Every Sunday night I usually sit around and watch, "Keeping Up with the Kardashians," which is a reality series about a rich family (Kim, Kourtney, Khloe, Rob, Kris, Bruce, Kendell, and Kylie)who are a bit crazy and quite entertaining. This week, it wasn't just about being entertained for 30 minutes, but counting all the product placements that appeared on the show.
The first product that was shown was a Range Rover, which is the car that Khloe was driving appeared again towards the end of the show. Kim had a cup of Starbucks coffee several times during the show, but the actual logo was never showing. I realized it was Starbucks because of the white cup with green letters and brown coffee holder. In one scene there is a flash of a Chanel store and a BMW car. At one point while they are in the house, there is what appears to be Ocean Spray cranberry juice, but is blurred out so the brand is not visible. Rob is seen several times wear different track jackets. In one scene he is wear a Boston Celtics jacket and in other an Adidas. The family store, Dash, appears all throughout the show along with different restaurants such as Chaya. Towards the end Rob and Scott are seen drinking two Coronas.
I realized that since this show is based on a family with a lot of money that live in California, many of the products that are placed are expensive or try to demonstrate status.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Thursday, April 10, 2008
The Millennial Generation
Being a Millennial
I am proud to be part of the Millennial Generation. It wasn't until last year that I actually realized that I was part of a generation, a very significant one nonetheless. Gen Y, The Millennials, etc are all sorts of names that are used to "define" us. I believe that the reason why we do not have an established title is because we are so diverse and distinctive. There are many things being said about the Millennials, both positive and negative. Some people label us as narcissists, spoiled, and simply "bad kids." However, there are others such as generation experts Neil Howe and William Strauss who believe that we are a rising generation that is educated, motivated, and very independent; I agree. High self-esteem and independence are factors that make up our distinctively defined generation. Millennials have grown up in a society that encourages the individual to succeed and depend on no one.
Advertising to Millennials
To some extent I do believe that advertisers are reaching out to our generation. The Millennials are such a large generation, that it is very important for advertisers to target us. I enjoy reading magazines when I have the time and so do many Millennials. Since our generation has grown up in a celebrity gossip era that is surrounded by fashion, we have developed an interest in such things. Therefore, I believe one of the best ways for advertisers to get my attention is through magazines. I usually do not buy a product as soon as I see it in an ad, but it does create awareness. I only buy a product immediately after seeing an ad if I really like the brand.
Social networks are a great way to advertise a product since many Millennials have an account to either MySpace, Facebook, or both. However, the ads that pop up on the Web sites are usually products that I would never buy. Facebook and MySpace definitely need to find a better way advertise and place those ads in the right places.
I am proud to be part of the Millennial Generation. It wasn't until last year that I actually realized that I was part of a generation, a very significant one nonetheless. Gen Y, The Millennials, etc are all sorts of names that are used to "define" us. I believe that the reason why we do not have an established title is because we are so diverse and distinctive. There are many things being said about the Millennials, both positive and negative. Some people label us as narcissists, spoiled, and simply "bad kids." However, there are others such as generation experts Neil Howe and William Strauss who believe that we are a rising generation that is educated, motivated, and very independent; I agree. High self-esteem and independence are factors that make up our distinctively defined generation. Millennials have grown up in a society that encourages the individual to succeed and depend on no one.
Advertising to Millennials
To some extent I do believe that advertisers are reaching out to our generation. The Millennials are such a large generation, that it is very important for advertisers to target us. I enjoy reading magazines when I have the time and so do many Millennials. Since our generation has grown up in a celebrity gossip era that is surrounded by fashion, we have developed an interest in such things. Therefore, I believe one of the best ways for advertisers to get my attention is through magazines. I usually do not buy a product as soon as I see it in an ad, but it does create awareness. I only buy a product immediately after seeing an ad if I really like the brand.
Social networks are a great way to advertise a product since many Millennials have an account to either MySpace, Facebook, or both. However, the ads that pop up on the Web sites are usually products that I would never buy. Facebook and MySpace definitely need to find a better way advertise and place those ads in the right places.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Standard DVD vs. Blu-ray
Today I picked up The Philadelphia Inquirer and USA TODAY and both had articles regarding Blu-ray format. For the purposes of this class I decided I would read at least one of the articles, The Philadelphia Inquirer's"Sorry, HD DVD--it's Blu-ray." At first I was very curious as to why Blu-ray was making headlines and as soon as I read the article, I thought its all for the wrong reasons. The article talks about Blu-ray winning the war against HD DVD over the next generation of at-home movie players. I believe that all of this is completely ridiculous. I cannot believe that some major movie studios such as Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. said that they will only be producing DVDs in Blu-ray format. A big deal is being made about the production of HD everything, that they will soon be throwing the "old" production of DVDs out the window. I personally do not have a problem with the DVDs I own. At this point the Blu-ray DVDs are just a luxury, not a need. However, in a couple of years it will all change when the standard DVD players and DVDs themselves are no longer available.
Just out of curiosity I checked the prices of a standard DVD and a Blu-ray DVD at bestbuy.com. The recently released Across the Universe sells for $19.99 and $29.99 for Blu-ray. Perhaps 10 years from now people may see the huge difference in the two, but right now, I think its rediculous. I look at my Disney VHS movies that I've had since I was a little girl and compare them with the picture on my nieces DVDs, and obviously the picture is much better; its clear, but how much better does the picture need to get?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNoeJH2aQW8
Just out of curiosity I checked the prices of a standard DVD and a Blu-ray DVD at bestbuy.com. The recently released Across the Universe sells for $19.99 and $29.99 for Blu-ray. Perhaps 10 years from now people may see the huge difference in the two, but right now, I think its rediculous. I look at my Disney VHS movies that I've had since I was a little girl and compare them with the picture on my nieces DVDs, and obviously the picture is much better; its clear, but how much better does the picture need to get?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNoeJH2aQW8
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Critical Analysis
Check out some local and national advertising. Try and figure out the marketing plan. Compare a local one to a national one from a critical standpoint.
For this particular assignment I chose the Shannondell at Valley Forge ad; local, and the American Medical Association (AMA) ad; national.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zq1tgigO6_k
The Shannondell at Valley Forge ad's slogan is "Do Something New Every Day." The target audience here is obviously senior citizens who are looking for a place where they can find recreation. When most of us think of senior citizens the first thing that comes to mind are sick, tired, and grumpy old people, which is very stereotypical. However, the people in this ad seem to be having a great time by standing in a pool, playing golf, using the computer, and drinking a glass of wine. I believe the placement of this ad is appropriate. I found it in the Local News section of the Philadelphia Inquirer which is read by many senior citizens.
The AMA ad is accusing Washington of political games and powerful insurance companies who lobby to keep billions in access medicare payments that threaten health care. This ad is targeting senior citizens who are the ones who really need the medical care. The viewers are encourage to speak with their senators so there won't be premium increase, or threats to doctor access. It is clear that the AMA is attacking politicans who do not look out for those who really need medical treatement. However, I do not believe that many senior citizens are in conditions to speak out for themselves. They actually need people like AMA and AARP to represent them, not neccessarily tell them what they should be doing.
The difference between both is that the Shannondell ad, is showing that senior citizens are enjoying themeselves and living life to its fullest. However, the AMA ad clearly demonstrates that many patients, particularly senior citizens, are threatened because they do not have access to doctors. The Shannondell ad is trying to get senior citizens to join their community, while the AMA wants them to speak up for themselves.
For this particular assignment I chose the Shannondell at Valley Forge ad; local, and the American Medical Association (AMA) ad; national.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zq1tgigO6_k
The Shannondell at Valley Forge ad's slogan is "Do Something New Every Day." The target audience here is obviously senior citizens who are looking for a place where they can find recreation. When most of us think of senior citizens the first thing that comes to mind are sick, tired, and grumpy old people, which is very stereotypical. However, the people in this ad seem to be having a great time by standing in a pool, playing golf, using the computer, and drinking a glass of wine. I believe the placement of this ad is appropriate. I found it in the Local News section of the Philadelphia Inquirer which is read by many senior citizens.
The AMA ad is accusing Washington of political games and powerful insurance companies who lobby to keep billions in access medicare payments that threaten health care. This ad is targeting senior citizens who are the ones who really need the medical care. The viewers are encourage to speak with their senators so there won't be premium increase, or threats to doctor access. It is clear that the AMA is attacking politicans who do not look out for those who really need medical treatement. However, I do not believe that many senior citizens are in conditions to speak out for themselves. They actually need people like AMA and AARP to represent them, not neccessarily tell them what they should be doing.
The difference between both is that the Shannondell ad, is showing that senior citizens are enjoying themeselves and living life to its fullest. However, the AMA ad clearly demonstrates that many patients, particularly senior citizens, are threatened because they do not have access to doctors. The Shannondell ad is trying to get senior citizens to join their community, while the AMA wants them to speak up for themselves.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Advertising and Society
Does advertising emulate society or does society emulate advertising?
I really want to say both, but since the question is which came first the chicken or the egg I am going to say that advertising did not create this culture. It is what occurs in "our" world that is showcased through the media. What I believe is a great example are the upcoming elections in November or any elections. Elections are very important in the U.S. and can make a big impact in our society. The only time that we are bombarded with campaign ads are usually during elections. If it wasn't because our nation placed such a high importance on politicans there would be no need for ads about the candidates and their competition.
Bottled water is something that many Americans drink. It has just become a part of our society and many think nothing of it. However, a Poland Spring ad will not be seen in a country like Palestine where the water resources are very limited. I personally drink bottled water all the time and its not because I saw an ad for water, its just because its easier for me. Which brings me to another point. Americans are always on the go. It's just easier to grab a bottle of water from the fridge than have to grab a cup of water from the sink. It's a shame that plastic bottle are bad for the environment but I honesty believe that many people do not care whether the bottles have changed to be eco-friendly.
In the end, it is people within a society that make an impact amongst eachother. I have seen a million ads for facial care however, I do not purchase them unless several people recommend them. I rather purchase something because many people like the product as opposed to buying it because I seen it in a magazine or commercial.
I really want to say both, but since the question is which came first the chicken or the egg I am going to say that advertising did not create this culture. It is what occurs in "our" world that is showcased through the media. What I believe is a great example are the upcoming elections in November or any elections. Elections are very important in the U.S. and can make a big impact in our society. The only time that we are bombarded with campaign ads are usually during elections. If it wasn't because our nation placed such a high importance on politicans there would be no need for ads about the candidates and their competition.
Bottled water is something that many Americans drink. It has just become a part of our society and many think nothing of it. However, a Poland Spring ad will not be seen in a country like Palestine where the water resources are very limited. I personally drink bottled water all the time and its not because I saw an ad for water, its just because its easier for me. Which brings me to another point. Americans are always on the go. It's just easier to grab a bottle of water from the fridge than have to grab a cup of water from the sink. It's a shame that plastic bottle are bad for the environment but I honesty believe that many people do not care whether the bottles have changed to be eco-friendly.
In the end, it is people within a society that make an impact amongst eachother. I have seen a million ads for facial care however, I do not purchase them unless several people recommend them. I rather purchase something because many people like the product as opposed to buying it because I seen it in a magazine or commercial.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Comment
I was trying to comment on Kyle's blog but for some reason I was not able to, therefore I am posting it here.
I also like the Burger King commercials because they do draw the audience to wonder why people get so upset when the burger is not available. I go to Burger King often and always get a Whopper. At some point last month I went to get one and to my luck there was none. I'm not going to lie, I was pretty angry; how can Burger King not have Whoppers? In this case I can understand why the customers in the commercials get upset. Who knows maybe they were shooting for the commercial and I had no idea.
I also like the Burger King commercials because they do draw the audience to wonder why people get so upset when the burger is not available. I go to Burger King often and always get a Whopper. At some point last month I went to get one and to my luck there was none. I'm not going to lie, I was pretty angry; how can Burger King not have Whoppers? In this case I can understand why the customers in the commercials get upset. Who knows maybe they were shooting for the commercial and I had no idea.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Stereotypes
Before beginning this assignment I assumed that it would be very easy. I am not saying it was extremely hard however, it was challenging trying to analyze commercials that I would normally think nothing of. Throughout the entire time that I was watching T.V. I saw five commercials for makeup products; two for Maybelline, two for Covergirl, and one for L'Oreal. There were also several for hair products; Aussie, Head and Shoulders, , L'Oreal, Pantene, and two for Garnier Fructis. It is very common for the models and spokespersons for makeup commercials to be "cover girls." The faces which I recognized in these commercials were that of Penelope Cruz, Queen Latifah, and Heather Locklear. However, no matter what kind of makeup these actresses use, they will look beautiful either way. This takes me back to the commercial for Clearasil, a product for acne. Having acne myself, I am not easily convinced by a spokesperson advertising acne who has flawless skin. I have also realized that every acne commercial has a teen as a spokesperson which does not target older adults who suffer with acne as well.
I also spotted several commercials in which a women was associated with the kitchen, laundry, and the grocery store. Till this day women are still seen as the person who should be at home taking care of the children, preparing dinners, and keeping the house clean. The one commercial that drove me crazy was the one for Pediasure which I saw three times. This commercial shows a mom who is pushing her daughter around in a shopping cart at a grocery store, while the little brat complains on how she hates broccoli and chicken. Not only does this commercial reinforce children to be brats but it also demonstrates that all women shop for is food to go home to cook and satisfy their families. A black and white introduction for the commercial for I Can't Believe It's Not Butter, shows a woman with an apron serving her family dinner. Once again going back to the notion of women being stay at home moms.
I did not believe I would see many racial stereotypes and the first commercial I saw was exactly that. The movie Step Up was a dance movie that involved teenagers. In one of the scenes for Step up 2 the girl says "pimping guys out for green cards." It also shows how many young Caucasians try to be "street."
Looking at commercials the way I did for this assignment and how I did prior to it, is a huge difference. Before they were just commercials that I wanted to be over so I could get back to watching my show. Now I can see myself trying to figure out what the advertisers are actually trying to say instead of just ignoring them.
I also spotted several commercials in which a women was associated with the kitchen, laundry, and the grocery store. Till this day women are still seen as the person who should be at home taking care of the children, preparing dinners, and keeping the house clean. The one commercial that drove me crazy was the one for Pediasure which I saw three times. This commercial shows a mom who is pushing her daughter around in a shopping cart at a grocery store, while the little brat complains on how she hates broccoli and chicken. Not only does this commercial reinforce children to be brats but it also demonstrates that all women shop for is food to go home to cook and satisfy their families. A black and white introduction for the commercial for I Can't Believe It's Not Butter, shows a woman with an apron serving her family dinner. Once again going back to the notion of women being stay at home moms.
I did not believe I would see many racial stereotypes and the first commercial I saw was exactly that. The movie Step Up was a dance movie that involved teenagers. In one of the scenes for Step up 2 the girl says "pimping guys out for green cards." It also shows how many young Caucasians try to be "street."
Looking at commercials the way I did for this assignment and how I did prior to it, is a huge difference. Before they were just commercials that I wanted to be over so I could get back to watching my show. Now I can see myself trying to figure out what the advertisers are actually trying to say instead of just ignoring them.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Cloverfield
The movie Cloverfield has had a very successful campaign in the past few months. However, this has been an online marketing campaign which has targeted many viewers through Web sites such as You Tube and MySpace. Many are calling it Movie Marketing Maddess, and I can definitely agree.
When the trailer appeared there was no title or date. All the audience knew was that it took place in New York City while a going away party is being thrown, and New York was attacked by something that is capable of destroying the Statue of Liberty. Shortly after that many viewers began searching for clues online. The buzz was at its highest in the past weeks. I have to admit, I myself got caught up in it. I wanted to know what was attacking New York City so I looked for a clip on You Tube. I was shocked as to how many people had seen the same exact clip that I was about to view; almost 800,000 for a clip that was post five months ago. The craze about this movie is out of control. Everyone I know was talking about it prior to its premier last Friday. The fact that people had no idea what was actually going on is what I believe made this ad campaign very successful. It went from appearing on a few billboards and commercials, to being all over the Web, T.V. and making it the number one movie in the country.
When the trailer appeared there was no title or date. All the audience knew was that it took place in New York City while a going away party is being thrown, and New York was attacked by something that is capable of destroying the Statue of Liberty. Shortly after that many viewers began searching for clues online. The buzz was at its highest in the past weeks. I have to admit, I myself got caught up in it. I wanted to know what was attacking New York City so I looked for a clip on You Tube. I was shocked as to how many people had seen the same exact clip that I was about to view; almost 800,000 for a clip that was post five months ago. The craze about this movie is out of control. Everyone I know was talking about it prior to its premier last Friday. The fact that people had no idea what was actually going on is what I believe made this ad campaign very successful. It went from appearing on a few billboards and commercials, to being all over the Web, T.V. and making it the number one movie in the country.
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