Images Taken for the Ancillaries 3
View more presentations from rachael swan.
Wednesday, 15 December 2010
Wednesday, 3 November 2010
Filming Preparation
Before undergoing our filming phase, we had to organise ourselves, secure ideas and decide upon actors, locations and so on. Firstly, we came across the issue of actors to take part in our music video. We needed a lead male and a lead female; both with recognisable features and enthusiasm. As they were willing to participate and have had experience in filming (for other coursework projects and outside events), Joe and Rachael decided to take upon these roles - they will also be flexible and reliable, which will help to ensure that we film a great quantity and quality in good time, and when we specifically need to. This left me to participate as the camera man for most shots; so it will be my job to take note of location, properties (such as clothing, make up etc.), positioning (within the shot - rule of thirds), lighting and so on. I will decide upon such concepts with the help of my team, as we intend to keep the music video as a collaborated media project.
Moreover, we kept in contact with each other outside lesson time to organise a date/time/place to meet up and film (every time we needed to). We also be aware of what we were, locations we use and properties as we need to have continuity. Our group will update the filming we have conducted as it happens.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Moreover, we kept in contact with each other outside lesson time to organise a date/time/place to meet up and film (every time we needed to). We also be aware of what we were, locations we use and properties as we need to have continuity. Our group will update the filming we have conducted as it happens.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Friday, 22 October 2010
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Narrative (Part Two)
When began our filming, we believed that the narrative we decided on did not necessarily feel satisfactory:
Original Narrative
'A man and women begin their normal day (living similar lives), they do every activity or event they usually do i.e. have lunch, get ready in the morning, before meeting together and falling in love at the end'
We have now altered this somewhat, with the following changes:
(1) The man and women are in a relationship already i.e. our together throughout the song
(2) Although the man and women are together, they live seperatly, so begin their normal day from seperate houses
(3) Throughout the day/night - whilst doing their individual activities - they remain in contact with each other.
(4) At the end, they organise to meet up together.
Original Narrative
'A man and women begin their normal day (living similar lives), they do every activity or event they usually do i.e. have lunch, get ready in the morning, before meeting together and falling in love at the end'
We have now altered this somewhat, with the following changes:
(1) The man and women are in a relationship already i.e. our together throughout the song
(2) Although the man and women are together, they live seperatly, so begin their normal day from seperate houses
(3) Throughout the day/night - whilst doing their individual activities - they remain in contact with each other.
(4) At the end, they organise to meet up together.
'Bruno Mars - Just The Way You Are' Lyric Analysis
‘Bruno Mars - Just the Way You Are’ Lyric Analysis (Runtime: 3:39)
Verse 1
1 Oh her eyes, her eyes
2 Make the stars look like they're not shining
3 Her hair, her hair
4 Falls perfectly without her trying
Bridge 1
5 She's so beautiful
6 And I tell her every day
Verse 2
7 Yeah I know, I know
8 When I compliment her
9 She wont believe me
10 And its so, its so
11 Sad to think she don't see what I see
Bridge 2
12 But every time she asks me do I look okay
13 I say
Chorus
14 When I see your face
15 There's not a thing that I would change
16 Cause you're amazing
17 Just the way you are
18 And when you smile,
19 The whole world stops and stares for awhile
20 Cause girl you're amazing
21 Just the way you are
Verse 3
22 Her nails, her nails
23 I could kiss them all day if she'd let me
24 Her laugh, her laugh
25 She hates but I think its so sexy
Bridge 3
26 She's so beautiful
27 And I tell her every day
Verse 4
28 Oh you know, you know, you know
29 Id never ask you to change
30 If perfect is what you're searching for
31 Then just stay the same
Bridge 4
32 So don't even bother asking
33 If you look okay
34 You know I say
Chorus
35 When I see your face
36 There's not a thing that I would change
37 Cause you're amazing
38 Just the way you are
39 And when you smile,
40 The whole world stops and stares for awhile
41 Cause girl you're amazing
42 Just the way you are
Bridge 5
43 The way you are
44 The way you are
45 Girl you're amazing
46 Just the way you are
Chorus
47 When I see your face
48 There's not a thing that I would change
49 Cause you're amazing
50 Just the way you are
51 And when you smile,
52 The whole world stops and stares for awhile
53 Cause girl you're amazing
54 Just the way you are
Analysis:
Firstly, it is evidently clear that the song is both descriptive and fairly personal, as noticed by the imagery created by a variety of lexemes; for example, the common nouns ‘eyes’ (line 1), ‘hair’ (line 3) and ‘nails’ (line 22) collate to portray a human appearance. There are many present progressives, such as ‘amazing’ (chorus), ‘shining’ (line 2) and ‘asking’ (line 32) which suggests that they are actions which are ongoing i.e. she always has ‘amazing’ looks.
There is deliberate repetition of the construction ‘Just the Way You Are’ or ‘the way you are’ (nine times throughout the song) creates a cliché; this is most probably a technique used in order for the title to be recognised, however, it may also be a concept/idea of individuality created by the artist. The entire song is based on compliments and affection, love for ‘you’ (various places) - in its second person singular form.
The male, or the singer, does take upon a non-stereotypical role of the male gender; there is evidence to show that the male gender is presented as caring, thoughtful etc. rather than aggressive and competitive, through such phrases as ‘I’d never ask you to change’ (line 29). The song is quite coherent, developing compliments (‘she’s so beautiful’ - line 26) and imagery (‘and when you smile’ - line 51/chorus) as the song becomes an enchanting and simple-listening piece; peaceful in some manner.
Conclusion
There is noticeably a distinct theme of ‘love’, ‘affection’, ‘beauty’ and ‘happiness’ running throughout the song, therefore our music video must include and present various, positive emotions. For example:
- Facial expressions such as smiling and laughing;
- The lighting may be bright and colourful;
- Camera shots/angles/distances may attempt to create a happy and positive atmosphere (on a sunny or gloomy day);
- Actors must ensure a realistic and slightly humorous manner is presented.
- Joy and laughter are two key emotions which accompany smiling/happiness, so these may collaborate with the lyrics and we could present them in moving image.
Verse 1
1 Oh her eyes, her eyes
2 Make the stars look like they're not shining
3 Her hair, her hair
4 Falls perfectly without her trying
Bridge 1
5 She's so beautiful
6 And I tell her every day
Verse 2
7 Yeah I know, I know
8 When I compliment her
9 She wont believe me
10 And its so, its so
11 Sad to think she don't see what I see
Bridge 2
12 But every time she asks me do I look okay
13 I say
Chorus
14 When I see your face
15 There's not a thing that I would change
16 Cause you're amazing
17 Just the way you are
18 And when you smile,
19 The whole world stops and stares for awhile
20 Cause girl you're amazing
21 Just the way you are
Verse 3
22 Her nails, her nails
23 I could kiss them all day if she'd let me
24 Her laugh, her laugh
25 She hates but I think its so sexy
Bridge 3
26 She's so beautiful
27 And I tell her every day
Verse 4
28 Oh you know, you know, you know
29 Id never ask you to change
30 If perfect is what you're searching for
31 Then just stay the same
Bridge 4
32 So don't even bother asking
33 If you look okay
34 You know I say
Chorus
35 When I see your face
36 There's not a thing that I would change
37 Cause you're amazing
38 Just the way you are
39 And when you smile,
40 The whole world stops and stares for awhile
41 Cause girl you're amazing
42 Just the way you are
Bridge 5
43 The way you are
44 The way you are
45 Girl you're amazing
46 Just the way you are
Chorus
47 When I see your face
48 There's not a thing that I would change
49 Cause you're amazing
50 Just the way you are
51 And when you smile,
52 The whole world stops and stares for awhile
53 Cause girl you're amazing
54 Just the way you are
Analysis:
Firstly, it is evidently clear that the song is both descriptive and fairly personal, as noticed by the imagery created by a variety of lexemes; for example, the common nouns ‘eyes’ (line 1), ‘hair’ (line 3) and ‘nails’ (line 22) collate to portray a human appearance. There are many present progressives, such as ‘amazing’ (chorus), ‘shining’ (line 2) and ‘asking’ (line 32) which suggests that they are actions which are ongoing i.e. she always has ‘amazing’ looks.
There is deliberate repetition of the construction ‘Just the Way You Are’ or ‘the way you are’ (nine times throughout the song) creates a cliché; this is most probably a technique used in order for the title to be recognised, however, it may also be a concept/idea of individuality created by the artist. The entire song is based on compliments and affection, love for ‘you’ (various places) - in its second person singular form.
The male, or the singer, does take upon a non-stereotypical role of the male gender; there is evidence to show that the male gender is presented as caring, thoughtful etc. rather than aggressive and competitive, through such phrases as ‘I’d never ask you to change’ (line 29). The song is quite coherent, developing compliments (‘she’s so beautiful’ - line 26) and imagery (‘and when you smile’ - line 51/chorus) as the song becomes an enchanting and simple-listening piece; peaceful in some manner.
Conclusion
There is noticeably a distinct theme of ‘love’, ‘affection’, ‘beauty’ and ‘happiness’ running throughout the song, therefore our music video must include and present various, positive emotions. For example:
- Facial expressions such as smiling and laughing;
- The lighting may be bright and colourful;
- Camera shots/angles/distances may attempt to create a happy and positive atmosphere (on a sunny or gloomy day);
- Actors must ensure a realistic and slightly humorous manner is presented.
- Joy and laughter are two key emotions which accompany smiling/happiness, so these may collaborate with the lyrics and we could present them in moving image.
Thursday, 14 October 2010
Music Video Storyline-
Our music video constists of the story that a male and a female who are currently 'seeing eachother' will arrange to meet. The song is aiming to show his infatuation for her, by inferring that he she is amazing just the way she is. Specific lyrics such as 'her eyes, her eyes make the stars look like their not shining', will be played with the shot of the putting mascara onto her eyes showing a reltionship between the line and shot.
The video will start by the alarm starting, which is on the females phone, (this will be the same song which we are focusing on) in which will wake her up. She will then get out of bed, choose what to wear (in this case there will be a shot of her throwing items of clothing onto the bed indicating that she is indecisive on what to wear), and then get ready. As the female gets ready, she will, put mascara on, adjust clothing which she has put on and do her hair. At the same time, there will be close up shots of the male singing along the lyrics. There will also be shot in which both look at the same photograph, which shows that they are both thinking of each other. they then text each other to arrange when to meet (there will be shots of both phones).The next few shots is of them getting ready to meet for instance putting on their coats. There will then be a shot each of the male and female leaving the house through the front door, and then will be various different shots of them walking (filmed in different angles) in which some the male will be singing. When the song draws to an end, this will be when the male and female finally meet (in a park) and will come to an end with possibly a dissolve cut.
The video will start by the alarm starting, which is on the females phone, (this will be the same song which we are focusing on) in which will wake her up. She will then get out of bed, choose what to wear (in this case there will be a shot of her throwing items of clothing onto the bed indicating that she is indecisive on what to wear), and then get ready. As the female gets ready, she will, put mascara on, adjust clothing which she has put on and do her hair. At the same time, there will be close up shots of the male singing along the lyrics. There will also be shot in which both look at the same photograph, which shows that they are both thinking of each other. they then text each other to arrange when to meet (there will be shots of both phones).The next few shots is of them getting ready to meet for instance putting on their coats. There will then be a shot each of the male and female leaving the house through the front door, and then will be various different shots of them walking (filmed in different angles) in which some the male will be singing. When the song draws to an end, this will be when the male and female finally meet (in a park) and will come to an end with possibly a dissolve cut.
Music Video Planning
Actors/ Actresses included-
For our music video, it will only contain one male and one female to empahsise a relationship between the two. This makes the video personal indicating that the male is singing the song to her speciicialy and that she is the 'centre' of his world. We wanted to portray this by only using a small amount of actors/actresses. In this case the actor will be Joe Lavigne and me (Rachael Swan). There is no specific requirment to what they need to look like for example, ethnicity, as the song does not have a narrow target audience in which the song is aimed at.
Locations in which shots will be set (Photos will be uploaded)-
Females bedroom
Females kitchen
Males kitchen
Males hall
Females hall
Outside of the males house
Outside the females house
Street
Park
Props needed for each scene-
Females bedroom; alarm clock (phone), lamp, make up bag, bed, mirror, around 5 items of clothing, objects which represent femininity such as teddies, perfume, necklaces (on a necklace stand) and hair products.
Females kitchen (and males kitchen); typical pobjects such as a kettle, a cup for tea, toaster, microwave, fridge.
Female and males hallway; a door,posisbly items such as shoes, letters and a desk (however we are aiming to minimalise the amount of daily objects to make the house seem more sophisicated and modern).
The following screne do not require any addictional props as the characters will only be walking along the road in order to reach the final shot were they will eventually meet each other (in the park).
Clothing-
Male- A polo shirt, jeans and a casual jacket has been chosen for the male to wear. This is due to main reason that we wanted the video to look like it had been filmed on just an ordinary day in which individuals usually dress up casually. However, we still wanted it to look like the male had put effort into his clothing as he is going to meet the female. A polo shirt suggests sophistication without being too 'over the top'.
Female- We chose a more basic sense of style for the female as the song mostly focuses on her qualities rather than what she is wearing therefore we didn't want the clothing to steal the audience's focus away. Clothing included a 'slouch' top which hung beneath the shoulder of one arm and jeans. This slouch top suggested that the female is quite laid back and feels comfortable in his presence to not wear clothing that will impress him. In the beginning scene, the female will be wearing pjamimas, we were not overly decisive of which type so we decided for a typical pink set which was simple and suggested feminity. In the later scene the femal will be wearing a parker coat for the main purposes of being a warm jacket, again not in the reasons of impressing her 'partner'.
For our music video, it will only contain one male and one female to empahsise a relationship between the two. This makes the video personal indicating that the male is singing the song to her speciicialy and that she is the 'centre' of his world. We wanted to portray this by only using a small amount of actors/actresses. In this case the actor will be Joe Lavigne and me (Rachael Swan). There is no specific requirment to what they need to look like for example, ethnicity, as the song does not have a narrow target audience in which the song is aimed at.
Locations in which shots will be set (Photos will be uploaded)-
Females bedroom
Females kitchen
Males kitchen
Males hall
Females hall
Outside of the males house
Outside the females house
Street
Park
Props needed for each scene-
Females bedroom; alarm clock (phone), lamp, make up bag, bed, mirror, around 5 items of clothing, objects which represent femininity such as teddies, perfume, necklaces (on a necklace stand) and hair products.
Females kitchen (and males kitchen); typical pobjects such as a kettle, a cup for tea, toaster, microwave, fridge.
Female and males hallway; a door,posisbly items such as shoes, letters and a desk (however we are aiming to minimalise the amount of daily objects to make the house seem more sophisicated and modern).
The following screne do not require any addictional props as the characters will only be walking along the road in order to reach the final shot were they will eventually meet each other (in the park).
Clothing-
Male- A polo shirt, jeans and a casual jacket has been chosen for the male to wear. This is due to main reason that we wanted the video to look like it had been filmed on just an ordinary day in which individuals usually dress up casually. However, we still wanted it to look like the male had put effort into his clothing as he is going to meet the female. A polo shirt suggests sophistication without being too 'over the top'.
Female- We chose a more basic sense of style for the female as the song mostly focuses on her qualities rather than what she is wearing therefore we didn't want the clothing to steal the audience's focus away. Clothing included a 'slouch' top which hung beneath the shoulder of one arm and jeans. This slouch top suggested that the female is quite laid back and feels comfortable in his presence to not wear clothing that will impress him. In the beginning scene, the female will be wearing pjamimas, we were not overly decisive of which type so we decided for a typical pink set which was simple and suggested feminity. In the later scene the femal will be wearing a parker coat for the main purposes of being a warm jacket, again not in the reasons of impressing her 'partner'.
Thursday, 30 September 2010
Thursday, 23 September 2010
Planning
We are currently working on the planning of the music video, album cover and music advertisements. Recently we vistied some locations in which we will set majortiy of our scenes in for our music video. We have taken a variety of pictures to present our location. Additionally, we have each created each our own storyboard in which we will combine to produce a final storyboard which we will work together on. In the meanwhile, i have been working on the planning on an album cover, inclduing the analysis of fonts and the layout. Once the planning of my album cover has been finished, it will be posted and in the meanwhile i while be creating the final product.
By Rachael Swan
By Rachael Swan
Wednesday, 22 September 2010
The Narrative
The narrative (or storyline) will be a distinct, vital element in our music video. Our group set out to accomplish a running theme which we believed:
(1) Would work well with our song choice i.e. have some relevance to the lyrics, genre, artist etc.
(2) Would allow us to create an enjoyable view for our audience,and in the process, be enjoyable for us to design, edit and produce.
(3) Would keep realistic screen imagery, yet overlap this concept with a narrative.
Therefore we began a series of discussions as to decide what we felt worked and 'felt right' for our ideas. Here are some of the ideas that were put across by us, and various others.
- Day trip out with some friends (male), catches the eye of a woman (and her group of her friends), sees her frequently around, gets chatting at the end.
- Two people (man and women) start walking in a straight line and do not stop for any obstacle, until they meet each other.
- Men and Women falling in love with each other - at first sight - in various different settings e.g. library, playground, shopping centre
In the end, we finally decided that our narrative would be:
'A man and women begin their normal day (living similar lives), they do every activity or event they usually do i.e. have lunch, get ready in the morning, before meeting together and falling in love at the end'
We believed that this was perfect for our song choice, 'Just The Way The Are'. Love and happiness are both important emotions to portray so this narrative should accomplish a positive representation. Furthermore, the fact that the two main characters do not know each other, yet live similar lives, adds an element of enthusiasm and pace; our aim is for the audience to almost be willing them to meet each other.
Consequently, our editing will play an essential part in creating a realistic and appealing video. We will vary our camera work (distances/angles/movement) to boost differentiation, and create a sequence of successive shots that presents a connection between the two characters. Depending on what we are able to do with the software (iMovie), we will also attempt to place shots next to each other on the screen, as to perceive a sense of parallel closeness.
At the present time, these are our initial ideas which we will develop and continue to add to. After we have finalised more, we shall blog them.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
(1) Would work well with our song choice i.e. have some relevance to the lyrics, genre, artist etc.
(2) Would allow us to create an enjoyable view for our audience,and in the process, be enjoyable for us to design, edit and produce.
(3) Would keep realistic screen imagery, yet overlap this concept with a narrative.
Therefore we began a series of discussions as to decide what we felt worked and 'felt right' for our ideas. Here are some of the ideas that were put across by us, and various others.
- Day trip out with some friends (male), catches the eye of a woman (and her group of her friends), sees her frequently around, gets chatting at the end.
- Two people (man and women) start walking in a straight line and do not stop for any obstacle, until they meet each other.
- Men and Women falling in love with each other - at first sight - in various different settings e.g. library, playground, shopping centre
In the end, we finally decided that our narrative would be:
'A man and women begin their normal day (living similar lives), they do every activity or event they usually do i.e. have lunch, get ready in the morning, before meeting together and falling in love at the end'
We believed that this was perfect for our song choice, 'Just The Way The Are'. Love and happiness are both important emotions to portray so this narrative should accomplish a positive representation. Furthermore, the fact that the two main characters do not know each other, yet live similar lives, adds an element of enthusiasm and pace; our aim is for the audience to almost be willing them to meet each other.
Consequently, our editing will play an essential part in creating a realistic and appealing video. We will vary our camera work (distances/angles/movement) to boost differentiation, and create a sequence of successive shots that presents a connection between the two characters. Depending on what we are able to do with the software (iMovie), we will also attempt to place shots next to each other on the screen, as to perceive a sense of parallel closeness.
At the present time, these are our initial ideas which we will develop and continue to add to. After we have finalised more, we shall blog them.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Thursday, 16 September 2010
Monday, 13 September 2010
Finalised Song Choice
After further, elaborated decision making - based on all of our audience/product research and planning (to date) - we have finalised 'Bruno Mars - Just The Way You Are' as our music video song choice. We believe that this is in our group's best interest, and rightfully, we agreed it was the correct decision. We will now use this song in all future coursework.
We changed our original song choice to this song because we would be able to create almost a storyline within the song and be able to relate this to the audience. The song is presenting a man who is infatuated with a female and advising her that he likes her just the way she is. This could attract couples from a younger age group, perhaps around late teenage years or range to later years. This would create quite a large audience for our products to be aimed at. It also relates to both the female and male audience- our products will need to appeal to both genders.
We changed our original song choice to this song because we would be able to create almost a storyline within the song and be able to relate this to the audience. The song is presenting a man who is infatuated with a female and advising her that he likes her just the way she is. This could attract couples from a younger age group, perhaps around late teenage years or range to later years. This would create quite a large audience for our products to be aimed at. It also relates to both the female and male audience- our products will need to appeal to both genders.
Thursday, 9 September 2010
Analysis and Conclusions from the Music Video Interview
Considering Question 1, proposed to the 5 participants (What would you expect to be featured in this music video; for this particular song and genre?), all answers were loosely based around a common, generic pattern. As noticed in both quotes ‘2’ and ‘3’, a music video must take into account various human “emotions”, “feelings” and “relationships”; all of which, according to quote ‘1’, must be supportive or indeed linked in some matter to the song (or genre) that is being expressed through a video to its intended audience. These are definite and understandable outcomes for this question, as the sense of connection between the two parties – the music video and audience – is more justified in this particular context. As every person experiences many emotions every day, like sadness and happiness, a presentation of these is likely to develop a ‘real life’ viewing experience, almost social in its appeal. This yet again applies to genre and song choice, as a complex/simple mixture of feelings may seem out of place, or indeed an uncommon set of emotions (ones that are unlikely to be experienced in the scenario on-screen) may deter viewers from self-acknowledgement; it is important for this to be concreted whilst filming the video, as often the lyrics imply what emotions to use.
Question 2 (Do you believe realism and/or narrative is represented well? What do you prefer?) was invented for the purpose of gaining confident responses from participants, as all-in-all, the proposed question is an extension of Question 1, and important; furthermore, this question is given with an intention for helping our group finalise a stable structure for our practical music video i.e. whether to take a realistic approach, or to create a running narrative. When attempting to motivate our participants to give sophisticated answers, a “realistic” video (as mentioned in quotes ‘1’ and ‘2’) was a frequent term used, and descriptive adjectives put forward to describe ‘realism’, as a concept, include “admirable”, “gritty” and “engaging”, which are utterances given after a sub-question – stating ‘how would you describe a realistic video’ – was asked for further elaboration (on conduction of the interview). As a ‘realistic’ video was a general and repeated answer, our group will ensure that our video follows an element of realism and social realism.
However, in quote ‘2’, it is noticed that a music video must have “a strong narrative”, as well as being “realistic”, which we believe is a useful and respectable answer. Consequently, our music video may provide realistic viewing, and be structured around a narrative, which is not too extravagant or unrealistic – so preferably, as mentioned in quote ‘2’, recognisable “props and colours” which “link to the genre or song”.
When confronting Question 3 (Picture the setting and props shown in this music video), it was split into two segments; one being (a) ‘Do they vary from your own interpretation of the song? If yes or no, please say why’ – the other being – (b) ‘What do you believe should be considered when deciding the props and/or setting of a music video?’ For part (a) of the question, answers are varied and not constrained; for example, in quote ‘2’ a participant exclaims: that “I could imagine the settings and props for this song; it goes well with lyrics”, of which our group continues to establish a rigid list of so-called essentials, to input into our video. Quote ‘3’ on the other hand, and more specific the participant’s opinion, suggests “All interpretations of songs are different and varied”; although we have not queried this further, but if this be the case, we must consider and account for a wide ranged audience – this also entails many preferences (for a music video). Therefore, it may be wise to partially fixate on pleasing a wide and varied audience, which does seem logical.
For question 3 (b), one participant in the interview somehow catered for every participant with their answer, by giving a well-rounded and thought-provoking response: “It is no doubt essential that the song, genre and lyrics are top priority. After you have justified that, I think it is a good idea to take into account instruments and also decide on a theme and narrative”. As mentioned, the “song”, “genre” and “lyrics” are the prime ingredients for a music video; both to be successful, or indeed eye-catching, easy on the ear and in a viewing context, entertaining. These aspects can be likened to triggers, almost queued responses, of which the audience has a mental link between. Evident enough, all elements mentioned by this participant will have some input in our music video - whether that is sound, camera work or mise-en-scene.
Question (4) was constructed, purposely, to understand how our audience perceives various representations of age, gender, and ethnicity. This allowed our group, as you can observe from the responses, to fully connect with our both our viewers expectations, and needs. Furthermore, we will be able to recognise and elaborate on various audience theories; for instance, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Burton/Fiske’s social audience theories.
Taking gender as the topic of discussion, it was greatly collaborated, giving our group numerous key thoughts about male and female identities in music videos, and coincidently, everyday life. Mixed opinions where expressed, notably a key contrast being the role of men, where one participant suggested that “Usually the man returns back to the women” (quote ‘1’), whereas another believed that the role of a male is “dominant” (quote ‘2’) position; which appears unlikely if a man is sidetracked and vulnerable in a relationship. A conclusion that can be drawn from this is that both males, and females, tend to have a range of opinions on sex and gender in society; specifically the concept of relationships and emotions. However, quote ‘3’ is a descriptive account of male and female behaviour – it places the image of a “weak” female form, unsustainable when expressing “emotions” and becoming the one person returning to the other in the relationship, after an argument etc. For are video to seem fair, equal perceptions of gender may be presented.
Age, as a portrayal, is a distinct option of choice in a music video, however, this will more than likely be based around the video (or indeed song’s) social appeal. One attractive quote exclaimed that “youth and young people” were common, and frequently used characters. Without doubt, this still depends on song choice and genre, yet for our music video it may be a comfortable decision to use young people; as we understand our modern-age society, of which we will be able to express a ‘teenage’ view – so to speak – and give an almost youthful twist to it.
The topic of ethnicity is quite personal to many, as people have firmly-held beliefs, views and opinions on the matter of skin colour and cultural background. As quote ‘1’ implies, the genre of “rap” is common to accompany people of a black origin (black skin). This, however, is not restricted by our music genre; therefore, people of all skin colours may be used, to perceive socialised entertainment (this may also be supported by quote ‘2’ i.e. “…hardly ever see racism or racist views”). To conclude quotes ‘3’ and ‘4’; all races can be “stereotyped” – which may be presented through music videos. To justify this perception, and to understand the prejudice/stereotypical views, a mixture of positive and negative portrayals could be expressed; or on the other hand, our group could stick to one, simple representation.
Camera work is extremely important in practical media. It alone is able to express facial expressions, settings, and overall imagery; alongside collaboration with sound etc. When discussing how the various shots, angles and distances create a theme (within the video), participants were on the same level of opinion: quote ‘1’ suggesting that if there is “no distinct theme”, the video becomes “varied” and allows “free and simple watching” – for a positive implication. Furthermore, quote ‘2’ also drops in an element of realism, exclaiming that the “lack of complex editing”, such as “zooms”, deters a video from being confusing and claustrophobic and adds a realistic representation. All in all, genre does not interrupt a theme of a video, so it appears that ‘realism’ (which is a popular expectation for the participants in the interview) can be filmed and approached for our song.
When question 5 (b) was asked (Are certain emotions/body language expressed through this technique?), the recalled answers tended to be gender-based i.e. specific to either the male or female sex. Quote ‘1’ and ‘2’ mention a woman’s emotions, which participant’s state, are “zoomed into a lot” and appear to be “emotional and crying”. Quote ‘4’ implies that men/males are “supportive”, “confident” and “hardly ever cry”; a complete and different contrast to the female form. Also, quote ‘3’ suggest that “close contact”, specifically “hugging” and “kissing” between men and women is typical body language – seen in most music videos. To conclude, these specific camera work options may be incorporated in our music video, as it is apparent that they are frequently used in profession video texts.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Question 2 (Do you believe realism and/or narrative is represented well? What do you prefer?) was invented for the purpose of gaining confident responses from participants, as all-in-all, the proposed question is an extension of Question 1, and important; furthermore, this question is given with an intention for helping our group finalise a stable structure for our practical music video i.e. whether to take a realistic approach, or to create a running narrative. When attempting to motivate our participants to give sophisticated answers, a “realistic” video (as mentioned in quotes ‘1’ and ‘2’) was a frequent term used, and descriptive adjectives put forward to describe ‘realism’, as a concept, include “admirable”, “gritty” and “engaging”, which are utterances given after a sub-question – stating ‘how would you describe a realistic video’ – was asked for further elaboration (on conduction of the interview). As a ‘realistic’ video was a general and repeated answer, our group will ensure that our video follows an element of realism and social realism.
However, in quote ‘2’, it is noticed that a music video must have “a strong narrative”, as well as being “realistic”, which we believe is a useful and respectable answer. Consequently, our music video may provide realistic viewing, and be structured around a narrative, which is not too extravagant or unrealistic – so preferably, as mentioned in quote ‘2’, recognisable “props and colours” which “link to the genre or song”.
When confronting Question 3 (Picture the setting and props shown in this music video), it was split into two segments; one being (a) ‘Do they vary from your own interpretation of the song? If yes or no, please say why’ – the other being – (b) ‘What do you believe should be considered when deciding the props and/or setting of a music video?’ For part (a) of the question, answers are varied and not constrained; for example, in quote ‘2’ a participant exclaims: that “I could imagine the settings and props for this song; it goes well with lyrics”, of which our group continues to establish a rigid list of so-called essentials, to input into our video. Quote ‘3’ on the other hand, and more specific the participant’s opinion, suggests “All interpretations of songs are different and varied”; although we have not queried this further, but if this be the case, we must consider and account for a wide ranged audience – this also entails many preferences (for a music video). Therefore, it may be wise to partially fixate on pleasing a wide and varied audience, which does seem logical.
For question 3 (b), one participant in the interview somehow catered for every participant with their answer, by giving a well-rounded and thought-provoking response: “It is no doubt essential that the song, genre and lyrics are top priority. After you have justified that, I think it is a good idea to take into account instruments and also decide on a theme and narrative”. As mentioned, the “song”, “genre” and “lyrics” are the prime ingredients for a music video; both to be successful, or indeed eye-catching, easy on the ear and in a viewing context, entertaining. These aspects can be likened to triggers, almost queued responses, of which the audience has a mental link between. Evident enough, all elements mentioned by this participant will have some input in our music video - whether that is sound, camera work or mise-en-scene.
Question (4) was constructed, purposely, to understand how our audience perceives various representations of age, gender, and ethnicity. This allowed our group, as you can observe from the responses, to fully connect with our both our viewers expectations, and needs. Furthermore, we will be able to recognise and elaborate on various audience theories; for instance, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Burton/Fiske’s social audience theories.
Taking gender as the topic of discussion, it was greatly collaborated, giving our group numerous key thoughts about male and female identities in music videos, and coincidently, everyday life. Mixed opinions where expressed, notably a key contrast being the role of men, where one participant suggested that “Usually the man returns back to the women” (quote ‘1’), whereas another believed that the role of a male is “dominant” (quote ‘2’) position; which appears unlikely if a man is sidetracked and vulnerable in a relationship. A conclusion that can be drawn from this is that both males, and females, tend to have a range of opinions on sex and gender in society; specifically the concept of relationships and emotions. However, quote ‘3’ is a descriptive account of male and female behaviour – it places the image of a “weak” female form, unsustainable when expressing “emotions” and becoming the one person returning to the other in the relationship, after an argument etc. For are video to seem fair, equal perceptions of gender may be presented.
Age, as a portrayal, is a distinct option of choice in a music video, however, this will more than likely be based around the video (or indeed song’s) social appeal. One attractive quote exclaimed that “youth and young people” were common, and frequently used characters. Without doubt, this still depends on song choice and genre, yet for our music video it may be a comfortable decision to use young people; as we understand our modern-age society, of which we will be able to express a ‘teenage’ view – so to speak – and give an almost youthful twist to it.
The topic of ethnicity is quite personal to many, as people have firmly-held beliefs, views and opinions on the matter of skin colour and cultural background. As quote ‘1’ implies, the genre of “rap” is common to accompany people of a black origin (black skin). This, however, is not restricted by our music genre; therefore, people of all skin colours may be used, to perceive socialised entertainment (this may also be supported by quote ‘2’ i.e. “…hardly ever see racism or racist views”). To conclude quotes ‘3’ and ‘4’; all races can be “stereotyped” – which may be presented through music videos. To justify this perception, and to understand the prejudice/stereotypical views, a mixture of positive and negative portrayals could be expressed; or on the other hand, our group could stick to one, simple representation.
Camera work is extremely important in practical media. It alone is able to express facial expressions, settings, and overall imagery; alongside collaboration with sound etc. When discussing how the various shots, angles and distances create a theme (within the video), participants were on the same level of opinion: quote ‘1’ suggesting that if there is “no distinct theme”, the video becomes “varied” and allows “free and simple watching” – for a positive implication. Furthermore, quote ‘2’ also drops in an element of realism, exclaiming that the “lack of complex editing”, such as “zooms”, deters a video from being confusing and claustrophobic and adds a realistic representation. All in all, genre does not interrupt a theme of a video, so it appears that ‘realism’ (which is a popular expectation for the participants in the interview) can be filmed and approached for our song.
When question 5 (b) was asked (Are certain emotions/body language expressed through this technique?), the recalled answers tended to be gender-based i.e. specific to either the male or female sex. Quote ‘1’ and ‘2’ mention a woman’s emotions, which participant’s state, are “zoomed into a lot” and appear to be “emotional and crying”. Quote ‘4’ implies that men/males are “supportive”, “confident” and “hardly ever cry”; a complete and different contrast to the female form. Also, quote ‘3’ suggest that “close contact”, specifically “hugging” and “kissing” between men and women is typical body language – seen in most music videos. To conclude, these specific camera work options may be incorporated in our music video, as it is apparent that they are frequently used in profession video texts.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Tuesday, 31 August 2010
Interview for Music Videos
Check out this SlideShare Presentation:
Interview for music videos
View more presentations from Drew Middleton.
Monday, 19 July 2010
Conclusion of Questionnaire and Interview for Music Advertisements
I collected quantitative and qualitative for the music advertisement side of the product research and have gained some interesting information.
From the interviews I found that it depends on the age with what of advertisement they prefer and this shall be discussed when choosing a target audience. It was found that the younger audience prefer a more abstract advertisement, this was shown when Jade, aged 16 said “second one appeals to me more as it is unique and very abstract”. Where as an older audience preferred the other one, this is backed up by Max, 30 saying “as it clear and simple of who she is… advertising where as the one on the right has a very confusing picture”. There was one main similarity through all three interviews; this was that the advertisements should have critic’s reviews on them showing that the album is good. This was proved by Joseph saying “Feedback from critics and star ratings indicate how good an album is and their write ups may influence my decision” and Max “The main thing would be to see what critics have said to see if it was a good album”.
I have also found interesting information from the findings of the questionnaires; the questionnaire results show what option was most popular. It is shown that the most important features on a music advertisement was the image as half of the people who completed a questionnaire decided this was the most important. It was found, by the most people choosing it, that a close up shot being used on music advertisement was preferred.
From the interviews I found that it depends on the age with what of advertisement they prefer and this shall be discussed when choosing a target audience. It was found that the younger audience prefer a more abstract advertisement, this was shown when Jade, aged 16 said “second one appeals to me more as it is unique and very abstract”. Where as an older audience preferred the other one, this is backed up by Max, 30 saying “as it clear and simple of who she is… advertising where as the one on the right has a very confusing picture”. There was one main similarity through all three interviews; this was that the advertisements should have critic’s reviews on them showing that the album is good. This was proved by Joseph saying “Feedback from critics and star ratings indicate how good an album is and their write ups may influence my decision” and Max “The main thing would be to see what critics have said to see if it was a good album”.
I have also found interesting information from the findings of the questionnaires; the questionnaire results show what option was most popular. It is shown that the most important features on a music advertisement was the image as half of the people who completed a questionnaire decided this was the most important. It was found, by the most people choosing it, that a close up shot being used on music advertisement was preferred.
Tuesday, 13 July 2010
Carrying Out Our Audience Research
After writing two questionnaires featuring 10 questions on each, we asked a total of 40 people to fill out the questions to gather a variety of different opinions. We then each wrote an interview based on the different anciliaries with a series of five questions. We recorded 3 people watching the music video 'This Ain't A Love Song- Scouting For Girls', using a video recorder and took down notes of their responses. We will then write our conclusions on these results.
Posted by Rachael Swan and Drew Middleton.
Posted by Rachael Swan and Drew Middleton.
Monday, 5 July 2010
Music Videos for Product Analyses
The following are the two music videos I analysed, as shown through 'www.youtube.com':
(1) 'Scouting for Girls - This Ain't a Love Song'
(2) 'Jason Mraz - I'm Yours'
Posted by Drew Middleton.
(1) 'Scouting for Girls - This Ain't a Love Song'
(2) 'Jason Mraz - I'm Yours'
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Music Video Product Analyses
Check out this SlideShare Presentation:
Music Video Product Analyses
View more presentations from Drew Middleton.
Emails to 'Anison'
The following is the initial email, alongside the reply, to a band titled 'Anison' regarding the possible usage of their songs. The person in name (Mr Doherty) is a teacher at 'Greenshaw High School', and a guitarist/singer in the band. The original email from myself requests permission to obtain and listen to various recorded tracks by 'Anison'. As it is recommended by the exam board, and also essential, to use non-copyright music, I have also put forward a 'copyright' query for the tracks to be used in our music video. The emails are as follows:
[Initial Email]
Mr Doherty,
For my Year 12 coursework, we are producing a music video and need to use copyright-free music. My group (Joe Lavigne, Rachael Swan and Molly Pitman) and I would like to know whether it would be possible to use your band, Anison's, music. Please can you let us know if this would be possible? Also, do you know any other bands whose music we could possibly use - and who you would recommend?
Finally, if a song is a cover, does that mean it is copyright-free?
Thanks,
Drew Middleton
[Reply]
Hello Drew,
Firstly, anything that is recorded is technically copyright. That means permission of the owners of the recorded material has to be granted. If you are keen to use something more commercial, Some artists and labels do often allow their music to be used for educational purposes,(some friends of mine studied film at uni and were successful in using some chart stuff) as long as their is no financial gain for yourselves. Getting hold of these people is obviously quite tricky. I'm happy to chat to the lads and see if their cool with offering some Anison tracks. I have other friends in bands who are easy to reach, and might be sympathetic to the cause as well. What I will try to do (time permitting) is get a collection of tracks together if everyone is happy for them to be used.
Hope that's ok,
Mr Doherty
...........................................................................................................................
After this reply, I met with Mr Doherty, who, after a discussion with his band, agreed to allow our group the use and rights to 5 'Anison' tracks (three of which are available on 'Itunes'). Our group will listen and deliberate amongst each other to decide on a possible song to use. We may use an 'Anison' track as (a) the song suites a genre we all like, (b)a music video theme/idea is easily put in place to accompany the song, and (c) if copyright issues fail in other circumstances.
The tracks are as follows - all written, produced and recorded by the band members of 'Anison':
- 'Sail Back To Sleep'(3:32)
- 'Statuettes'(4:11)
- 'Spatial Awareness'(2:34)
- 'Pedestrian Thespian'(4:11)
- 'Start As You Mean To Go On'(3:27)
Our group will conduct the analysis and discussions of the 'Anison' tracks in the coming week or two.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
[Initial Email]
Mr Doherty,
For my Year 12 coursework, we are producing a music video and need to use copyright-free music. My group (Joe Lavigne, Rachael Swan and Molly Pitman) and I would like to know whether it would be possible to use your band, Anison's, music. Please can you let us know if this would be possible? Also, do you know any other bands whose music we could possibly use - and who you would recommend?
Finally, if a song is a cover, does that mean it is copyright-free?
Thanks,
Drew Middleton
[Reply]
Hello Drew,
Firstly, anything that is recorded is technically copyright. That means permission of the owners of the recorded material has to be granted. If you are keen to use something more commercial, Some artists and labels do often allow their music to be used for educational purposes,(some friends of mine studied film at uni and were successful in using some chart stuff) as long as their is no financial gain for yourselves. Getting hold of these people is obviously quite tricky. I'm happy to chat to the lads and see if their cool with offering some Anison tracks. I have other friends in bands who are easy to reach, and might be sympathetic to the cause as well. What I will try to do (time permitting) is get a collection of tracks together if everyone is happy for them to be used.
Hope that's ok,
Mr Doherty
...........................................................................................................................
After this reply, I met with Mr Doherty, who, after a discussion with his band, agreed to allow our group the use and rights to 5 'Anison' tracks (three of which are available on 'Itunes'). Our group will listen and deliberate amongst each other to decide on a possible song to use. We may use an 'Anison' track as (a) the song suites a genre we all like, (b)a music video theme/idea is easily put in place to accompany the song, and (c) if copyright issues fail in other circumstances.
The tracks are as follows - all written, produced and recorded by the band members of 'Anison':
- 'Sail Back To Sleep'(3:32)
- 'Statuettes'(4:11)
- 'Spatial Awareness'(2:34)
- 'Pedestrian Thespian'(4:11)
- 'Start As You Mean To Go On'(3:27)
Our group will conduct the analysis and discussions of the 'Anison' tracks in the coming week or two.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Thursday, 1 July 2010
Wednesday, 30 June 2010
Audience Research- Questionnaire Responsibilities
We have decided to create our questionnaire based on the area that we are each analysing. For example, as i have currently analysed album covers, i will specify my questionnaire to be based on album covers and ask questions which are focused on the design and genre to gather ideas of how our product should look like. I wanted to get a range of opinions on features such as lighting, themes and asked to rank the order of importance of certain features in order to help create our cover. I also used a variety of different album covers as examples to see which ones the audience felt the most attracted to.
While doing this, Joe and Drew are working together to create a questionnaire based on music videos and Molly will create a questionnaire based on music (magazine)advertisements.
While doing this, Joe and Drew are working together to create a questionnaire based on music videos and Molly will create a questionnaire based on music (magazine)advertisements.
Tuesday, 29 June 2010
Analyses of Music Videos (Drake – Find Your Love)
Analyses of Music Videos
Drake – Find Your Love – RnB/Hip-Hop
Location - There are two scenes in this video, one is set in a music studio, Drake is seen exhaling smoke, singing into a microphone and pressing buttons in the studio concentrating on his music. The other scene is a story of Drake going back to a woman in the slums of Jamaica where it is shown in a club and going to a house and being caught.
Lightning – Throughout the video, dim light is used which sets the mood of video of being mysterious and not sure what is going to happen in the way if Drake is going to be caught or is he going to get the girl.
Representation- Drake is represented as thinking with his heart over his head as he decides to go back for the gangster’s girlfriend
Story line - Drake wants to go back to meet a girl he likes but a older man has warned him not to and carry on with album but decides to find the woman but makes the wrong decision and ends being caught by the gangster and may have been shot due to a gun sound being made but not shown. .
Mise en scene – During the studio scene he is seen smoking as stereotypically in the rap scene it is smoking weed and this could be glorifying taking drugs which could be a negative of this video. He wears plain clothes throughout the video; this could have been so that the audience keep concentrating on the story of the video and not on other stuff such as clothes and other people in the video. He is shown in the slums so that stereotypical mise en scene is seen such as unpainted cracked walls and chicken coops.
Camera work - They used filming techniques to set messages about the characters; the use of low angled shots on the protagonist which was Drake. Most shots used are close up or medium shots so they establish who is in the shot as they only last for about 3 seconds, this helps with showing emotion but not presenting the entire story to the audience.
Editing - They are all straight cuts, no shot is longer then 3 seconds even when there is no music played.
Sound - The track is played in time with the shots but is barely shown singing to lyrics this could be due to Drake acting in the story and singing along would match the scene.
Genre and narrative - This video doesn’t follow Todorov’s theory even though it has equilibrium but it is left on a cliff hanger, this could be due to having the next single being the second part of the story. There could be Propp’s theory in this video as there are certain characters such as:
The Hero - Drake
The Donor - The man at the start giving Drake advice
The Princess/Prize – The woman Drake wants to go back to see
The Villain – The gangster who’s the woman’s boyfriend
Audience theory:
Dyer - They used Dyer’s Utopian Solutions Theory to motivate and engage the audience, offering the ‘solutions’ to ‘clarity’ by using the scene at start explaining why he is going back for her.
Maslow - They threatened the audience’s need of ‘safety’ by using an unfamiliar environment in the setting that the main character would explore.
Institution – The video was directed Anthony Mandler who is one of the top commercial and music video directors working today, having written and directed music videos for artists including Rihanna ("Russian Roulette"), John Mayer ("Who Says"), Jay-Z ("Run This Town"), Mary J. Blige ("The One"), The Killers ("A Dustland Fairytale"), John Legend ("Everybody Knows"), T.I. ("Live Your Life"), One Republic ("Stop and Stare"). The gang leader is Mavado who is another popular singer or artist who is from Jamacia.
Posted by Joe Lavigne
Drake – Find Your Love – RnB/Hip-Hop
Location - There are two scenes in this video, one is set in a music studio, Drake is seen exhaling smoke, singing into a microphone and pressing buttons in the studio concentrating on his music. The other scene is a story of Drake going back to a woman in the slums of Jamaica where it is shown in a club and going to a house and being caught.
Lightning – Throughout the video, dim light is used which sets the mood of video of being mysterious and not sure what is going to happen in the way if Drake is going to be caught or is he going to get the girl.
Representation- Drake is represented as thinking with his heart over his head as he decides to go back for the gangster’s girlfriend
Story line - Drake wants to go back to meet a girl he likes but a older man has warned him not to and carry on with album but decides to find the woman but makes the wrong decision and ends being caught by the gangster and may have been shot due to a gun sound being made but not shown. .
Mise en scene – During the studio scene he is seen smoking as stereotypically in the rap scene it is smoking weed and this could be glorifying taking drugs which could be a negative of this video. He wears plain clothes throughout the video; this could have been so that the audience keep concentrating on the story of the video and not on other stuff such as clothes and other people in the video. He is shown in the slums so that stereotypical mise en scene is seen such as unpainted cracked walls and chicken coops.
Camera work - They used filming techniques to set messages about the characters; the use of low angled shots on the protagonist which was Drake. Most shots used are close up or medium shots so they establish who is in the shot as they only last for about 3 seconds, this helps with showing emotion but not presenting the entire story to the audience.
Editing - They are all straight cuts, no shot is longer then 3 seconds even when there is no music played.
Sound - The track is played in time with the shots but is barely shown singing to lyrics this could be due to Drake acting in the story and singing along would match the scene.
Genre and narrative - This video doesn’t follow Todorov’s theory even though it has equilibrium but it is left on a cliff hanger, this could be due to having the next single being the second part of the story. There could be Propp’s theory in this video as there are certain characters such as:
The Hero - Drake
The Donor - The man at the start giving Drake advice
The Princess/Prize – The woman Drake wants to go back to see
The Villain – The gangster who’s the woman’s boyfriend
Audience theory:
Dyer - They used Dyer’s Utopian Solutions Theory to motivate and engage the audience, offering the ‘solutions’ to ‘clarity’ by using the scene at start explaining why he is going back for her.
Maslow - They threatened the audience’s need of ‘safety’ by using an unfamiliar environment in the setting that the main character would explore.
Institution – The video was directed Anthony Mandler who is one of the top commercial and music video directors working today, having written and directed music videos for artists including Rihanna ("Russian Roulette"), John Mayer ("Who Says"), Jay-Z ("Run This Town"), Mary J. Blige ("The One"), The Killers ("A Dustland Fairytale"), John Legend ("Everybody Knows"), T.I. ("Live Your Life"), One Republic ("Stop and Stare"). The gang leader is Mavado who is another popular singer or artist who is from Jamacia.
Posted by Joe Lavigne
Monday, 28 June 2010
Analyses of Music Videos (Plan B - She Said)
Analyses of Music Videos
Plan B - She Said - Pop/Soul
Location – There are two main locations, in a police interrogation room and outside and in the court where Strickland Banks (Plan B) is being trialled. In the interrogation room he is shown explaining to policemen that he is innocent, this is heard with the lyrics “on the day that I got arrested, I’m innocent I protested”. The other scene is in the court room where he is being trialled; there are other characters in this scene such as the accusing woman (Kaya Scodelario) and Strickland Bank’s girlfriend.
Lightning – Normal lighting has been used, no high key or artificial lightning is used, and this is done to make the video look more realistic.
Representation- There is a period setting style, depicting of the late 70’s due to mis en scene and clothing such as the tape recorder. This video could show the representation of how the penal system worked in that era as it is showed that the black man in the corner of the jury does not click along at the start and this could representing that he is not paying attention and not caring about the court case, this can also be showed when there are several shots of the jury looking unhappy or bored.
Story line – At the start it shows clip from the night before (which is from the last single) so that the audience can see why Plan B is in the court room. He is being trialled, even though it is not told, for rape as how the story line is being planned out and due to the lyrics. At the end of the video, there is a shot of Plan B’s face and expression which looks disappointed so this could show that is he had been found guilty and is going to prison.
Mise en scene – The video is looked to set in the 70’s/80’s as the characters clothing of the style of suits and dresses, and also due certain pieces of mis en scene such as the tape recorder.
Camera work - In the same way as the video for Drake – Find Your Love, they used filming methods to set traits about the characters; the use of low angled shots on Plan B to show that he is the protagonist. Commonly the shots used are close up or medium shots so they establish who is in the shot as they only last for about 3 seconds, which vary between Plan B singing along to the song and not.
Editing – As usual music videos, shots are straight cut and last no longer then a couple of seconds, this could be done to keep the audience interested with video and the story line.
Sound – The shots last for about 3 seconds, which differ between Plan B singing the song and not. It would not suit all of the shots as it is also a visual based media as well as the audio song.
Genre and narrative - This video doesn’t follow Todorov’s theory as it doesn’t start with an equilibrium and it is left on a cliff hanger, this could be due to being the second part of the story with one before and one following it up. This video also doesn’t follow Propp’s theory either as there are no standard characters as even though Plan B is seen as being portrayed as wrongly accused it didn’t doesn’t actually show this.
Audience theory: Dyer - They used Dyer’s Utopian Solutions Theory to inspire and connect the audience, offering the ‘solutions’ to ‘clarity’ by using the couple of shots at start explaining how Plan B got into that situation of being accused in court. Also uses ‘Isolation’ as they show to the audience that there are other people in the world who have been wrongly accused.
Maslow – They threatened the audience’s need of ‘Affiliation’ as the accusing woman is lying to everyone about what happened as there is also a clip where it shows one of Strickland Bank’s friends going against him as well due to jealously.
Institution – The music video for "She Said" shows Plan B as the soul singer Strickland Banks on the night after one of his concerts. He is in court following the night after one of his concerts. Like Stay Too Long, the video stars Skins actress Kaya Scodelario as the female lead. It is the second single and therefore the second part of a story with a third part afterwards.
Posted by Joe Lavigne
Plan B - She Said - Pop/Soul
Location – There are two main locations, in a police interrogation room and outside and in the court where Strickland Banks (Plan B) is being trialled. In the interrogation room he is shown explaining to policemen that he is innocent, this is heard with the lyrics “on the day that I got arrested, I’m innocent I protested”. The other scene is in the court room where he is being trialled; there are other characters in this scene such as the accusing woman (Kaya Scodelario) and Strickland Bank’s girlfriend.
Lightning – Normal lighting has been used, no high key or artificial lightning is used, and this is done to make the video look more realistic.
Representation- There is a period setting style, depicting of the late 70’s due to mis en scene and clothing such as the tape recorder. This video could show the representation of how the penal system worked in that era as it is showed that the black man in the corner of the jury does not click along at the start and this could representing that he is not paying attention and not caring about the court case, this can also be showed when there are several shots of the jury looking unhappy or bored.
Story line – At the start it shows clip from the night before (which is from the last single) so that the audience can see why Plan B is in the court room. He is being trialled, even though it is not told, for rape as how the story line is being planned out and due to the lyrics. At the end of the video, there is a shot of Plan B’s face and expression which looks disappointed so this could show that is he had been found guilty and is going to prison.
Mise en scene – The video is looked to set in the 70’s/80’s as the characters clothing of the style of suits and dresses, and also due certain pieces of mis en scene such as the tape recorder.
Camera work - In the same way as the video for Drake – Find Your Love, they used filming methods to set traits about the characters; the use of low angled shots on Plan B to show that he is the protagonist. Commonly the shots used are close up or medium shots so they establish who is in the shot as they only last for about 3 seconds, which vary between Plan B singing along to the song and not.
Editing – As usual music videos, shots are straight cut and last no longer then a couple of seconds, this could be done to keep the audience interested with video and the story line.
Sound – The shots last for about 3 seconds, which differ between Plan B singing the song and not. It would not suit all of the shots as it is also a visual based media as well as the audio song.
Genre and narrative - This video doesn’t follow Todorov’s theory as it doesn’t start with an equilibrium and it is left on a cliff hanger, this could be due to being the second part of the story with one before and one following it up. This video also doesn’t follow Propp’s theory either as there are no standard characters as even though Plan B is seen as being portrayed as wrongly accused it didn’t doesn’t actually show this.
Audience theory: Dyer - They used Dyer’s Utopian Solutions Theory to inspire and connect the audience, offering the ‘solutions’ to ‘clarity’ by using the couple of shots at start explaining how Plan B got into that situation of being accused in court. Also uses ‘Isolation’ as they show to the audience that there are other people in the world who have been wrongly accused.
Maslow – They threatened the audience’s need of ‘Affiliation’ as the accusing woman is lying to everyone about what happened as there is also a clip where it shows one of Strickland Bank’s friends going against him as well due to jealously.
Institution – The music video for "She Said" shows Plan B as the soul singer Strickland Banks on the night after one of his concerts. He is in court following the night after one of his concerts. Like Stay Too Long, the video stars Skins actress Kaya Scodelario as the female lead. It is the second single and therefore the second part of a story with a third part afterwards.
Posted by Joe Lavigne
Copyrighted Music
As a group we chose to do the Stevie Wonder song Superstition and as part of the coursework we had ask the copyright owners permission to see if it was okay to use their music. I decided I would email Stevie Wonder's record label first (that email can be seen in a post below). They replied the following day saying:
Thank you for your inquiry with Universal Music Group. We have reviewed your request and have determined that it is not privacy related.
However, for general Licensing and Usage of Universal Music Group Content please refer to the following link:
http://www.umusicpub.com/licensingrequests.aspx.
Thanks again for your interest in Universal Music Group!
Kind Regards,
UMG Privacy Office
I went on the following link and had to fill out a questionnaire saying when and why I wanted to use the music and now I am waiting for a reply from them.
Thank you for your inquiry with Universal Music Group. We have reviewed your request and have determined that it is not privacy related.
However, for general Licensing and Usage of Universal Music Group Content please refer to the following link:
http://www.umusicpub.com/licensingrequests.aspx.
Thanks again for your interest in Universal Music Group!
Kind Regards,
UMG Privacy Office
I went on the following link and had to fill out a questionnaire saying when and why I wanted to use the music and now I am waiting for a reply from them.
Analysing Album Covers
Before we started this coursework in a group we individually started on analysis album covers and as I partly finished one I thought I would blog it.
Lil Wayne - Rebirth - Rock/Rap
Even though Lil Wayne is a rapper, this is rock album and it is reflected on the cover.
One way it is shown is with the mise-en-scene as such with a guitar is placed on top of him in the center of the shot which is a symbol of rock music. Also everything in the shot looks like its matching from the sofa to his scarf and trainers, this cold be done to represent his fashion conscious .
It is a medium shot of the artist which shows him relaxed and laid back. This could relate how he feels about the album due there was negative criticisms before the album was released.
The artists name stands out quite a lot more, compared to the album title as it is in white, maybe this was done to show whatever the album is the artist will sell music just due to his name.
Posted By Joe Lavigne
Analysing Album Covers
Check out this SlideShare Presentation:
Analysing Album Covers
View more presentations from rachael swan.
Wednesday, 23 June 2010
Email to Universal Motown
To Sir or Madam
I am writing to request your permission to use the popular Stevie Wonder song titled Superstition from the Talking Book album.
With your permission, this track would be used in my current A-level Media Studies project which involves creating a music video for a popular music track, as well as producing an album cover and a magazine advert for the artist. I will be working in a group with Drew Middleton, Rachael Swan and Molly Pitman and we unanimously picked this song due to as it is an entertaining and enjoyable and also for the audience to listen to with its soulful vibes
If I receive your permission, this track would only be used for an educational purpose and be viewed by my media class, my teacher and the exam board moderator. It would not be released to a large audience or uploaded to any public video websites.
The artist and your company would of course be fully recognised throughout pre-production and the final video itself. A copyright notice, with wording supplied by you can be included in the records of the project. If this is required, please send full details. We would proud to send you a copy of our completed music video for your interest.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Regards,
Joe Lavigne
I am writing to request your permission to use the popular Stevie Wonder song titled Superstition from the Talking Book album.
With your permission, this track would be used in my current A-level Media Studies project which involves creating a music video for a popular music track, as well as producing an album cover and a magazine advert for the artist. I will be working in a group with Drew Middleton, Rachael Swan and Molly Pitman and we unanimously picked this song due to as it is an entertaining and enjoyable and also for the audience to listen to with its soulful vibes
If I receive your permission, this track would only be used for an educational purpose and be viewed by my media class, my teacher and the exam board moderator. It would not be released to a large audience or uploaded to any public video websites.
The artist and your company would of course be fully recognised throughout pre-production and the final video itself. A copyright notice, with wording supplied by you can be included in the records of the project. If this is required, please send full details. We would proud to send you a copy of our completed music video for your interest.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Regards,
Joe Lavigne
Further Genre Discussion and Song Choice
After further deliberation, our group has chosen 'Stevie Wonder - Superstition' to be our final choice of song. We all agreed that the 'Jazz' and 'Soul' influences made it an entertaining and enjoyable song; for the audience to listen to and for the group to create a music video for.
However, if copyright issues restrict the use of the song, we will need to investigate into other songs which we have placed in our shortlist. Additionally, if other songs are not available, we will turn to an unknown artist. We have already been in contact with a band who may be willing to allow us use of their recorded material - but this needs to be confirmed. If we are allowed the rights, our genre will change to 'Indie Rock', as this is the genre the band follow.
Confirmation of both copyright issues (for 'Superstition') and the band's willingness for our group to use their songs will hopefully occur in the coming week.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
However, if copyright issues restrict the use of the song, we will need to investigate into other songs which we have placed in our shortlist. Additionally, if other songs are not available, we will turn to an unknown artist. We have already been in contact with a band who may be willing to allow us use of their recorded material - but this needs to be confirmed. If we are allowed the rights, our genre will change to 'Indie Rock', as this is the genre the band follow.
Confirmation of both copyright issues (for 'Superstition') and the band's willingness for our group to use their songs will hopefully occur in the coming week.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Monday, 21 June 2010
Music Genre Discussion
On the 17th June, our group underwent a phase of discussion; which included a creative and spontaneous idea/thought process (based on the music genre we intend to use for our music video).
Firstly, we considered whether to use copyright free music - produced by artists in the public eye - or investigate into an unknown band/artist, who may allow our group use of their songs, for our practical promo video. We eventually agreed to conduct further research and investigation into the matter. Our group done this by sending numerous emails and messages to relatively unknown artists (via social networking sites e.g. MySpace, and personal contacts e.g. friends, relatives and teachers) and examine how and where to purchase copyright-free music.
Secondly, the concept of music genre is an important element in the promo video design process. It is an extremely vital aspect, one of which we must decide as an entire group and one which we must stick to throughout the coursework module. After various discussions, of which 'R&B' and 'Pop' where mentioned, we eventually choose an 'Indie Rock' genre to follow. However, we will not be strict with our choice, and take various influences from other genres (such as 'Jazz' and 'Pop') in the choice of song and production phase i.e. mise-en-scene.
Finally, before starting product analyses, we choose to create a short-list of possible songs to use. When cut down, we have chosen the potential in 2 professional songs: Stevie Wonder - 'Superstition' and Plan B - 'Love Goes Down'. Furthermore, this is subject to change; due to copyright reasons, we may not be able to use the songs we have chosen, therefore will have to use a song from an unknown artist (one of which will give our group the right to use their recorded tracks).
These discussions have allowed our group to move swiftly on to our product analyses -of music videos, advertisements and album covers - of which we will grasp further knowledge of connotations from the 'Indie Rock' genre, allowing us to conclude findings for use in our final products.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Firstly, we considered whether to use copyright free music - produced by artists in the public eye - or investigate into an unknown band/artist, who may allow our group use of their songs, for our practical promo video. We eventually agreed to conduct further research and investigation into the matter. Our group done this by sending numerous emails and messages to relatively unknown artists (via social networking sites e.g. MySpace, and personal contacts e.g. friends, relatives and teachers) and examine how and where to purchase copyright-free music.
Secondly, the concept of music genre is an important element in the promo video design process. It is an extremely vital aspect, one of which we must decide as an entire group and one which we must stick to throughout the coursework module. After various discussions, of which 'R&B' and 'Pop' where mentioned, we eventually choose an 'Indie Rock' genre to follow. However, we will not be strict with our choice, and take various influences from other genres (such as 'Jazz' and 'Pop') in the choice of song and production phase i.e. mise-en-scene.
Finally, before starting product analyses, we choose to create a short-list of possible songs to use. When cut down, we have chosen the potential in 2 professional songs: Stevie Wonder - 'Superstition' and Plan B - 'Love Goes Down'. Furthermore, this is subject to change; due to copyright reasons, we may not be able to use the songs we have chosen, therefore will have to use a song from an unknown artist (one of which will give our group the right to use their recorded tracks).
These discussions have allowed our group to move swiftly on to our product analyses -of music videos, advertisements and album covers - of which we will grasp further knowledge of connotations from the 'Indie Rock' genre, allowing us to conclude findings for use in our final products.
Posted by Drew Middleton.
Tuesday, 15 June 2010
Introduction of Advanced Portfolio
We are doing a promotion package for the release of an album, to include a music promo video, together with two the options:
• a cover for its release as part of a digipak (CD/DVD package);
• a magazine advertisement for the digipak (CD/DVD package).
We have decided to do this brief as a group as we all enjoy watching music videos on the television and online such as on MTV and YouTube. We also enjoy other mediums which are representing music artists and work with the music industry.
Our group consists of Joe Lavigne, Drew Middleton, Molly Pitman and Rachael Swan. We will all work on the music promo video together but we all we create a separate a cover for its release and a magazine advertisement for the digipak.
At the start we had to make a blog, as we was going to do separate parts of the coursework we thought we would make separate blogs but then our teachers said we can make one together and decided to keep this one.
Firstly to help us on our way to producing my own music video, cover and magazine advertisement we will do some product analyses on the separate parts, We will do 4 analyses on music videos and two on the cover and the magazine advertisement. This will help us find generic conventions of different genres.
Posted by Joe Lavigne
• a cover for its release as part of a digipak (CD/DVD package);
• a magazine advertisement for the digipak (CD/DVD package).
We have decided to do this brief as a group as we all enjoy watching music videos on the television and online such as on MTV and YouTube. We also enjoy other mediums which are representing music artists and work with the music industry.
Our group consists of Joe Lavigne, Drew Middleton, Molly Pitman and Rachael Swan. We will all work on the music promo video together but we all we create a separate a cover for its release and a magazine advertisement for the digipak.
At the start we had to make a blog, as we was going to do separate parts of the coursework we thought we would make separate blogs but then our teachers said we can make one together and decided to keep this one.
Firstly to help us on our way to producing my own music video, cover and magazine advertisement we will do some product analyses on the separate parts, We will do 4 analyses on music videos and two on the cover and the magazine advertisement. This will help us find generic conventions of different genres.
Posted by Joe Lavigne
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