6) What have i learnt about technologies from the process of constructing the product?

Since beginning my magazine project i have learnt a variety of techniques and skills. Using a digital camera for me was quite easy, i am used to using a camera of around 9Mp but on this task i managed to use a camera of 12Mp and i really enjoyed viewing the better quality. However the professional editing software that came with it, was more of a challenge. Photoshop is a editing programme i had heard of but not one i had used, so this task enabled me to learn new skills and develop my knowledge of the programme and all its features.
Furthermore the professional programme “Quark express” which was used to help make the layout look more professional was a huge challenge, one in which I struggled. After a couple of days of using the software I had learnt the basics and put together a reasonable magazine. After comparing these programmes to other cheaper more basic versions I began to realise how complex constructing a media magazine could be.
For example on publisher you would use a easy text box and drag it round anywhere you wish, with quark express the text box has more importance and you have to swap between the typing tool and the select objects tool.
I firmly believe despite such high quality software available to everyone, amateurs cannot produce material that is reasonably professional. When digital cameras were released many amateurs believed they could become a professional photographer, personally its not true, to be a photographer, you need creativity and natural talent not just high quality equipment, and the same is said for producing a magazine or creating video. You need to have a huge knowledge of the market and have that natural creative edge over others.
I used blogging through blogger.com to help keep track of what ive learnt. It was a reminder for me and whenever I logged on I was reiterated of my newly formed knowledge. By using my blog I was able to present my research and planning in a clear way which meant keeping to schedule was easier than expected.
I have used websites for my research and to help put my ideas together. I went on to recordcollector and uncut’s official websites, to check and confirm my audience profile and see what would be in their next months issues, and what was in previous issues. I also went on the net to use websites in helping research possible tips or advice / manual of quark express to try and learn the new programmes features and benefits so i wouldn't have to waste much time getting used to a new programme.