CREATIVE CRITICAL REFLECTION

Click HERE to view the creative critical reflection for my magazine KICKERZONE or watch down below! 

A huge final thank you to everyone who has helped me in my design making process, you all helped immensely!

See you next time!


- AC

FINAL PROJECT

The time has come; it is officially time to reveal my final project. The wait is finally over, here it is!

- AC

The End

There are now four days until the end of this journey and I have completely finished my project. What a relief! I can't believe we are already reached this point; the time went so quickly. I guess time really does fly when you're having fun!

Along this journey, I have grown so much; not only physically, but emotionally. I have learned how to manage my time better, manage my stress, and work harder. This project has also strengthened my photoshopping skills, helping me in the long run.

This was a blast! I am so incredibly happy to have found my love for soccer again while working on my career aspirations. Thanks for coming along on this journey with me! See you soon!

- AC

Final Cover!

This is it!! I finally finished the new and final cover page. Here it is: 

In this cover, I decided to  use an image of Jessica facing the camera holding the ball. The use of this image allows the readers to form a connection with Jessica. This connection incline the reader's attention, causing them to open the magazine up; which is ideal what I want. 

Because the size of the ball and Jessica, the prominent colors of the image are pink and blue. Because of this, I decided to make the texts in pink and white. I tried making some of the text in blue but it was not as appealing as white and pink.

Along with struggling with the text, finding the right organization for the text was difficult. After a while though, I figured out the perfect layout.

Now all that's left is to finish my table of contents page and my project will be done! Finally! :)

- AC

Changes, Changes, Changes!

Looking back at my magazine cover, something felt a little off to me. After a couple of hours spent listening to advice, I agreed that my magazine was breaking the rules of magazine conventions. Realizing this, I knew I had to make some changes. The most important focus of a magazine is the cover image. However, the cover image I chose for my magazine wasn't strong enough to capture the attention of the viewers. So, I went through the pictures I took at Jessica's soccer practices and felt that none of the pictures were not strong enough. Ugh! 

There is exactly one week until this project is due and I am in so much trouble! How am I supposed to take new pictures, edit them, re organize my cover, and finish the rest of the project in the span of a week?! And of course this week is the busiest week of my life. The SAT is tomorrow, I have a million hours of homework to finish, and I have a family emergency; what am I gonna do?! 

Instead of stressing though, I have decided to go rest my brain for the SAT tomorrow; ill stress after that! So for now, everything can wait, I have time. I'll let you know how everything goes, and don't worry, ill finish everything; I know I will!

- AC

The Interview!

It is finally Saturday evening and Jessica has arrived back home! This week went by so slowly but the time for my interview finally arrived. As soon as she arrived, she informed me that we could meet and finish the interview. I couldn't wait!

Since she had only answered three of the questions, there was still half of the interview left. We met at a coffee shop, indulging the delicious coffee and peaceful surroundings. After catching up a bit, we agreed it was time to finish the interview. I asked her each question, patiently waiting for her answer. It was somewhat of a challenge for her to formulate her answers because she had so much to say but she didn't know how to express it. After a couple of minutes thinking deeply about each question, she replied with cohesive answers. Here are my questions and her answers: 

1. What does soccer mean to you?

A lot of people like to say "it's just a passion" but to me, it’s what keeps me going in life. When I'm upset or feeling down, I go to the field and play soccer to get my mind off of everything. Yes, soccer is a sport, but it also means everything to me. It is my past, my present, and my future. Soccer is my life.

2. Do you believe soccer is limited to one gender?

I believe it's a unisex game. There really isn't anything that only a man can do or only a girl can do. Now a days, some women are better soldiers than men and some men cook better than women. So soccer isn’t limited at all.

3. Have you heard about the gender equality issues in sports? If so what have you heard?

Though women finally have many of the same rights as men, it isn’t uncommon to hear casual conversations about gender equality. However, it is very rare that these conversations dive into the topic of equality in sports. Many people do not talk about this unfamiliar with it or sadly, do not realize it is an actual issue.

4. Why is so important to talk about these issues?

I believe it is important to talk about these issues so people are more aware of it, and in turn try to do something about it. The less talk, the less action. We need something to be done, we need to be heard! Not only does talking about the issue bring awareness to the subject, but it also empowers other women to fight with us. The more strength we have, the easier it will be to gain these rights.There’s no more time to waste. It’s time for equality!

5. What can us women do to fight for our equality on the field?

I believe women can continue to fight for our equality by showing others how often we win and how we bring home the biggest trophies that men don't win. Women can also fight for equality by respecting their male peers and supporting each other, because equality means equal. It doesn't mean that we are better, we are the same. So if we keeping respecting our peers, I belive it will benefit us in the end. Who wants to help a selfish person who seems to only be fighting for themselves? The answer is no one; no one will help us if we act that way, so we have to be kind. In the end kindness always wins. 

6. Who is your soccer inspiration, and why?

My soccer inspiration is my grandfather. When he was a child, he had played soccer, and influenced me to do the same. He has always been there for me when I left my games; he would tell me "you did great princess, don't listen to them. You just have to improve on...," and told me what I had to improve on for next time. He has never said "you did bad," or "why didnt you play better?" My grandfather has never let me put my head down. Because of him I have continued to grow ans succeed as a amazing player and person. I am currently the captain of the West Pines United girl's U17 team, and have a pending scholarship for a University in Georgia, all because of him. He has inspired my greatness, and I will carry it with me for as long as I live. 

There you have it! My interview is finally finished and I can finally stop stressing! Well, only for a little; I still have to complete my table of contents and double page spread. Let's see how that goes!

- AC

New Cover Page!

My new cover page is complete! I spent around two hours combining different colors, fonts, sizes, and placements just so I could make sure my cover would turn out perfect! Without a doubt, it did! 

As I mentioned in my previous blog, my first cover page had some minor issues, including page numbers, color of the texts, and the masthead organization. Today, after a long day at school, I assured my self that working on my new cover page would help me unwind and relax; so I did just that!

Beginning with the issue with the masthead, I combined the two type layers, KICKER and ZONE, so it would flow smoothly as KICKERZONE. Because of this change, I would have to move the bar code, another issue of mine. As I moved the bar code around the page, I discovered that it best fit in the bottom left corner like many other magazines. The change of the masthead also urged me to organize the sell line and date line differently. Using the same size text this time, I placed the sell line under the masthead on the left side of the page and the date line on the right side of the page. I was finally done with the top of my cover page!

Moving on, I knew it was time to change the cover image. This was one of the hardest parts of the night because every image was beautiful in its own way. However, they did not represent the fight for equality. Finally, I chose on a simple image of Jessica faced away from the camera. This image can stand on its own, without taking too much attention from the rest of the cover. Also, the position Jessica is in, shows the power she has, which ties into the main theme. 

The change of the picture allowed me to move my cover lines around and organize them in different ways. Since Jessica is the main focus of the cover, I decided to increase the size of her name and her interview cover line. Along with increasing the size, I changed the color of Jessica's name causing it to stand out more. However, this increase in text and change of color made the other cover lines look very minuscule and unimportant. Though I wanted the main cover line to be in bigger text, I didn't want it to over power the rest. After what felt like eternity, I was able to find the perfect balance between the texts. I then deleted the page numbers next to each cover line and my masterpiece was complete! I am incredibly satisfied and content with the final product. Here it is: 

- AC

The Cover Page

Meanwhile I wait for Jessica to finish answering my interview questions, I have decided to begin constructing my cover page so no time goes to waste!

Opening up photoshop, I began to organize my thoughts and contain my excitement. Since I had already designed my outlines and taken my pictures, all I had to do was combine everything together. I thought this was gonna be a breeze, but I was completely wrong!

Based off my outline, I placed the picture, of Jessica kicking the ball, onto my document, beginning the cover design. After zooming in to focus on Jessica, I knew it was time to begin adding in the other elements.

Once I placed the masthead and barcode, I knew my cover was going to look great. I included a drop shadow and stroke onto the masthead to enhance the appearance and target the younger audiences. I then proceeded to create my sell line, "Girl's soccer for all." I felt that this sell line was strong and cohesive since it focuses on females yet is open to "all." 

After an hour or so, I had typed up my date line, main coverline, and other coverlines, along with editing each type and organizing my layout. Here is the cover page I created: 

Although this cover is visually appealing and organized, I realized that some elements of the page had minor issues. For instance, the color of Jessica's name does not stand out from the cover, making it less important. Also, the picture I used did not represent my topic completely; yes the picture illustrates female soccer, but it does not explore the theme of fighting for equality. Along with the cover image, I discovered that the placement of the barcode took attention away from the masthead, which is crucial to any magazine. The last minor issue I realized was the use of numbers on the cover page. To me, they are aesthetically pleasing but it just doesn't fit. Having the numbers on the cover page gives off a table of contents look, which I do not want since I have to create a separate page for my table of contents. 

Despite these minor issues, I am very pleased with the outcome of my cover page. Since I have a couple of days until Jessica comes back home, I decided I am going to fix the issues on my page! But for now, I need some rest! I'll update with my new and improved cover page, see you later!

- AC

Communication Is Key

Today actually began pretty well, until a major set back happened...

After my morning workout, I decided it was finally time to get that interview done; it had been two days since I came up with my questions, and I needed to get this interview finished! 

So, I called up Jessica and asked her when it was possible to meet, which she hesitantly replied by saying she wasn't sure if today was a good day. Understandingly, I assured her that it was okay because I was on track with my magazine and had a couple of extra days to spare. However, as I suggested to meet up with her at her next soccer practice, Tuesday the 28th, she informed me that she would not be in town this whole week. I couldn't believe what I was hearing! How was I supposed to interview her when she is all the way across the country? This project was going so well, and now it will be set back a whole week because my main interview will have to be postponed!

After spending an hour or so pondering over how to fix the situation I realized that my problem was that Jessica and I were lacking communication. If I would have communicated with her more often, I would have learned about this earlier, and would have thought of ways to prevent this set back. Communication is key! How could I forget something so simple?

Though this set back required me to step up my game, it taught me a valuable lesson that will help me improve my magazine from here on out! No more staying quiet, it's time to communicate!

With this mindset, I had a major epiphany. Who said an interview can't be through text? I had exactly one hour until Jessica's flight departed and there was absolutely no time to waste!

I messaged her and asked her if she minded being interviewed over text, and with the amazing person that she is, she instantly agreed. She said she had an hour to kill at the airport so why not? With a grin on my face, I sent the questions on her way!

After what felt like an eternity, she replied with her answers; but something was missing. I realized she had only answered the first three questions before telling me her flight was boarding and she would have to leave. So I guess she will have to answer the rest of the questions another time...

But that's okay, at least I got some of the answers so I can begin working on constructing my magazine! 

Nothing can hold me back, not even a trip across the country!

- AC

Interview Questions?

Before I begin my interview process, I want to make sure that I am asking the right questions. But who determines which questions are the right ones to ask? Well, that's what research is for! I have decided to research what questions I should ask my talented friend, Jessica. 

At first, I researched "What to ask in an interview," which generally is a very broad question, as it applies to every type of interview. After scrolling through millions of research on interview questions such as, "9 Good Questions to ask in an interview," I realized that this search I have done wasn't the best idea; all these articles talk about job interviews, which is not what I'm looking for! Maybe I should try searching something more specific? 

I began my research again but this time searched "what to ask in a magazine interview." This search helped me immensely! The first link that came up was "14 Revealing Interview Questions." This article allowed me to explore different questions that would help kick off my interview by allowing the readers to learn more about Jessica. The number one question I would like to include in my interview is "Who is your role model and why?" However, instead of using a question that came straight out of a website, I decided to make the question more original and coinciding with the story by asking, "Who is your soccer inspiration and why?" This focuses more on the topic of my magazine and helps to open up the topic in the interview. 

Another article I found while doing my research is, "30 Questions to ask in an informal interview." Within the 30 questions, I was able to find a couple that I could use. For instance, the question "What do you like most about your job," really stood out to me. To relate it to my topic, I have come up with the question, "What does soccer mean to you?" By using this question, I am allowing Jessica to open up to not only myself, but all the readers out there; which is the basis of any interview. After asking these personal questions, I would like to ask questions that are targeted on the main topic of the article, Gender equality. The research I conducted provided me with the question "What problems do you face on a day-to-day basis?" I decided to expand this question into "Have you heard about the gender equality issues in sports? If so what have you heard?" By expanding this question, I will begin to introduce the topic without getting too deep.

Without the help of that research, my brain would have exploded trying to come up with questions to ask! 

Moving away from my research, I began to base my other questions on my question "Have you heard about the gender equality issues in sports, If so what have you heard?" After brainstorming many different questions, I decided my favorite ones were: 

1. "In your opinion, why do you think it is so important to talk about these issues?"

2. "What can us women do in order to fight for our equality on the field?"

3. "Do you think this a man's game or a woman's game?"

With these powerful questions, there is no doubt my magazine article will come out amazing, I can't wait! Now I can finally interview Jessica. As promised, my interview will come soon, don't lose hope! See you then!

- AC 

Adams, Susan. "30 Questions To Ask In An Informational Interview." Forbes. Forbes Magazine, 26 Feb. 2016. Web. 25 Mar. 2017. <https://www.forbes.com/sites/susanadams/2015/03/04/30-questions-to-ask-in-an-informational-interview/#45bd89ab215f>. 

Haden, Jeff. "14 Revealing Interview Questions." Inc.com. Inc., 04 Mar. 2013. Web. 25 Mar. 2017. <http://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/14-revealing-interview-questions.html>. 

"Here Are Nine Good Questions to Ask at Your next Job Interview." Monster Career Advice. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Mar. 2017. <https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/nine-questions-to-ask-interview>.

Importance Of Editing

I finally met up with my model, Jessica Cuenca. As I was driving to her soccer practice, a rush of excitement came over me. I couldn't wait to finally take the pictures for KICKERZONE. With my camera by my side, nothing could stop me.

In the span of an hour and a half, I managed to take about 200 pictures. However, many of the pictures were blurry due to the constant movement of the players; I didn't think it would be this hard! However, some shots came out beautiful. My favorite shots of the night were these:

Looking at these pictures in depth, allowed me to realize that although they are beautiful by themselves, they do require editing. Of course, I wasn't going to edit 200 pictures, so, I chose my best 40 pictures, and began to edit. After around an hour, I was complete. The following pictures are the edited versions of the pictures shown above:

Clearly, these pictures look much more professional once it is edited. Therefore, I have decided to use the edited versions of the pictures for my magazine. All that is left to do is interview Jessica, and begin to construct my magazine. Stay tuned to learn how my interview goes! Wish me luck!

- AC