Research blog: Music Video Conventions

 In the Indie/Alternative genre of music videos, conventions are varied. In this genre there are sometimes cartoon illustrations and shining colors. In most of the music videos I've watched of this genre, I've noticed that there are always contrasting filters. In some parts of the videos there and black and white filters or vintage filters. These filters work to signify simplicity and establish moods in each scene. Most music videos started out in a dark space and then as the video progressed, the scene get brighter and more complex. They are often filmed in multiple locations to set each scene in the way that the lyrics portray. The camera is almost always following its subject and in most videos it is filmed like a story being told. Sometimes the subject is silent through the video, not lip-syncing. There may be reflective surfaces like mirrored walls to make the space look small and cozy, or there could be a large field, to have a freeing setting. There is almost always non-diegetic sound and mis-en-scene plays a key role in these music videos.  In the rare chances you'd see diegetic sounds, it would probably pop up in a upbeat part of the song, to add dialogue. Costumes, acting, and lighting are the first things an audience may notice. Also, camera angles are another significant part in these music videos. Some common camera angles I've noticed are high angles and low angles, where there would often only be one subject in frame. In scenes where you'd see the bird's eye view and Dutch angles, there would be multiple subjects in frame, to make sure every one is scene. This could also work to single out someone in a crowd of people, where they would have lighting only on that one person. As for camera shots, there are multiple closeups, long shots, and medium shots. In editing these videos, there are many jump cuts and dissolving transitions. While there are many conventions to take into account, two different music videos by two different artists in this genre could look completely different.

See you in the next one!