One of my earliest recollections of being interested in film and media was when watching a behind the scenes feature about a Star Wars production. It raised my interest in what it takes to make a successful, ground-breaking franchise. This is when I became interested in media and pursuing a career in the industry. I enjoy watching film and appreciate film for the different stories they show. I like to see the visions of others to learn ideas and techniques and be inspired by the creators that know it best.  

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Directors I value and who influence my ideas include Steven Spielberg, Michael Bay, Jon Favreau and George Lucas. These directors have made some of my favourite movies and have inspired me when pursuing my own projects. Their films use many different techniques that I can take inspiration from, whether it is from the story telling or the filming style, for example one shot takes. 

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In high school, there was no opportunity to join any media or photography groups, so I started doing photography in my own time and developed some basic self-taught skills. I was constantly seeking opportunities to capture images and practise photography techniques. Following my time in Scouts, I became an ‘Explorer Scout’ and joined the media team to film activities and record special events which were then shared on social media. As well as Explorers, I am a senior member of the Blackpool Youth Concert Band and have worked with them on media projects to capture our events and shows. I have been a member for over 8 years now and I have had experience with them travelling on tour across Europe, namely Germany, Austria, France, and Spain. I perform to a grade 7 standard and take a leadership role within the group coaching and supporting younger members. My work experience with Blackpool Music Service, included preparation of a presentation on the opportunities available and I co-presented this in several primary schools. 

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On leaving high school, my goal was to study media and film production. After reviewing my options, I enrolled on the Level 3 UAL Media Production Course at Blackpool School of Arts. I had gained personal experience of using cameras to take photos, but I wanted to learn and practise filming and moving image work. Over the 2 years on the Level 3 programme, I have had the opportunity to study, plan and produce media projects that include documentary, a music video, radio news package, short film and animation. These projects have given me valuable insight and experience of creating ideas, planning projects, and executing the right ways to produce media projects. I have gained valuable experience on my college media course, but I know that I can gain a higher level of understanding and produce content more professionally for wider audiences by progressing to a university course to study film/media production. 

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Currently I am in my second year of a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Media Production at Blackpool and the Fylde College and about to embark on a 10-week work experience placement. I am looking forward to planning and producing my graduating Final Major Project. For this project I plan to make a short film showcasing my skills and abilities. 

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I was Deputy Head Boy in both my primary and high schools as I wanted to take responsibility and help my school. I am now a college Student Rep where I help students and support my course. I consider myself to be a bubbly character as I enjoy working with others and being around people with the same interests as me. I am a fun, friendly, helpful person who likes to help people explore their ideas and creativity as I feel everyone should have their chance to create their vision.

 

Further studying film and media at university will set me in a good place where I can produce a vast amount of various media content, which can help build a career within the industry as well as put my name out as a viable asset to companies.