to purchase it as they feel it is being aimed predominantly at themselves. This idea, however, became too obvious and showed what I wanted far too simply, a convention that is not present in existing pop punk media products; the meaning’s behind the images and design are hidden and not obvious when first looked at. Originally, I wanted to represent the images in a way that would connote addiction getting stronger the further and more frequently a person took them. This was represented by, on the front cover (an image that I have stuck with throughout my construction of my digipak) a girl biting a pill (drug) and therefore showing strength and dominance over the drugs, connoting leisure use and something that is just done for fun. However, as the digipak is opened and more images become noticed, they became more darker, showing the drugs clearly and also showing them in use.

The first image I planned to use was one of various types of pills, however, some still visible in the tub, connoting that the addiction is not yes too serious as not all of them are out of the tub. This image was used in my final product, however not in the same way as I originally planned. This was shot with a high angle,, connoting that the person taking them is in charge of their addiction and they are still being taken leisurely. The image was shot in a bedroom and therefore connotes that drug taking happens in everyday life and to every day people. As the image is a medium shot it also allows the audience the see the location where the drug taking is occurring. This also links with the idea of contrast as it shows that despite someone’s addiction, they are still normal people and need help. Whilst editing I chose to change the background to black and white, however, keep the pills and the tub containing them in colour. This brings the audience’s attention to the pills, therefore showing them the most important part of the image and shocking them as they realise what is happening.

The second image I planned on using in my digipak was one of an ash tray with a lit cigarette in, surrounded by a lighter and a packet of cigarettes. This would represent the idea that the addiction is getting worse, as the drugs are shown in use through the lit cigarette. However, I chose to discard this image and smoking is not considered a hard drug and therefore I did not find that it was suitable for my digipak. However, whilst shooting this I chose to take the image with a head on angle, helping with the connotations that the addiction is getting progressively worse as the drugs are getting hold of a person and overpowering them, making them weaker and less prominent over the drugs. The shot is also a medium shot, allowing the audience to see the location and helping them note that it is shot in a different place to the previous. This idea adds to the idea that the addiction is getting progressively worse whilst also connoting that, as the image is shot outside, that the addiction is overpowering and the drug taking is happening in more and more places.

The third image I planned on using was one of a bottle of vodka with a shot glass, filled with liquid, along side it. This was showing how the addiction is getting worse as the drugs are in use and the bottle is not full. The idea that each image is shot in a different location shows that the addiction and drug abuse has spread from the confines of the bedroom and is progressively getting worse.

Each image was shot from a different camera angle, the first being taken in a high angle shot to show the dominance over the drugs. The second image was taken from more of a low angle shot, to show that the addiction is slowly becoming worse and over powering. The final image was shot from a significant low angle shot, to connote that the drugs have now completely taken over the girls life and is now ruling her and is the dominant one in the ‘relationship’.
I also planned to have the fourth cover of the digipak as a plain black screen to connote death and the effect that the drugs have had on the body.

However, after completely my digipak with these images I realised that the idea did not flow and look the way I had planned and therefore changed my idea and opted for a more simple design. This included having a grey background to match the back cover of my promotional pack (this included a plain dark grey background with the track listing along the bottom of the page, in a simple white font), creating a link throughout the digipak. These two covers would be behind where the CD and DVD and therefore I did not feel that a big image was suitable for this cover. Therefore, I changed this cover to a plain grey background with the artist name on one and the album name on the other. This gives the right information to the audience, however there is not too much there to take the distraction away from the main product. By having the artist and album name here also creates a link throughout the product further while also reminding the audience of who’s album it is.

The final cover I added was, once again, a plain grey background with white text. However, this time I used a different font adding to the connotations of contrast and the idea that not everyone is who you think they are (a style present in Good Charlotte’s ‘The Chronicles of Life and Death' - 2004, Daylight Records). The text is a simple ‘F’. I chose this as it is the first letter of my artist name and therefore helps create the link of who’s product this is throughout the digipak. This is also the first inside cover that the audience see, and therefore the idea of contrast is present immediately, as it differs greatly from the from cover image and style. This will, hopefully, create an element of shock to the audience and, in turn, make the product one that they will remember.

When designing my CD and DVD design, I originally planned to have the image on the front cover, on each disk, however change the contrast of the image so the audience had a clear idea about which was the CD and which was the DVD. However, after planning this out and producing it, I realised that my idea did not work and therefore, once again, made my idea more simplistic, a conventions throughout pop punk CD’s.
After further research I decided to keep with the grey theme of my promotional package and have the CD in one shade of grey and the DVD in another. I also added a copyright notice, the track listing and the artists website to help make the CD look more realistic and mirror existing products.

When designing my poster I decided that the theme that ran throughout my digipak would be the same in my poster helping the product work as a promotional package through creating a link between the three products. However, I decided to use a different image to ensure that the product did not become too monotonous whilst still creating a strong link between the two. Therefore, the image I chose was one with a pill in the girls mouth, similar to the one used on my digipak, however on this image I ensured that there was space below her head for writing and promotional text. The text I chose to include was the artist’s name, Finn, in a large font, and the name of the album being promoted, Addict, underneath. Both texts are in black font, however surrounded with a white and red outline, helping keep with the colour scheme of my promotional package. Underneath the large text I placed information about what is included on the CD and DVD, for example the songs which have been released already and are included on the CD and what the DVD includes, such as where it is filmed and what tour it is from, a conventional feature of magazine advertisements. This also helps create want to the readers as it lets them know the songs that they like are included on the CD. To the right of the page, placed in the bottom corner is the release date (out now) and a website where readers/the audience can find out more information about the artist.

The choice to use my chosen colour scheme; grey, black, red and white was an instant one as the connotations surrounding this show confusion and an idea of something that is not completely there. It also links with the idea of contrast via the use of black (darkness) and white (light). This links with my video and also my promotional package and links with the video include the idea that the characters are alone with no one to turn to, leading to the idea that they are confused with their life and the situation they are in. However, the use of colour within my promotional package links with the idea that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. This comes in the form of the existing characters when they find them and becoming friendly with them.

In order to shoot my music video I needed to use a camera. The camera I used was a Canon MD205 to shoot my footage. After I had filmed my footage I uploaded it onto Adobe Premier for editing. This runs on a non-linear format and therefore allows the clips to be cut and edited without ruining the original. It also allows shots to be shot at different times and edited together to make the sequence run chronological. This could be classed as postmodern as the editing system can jump and cut between the order of shots. To carry out my research on existing music videos I used You tube. You tube was also used for uploading my video once the first edits were complete. From here I then uploaded it onto my blogger account. This allowed quick and easy access to existing music videos and therefore, allowed me to work from home with ease and, in turn, contribute to help me produce the best music video I could.

For the predominant use of my editing I used Adobe Photoshop. This was used for cropping images to ensure that they fit the right dimensions for my digipak. I also altered the contrast of my images to make them brighter and give the correct effect I wanted on the image. I also used Adobe Photoshop to edit my poster; I made the image black and white, however, via the use of the eraser tool, made the mouth area coloured. This makes it stand out and draws the audience’s attention to this specific area, helping them identify my magazine advert with my digipak (the image on the digipak also has a female holding a pill in her mouth). This same technique was used on the images used in my digipak on images of pills to make them stand out against the background and, once again, drawing the attention to the cause of pain.

When collecting audience feedback for my promotional package I ensured to ask my questions to predominantly my target audience; 15-25 year olds. This group of people is my target audience as they are the people who are predominantly interested in music videos and, specifically, the pop punk genre, therefore, they will have a greater interest in my music and be able to understand the conventions and recognise the features more clearly and easily. However, I included all age ranges in my feedback to ensure I got an un bias result.

When asked what genre people thought my music video was they were able to identify that it was a pop punk video. Each individual also clearly identified and understood the narrative of my music video. When asked how my music video made them feel it was clear that the response was that it made them feel happy that the characters were able to find each other and become friends. Again, the predominant response when asked if the conventional techniques of music videos were used in my own was yes as there is a clear performance element cut into a narrative structure. However, some responses came back and said that the conventions were not present in my own product, but still liked the technique as it was original and had never been done before. Linking with this, the average score, from a scale of 1-5, 1 being the least and 5 being the most, was 3.5 when asked how well said conventions were used. Therefore, if I was to make my music video again, I would include a variety of conventions to ensure that the audience could easily identify them.

The top thing that would like to be seen more in my music video was a variety of shots. I agree with this point as I believe that, despite using different camera angles and shot within the pictures, the performance element is lacking shot variety and therefore could start to become boring to the audience. Therefore, if I were to shoot my music video again, I would make sure to shoot the performance scenes from different angles and have them cut into each other to create more effective footage. One person also said that they would like to see a different narrative being told as, although it is clear as to what the narrative is, it may not be clear to some people what it is saying.

The average score when asked how well my product sticks to the specific genre (pop punk) was 4. The comments that linked with this score was the idea that the footage edited to the beat in a suitable way and included both a variety of performance and narrative structure. Other comments also included the idea that the story told was one that would be featured within pop punk videos and follow the connotations surrounding the genre. I am pleased with this element of the feedback as I spent a lot of time ensuring that I stuck to the genre conventions, making sure that this element of the video was the way I wanted it.

When asked how my music video, comments varied from ‘I don’t think it can, I like it the way it is’ to ‘I think the performer could have acted in a different way.’ I think these comments are fair, however, the idea behind the performer acting the way she does is the fact that at the start of the video she looks sad and upset, and as the video goes on, she becomes more energetic and starts to enjoy the scenario. This links with the connotations of the narrative structure part of my video that at the start the characters are upset and don’t know where their life is heading, however as the video goes on and the two characters within the narrative part, find each other, they become happy and content with life. This is therefore mirrored within the performance element of the music video.

My feedback was split when asked about the ancillary texts and the link between the digipak/advertisement and the music videos. Half of my audience could see the link between the music video and the ancillary texts; that the idea behind it is a struggle in society and the reflection of teenagers in modern day society. However, some weren’t able to see the link clearly and therefore, if I were to produce these again, I would ensure that there was I clear link and the link between the two were not within the connotations as most people are not able to see these clearly and instantly.
However, when asked about the ancillary texts alone, the majority of the feedback showed that they were effective and the audience also rated these two as their favourite parts of the promotional package.

I chose to ask these specific questions to my chosen audience as I believe the information gathered allows me to see what I have done well, whilst also seeing what I can improve. These sets of questions also tell me the effectiveness as my single individual products, and also the three products grouped together as one promotional package.

Overall my feedback has shown that my video works well in following the codes and conventions of existing pop punk music videos; predominantly cutting to the beat whilst including both a narrative and performance structure. Although, some people could not identify the link between my music video and digipak/advertisement, other found the link and thought it was a strong and powerful connotation, reflecting modern day society and the struggles and peer pressure that teenagers encounter and are subject to. Therefore, if I were to design my promotional package again I would ensure that there was a more clear link between each product so it was clear the everyone that the music video, digipak and advertisement belonged to the same package.

Word Count – 5,123

Final Product - Music Video

Final Product - Digpack

Final Product - Magazine Advertisement

Audience Feedback Questionnaire

How old are you?
Under 17
18-25
26-32
22-45
46+

What is your gender?
Male
Female

What do you think if the genre of my music video?
Pop
Rap
R'n'B
Punk
Indie
Heavy Metal
Other

Do you understand the narrative of my music video?
Yes
No

How did the music video make you feel?





Can you see the conventional techniques used in existing music videos in my own?
Yes
No

On a scale of 1-5, one being the least and 5 being the most, how well are these conventions used?
1 2 3 4 5

What would you have like to have seen more of in my music video?
Performance
Variety of shots
Different narrative structure
Other

On a scale of 1-5, 1 being the least and 5 being the most, how well do you think my product sticks to the target genre?
1 2 3 4 5

How could my music video be improved?



On a scale of 1-5, 1 being the least and 5 being the most, how effective is my digipak/advertisment package?
1 2 3 4 5

Can you see the link between the music video and digipak/advertisment?
Yes
No

If so, on a scale of 1-5, 1 being the least and 5 being the most, how effective is this link?
1 2 3 4 5

What is your favourite part of my promotional package (video, digipak, advertisment)?



What would be the one thing you would change about my promotional package?

Final Disk Design (CD/DVD)

CD DVD

These are the designs for my CD and DVD for my digipak. I chose to have both discs following the same style, for example both have the artist name in a large, clear font at the top of the disc with the album name underneath. I then chose to have the tracks arcing around the top and bottom of the disc. This allows the audience to know what tracks are on the disc and with the DVD (live footage from a tour and backstage footage) allows them to know what songs were performed on that tour and in what order. This creates an easy accessible navigation for the audience so they can pick and chose what songs to listen to with ease. Also placed on the CD is the artist's website where the audience are able to find out more information about them and weekly news etc.

A copyright notice has also been added, as this is a convention that runs throughout existing CD's and DVD's and therefore helps to create a realistic product.

I also decided to alter the colours slightly on each disc as this allows them to be distinguished from each other whilst still looking part of the same package. This is also a spotted convention of digipak’s and CD/DVD packages.

The CD will cover the inside cover of my digipak with the text, 'FINN' on whereas the DVD will cover the 'ADDICT' cover of my digipak.

Digipack Design

This is the layout of my digipack with the final images on and arranged in the way that they would be on my actual digipack. I chose to substitute actual images in for plain backgrounds with the artist name and track name on and i believe that the final outcome has proved that the decision was the right one. I think i has the right effect and follows the colour scheme through and therefore makes it a recognisable product. I also decided to have the first inside cover as i plain background with the letter 'F' on, to signify 'Finn' the album artist. This is wrote in a scripted style font and therefore creates a contrast with the front cover and the font on the poster. This, however, is conventional of pop punk album's as it creates contrast, for example, on the Good Charlotte - The Chronicles Of Life And Death, there were two very different styles on font on the front cover which connotes that you shouldn't judge people by how they look as, for the most part, they are a different person to what is perceived. Linking with this idea is the choice to have placed an image of a tub of pills against the image of the model on the front biting a pill. This creates contrast further and shows that despite looking in control and confident on the front (the model is biting the pill and therefore not letting it get the better of her as she is shown looking fierce and dominant), inside people feel troubled and have to resort to a lot of different drugs to help them get through. This is also a strong theme throughout pop punk music and therefore, felt it was relevant to my digipack.

Digipack Final Images #2

Front Cover

Inside Cover #1 Inside Cover #2Inside Cover #3 Inside Cover #4

Back CoverSpine

Digipack Final Images #1

Front Cover Inside Cover #1
Inside Cover #2
Inside Cover #3
Back Cover
Spine

CD/DVD

These were the images i origionally planned to use throughout my digipack, however, after putting it together and drafting out the layout i realised that it was too much and therefore, made the decision to discard the images of the ash tray and bottle of vodka in replacement for a plain background with the artist name and song title on. These images will be placed behind where the CD and DVD will go, and therefore has the right effect as there is not too much there, however, still enough so the space is not blank whilst still linking the digipack with the arist and track. However, i chose to keep the spine the same as i believe it is simple, yet effect and includes everything that needs to be included in the right way (artist name and track title in a bold, recognisable font) and also the front cover and the inside cover #1, however i will place this is a different place on my digipack.

Poster Final Draft

When designing my poster i decided to change the background to black and white, however, keep the lip area in colour as it creates a strong contrast between the two things and links with the pop punk genre, whilst still being conventional of pop punk products. The connotations are to do with things not being all they seem and people having a contrast between who people think you are and who you actually are. This also links with the music of the pop punk genre as the sound is a predominant pop sound with guitar rifts, creating the punk element of the music.

Music Video First Draft

This is the first draft of my music video to the song 'I'm Lost Without You' by the band 'Blink-182'. I plan to add some of my shots to include a variety of camera angles. I also plan to re shoot some existing shots where the girl's are together to make sure that the message that they are now happy is portrayed clearly. I will also shoot some existing shots in different locations to make sure that it is clear that the girls are willing to have a good time now and are happy with their situation and cut them into some of the verses so the video does not become monotonous and the audience do not become bored. This will also include adding more of a narrative structure. I also plan to have my video in black and white.

Ideas for Artist Name

When designing my digipak and poster i had to decide on a name for my artist that would fit in with the theme of my song and poster/digipak design. I wanted a band name that had connotations of strength and fighting, but that was only a one word name. After researching name origins i came up with the name 'Finn' as the name had a meaning of strength and being a warrior. This links with the theme of my digipak and photo as the connotations are to do with struggling with something.

Poster First Print Draft

This is my first draft of my poster that is advertising my CD. I chose to feature an image similar to the one used on my digipack in order to create a recognisable product and a direct link between the two.

I chose to place the text at the bottom of the poster, in a large and clear font, making it easy for the audience to see and read.

Underneath this, in smaller text, are the details about what the CD/DVD includes and in the bottom right when it is released (out now).

I plan to change to background colours on the poster as i believe it will create a stronger image and link more with the digipack. I plan to put the image in black and white, however keep the motuh and the pill in colour. This links with the connotations that are running through the digipak (that there are two sides to everything and even though things might look okay, sometimes they are not. It also shows how addiction can get worse and progress into something serious. This is shown through the black and white being the negative and the colour being the positive's of the situation. As the image will be predominantly black and white it shows that this situation is mostly negative and is washing away the positive's) and therefore creates a strong link between the two and becomes a recognisable product for the audience.

When designing the text i chose to stick with conventional pop punk styles and do the text in black, white and red. I chose to feature the majority of the text in black as it is a strong colour and would stand out easily against the background. However i chose to outline the text in white (artist name) and red (digipack title) to help it stand out further whilst also making it recognisable as a pop punk product. The choice to outline the artist name in one colour and the digipack title in another was made as it simply helps the audience distinguish between what's the artist name and what's the CD title.

Digipak Chosen Images

Front Cover

Inside Cover #1

Inside Cover #2

Inside Cover #3

Inside Cover #4 will be plain black. This is connote death and the darkness that the drugs have had upon the girl's body and life.

(click images to enlarge)

Poster Chosen Image

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Poster Unused Images

I chose to use the same style of image that is on my front cover, on my poster, creating a link between the two and making it evident that the two are linked. I decided to also create a further link by, when editing my images, having the whole image in black and white, apart from the mouth area, where the stronger colours are, i.e the red lips and the red and yellow of the pill.

Similar to the front cover of my digipak, once i had taken these images i realised that there was not much space for text to be featured, therefore i re-took the images, framing it so more of the chest area was in shot, enabling me to place the text on a bare canvas.

I chose to have the image of the girl biting the pill as appose to the one where it is simply on her tongue as i believe that it shows more power, whereas with it just laying on her tongue connotes a greater vulnerability and this was not the message that i wanted to portray. The imagery behind my poster runs parallel with that of the front cover of my digipak in that, at first the girl is in control of the drugs she's taking and it is just for leisure use; nothing serious.

As the poster is advertising the digipak, it creates a strong link between the two without giving too much away about what the album is about and the other side's to it i.e the addiction getting worse (connoting that the album has more than one sound to it, and that the more you listen to it, the more addicted you will become)

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Digipak unused Images - Inside Cover #3

The final image I have used on my digipak is also going to be in black and white. This contrasts with the use of colour on the front cover, connoting the idea of contrast between who people think you are and who you are, even more. The idea that the actual model is in colour, and the things that are causing the addiction are in black and white show that the person is stronger that the things that are causing a downward spiral in her life. Once again, the location is different, showing that the addiction is at it's peak and has progressed into seriousness. As there are other butts in the ash tray, it links with the idea that the addiction has become worse. As the angle of the image is straight on it connotes that the girl is looking it straight in the eye, linking with the idea that she is at the peak of it.

Reasons for not choosing to use these images in my final digipak were similar to previous. Mainly, once again the predominant reason being the use of angle. One again, i used a high angle in some shots to make it clear to the audience what was in the frame, however, after taking this from a low angle, i saw that the audience were still able to tell and figure out what was in the frame and what it meant. Like previous, the use of a high angle shot did not connote the message i wanted to, as at this point the connotations are saying that the girl now has no control with her addiction what so ever, the drugs are ruling her and have taken over her life.

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Digipak unused Images - Inside Cover #2

These images will also be in black and white, adding to the mysterious element. As the liquid is poured into the glass already and the bottle is half empty it shows that her addiction is still quite strong, progressively getting stronger, although, the bottle is not empty, therefore it shows that it is not 100% taken over the girl. The idea that the image has been shot in a different location to the previous shows, further, that the addiction is progressing and slowly getting worse. The use of the low angle shot shows that the drink is taking over her, and she sees it as something that she fears.

I chose to discard these images from my final selection as, once again, i thought the framing and angles were not right/suitable for the message i was trying to convey. For example, some shots

were taken from a high angle, connoting that the girl is still totally in control of her drug taking, however, the message i wanted to put across was that, the more drugs you take, and the more frequently, you are slowly going to become obsessed, the drugs will began to rule you and you will find yourself depending on them. Therefore, i thought the connotations of using a high angle shot did not reflect this. Also, on some of the images, the photo did not show the full use of props and therefore it was hard to tell what was in the frame. This is another reason why i decided not to use some of my images.

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Digipak unused Imags - Inside Cover #1

These images are the one's i have chose to feature on the first inside cover of my digipak. These images will be in black and white to link with the idea of mystery. The background of the images will also be edited to be out of focus, also linking with this idea. The idea that the images have been taken in a normal living environment, it also links with the contrast that, despite the addiction that someone has, they are stil normal people. The variety of pills used shows the strong addiction the girl featured on the cover has. However, the fact that they are still some pills in the container, shows that her addiction is not at it's strongest.

Although these images are similar to the one i have chosen to feature on my digipak i decided against using these and i thought the angle was not right and in some cases i felt the background took up too much of the frame. I believe the framing and the angle on the chosen shot connotes the addiction stage well. As the angle is slightly high it shows that the girl/character on the front takes these drugs but is not ruled by them. It shows that she is in charge of what drugs she takes and does them solely for leisure purposes.

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Digipak Unused Images - Front Cover

These were the images i took to feature on my Digipak cover, however, after taking them i was not happy with the way they looked as i could not see room for the artist name and album name text that i would have to add. Therefore, i decided that i would re frame the images to include more of the models chest, however, still hiding the eyes, keeping the mysterious element. As the theme running through my digipak is 'addiction' (linking with the title name) i chose to feature a pill on the model's tongue/in her mouth which signifies the model about to take the pill and become addicted. However, as she is biting the pill in some shots (and also the one i have chosen to be my final image) it shows that she is in control of the addiction and is being the stronger person. The fact that half the model's face is hidden it is is stereotypical of pop-punk album covers; they do not show the band/artist, only things that are symbolic of the genre.

The way i have presented the model also links with addiction and the way that addicts are presented. The model's hair is pushed off her face and looks in bad condition. The red lipstick contrasts with the pale skin of the model which is also stereotypical of pop punk genre's and shows that despite the person's appearance, they are sometimes not what they look like. The use of a girl model on a track that features male vocals is also a conventional thing, which is an idea i have followed.

The images used on the front cover will also be the same as the one's featured on the CD/DVD inside.

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Ancillary Text Analysis #3 (Poster)

The third poster i have chose to analyse is Madonna's Celebration, a collection of her greatest hits. The image featured on the front is a close up of Madonna's face, enabling the audience to have a clear view of the artist. The image used is one that was famous when Madonna was at her peak in music, connoting that the music featured will be the great hits that were realsed around the same time as the image. The image is also featued in a pop art style, which connotes a 60's vibe, also linking with the idea that the music on the album will predominantly from that era.

The name of the artist (Madonna) and the name of the CD title (Celebration) is featured along the top of the poster, ensuring that the audience are immediately drawn to this part of the poster. The idea that the CD is called 'Celebration' connotes that Madonna is celebrating her success over the years and wanting to share it with he fans by putting all the great songs on one album.

Ancillary Text Analysis #2 (Poster)

The second poster/advert i chose to analyse was Gwen Stefani's Love.Angel.Music.Baby.
Taking up the majority of the frame is the artist. This is taken from a low angle shot making the artist look superior to the audience and as though she is a leader. This links with the theme of the poster which has connotations of being royal. We can tell this from the costume and setting as Gwen Stefani is holding a crown and is sat on a throne. She is also wearing fur which connotes wealth.
The font style also connotes royalty as it is in gold and also in an old english font. This connotes that the album is timeless and features timeless music that everyone can enjoy. This is featured in a large font across the centre of the poster, therefore making it stand out against the image and ensuring that the audience can see it clearly and are instantly aware of who the artist is.
Featured underneath this is the title of the album that the poster is advertising. This is placed in a smaller font, however in the same style, creating a recognisable link. Despite it being featured in a smaller font it is clear what the album is as, a smaller image of the album is placed next to this in the bottom left corner. Similar to the Green Day poster, the image used on the poster is the same one that's used on the CD, creating a link and making it a recognisable product.

Tracks that are featured on the album and that have already been released are also featured underneath this text. This lets the audience know what is featured on the album and also, helps persuade them to buy it because if a track that has already been released and that the audience like is on the album, it will make them think that other tracks that they will like could also be on the album.

The record company that Gwen Stefani is under, the album release date and Gwen Stefani's website is also featured along the bottom of the poster, giving the audience greater detail into the artist.

Ancillary Text Analysis #1 (Poster)

The first poster/advert i have analysed is Green Day's American Idiot. This poster features the same image and colour scheme as the one on the album, therefore, creating a link between the two and making it a recognisable product.

The colour scheme is, red, black and white, connoting predominant darkness and danger with elements of light.

The band name is featured in the top left of the frame, ensuring it is clearly seen by the audience and they instantly know who the product is advertising. The name of the album that the poster is selling is featured under it in a smaller, font. However, this text is in a different colour, ensuring that it still stands out.

The image to the right hand side of the frame, is in a cartoon style. The colours used in the image follow the colour scheme of the full advert, making it a recognisable still.

As the genre of Green Day's music is punk, therefore has element similar to the conventions of the pop punk genre and the products for these bands. Therefore, the artist of the track is not featured on the CD or the poster. This is a convention i plan to follow when designing and making my poster and digipak.

A small image of the label that the band are signed to is also placed in the bottom corner.

Digipak I.T Drafts