Hello and welcome to my portfolio! My name is Phil, and I am excited to showcase my work and experiences in this space. Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have developed skills in Interactive Media & Computing, and have worked on projects ranging from Web & Graphic Design to creation and installation of fully interactive display's for public use. My goal is to demonstrate my expertise, work ethic, and passion for all areas shown below. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me, and please feel free to reach out with any questions or opportunities for collaboration.
Branding is aimed at building a strong and memorable image in the minds of consumers, thereby increasing brand recognition and loyalty. A successful branding strategy requires a deep understanding of the target audience, competitors, and market trends.
Illustrator is commonly used for vector-based graphics such as logos, while Photoshop is good for photo editing and manipulating raster images. Combining these two tools can result in stunning digital illustrations, which may include vector graphics, textures, and filters applied to photos.
This technique is typically used to design objects, buildings, characters, and other items for use in video games, movies, and other digital media. 3D modelling programs allow users to manipulate objects in real time and apply various effects such as textures and lighting to create a realistic representation of the subject. The final result can be exported in a variety of formats for use in animations, simulations, and other applications.
Other various works and doodles...
Photography Portfolio
rebekkaforster.co.uk is the personal online portfolio of Rebekka Forster, a photographer based in Elgin, Scotland. The website showcases a diverse collection of her photographic work, encompassing various themes such as nature, flora, marine life, sunsets, infrastructure, and still life. Each section features carefully curated images that reflect her artistic vision and technical proficiency.
React/API Project
movies.philforster.co.uk is a project developed by Phil Forster, a web developer and interactive media specialist based in Elgin, Scotland. This platform serves as a React application that integrates with external APIs to provide users with information about various films. It exemplifies Phil's proficiency in modern web development technologies and his commitment to creating dynamic, user-centric applications.
Commercial Client
gibbysmotorweldin.co.uk is a website designed by Phil Forster, a web developer and interactive media specialist based in Elgin, Scotland. This platform features a responsive design and user-friendly layout to showcase the services and used vehicles offered by Gibbys Motor Weldin. It highlights Phil's expertise in building modern, professional websites tailored to client needs.
Rework of a 3D model of solar system
SolInteractive.PhilForster.co.uk is an interactive 3D model of the solar system, allowing users to explore planets and their orbits dynamically. The site includes adjustable controls for speed, size, and distance, offering a customizable and educational experience. This engaging web application demonstrates a blend of creativity and technical precision, making it an ideal tool for learning about our solar system.
Interactive Code Editor
ice.philforster.co.uk is a fully custom-built Interactive Code Editor designed to allow users to write and preview HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in real time. This tool showcases the author’s ability to create functional and user-focused applications. With real-time rendering and an intuitive interface, users can edit code efficiently while receiving instant feedback. It serves as a valuable resource for developers and learners alike.
A CSS & JS Minifier
mini.philforster.co.uk is a fully custom-built tool designed to optimize CSS and JavaScript code by minifying it in real time. This application showcases the author’s ability to create efficient and user-focused solutions. With a simple interface, users can paste unoptimized code and generate minified versions instantly, improving file sizes and performance. It serves as a practical resource for developers aiming to streamline their workflows.
A Web Browser Game
Clicker.PhilForster.co.uk is a custom-built resource gathering game that allows users to collect resources and earn experience points through interactive gameplay. The application features an achievements system, tracking total experience points and current levels, providing users with goals to strive for as they progress. The interface is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring an engaging experience for players. This project demonstrates the author's proficiency in creating interactive web applications that combine entertainment with intuitive design.
A Web Browser Game
ufo.philforster.co.uk is a custom-built web game that offers a fun and interactive take on the classic "Duck Hunt" concept. Players aim to shoot moving UFO targets, earning points with each successful hit while managing reloads using the 'R' key. The game includes a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls, ensuring an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. This project highlights the author's ability to create engaging and entertaining web applications with a focus on seamless gameplay and design.
UHI Moray
diss.philforster.co.uk showcases the development of the Interactive Maritime Crew Area (IMCA) for Morayvia’s Sci-Tech Experience Project (S.T.E.P). This interactive display recreates the rear crew stations of a maritime patrol aircraft, complementing the cockpit exhibit. Utilizing Raspberry Pi™ and custom interfaces, it engages visitors with videos, sound, and animations. The website details the project’s planning, design, and development processes. This work highlights the author’s expertise in creating interactive educational tools that blend advanced technology with user-focused, immersive experiences.
UHI Moray
hci.philforster.co.uk is a project focused on exploring emerging technologies in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). The project involves designing and creating a product using Unity and Vuforia to assist patients with dyspraxia. The aim is to develop a tool that aids in the development of memory, perception, processing skills, or fine motor skills. The website showcases the progression of the project, including 3D models and wireframes of various dinosaurs created in 3DS Max. This project demonstrates the author's proficiency in utilizing advanced technologies to create interactive applications that address specific user needs.
UHI Moray
sfx.philforster.co.uk is a project focused on advanced topics in interactive media, specifically the integration of special effects into video production. The project involves designing and creating a short film titled "Almost: A Superhero," utilizing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects to implement various visual effects. The website showcases the project's progression, including storyboards, video timelines, and post-production techniques. This work demonstrates the author's proficiency in combining storytelling with technical expertise to create engaging multimedia content
After basic airman training I moved on to specialise as a Survival Equipment Fitter. The trade specifics included maintenance, repair and rectification of life support equipment used by the aircrew and fitted to aircraft.
This included Life rafts, Parachutes and Flying Clothing. I am also qualified as a Synthetic Parachute Instructor which involved training aircrew in post ejection decent drills.
The term 'interactive media' defines a collection of diverse technologies which provide a user experience using digital platforms. This was a foundation year introduce an number of areas within interactive media.
These included 2D animation using Adobe Flash, 3D animation using 3DS Max, web design and development, design techniques and video/sound production and editing using Adobe Premiere Pro.
The second year focused the skills and knowledge gained from the first year, concentrating on web development using HTML5 and CSS3, design techniques and 3D animation.
This year also introduced building an e-business, Professional and Legal Issues for Interactive Media Developers, Project Management for IT, Human Computer Interface, designing and developing an interactive media product and digital imaging culminating in a graded unit.
Transferring to the BSc in Computing allowed for training in Artificial Intelligence, Database construction and business planning, Computer Forensics, Multi User Operating systems and a team orientated project for NHS Scotland.
This was quite an involved year as I had to catch up on some of the basics due to the transfer from Interactive Media to Computing, however, this was a very eductional experience.
The Interactive Media BA (Hons) course spanned a two year period covering ten subjects ranging from small business planning to emerging technologies in human computer interaction (ETHCI).
Some of the modules ran in line with the final Dissertation project for a local charity, Morayvia, to research, plan, develop and deliver an interactive display to educate patrons on the operations carried out by Maritime Patrol Aircraft by enhancing the MPA corner within the visitor's centre.
Upon completion of the course I was awarded First-Class Honours.
As a direct result of the Dissertation project I was accepted as a volunteer with Morayvia to support their technologies and Survival Equipment. This involves project progression on the existing insatllation of the IMCA as well as some similar planned projects to bring the charity more interactive displays.
One such project which is underway is the transferal of the initail concepts of the imca into a more compact version for insatllation into the Nimrod fualasge, currently housed at Morayvia. This, hopefully, will be expanded to bring the exhibit to life and give a fully imersive experience.
At the end of my UHI journey I was honoured to be awarded the Higher Education Student of the Year from the University of the Highlands and Islands (Moray College).
I was thrilled to be nominated and was fortunate in being selected for this award, which was presented at the graduation ceremony in front my family, Degree graduates and faculty.
As the Front-End Dev, based in Elgin, my duties include building and maintaining the front facing sections of the company’s web presence.
This ranges from app creation for Content Managemnet Systems, such as FSB Sportsbook and WordPress, to bespoke White Label sites for specific partners. I run my own Jira board which entails managing task as they come in and prioritising the order in which they are completed.
I also create artwork for banners and promotions as well as assiting head office with task outside my normal day to day tasks.
In mid October 2019 I was nominated for the Scottish Ex-Forces in Business (Inspiration of the Year) award. These awards are aimed at raising the profile of Ex Forces who have move on to professional second careers and contributed in some way to business and personal development of themselves and those around them.
The awards are broken into subcategories for which I was shortlisted to finalist in my catergory. The complete nominal role can be viewed in the 2019 listings
As the Lead Developer for thepools.com (The Football Pools), my duties include building and maintaining the front facing sections of the company’s web presence specifically for thepools.com
This ranges from app creation for Content Managemnet Systems, such as FSB's Sportsbook, Casino, Virtuals Applications and Promotions to general maintinance. This entails managing task as they come in and prioritising the order in which they are completed.
I also create artwork for banners and promotions as well as assiting other teams with tasks outside my normal day to day duties.
I was promoted to Software Engineering Manager for the Elgin division in Sep 2020. This requires control of all local administration task for a team of 17 including Software Engineers, Artists, Content Managers and Testers as well as recruiting, man management and training.
This is especally challenging at the time of writing, due to restrictions of the global pandemic, requiring more flexablity and understanding to individual needs of the team.
I report directly to the Chief Technical Officer and work closly with the other lead developers.