School print advert

 

Above, is my first advert which I have created through the use of the DSLR cameras and photoshop. The task outline was to create a print advert, representing SHSG sixth form life in order to appeal to potential sixth formers and their parents.

When creating my school advert, I took on a range of new skills. For example,  I learnt how to use the DSLR cameras. I experimented with the different modes through the use of the mode dial, including manual, aperture which controls the depth of field, and shutter priority, useful for speed. Elements within the camera include; using the shoe for external flash, on/off settings, flash button, main dial for moving on aperture/shutter/images, zoom ring for moving in and out of a subject and use of the focus ring.  Additionally, I discovered the portrait, landscape, close up and action features which are all represented by symbols. The action mode is very useful for paparazzi-style shots, to do this I learnt that you must keep your finger down and move with the subject. I considered the use of  LIAR within shots.

As well as this, I  used Photoshop for the first time. This entailed how to create individual layers to ensure that you can easily add to and remove things from the advert, without ruining the progress you have already made. In addition, I discovered how to import pictures and removing backgrounds from them. Other skills learnt include; adding copy, changing the background colour, how to create a gradient. I also made use of a number of different tools within photoshop, for example using the move, brush and eraser tools.

Through the making of this advert, I found the importance of representing the school as a studious but also friendly and supportive environment. I developed skills which will appeal to the target demographic, who in this case would be potential sixth formers and their parents. In order to do so, I took a range of different shots, including some of students reading books and studying notes to show the academic side of the school, however I also decided to include some pictures of students laughing with their friends, to show the fun that sixth form life at Southend High School for Girls entails. Therefore, I feel that my images covered all the different aspects of the school, appealing to both the potential students who may be looking for a more enjoyable place to study, as well as the parents who would be looking for a school which takes academics seriously.