Usually, there will be at least a few shots of the artist performing. This will be them lip syncing, possibly dancing as well with perhaps some backup dancers. They may also be with a band. This is demonstrated in video's such as Sinead O' Connor's video, Nothing Compares 2 U:
In fact, majority of the video is a close up of her face. At a certain point, she also starts crying (out of genuine sadness), which adds to the video.
Artists may also add a narrative within the story. Sometimes, stories within the music videos can make it more memorable. This is especially effective in reaching a wider, more visual audiences. A good example of this is Michael Jackson's Thriller:
The song, being about spooky and ghostly things, has a narrative which is somewhat horror-themed. The combination of this unique story, as well as the performances given by the backup dancers (in their zombie costumes, etc), make this video a unique one.
There are also a multitude of techniques used in films that are also used in music videos.
Camera techniques are an important part of the music video.
A typical convention of music videos are extreme close ups of the artists' face. There are also long shots of dancers or the band.
Medium shots are usually used when there is an item of some sort, which generates a connotation that relates to the song.
Editing in music videos tends to be quick. This is to keep the interest of the viewer. If edits take too long it feels awkward to stare at the singer, especially if they are emotionless.
Long edits in music videos would tend to be for slow paced songs that focus on emotion. This is because it helps the viewer focus on the artists' feelings, and help the music be felt more. This conveys the emotion better.
No comments:
Post a Comment