Website Quality check and Enhancing Features

In this post, I will discuss my website quality check and website enhancing features.

Firstly, I went to SEO which is Search engine optimization where I completed some of the checklists in the SEO so that my website can be seen more in Google.

On the Melancholy page, I added a slider that helps me to showcase the pictures I took.

On the chapbook page, I added a Yumpu embed, to also help showcase my book as a whole.

Lastly, on the podcast page on the Gallery, I added the embed link for Spotify so that people can instantly listen to the podcast on the website.

Free Project : Reflection

 In this post I will be reflecting on my Final project for this term.

This is a very fun experience as I got to do something that I don't traditionally do in everyday-life, alongside the fact that I haven't done a podcast at all nor have posted any of the sort. This is also educational since I got to study more about Japanese culture, their diversity, representations, and ironically, their food. It was also very enjoyable since I got to watch and reference different animes during my podcast. 

On further detail, I have learned more technical knowledge here regarding audio and podcasting, such as how to rent the equipment, what equipment is needed for podcasting, how to set it up, how to record and edit it, as well as publish it as a whole in RSS and Spotify. In particular, I learned that these platforms for podcasts may help with my future career as a VFX artist in spreading the word of my talents and abilities. Ultimately, this has helped me grow as a student, as an entertainer, as an artist, as an audience and as a person who appreciates animation as a whole.

Free Project : Final Work and Uploading to Website

In this post I will be discussing my final work on the podcast by uploading the podcast to RSS and Spotify alongside the process of uploading it to my website.

Firstly, I went to Canva to create my podcast cover. I chose a template for an album cover and changed the photo to fit the subject I were to talk about alongside changing the title to fit my podcast title. Then, I downloaded it as a png file.

Next, I went to RSS, created an account to create my podcast. I put the title of "Food-On!!!", gave a short description of "anime food scenes are underrated" and also created RSS feed link. The next step is to determine the genre of the podcast, which is food and film review.

With that, I have created my podcast in RSS.

Next, I clicked on the new episode button to upload my episode. The title is "Generally Speaking", with the notes being "Let's talk about this" and the episode number being 1. I also added keywords such as food, animation, anime, film, etc. Then, I uploaded the audio file for the episode. As such, I have finished uploading my podcast to RSS.

Moving on, I went to Spotify and pasted the RSS link to create my podcast. I chose the country as United Kingdom, primary language English, the provider RSS.com, and the categories being animation, anime, and entertainment.

As such, I have now finished uploading the podcast to both RSS and Spotify.

Moving on, I went to my website where I created a new page titled the podcast title and made it a subpage. There, I changed the title and description to fit with my project. Then, I went to embed the Spotify link into the website, which added the episode into the site.

After that, I went on to create a new project page, where I add the project's title and description. However, because I can't upload the link or the audio into the project, I only included the cover art for the podcast. The last step I made is to make sure the buttons in the Food-On!!! page work, by linking the read more button into the project page.

Free Project: Editing of Audio

In this post I will be discussing the editing I had done alongside the editing software I had utilized which is Audacity and Shotcut.

After recording my audio clips in Audacity, I edited in the same software before exporting it as a WAV file to be used in Shotcut for the final edit.

From there, I added the WAV file of my podcast to the software Shotcut to be edited alongside the background of music of "Little Root Town" made by Nintendo. I spliced the parts that had dead air and bad audio; I also did the same for the background music of the podcast and extended some of its audio to fit the whole duration of the podcast. I also made sure to let the background music play at the start and at the end before I speak in order to add authenticity to the episode.

Lastly, I exported the file in Shotcut as a WAV file to be uploaded to my chosen platform which is Spotify. 

Free Project: Creation of the Podcast Audio

In this post I will be discussing the creation of the podcast audio.

Firstly, I went to AV Loans website to rent the equipment research on my technical research post. This includes the stand, mic, headphones, XLR cable, and audio interface.

Secondly, I booked a time to pick up and return the equipment. After which I picked up the equipment from AV Loans and went home to begin recording the podcast alongside the script I had made. Please refer to the scriptwriting post to see my process.

Next, I went to Audacity changed the input to mono and made sure the audio setup is connected to the audio interface and headphones I was utilizing. I then simply started recording through the red button in the tools tab of Audacity. Here I made my first recording.

Following this, I spoke the next five paragraphs.

And I finalize the recording with the final paragraphs.

Free Project: Scriptwriting

In this post I will be discussing the script I have written for the podcast I will be conducting.

Firstly, I wrote the introduction part of the script, which introduces the topic of anime and how it contains food scenes that not only function as aesthetic scenes. It also explains how it can affect story structure and how it adds to audience enjoyment.

To start off, I introduce its cultural representation for Japan through Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san as the main character in the mentioned anime presents her obsession with ramen which she also presents relatability for the audience in Japanese food culture

To showcase the diversity in Japanese cuisine, I explore Shokugeki no Soma, which depicts the regional cuisine to not only introduce viewers to new flavors and dishes but to also emphasise the unique characteristics of each region's culture and history.

Once again, the fourth paragraph talks about Shokugeki no Soma in how anime food scenes add to the development of the story and characters. It shows the main protagonist's development particularly in his culinary skills as he overcomes personal challenges, which led to his growth as a chef and as a person.

On the fifth paragraph, I also talked about how anime food scenes contributes to audience enjoyment by providing a sense of comfort and familiarity. The example I give is in the sixth paragraph which is Spirited Away. 

For the 6th paragraph, I discussed a scene in Spirited Away in which Chihiro eats a warm bowl of soup that creates a sense of relatability towards the audience about comfort. The following two paragraphs after this focus on the visual effect aspect of each anime food scene, specifically from Toriko and Spirited Away.

The second to the last paragraph still continues to talk about visual effects in anime food scenes. However, it focuses on Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san for the matter. Lastly, I wrote my conclusion about the topic, detailing the anime food scenes are significant in pushing the story, the characters, and the art itself.

  

Free Project : Research on Shun Saeki and his artwork on "Food wars"

In this post I will be discussing Shun Saeki and some scenes he has created.

Shun Saeki

Shun Saeki is a Japanese manga artist and illustrator, best known for his work on the popular food-themed manga series "Food Wars!" ("Shokugeki no Soma" in Japanese). In this manga, Saeki's artistic skill shines through in his ability to bring food to life on the page, often causing readers to salivate over the delicious dishes he depicts. His artwork captures the textures, colors, and details of food in an almost photorealistic manner, which has played a significant role in the success of the series.

One of the unique features of "Food Wars!" is the use of "foodgasms," in which characters experience intense sensory pleasure from eating a particularly delicious dish. Saeki's art plays a crucial role in the depiction of these scenes, as the imagery he creates is designed to evoke a visceral response in the reader. For example, in one scene, a character tastes a dish made with salmon and roe, and the artwork depicts the flavors exploding in his mouth in a vivid and almost psychedelic manner. This emphasis on the sensory experience of food is a defining characteristic of Saeki's work in "Food Wars!"

Saeki's style is also heavily influenced by his background in graffiti and street art. This is evident in his use of bold, vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, which help to convey a sense of energy and movement. In addition to his work on "Food Wars!," Saeki has created artwork for a variety of other projects, including album covers and fashion collaborations. Fujimoto (2020) notes that the artist's background in street art is evident in his use of bold colors and dynamic compositions (p. 92). In each of these projects, his distinctive style is immediately recognizable, making him a highly sought-after artist in the industry. According to Yamamoto (2018), Saeki's artwork in "Food Wars!" is so realistic that it "makes your mouth water just looking at it" (p. 47). In his analysis of Saeki's work, 

A study by Tanaka (2017) found that the use of "foodgasms" in "Food Wars!" has been a significant factor in the series' popularity, and that Saeki's art plays a crucial role in depicting these scenes (p. 63).

Fujimoto, K. (2020). Shun Saeki: The Graffiti Artist Who Draws Sensational Food Manga. GQ Japan. https://www.gqjapan.jp/culture/article/2020/02/27/shun-saeki-food-wars-manga

Tanaka, S. (2017). Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma: The Role of Culinary Arts in a Popular Japanese Manga. Food, Culture & Society, 20(1), 57-73. https://doi.org/10.1080/15528014.2016.1257603

Yamamoto, Y. (2018). The Power of Food in Japanese Manga: Analyzing Food Wars! as a Window into Japanese Culture. The Journal of Popular Culture, 51(1), 43-56. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpcu.12639

Free Project : Hayao Miyazaki Research on his films and food scenes within

In this post I will be discussing Hayao Miyazaki and some scenes he has created.

Hayao Miyazaki

Hayao Miyazaki is a renowned Japanese filmmaker, screenwriter, and animator who has created some of the most memorable and beloved animated films of all time. One of the elements that makes his films so captivating is the way he incorporates food into his stories. From ramen and rice balls to roasted meat and fresh vegetables, food plays a crucial role in the characters' lives and the worlds they inhabit. 

In Spirited Away, food is used as a tool to demonstrate the power and control of the spirit world. When the young protagonist Chihiro stumbles upon a grand feast prepared for the spirits, she is warned not to eat anything or she will never be able to return to the human world. The food is presented as irresistible, with vibrant colors and mouth-watering aromas, yet it is also dangerous and forbidden. Through this portrayal, Miyazaki is able to highlight the allure and temptation of the unknown, while also emphasizing the importance of self-control and restraint. In contrast, in My Neighbor Totoro, food is used to symbolize the comforts and pleasures of everyday life. The film is set in the Japanese countryside, and much of the story revolves around the everyday activities of a young family who move to the area. Scenes of the characters cooking and eating meals together are used to convey a sense of warmth, comfort, and community. For example, when the girls' father returns home after a long day at work, he is greeted with a homemade bento box full of his favorite foods. The care and attention put into the meal serves as a reminder of the importance of family and the joys of everyday life.

Miyazaki's attention to detail in the depiction of food is also notable. In both Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro, the food is presented in a way that is both realistic and magical. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the dishes are animated with such care that they become characters in their own right. The food in Miyazaki's films is not just sustenance, but a source of wonder and delight.

In conclusion, food plays a significant role in Hayao Miyazaki's films, serving as a tool for exploring complex themes and emotions. From the dangers of temptation to the pleasures of everyday life, food is used to convey meaning and to enhance the viewer's experience. Through his attention to detail and careful animation, Miyazaki elevates food from a simple prop to an integral part of the storytelling process.

References:

Baxi, D. (2019). Food and Culture in Hayao Miyazaki’s Films. The Culinary Anthropologist, 7(2), 13-22. doi: 10.11648/j.ca.20190202.11

Ezra, E. (2011). Hayao Miyazaki: The Taste of Anime. Film Quarterly, 64(3), 32-39. doi: 10.1525/fq.2011.64.3.32

Galloway, P. (2014). The Enchantment of Miyazaki's Animism: Aesthetic Strategies in Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle. Animation: An Interdisciplinary Journal, 9(1), 29-44. doi: 10.1177/1746847713518169

Free Project: Podcast Structure Research

In this post I will be discussing my research on Podcast Structure.

Podcasts have become a popular form of media in recent years, with a wide range of topics and styles available for listeners to choose from. One important aspect of creating a successful podcast is structuring it in a way that engages listeners and keeps them coming back for more. 

Firstly, it is important for podcasts to have a clear and concise structure. This includes an introduction, body, and conclusion, as well as a consistent format for each episode. The introduction should hook the listener and provide a brief overview of what the episode will cover. The body should be well-organized and provide in-depth analysis or discussion of the topic. The conclusion should wrap up the episode and provide a sense of closure. Another important aspect of podcast structure is the use of sound effects, music, and other audio elements. These can be used to add variety and interest to the episode, as well as to emphasize key points or transitions. For example, a sound effect can be used to signal a change in topic or to emphasize a particularly important point. Similarly, music can be used to create a specific mood or to provide a transition between different segments of the episode.

In addition to structure and audio elements, the length of a podcast episode is also an important consideration. Many successful podcasts have episodes that range from 20 minutes to an hour, although some may be shorter or longer depending on the topic and audience. It is important for podcasters to strike a balance between providing enough content to keep listeners engaged and not overwhelming them with too much information. Another important aspect of podcast structure is the use of segments. Segments can be used to break up longer episodes into smaller, more manageable sections, or to provide different perspectives on the same topic. For example, a podcast about current events might have a news segment, a discussion segment, and an interview segment. This helps to keep the episode organized and focused, and also allows listeners to easily navigate to the sections that interest them most.

Finally, it is important for podcasters to be aware of their audience and tailor their structure to meet their needs. For example, a podcast aimed at a younger audience might use more casual language and include more humour, while a podcast aimed at a professional audience might use more technical language and be more focused on industry news and trends. Understanding the needs and interests of the target audience is key to creating a successful podcast. The structure of a podcast is a key factor in its success. A clear and concise structure, the use of sound effects and other audio elements, the appropriate length of episodes, the use of segments, and an understanding of the target audience are all important considerations for podcasters. By paying close attention to these elements and continually refining their structure, podcasters can create engaging and successful podcasts that keep listeners coming back for more.

References:

Bell, S. (2015). How to structure a podcast episode. Retrieved from https://www.thepodcasthost.com/planning/how-to-structure-a-podcast-episode/

Darnell, D. (2018). How to structure your podcast to keep listeners coming back. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2018/02/07/how-to-structure-your-podcast-to-keep-listeners-coming-back/?sh=3f6d8d66282e

Killermann, S. (2019). The definitive guide to podcast structure. Retrieved from https://www.listennotes.com/podcast-academy/podcast-structure/

Free Project : Theme Research

In this post I will be discussing my research about Food scenes by anime studios.

Anime has become one of the most prominent cultural exports of Japan in recent years and one of the most striking aspects of anime is the way it depicts food. Many anime shows and films showcase beautifully illustrated dishes, and in some cases, the food scenes play a significant role in the plot. This essay will examine the significance of food scenes in anime and how they contribute to the storytelling.

Food scenes in anime not only serve as eye-catching visuals, but they also serve as a means of establishing the culture and environment of the story. In anime, food is often used as a way to showcase regional cuisine or the seasonality of ingredients. For example, in the anime "Shokugeki no Soma," the main character, Soma Yukihira, enrolls in a prestigious culinary school where he learns to master a range of traditional and modern Japanese dishes. Throughout the series, the show highlights the ingredients and techniques used in different regions of Japan, from Hokkaido's seafood to Kyushu's ramen. By doing so, the show educates the viewers on Japanese cuisine and culture.

In addition to the cultural aspect, food scenes can also help to establish character development and relationships. For instance, in the anime film "Spirited Away," food is used as a way to convey the strange and magical nature of the spirit world. The main character, Chihiro, is tasked with working at a bathhouse for spirits, where she must cook and serve the various creatures that come to the bathhouse. As she prepares and serves the food, she gains the trust and respect of the other characters, and this helps her in her quest to save her parents and escape from the spirit world.

Moreover, food scenes can also help to create a sense of nostalgia and comfort for the viewers. In the anime "Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san," the show revolves around a high school girl, Koizumi, who is obsessed with ramen. The show not only showcases different types of ramen but also explores the emotional connection that people have with their favorite foods. The scenes where Koizumi slurps down a hot bowl of ramen or debates the merits of different soup bases can make the viewers feel warm and cozy, and transport them back to a time when they had a similar experience.

While the use of food scenes in anime is not unique to the genre, it is interesting to see how the anime industry uses this technique to create a sense of realism and relatability for the viewers. The illustrations of food in anime are often so detailed and vibrant that they can evoke an emotional response from the viewers. By combining the visual aspect with cultural significance and character development, food scenes in anime can contribute significantly to the overall storytelling.

Food scenes in anime serve as more than just eye-candy. They contribute significantly to the plot, characterization, and cultural significance of the story. By showcasing regional cuisine, establishing character relationships, and creating a sense of nostalgia, anime studios can transport viewers to another world and evoke an emotional response. Anime continues to be a significant cultural export of Japan, and the use of food scenes is just one of the many ways that it captivates audiences worldwide.

References:

Hori, K., & Ishida, H. (2019). Shokugeki no Soma and Food-Culture Diplomacy. The Journal of Popular Culture, 52(4), 962-982.

Napier, S. J. (2016). Anime and memory: aesthetic, cultural and thematic perspectives. Palgrave Macmillan.

Free Project : Technical Research

Creating a high-quality podcast requires the use of certain technical equipment. In this blogpost, I will be discussing some of the technical equipment required for podcasting.

Microphones Microphones are one of the most essential pieces of equipment for podcasting. A high-quality microphone can make a huge difference in the quality of your podcast. There are two types of microphones used for podcasting: dynamic and condenser. Dynamic microphones are good for recording in noisy environments and are more durable, while condenser microphones are more sensitive and provide better sound quality. Some popular microphone brands for podcasting include Shure, Audio-Technica, and Rode.

• Audio Interfaces
  
  
  Audio interfaces are devices that connect your microphone to your computer. They allow you to adjust the sound levels and provide better quality sound. Some popular audio interfaces for podcasting include Focusrite Scarlett, PreSonus AudioBox, and Behringer U-Phoria.

• Headphones
  
  
  Headphones are essential for podcasting as they allow you to hear your own voice and the voices of your guests. They also help you monitor the sound levels and prevent feedback. Some popular headphone brands for podcasting include Sony, Audio-Technica, and Sennheiser.

• Pop Filters
  
  
  Pop filters are accessories that attach to your microphone to reduce popping sounds caused by plosives such as "p" and "b" sounds. They are a cost-effective way to improve the quality of your audio. Some popular pop filter brands include Nady and Auphonix.

• Recording Software
  
  
  Recording software is used to record and edit your podcast. There are many software options available, both free and paid. Some popular recording software for podcasting include Audacity, GarageBand, and Adobe Audition.

From what I've searched creating a successful podcast requires the use of certain technical equipment. Microphones, audio interfaces, headphones, pop filters, and recording software are essential for producing high-quality podcasts. By investing in good equipment, you can improve the quality of your podcast and attract more listeners.

With this information the items below provided the closest characteristics to what I have described above will be the ones I will borrow from the School's technical equipment building "AV Loans" :

• Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface
•  AKG C414 XLS Microphone
• AKG K240 Headphones
• XLR Cable - 1m Long - Red
• Tabletop Mic Stand - Gooseneck with Clamp

References :

"The 6 Best Microphones for Podcasting in 2021" by Joey Held (https://www.musicianonamission.com/best-microphones-for-podcasting/)

"The Best Audio Interfaces for Home Recording" by John Twells (https://www.factmag.com/2019/05/29/best-audio-interfaces-home-recording/)

"The 10 Best Podcasting Headphones of 2021" by Robert Silva (https://www.lifewire.com/best-podcasting-headphones-4163614)

"10 Best Pop Filters for Podcasting & Streaming in 2021" by Max Parker (https://www.techradar.com/best/best-pop-filters-for-podcasting-and-streaming)

"Top 10 Best Free Podcast Recording Software for Windows/Mac" by Adam Gorden (https://filmora.wondershare.com/audio-editing-tips/free-podcast-recording-software.html)