Extra stuff - Letters from a WW1 soldier

In amongst doing coursework I've managed to get a few more extra work projects completed. The one that I've launched online recently is Letters from a WW1 soldier.

Using a Flash interface to better provide for the image based scene, this work project really called on image manipulation and optimisation skills.

This was the starting photograph I was provided with. From here I managed to create a scene full of various WW1 artefacts that all link back to the main topic of war time history, but obviously personal to family.

When you compare this to other efforts (admittedly, popular sites) regarding war topics, I think this stands out through it's visual staging, rather than lines of written text. Furthermore, with it being image based it could appeal a little more to a younger audience, I know I certaintly prefer it - it's real history you can see, not just words on a page.

I've even had to add in an email since due to the unexpected hits its been getting, London, Sheffield etc.

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Flash CS4

I was initially annoyed at the fact that another new version of Flash, and the rest of the Creative Suite was being released. 'Just cashing in, another not really worthwhile update.' How wrong I was.

Feature wise, the new Flash looks like it's definitely heading in the direction it should. 3D directioning. Check. Bone structures. Check. Plus, what with being a Powerpoint pirate, I like the inclusion of motion presets.

These are all things that I had previously looked for, what with finding them in 3D Max and seeing their benefits. I think it's going to make using Flash an extra bit better... It just depends when we'll get a chance to use the new CS4!

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Fonejacker - DIY

Last year I tried (unsuccessfully!) to make a video piece, a homage to Fonejacker.

Perhaps one of the reasons I was unsuccessful was because Powerpoint was my program of choice, and the timelines, effects in there can be incredibly tedious if you want precision, particularly when trying to get a character to mime in time with the vocals.

One year on, and surprise surprise, (or not, really) you can get a DIY one on the e4 Fonejacker website.

It lets you customise your photograph to incorporate the correct faceshape, then get the mouth open and shut action. Plus, as with most things nowadays, you can embed it all over the place: here, Facebook, Bebo.

So without further ado, here's the one I created, 'the Internet Service Providings man'.



I wish I could have done that!

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e-zine

In this great gaping gap that they call the summer holidays, I've been working for Setanta Sports and whilst browsing their site, came across this which reminded me of Flash.



I like how they've managed to accomplish the page turn effect. It works and represents reality digitally. Also, the click to zoom and then grab to move is well implemented. Again, it's what you want to do - look closer, and all over.




I think the format, which has been called an 'e-zine', has the potential to become quite popular. Whilst being able to make it look as decent as a normal magazine, with large detailed images/graphics, you also have the perks of Flash embedded - motion and catchy visual effects - drawing in your eye. Furthermore, as with all things web, it hyperlinks (whether that be nestled within an advert, or a table which links to the Setanta fixtures page). These work because they are placed logically, and it seems quite natural to click and find out more, for example, when reading a certain article you want more information about. One definite bonus I can see is that in magazines you can only print on the page size you have, whether that be A4, A5 etc. With e-zines, you can hide pictures, text etc behind a button, which only upon clicking, exchanges and brings up the information on the mag page.

Perhaps I should ask for some work experience in the media department?! If this sort of stuff is what somebody does for a living then I'd be quite happy to join in and earn this way too!

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InteractiviWii

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7264353.stm

Interesting thoughts around the idea of giving access to the user. It reminds me of the argument to do with copyright, or should that be copyleft?

It is slowly but surely starting to happen - homebrews are becoming available, online or Xbox Live in particular being a great example. And why not, who says you have to be an official Microsoft/Sony/Nintendo games developer to be able to make cool games for people to play?

Allowing home made content seems a more organic idea to me. Ok, it could be abused by people just making rubbish, but then again, it could also turn into a gold mine. Let creativity prosper!

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Remember your A B Cs? - little game

I've been playing around and have come up with another little interactive game. I've called it 'Remember your A B Cs?'



This time, instead of focusing on the colours and how it all looks (which is what i did in the first game), I paid attention to the actual gameplay, making it more like what you'd expect from a publisher. You can't just click randomly this time and get away with it!!

It was a hassle at one stage cos Powerpoint just wouldn't refresh the slide builds, but several attempts later and I've got round it. A OK (at least, I think it is!)

When you click the link, it's best to save it to your computer, as opening it in the browser doesn't always work (pages get stuck).

So anyway, brains in gear... focus... GO

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my creations

I've now registered on a site called FileDen so can host some of my stuff that I've been making.

As you will find out, I'm quite a junkie on Powerpoint - it's what I've got on my computer and so I make use of it in the best way I can!

(Word of warning, I use Office XP and so anything newer than that may mean these won't work properly, or in order etc, apologies!)

Twinkle twinkle little star - motion graphics piece based around the lullaby song.

No matter where you go - motion graphics piece using a quotation I found and liked.

Flashing stars game - a 'simple' look and click game. It is basic, and could be improved, but it's my first go at a little game!

These are all just random things that I've played about with, no theme or anything like that. Enjoy!

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