Digital Photography & Imaging - PROJECT 3 (ALL compilation)

Edita Chew En Thung / 0357357
Digital Photography & Imaging / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylor's University
PROJECT 3

WEEK 1

Week 1 | Introduction & Briefing

In our very first lecture with Mr Fauzi we were Brief with the importance of Adobe photoshop and our sense of creativity to express through graphics. Understanding on how Photoshop and graphic typically works, like restoring, painting or creating art with given meaning to them and bringing them to life.

FINAL OUTCOME:

  

W1 | Date created : 01/10/2023

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REFLECTION

In this module, I learnt to use the basics of photoshop and have a better understanding on how to operate the app as efficiently as I can. Naming the layers and be more organised for them as a Designer. 

First, I have become able to better use the applications such as Adobe Photoshop and developed a better creative mindset as well as insight for my works. 

Then secondly, I developed a more mature and strategic mindset, I can better ideate and illustrate my ideas in communicating them.

Thirdly, I can better decide on my works to improve while I give myself criticism and some sort of feedback for my work for better and reinforced results.

WEEK 2

Week 2 | PRACTICAL (COLLAGE ELEMENTS) - project 1A

In week 2, we were to choose and identify our collage's design elements and cut them out from old magazines, newspapers, etc. Composing it into our own special and unique concept & story. Then, we use those cut outs to pre compose the collage's design elements into a proper composition.

PROCESS

I wanted to include my own ideas and opinion onto the collage, so I tried something that is nearest to my personal tastes. All the cut out collages are from an old magazine, because I wanted that rustic but modern touch to the collage I make.

FINAL OUTCOME:

W2 | Date created : 06/10/2023

REFLECTION

In this task, we were to think more about of the box and come up with ideas and successfully communicate design concepts and solutions through manual and digital skills as effectively as we can. By using creative thinking skills to explore, generate and test a wide range of conceptual ideas.

We learnt to source our own information and communication that was needed to navigate, select, retrieve and manage these information more efficiently.

WEEK 3

LECTURES

Week 3 | DIGITAL COLLAGE [PHOTOSHOP] - project 1B

During week 3, we were to download all of the images given to our laptops and create 3 different composition digital collages from the images downloaded. Using an A4 canvas size on Photoshop to start the compositions and take 3 photos of our digital collage compositions to submit in google classroom.

PROCESS

I came up with a composition that well suits the modern feel and done it on photoshop, in this task, the objective is to teach students how to remove backgrounds and crop things in photoshop as well as have a feeling on how to get things done digitally rather than task1 which was done manually. 

I ended up also altering and adjusting the cropped images to an extent to make it more blended or simply. more matching to the composition.

FINAL OUTCOME:

W3 | Date created : 13/10/2023

REFLECTION

I realised I have to further develop my skills in creative thinking and as well on how to use the knowledge given to me or the other way around, the information I searched myself. 

I recently gained more insight towards the use of photoshop and the uses of it. I developed more skilful use of the application as it improved my overall performance.

WEEK 4

PROCESS

Week 4 | DIGITAL COLLAGE [PHOTOSHOP ADJUSTMENTS]

We were then introduced to photoshop adjustment layers & filters and how to apply them. We are to apply what we have learnt from the following below into the composition we previously did in Task 3.

💡Things to note & know:

1. BRIGHTNESS / CONTRAST

2. LEVEL

3. CURVES

4. EXPOSURE

5. SELECTIVE COLOR

FINAL OUTCOME:

W4 | Date created : 16/10/2023

REFLECTION

I learned a better way to efficiently use the adjustment layers to our composition in photoshop to our advantage. It is crucial to pay attention to details as such, it could lead to undesirable traits or findings in our edits or composition. 

Lightings, warmness, exposures and the play of the curves has a big importance in our compositions or designs, it gives life to them as its role is to effectively attract the audience's attention.

WEEK 5

PROCESS

Week 5 | PROJECT 1B - PART 1: Hearst Mansion

In this tutorial we learned how to quickly photoshop some things to images and pictures most efficiently.

We learnt: 

1. Quick Selection Tool
   

2. Layer Mask

3. Filters

   
   

4. Color Correction

We try using the Quick Selection tool to subtract background.

• SHORTCUT KEYS ( to increase our efficiency & familiarity ) :Zoom in/out, increase/decrease brush size, subtract from selection/ add to selection.
  

FINAL OUTCOME: 

W5 | Date created : 24/10/2023

Then we were to create another photoshopped image based on the SHAZAM exercise, but by inserting our own photo to replace the SHAZAM’s layer:

1. Take a photo of ourselves (me) using the right lighting techniques and eye level

2. Apply the Shazam’s exercise techniques

3. Replace the Shazam’s layer with our own photo
   

4. Apply suitable Colour Correction and finalise our work

CAMERA ANGLES ARE IMPORTANT!

from lectures W5

FINAL OUTCOME:

W5 | Date created : 24/10/2023

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REFLECTION

I realised that a little mishap for placing layers or creating new ones are quite important as it could effect the whole composition. 

Photoshop is not something new, or something that is trending for a short term, it is something designers use for a lot of their works. It could be applied to daily life and it could help a lot of designers to create new designs and clean up some "oopsies" or simply, faults. 

In short terms, photoshop is essential to all designers to create unique designs with the application. I become better at using photoshop after our lecturer taught us from the very start, my basic design communication had improved as well.

WEEK 6

LECTURES

Module Information Booklet [MIB] Digital Photography and Imaging

Week 6 | Recolouring Black & White

The purpose of this exercise is to learn how to give colour to a black and white photo using brushes, masks, quick selection tool, blending modes and how to go about these tools to produce a decent work pleasing to the audience. 

PROCESS

I started off with Norman Lindsay from a black and white portrait and recolour it to what it is seen now, coloured.

The following is from the before and after respectively:

Then, I started on with an Asian woman from a black and white portrait and recolour it in a more advanced way as it requires masking and dragging them to our liking and to what it is seen now.

The following is from the before and after respectively:

Then we had to choose an additional black and white photo to recolour from the file shared by Mr Fauzi.

FINAL

All works can be found in Google Drive! 

Click here for link

REFLECTION

In these two exercises it made me understand more on the usage of masking and layering once more. It exercises our skill and sharpen them. This particular exercise emphasises the importance of the skill and encourages improvement as it somewhat plays with the modes of blending and the matching of the colour schemes.

WEEK 7

Week 7 | Double exposure

The purpose of this exercise is to learn how to give colour to a black and white photo using brushes, masks, quick selection tool, blending modes and how to go about these tools to produce a decent work pleasing to the audience. 

PROCESS

I started doing the first exercise that requires to follow the video provided by Mr Fauzi and apply those skills into the making of the photo manipulation. The purpose of this exercise is to learn double exposure and apply them into our skillset and further experiment with the tools and ideas that can be made from this type of photo manipulation.

ME (double exposure)

FINAL:

Date created: 10/11/2023

ME:

Date created: 11/11/2023

All works in Google drive link: CLICK HERE 

REFLECTION

Experience:

I have got the hang of using photoshop and even using and applying some other features of the application to make my life easier in editing in photoshop.

I have improved on my take of creating and sharing design ideas and solutions using both hands-on and digital techniques with ease and skill. Facilitating the creation and communication of design concepts and solutions stands as a multifaceted endeavor that demands a blend of manual dexterity and adeptness in digital skills. This proficiency aims to eloquently convey ideas while harnessing creative thought processes and methodologies. The process of exploration, creation, and testing a variety of conceptual notions necessitate the utilisation of innovative thinking skills.

I can further employ imaginative thinking methods to explore, develop, and try out various creative the technology to find, sort, choose, get, and handle given and needed information effectively.

WEEK 8

Instructions | criteria

PROJECT 2B: CONCEPTUAL PRODUCT PHOTOSHOOT 

Timeframe: WEEK 9 - WEEK 11 

CATEGORY: PRODUCT PHOTOSHOOT 

RESEARCH: 10 marks (WEEK 9) 

SHOOTING TECHNIQUES: 5 marks 

LIGHTING TECHNIQUES: 5 marks
EDITING & POST PRODUCTION: 10 marks (WEEK 10) 

Update our Project 2B work in progress into E-Portfolio Submission: 

WEEK 11 TOTAL MARK: 30%

Week 9 | Research (reference moodboards)

PROCESS

IDEATION #1 

I wanted to portray a classic yet comedic modern approach towards this composition, to use photo manipulation to these opposite things were hard to imagine at first, but since the pandemic was a big change in humanity’s survival, the whole world was turned into a meme. I decided to go with sanitizers to go with the concept and a David statue I have that emits classical aura.

IDEATION #2 

This idea was crafted by using the Beauty of Joseon sunscreen and a honey bottle. The whole concept is to inflict the sole ideation of honey-like skin texture after using the product. The nozzle of the honey bottle was used as the applicator of the sunscreen to somewhat indicate smooth skin after use. 

IDEATION #3 

This idea was based on luxury and everyday used tools like a disinfectant spray or a deodorant spray. The stark difference gives a shock while placing 2 different status objects together. The question was “what if a luxury item was used like an everyday appliance?” people would have mixed opinions about the item and the idea behind it. Luxury items are generally expensive and usually used very minimally in everyday lives whereas household items are used everyday so people would wish to use luxury items like how they use normal items, but some just do not have the budget. Hence, the idea is crafted, a “what if” question.

SKETCHES

MOCK UPS (PRODUCT FINALISTS)

After I was done photoshopping the 3 ideas into their own product shoots, I were to decide which was the finalist for my final artwork for the product photoshoot.

MOCK UP for FINAL

FINAL ARTWORK

REFLECTION

Reflecting on my learning journey in design, I've discovered the profound significance of effective communication through various mediums. The ability to generate and convey design concepts, both manually and through digital platforms, has emerged as a crucial skill. It's been an enriching experience to witness how creative thinking methodologies have facilitated the exploration and testing of an extensive spectrum of conceptual ideas. This process has allowed me to delve deeper into the realms of design, enabling me to uncover innovative solutions and approaches.

Moreover, the integration of information and communication technology within the design process has been transformative. I've learned to navigate through a vast sea of information, selectively retrieve relevant data, and manage it efficiently. This technological incorporation has not only streamlined my research processes but has also broadened my understanding of how to source and utilise information effectively within design contexts.

The outcome of this learning journey manifests in my enhanced ability to synthesise manual and digital skills seamlessly. I've observed a significant improvement in my proficiency in generating design concepts and solutions, a testament to the amalgamation of creative thinking techniques and technological adeptness. Additionally, my capacity to source, manage, and apply information pertinent to design has contributed to a more comprehensive and nuanced approach to problem-solving within the field.

In essence, this learning experience has not only equipped me with technical skills but has also honed my creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability. I've come to realize that the synthesis of diverse skills and methodologies is pivotal in navigating the complex landscape of design, allowing me to explore new horizons and contribute meaningfully to the field.

WEEK 9

INSTRUCTIONS

TITLE / THEME : SELF-TITLED

Self-titled is an exploration project for the students to express their own individuality and reflect their personality into digital art self-expression. 

The main idea is to build up self-confidence and discover their interest. 

RATIONALE | IDEA DEVELOPMENT

My Biography

Tell us about yourself : 

I'm Edita Chew and I'm from Malaysia, I was raised in Terengganu and then moved to Melaka when I was 11. I just turned 18 in the year 2023.

What is your passion? : 

Photography, design, anything related to the arts. I try to encapsulate the beauty around me, the world my parents wanted to show me, I'm as grateful as I should be. To be able to provide me and my parents a good life with my passion for the arts.

What motivates me to achieve my dream? : 

Challenges and the difficulties I faced throughout the years. It was my inner authenticity telling me to overcome these social norms towards women, I wanted to change the society's demeanour towards women.

How do you want to visualise your artwork? : 

A figure covered in red cloth with red symbolising passion and strength, overcoming the challenges in a more ruthless way, involving the injustice towards the women, earning enough "gold" to last a lifetime.

Artwork Statement

ARTIST STATEMENT: The colour red, symbolising my passion and vigour, becomes emblematic of my unwavering determination to break free from the societal constraints and earn a place on my terms. The phrase "golden light" embodies my ethos, an embodiment of strength that helps me to navigate a world where societal norms often impose limitations on women's aspirations and capabilities.

MOOD BOARD

references are for inspiration purposes only, no plagiarism will be done.

SKETCHES

IMPORTANT:

The idea was to achieve an eerie ambience, to encapsulate the beauty of silence. The hands are in a position where it symbolises a cage, for us women. Society’s cage around us. The colour red, symbolising my passion and vigour, becomes emblematic of my unwavering determination to break free from the societal constraints and earn a place on my terms. The phrase "golden light" embodies my ethos, an embodiment of strength that helps me to navigate a world where societal norms often impose limitations on women's aspirations and capabilities.

PROCESS

FONT (illustrator):

I started designing the font in illustrator to fit the idea of composition I have in mind, a simple and minimalistic typeface.

Adobe Illustrator to Photoshop 

I imported another photo and cropped the hands of this image to apply to my main image. The main image's hands were then discarded and replaced with my other picture's hands.

Date created : 12/12/2023

Then I imported the font I made in the module, Typography.

Date created : 13/12/2023

PROCESS 01 (sampling)

Date created : 13/12/2023

PROCESS 02

Date created : 14/12/2023

"golden light" was then formed after consultation as it better describes the future ahead of me, the anticipation and tough road ahead I have to face.

Illustrator : Gradient --> transfer to Photoshop

opacity : 91% , effect : gaussian blur

PROCESS 03

Date created : 15/12/2023

Adobe Illustrator : intertwined

Date created : 20/12/2023

Then, I used photoshop to bevel the font to a metallic-like text. The ribbon/thread symbolises "fate" in Chinese mythology, as if it embodies my future and destiny all in one.

PROCESS 04

Date created : 20/12/2023

ADJUSTMENTS + Adobe Illustrator Elements (ribbons) +  (refinements)

Date created : 20/12/2023

Date created : 20/12/2023

MUSIC TUNING/toning adjustments:

(00:25) MP3 format, Date created : 20/12/2023

Notes:

[adding choir vocals and tuning them note by note]

[adding bass and overall harmony composition]

Importing it to After effects, then frame rate was increased from 10 fps to 11 fps.

FINAL

Date created : 22/12/2023

VIDEO:

LINK: HERE

Date created : 22/12/2023

REFLECTION

Learning Digital Photography and Photoshop:

Learning digital photography and using Photoshop has been an exciting journey. Starting with the basics of photography, I learned about composition, lighting, and framing photos. Understanding these elements helped me capture better images. When it came to using Photoshop, it was like stepping into a whole new world. I discovered how to enhance photos, adjust colours, and manipulate images, giving them a different look and feel.

Experience and Observations:

During the course, I noticed how composition plays a vital role in making photos visually appealing. I learned about the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing, which significantly improved my photo compositions. Using Photoshop was both fun and challenging. I explored various tools and techniques to edit images. It was fascinating to see how small adjustments could completely change the mood and impact of a photo.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this module taught me the essentials of digital photography and the power of Photoshop. I now have a better eye for composition and understand how editing can transform images. It's been an enriching experience that expanded my creativity and skills in capturing and editing photos. Overall, it's exciting to see how these newfound skills will shape my future projects and creative endeavours.