Aims and intentions V1

How and why will I use medial language in my cross-media production?

I will use the micro elements of sound, editing, mise en scene and camera to convey the meaning of my text, for example using close ups to create an intimate feeling between the audience and text and therefore draw the audience into the topic of my documentary.

How and why will I construct representations of individuals, group and issues/events

Semiotics describes how much meaning is constructed through language and codes; Ferdinand de Saussure (1857-1913) and Roland Barthes described the “signifier” which is what we see in front of us ie the form the sign takes  and the “signified” which is the concept we associate with the signifier.  Stewart Hall’s Reception Theory describes encoding by myself as the producer and decoding by the audience. 

I will use macro elements such as audience positioning, and how representation is constructed to link to genre and narrative.

Other elements such as institution, ethnicity and gender will be consistent with Channel 5’s remit.

I will discuss individual’s memory and photographs relate to what we understand as our past “reality” because these issues are pertinent to millennials.  My documentary will interest the audience more if they see themselves represented in it.

Target intended audience

I will issue promotional materials targeted at millennials by using social media and adverts suitable for print based magazines read by millennials.  (In the real world I would consider merchandise

The documentary itself will discuss topics relevant to millennials.  (In the real world I would have a presenter like Sarah Dooley rather than John Humphries)

Production to fit industry context

Channel 5 is a British commercial TV network that focuses on general entertainment.  Work is internally commissioned and also bought in. According to their marketing department "our content allows millions of normal people access to diverse entertainment with no fuss. We are a playful challenger brand and can appeal to all audiences.”

Whilst targeting primarily millennials my documentary will aim to be consistent with these values.  I will also make sure that there are suitable places for advert breaks.

Demonstrate digital convergence

Different media are converging.  My print article will not only preview the documentary but aim to be part of it, perhaps for example by including exclusive content and interviews so that it is more like a part of the TV documentary rather than a simple promotion of it.