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Research: Codes and conventions of selected genre of music video

Writer's picture: mahnoor rashid khanmahnoor rashid khan


The style, camera, sound (both diegetic and non-diegetic), mise en scene, editing, and stereotyping are often the codes and norms of music videos. However, these norms can vary slightly based on the genre and manner of the video. In order to provide the viewers with a basis or framework they can understand and to help them get comfortable with a certain genre, music videos use codes and conventions. A video typically lasts for the duration of a song, while more narrative videos may feature extra sequences to expand on the plot. Additionally, it ensures that a song's message and lyrics are depicted in the video. As a result, a heavy rock song's video will have relatable, stereotyped themes rather than something wholly unexpected.


The majority of music videos either adhere to traditions or make an effort to subvert dominant norms. Especially in pop or hip-hop music videos, voyeurism of ladies is a popular theme. This can be demonstrated by the choice of attire and camera positions, such as a close-up of the lips. Due to how simple it is to comply with preconceptions in music videos, the majority will almost certainly do so. Technical and symbolic tactics are the two sorts of strategies used to juxtapose meanings in the codes and conventions of music videos.


 

Technical - How well-designed technology can convey meaning. In order to express a specific meaning in the song and subsequently the music video, it is possible to employ various camera angles, views, sounds, editing methods, and genres.


Symbolic - This includes more mise en scene elements including gestures, body language, and facial expressions. These more visual and confusing elements also communicate a message that is not immediately obvious.


 

Why is there a need for codes and conventions?


Codes and conventions are crucial in music videos since they help the viewer become acquainted with different genres because they eventually come to recognise the many customs within them. It gives the video a framework that the viewer will comprehend, and the video somehow links to and complements the lyrics.


 

Some examples of codes and conventions;


Depending on the type of music, different music videos have different codes and norms. The following are some of the most typical rules and guidelines for music videos:


• The method (performance, concept, narrative)

• The sound effects; (non diegetic, diegetic)

• The camera;

• The editing (transitions, quick, slow)

• Setting the scene (props, lighting, costume, hair, makeup, locations, setting, colours)

• Illustrations (stereotyping)


 

Camera angles:



The technique the camera is employed in a music video is crucial for creating meaning. It can help to create various effects depending on how it is utilised, for instance, angles and movements. Below are several angles and actions that make the video distinctive.


• The focus remains on the artists standing in front of the scene or location, but a very wide shot is employed to show the viewer where the artist is.

• Wide shots typically focus on the performer, but the setting of the footage can still be seen by the viewer.

• A medium shot is midway between such a mid shot and close-up and displays the viewer the actor's chest and head.

• A mid shot focuses primarily on the subject while still giving the audience a sense of the place and surroundings.

• Closeups show the subject's face or an item in the shot in greater detail. This shot can reveal more about the mise-en-scene because the subject's expressions, clothing, and cosmetics can affect the video.

• An extreme close-up will concentrate on the artist's face, such as the eyes, nose, and lips, in order to recognize something or to give the film more context and impact. It may also be used to demonstrate lip-syncing in the video. In a narrative-based music video, the over-the-shoulder shot works well since it shows the artist's point of view while still having them in it. If the artist is speaking with someone, it can also serve as a reverse shot.

• Cut-ins are frequently used in music videos to match the lyrics. If a song has a line that, for instance, describes an object, the object might then appear in the song.


 

Editing:



There are numerous editing methods that may be used to make the video feel more polished and distinct from how it did during production. Things like fade-to-black transitions, editing of green screens, adjusting lighting, contrast, and brightness, adding lights, and adding other effects like glass breaking and fire may all be included. Fast editing produces a response and dramatic effect, whereas slow editing produces a more dramatic and laid-back vibe. The video frequently cuts to the rhythm of the music.


 

Sound:


Diegetic and non-diegetic sound are the two types of sound that can be found in music videos. Non-diegetic sound is audio that can be added during editing while diegetic sound is audio that has already been included in the video. The vocals used by musicians can be altered and given varied affects using sound editing. When the audio matches the tone of the video, this is called a sound parallel. For instance, it is possible that the theme and tone of a song will be depressing if tragic fallacies like rain and gloom are used, along with sluggish editing.


 

Mise-en-scene:



Depending on the type of music, different music videos have different mises en scene. The mise-en-elements scene's are. In music videos, it's employed to portray particular characteristics as well as to emphasise how important people are.


• Location – in which the musical video is shot

• Lighting – how the scenario is produced

• Props – objects and items in the frame

• Costume – what the performer is donning

• Hair and Makeup – style of the performer

• Color – particular colours reflecting particular emotions and atmosphere


 

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