Research: Conventions of a Music Video

The conventions of a music video are:

• Short clips
• A lot of clips included - Up to 30/40 
• Lasting 3 to 5 seconds
• Fast pace editing 
• A lot of close up shots are included
• This is to show the detail in what is happening in the shot
• Basic editing techniques like a straight cut is used over a dissolve or wipe as it means that the transition can be more sudden, instead of trying to smoothly flow. 
• Performance 
• This includes the artist singing the song
• Narrative
• This means that the music video is following a story line 
• Linear Narrative
• Goes through Beginning, Middle and End 
• Fragmented Narrative 
• A music video typically includes both a mixture of a narrative and elements of performance
• Symbolic technique 
• This is used to show the actors facial expression and body language
• Shows the meaning behind what the actor is doing
• Technical technique
• The camera positioning 
• This can change the mood of the shot