audit 2

Another new learning was styling, I have always shied away from styling, however for this project I decided
to style each look myself due to having completed a vast amount of research on the Ed Hardy brand
and contemporary trends. I had a clear vision of the looks I wanted to achieve. I feel the styling worked
successfully due to my attention to detail, from the connotations of specific jewellery pieces to deciding
on whether to add an additional layer of mascara onto the models, each decision had to be carefully
considered.
Through collaborating with professionals I have never met before and receiving commendation after the
process has made me realise I possess strong social skills to inspirit a team. I maintained a calm front
with all of the Team even while I was stressed. I ensured that every member of the Team was looked
after adequately through means of continuously offering food and drink and ensuring that all their needs
were met. This resulted in pleasant shoots and each collaborator thanking me for the experience they had
enjoyed. Social skills were also integral when asking location managers to shoot with no budget. Through
being polite and friendly to the manager of Slim Jims liquor store, I was able to obtain four hours shoot time
free of charge outside his normal work hours.
Many of the issues I faced within this project were a result of lack of experience. This can be overcome by
creatively directing more projects that continue to challenge me; boosting my confidence levels, learning
from my mistakes. A key aspect I have learnt is the severity of planning. Prior to the project I was aware of
the importance of organisation. However, I was surprised at how much needed to be taken into account
when shooting at locations. Another aspect that surprised me was the budget. My budget was miniscule
and limited, the majority of which I invested in the videographer and clothing. When creating the budget
plan I thought I was overestimating but soon realised how quickly it got used up. I spent way over my
budget due to allowing leeway on certain items of clothing I felt were essential in communicating the correct
aesthetic. Through this I learnt the importance of being strict with budget, in particular when working on a
professional client- based project with specifically tight budgets.
The long time frame for the project was beneficial in allowing through research and deep consideration,
allowing ideas to develop to their best ability. However, this also meant I became over exposed to my
outcomes, despite being proud of the final outcome; I was left feeling a lack of excitement as the project
came to an end. Through this I realised my desire to work on short, consecutive jobs within the future. I work
well under pressure and feel this would allow me to remain excited by the work I create.
Furthermore, throughout the duration of the course I have developed both personally and professionally.
A significant development is having the ability to direct numerous working professionals. The course was
valuable in pushing me to collaborate; it has offered an array of opportunities and given access to work with
other collaborators at the London College of Fashion. The course has enabled me to push and challenge
myself, not solely thinking of the obvious route but taught me how to think and consider different, alternative
routes, resulting in interesting work. Through being taught its acceptable to make mistakes, take risks and
not be afraid to produce work that may fail within the first two years of the course has had a positive effect in
allowing me to exceed my potential within the final year. This notion is communicated through the risk I took
within my final major project. The result - creating a unique innovative project which pushes the boundaries
of what once defunct brands are able to revive within the current cultural landscape.
A key area for development which I have identified is the need to learn to not become overwhelmed and
confused by different opinions. Throughout the course I have been faced with feedback from peers, tutors,
specialists and working professionals. I need to develop my skill in absorbing the feedback, taking opinion
on board but remembering how subjective creative direction is, so not allowing feedback to entirely shadow
my view.
The course allowed me to access a vast amount of opportunities, from studios to work shops. Regretfully,
I wish I had taken full advantage of the opportunities presented to me on the course. Additionally, I regret
not doing additional projects outside of the ones set by tutors, in order to gain more work for my portfolio
and increase my experience. Through doing this I feel I would have learnt from mistakes at an earlier phase.
The course has introduced me to the diverse opportunities available within the realm of fashion. Through