Camera Angles

The TV drama I decided to analyse was skins. 

A low shot was used during this scene. These shots can be used to show a characters power.  

A high angle shot was used here to show the audience the character's actions from above. This shot could also be used to show vulnerability. 

An over the shoulder shot was used here during a conversation. This is usually used during conversation and shows the action from over the shoulder of one of the actors. 

An extreme long shot (establishing shot) was used here to set the scene for the audience. 

A long shot was used here to show the character in full. This shot allows the audience to see the relationship between the character and the environment. 

A mid shot is used here to introduce a character. This can be used to allow the audience to become more familiar with the charcter and to show them their motivation. 

A two shot was used here to show the relationship between the two characters.

A close up was used here to show the characters facial expressions and emotions clearly.

A point of view shot was used here to show the audience what the character was looking at/talking about. The point of this is to show the audience the characters motives. 

An extreme close up was used here to show the characters emotion. This shot is used so that the audience cannot see anything other than the character in the shot. 

A tracking shot was used here. A tracking shot is a simple movement of the camera, usually backwards or forwards. 

A side ways track (crab shot) was used here to follow the movement of the character. This is used so that the audience can keep pace with the action. 

A zoom shot was used here to show emotion. This can be used instead of a tracking shot. A movement into or away from the character is created. 

An arc shot was used here. This is when the camera moves a full circle or semi-circle around charcters or an object. It allows the audience to see the reaction of the characters. 

A tilt shot was used here. This is a simple movement of the camera upwards or downwards on a axis.This shows the characters height. 

Textual Analysis and Representation

Camera Shots, Angle, Movement, Composition

• Shots: establishing shot, master shot, close-up, mid-shot, long shot, wide shot, two-shot, aerial shot, point of view shot, over the shoulder shot, and variations of these.
• Angle: high angle, low angle, canted angle.
• Movement: pan, tilt, track, dolly, crane, steadicam, hand-held, zoom, reverse zoom.
• Composition: framing, rule of thirds, depth of field – deep and shallow focus, focus pulls.

Editing 

Includes transition of image and sound – continuity and non-continuity systems.

• Cutting: shot/reverse shot, eyeline match, graphic match, action match, jump cut, crosscutting, parallel editing, cutaway; insert.
• Other transitions, dissolve, fade-in, fade-out, wipe, superimposition, long take, short take, slow motion, ellipsis and expansion of time, post-production, visual effects.

　Sound

• Soundtrack: score, incidental music, themes and stings, ambient sound.
• Diegetic and non-diegetic sound; synchronous/asynchronous sound; sound effects; sound motif, sound bridge, dialogue, voiceover, mode of address/direct address, sound mixing, sound perspective.

Mise-en-Scène

• Production design: location, studio, set design, costume and make-up, properties.
• Lighting; colour design.

You need to understand how the technical elements (in the last post) create specific representations of individuals, groups, events or places and help to articulate specific messages and values that have social significance. 

Particular areas of representation that may be chosen are:

1. Gender
2. Age
3. Ethnicity
4. Sexuality
5. Class and status
6. Physical ability/disability
7. Regional identity

The Male Gaze- music video task

Analysis of the video for:

Shakira - Can't Remember to Forget You ft. Rihanna

Throughtout the video there are many parts which have connotations with sex and intimacy.

At the beginning of the video, Shakira is shown sitting on a bed wearing a see-through jumper which is hanging down to show her bra and breast. She is being playful, moving about and touching her upper legs.These movements put together with the bed and little clothing has connotations with sex. 

Around 34 seconds into the video Shakira is shown sitting on a different bed like piece of furniture, wearing a very revealing strappy black leotard. A couple seconds after she is shown lying down on the bed, moving about erotically. 

She is then shown in a swimming pool in a different revealing, skin coloured costume. At first it seems as though she hasn't got any clothes on, but later the swimming costume is shown. In this scene she is seen as being very playful and she is splashing the water towards the camera which could have connotations with sex again. 

At around 1:03 Rihanna is shown walking backwards away from the camera. She is wearing what looks like an elegant black dress. However the audience realise seconds after that she is also wearing a leotard. She is shown leaning on a wall while singing and slowly moving slightly. She is shown tilting her head back, closing her eyes and opening her mouth which all have connotations with sex and intimacy. 

Shakira and Rihanna are then shown lying on the same bed together, smoking a cigar. This could be seen as sexual and would have connotations with sex. We would make assumptions which are also sex related. 

Both Shakira and Rihanna are then shown hitting a wall with both hands, aggressively. They then both show off their body by beinding over or 'twerking'. The camera then cuts off their upper body and lower legs, to show their hips moving and their behind. This is portrayed in a very sexual way.

Both are then shown slowing dropping to the floor. Shakira is shown on the floor with her legs apart which we can clearly connote with sex and intimacy. They are both shown whipping their head and hair back which again is done in a sexual way. While Shakira does this she has her mouth slightly open with has connotations with sex and orgasms. In this scene they are both wearing revealing outfits. Rihanna is wearing a black, see-through leotard, which could be seen as being like lingerie. She also has red lipstick on (as well as throughout the whole video) which could be for sexiness. Shakira is wearing a red dress which has a pattern that is done to look as though part of dress is see-through. This could also be for sexiness as the combination of red and skin would have connotations with sex.

At about 2:13 they are shown on the bed together again. The camera is focused on Shakira as she is singing. She is shown leaning forward which could be seen as being sexy. She then rolls over onto her back to join Rihanna who is lying on her side which draws attentions to her behind again. This scene is very sexual, the combination of the setting, outfits and body language all allow the audience to connote this scene with intimacy. 

Rihanna then starts to move and sits up in a way that her behind is pointing in the cameras direction, while she is in a thong like leotard. She then sits running her fingers through her hair which is seen as being sexual. She lays back down next to Shakira, then both begin to slowly touch each others upper leg and behind, while looking into each others eyes. This is very sexual and would represent pleasure. 

Shakira is then shown playing the guitar and drums. This part of the video is the least sexual, however she is still in a revealing black lace outfit and is standing in water. The lighting is mainly red which has connotations with sex. This demonstrates how this scene has still been portrayed in a sexual way. 

At about 2:46 Shakira and Rihanna are shown holding each other while they are naked or wearing very little clothes, which we as an audience can't see. This is probably meant to be sexy and intimate, which would attract the male audience more. While they are like this, they are both looking into the camera which makes it seem more personal and as if they are singing the lyrics to the viewers. This is very sexual and would have connotations with intimacy again. They both look very serious but sexual with the facial expressions that they are pulling, this would all add to the connotations with sex and intimacy. 

For the rest of the video, little snippets of different scenes are shown. For example both are shown laying on the bed together again, while moving around sexually. Also Shakira is shown playing the guitar and drums still while splashing in the water too. This is very playful and we could connote this with sex. We are shown them both holding each other topless again, while singing and moving their heads slowly to increase sexiness. These scenes are quickly repeated showing the audience quick glimses of different scenes which are all sexual and could represent or have connotations with intimacy. 

My Own Representation

Stylers:

Still representing status and style, it’s about partying, looking good and staying ahead of cool. Stylers hold strong on the UK Tribes map – innately cool and stylish, the rising influence of Urban fashion and music have made them a hugely aspirational Tribe for youth today. As luxe sportswear and Urban high fashion has hit the Aspirants, more young people than ever before are looking like a Styler and aspiring to their luxury lifestyle. 

I think I am part of the stylers as I have a huge interest in fashion, especially urban fashion. I love vintage sportwear and put a lot of thought into the outfits I wear. I also have a big interest in music and think that my style matches my music taste. 

Trendies:

Trendies are driven by beautiful things and beautiful people, Trendies love fashion and are always looking for the next big trend!

They’re the biggest outwardly ‘brand-me’ Tribe – they’re universally aspirational in fashion and music, both offline and online.The rise of Mainstream Brand Me behaviours and fast fashion means the Trendies are still going strong and are one of the biggest Tribes on the map in 2015. Their influence is if anything growing, as more and more Trendies lean towards vlogging and sharing their super-soft-focus, Instagrammable lives online – inspiring younger teens to live a perfect life.

I think that I am also part of this tribe as I am always inspired by different peoples styles. I mainly get influenced on social media sites such as Instagram. I follow a lot of interesting people on there who dedicate their accounts to fashion. I also get influenced by celebrities and models. Gigi Hadid for example has influenced me with difference outfits. 

Media figures:

Kendall Jenner: Kendall Jenner's style is very influential to me. I would describe her as being very up to date with the fashion trends and has a classy, relaxed style. This is influential to me as I think it's perfect for everyday wear and is great for all seasons. 

Ellie Goulding: I like Ellie Goulding's fashion as it is quite casual but very fashionable. That is the sort of style I try to go for as I think it's appropriate for most occasions, therefore I think Ellie Goulding is very influential to me. 

Elizabeth Jane Bishop: Model Elizabeth Jane Bishop is one of my biggest fashion influences. She has a very individual style which I love. This could range from urban-grunge to pastel pink dresses. She wears outfits which some people wouldn't even think of wearing, which is one of the main reasons she inspires my fashion. 

Cara Delevingne: Cara's style is relaxed but elegant which I love. Overall, Cara Delevingne is a very influential figure for most teenage girls. She has an attitude which shows that she says/does whatever she likes and doesn't mind what people think. This promotes individuality which is great and influences my fashion sense. 

Do you consciously 'model' (copy modes of dress, style yourself, act like) yourself on any of these media figures? Why is that?

I think that I do consciously 'model' myself on these media figures. This is mainly through modes of dress and how I style myself, however some of my actions may be influenced by them subconsciously. I look for fashion inspiration from them as I like the way that they look and how they portray themselves. 

Representation and Textual Analysis

Doug Bihlmaier:                                                            

When I first saw this picture I thought that this man looked scruffy by the clothes that he is wearing, for example his patchwork trousers. I thought he might be unemployed or retired. By the way he is standing it looked like he is quite relaxed which made me think that he might not have anywhere to go or anything to do, even though it looks like it's the middle of the day and everybody around him is busy.                                                                              

Who he actually is:                                                        

Doug Bihlmaier works for Ralph Lauren and this picture was taken while he was having a break outside of his work. Bihlmaier has a quirky sense of style which is demonstrated in this picture of him. He wears very expensive clothes which is shown by the perfectly tailored trousers and the shoes that he is working. Bihlmaier works in fashion which is shown through the way he dresses.  

Ralph Lauren:

I thought that this man looked very wealthy as he seems to be stood in a manor house or a palace. The clothes he is wearing demonstrates that he cares about what he looks like and has the money to spend on expensive clothes. By his smile I thought that he looked quite proud of what he has or what he has achieved in his life.

Who he actually is:

Ralph Lauren is a fashion designer who has created a very successful brand. The brand has a English style which is shown in this picture of him. The Polo Lounge restaurant is where he is in the picture, he owns that as well as his brand. There is a English theme throughout the restaurant too. Ralph Lauren is very powerful in the world of fashion.

Lynn Yaeger:

When I saw this I thought that she looked quite wealthy due to her clothes (fur coat and mac) and her jewelery. I originally thought that she may have a job in fashion due to her clothes and out there makeup choices. She looks middle aged which may mean that she has been in her job for a while which would mean that she is wealthy. 

Who she actually is:

Lynn works for Vogue which demonstrates why she has such a quirky fashion sense; she works in the fashion industry. When she isn't writing about fashion, she can be found haunting flea markets all over the world. This demonstrates her own individual personality which links to her own individual style. 

Ted Bundy:

When I saw this picture I thought that the man seemed like he could be rich because of the way he is dressing.He looks fairly young- mid 30s. He seemed passionate with what he was saying by looking at his body language, which demonstrates that he may be a lawyer fighting somebody's case. 

Who he actually is:

Ted Bondy was a serial killer who targetted women. He looked like a trust-worthy, normal man which he took advantage of. He attempted to get girls to accept a lift from him, so then he could attack them. A few escaped but 100 was killed. However Bundy was sent to the electric chair in 1989, aged 42. 

Edward VIII:

My first thought when I saw this picture was that he looked very wealthy because of what he is wearing and his setting. His hairstyle makes him look intelligent which made me think that he probably has a well paying job. He reminded me of Prince Charles as he looks slightly like him.

Who he actually is:

This is Edward VIII who was the King of the United Kingdom. He was titled Duke of Windsor in 1937. It takes its name from the town where Windsor Castle is found. Edward was very well known for how he tied his tie. It was named the 'Windsor Knot'. The Windsor Knot is a thick, wide and triangular tie knot that projects confidence. Edward VIII was a style icon because of this. 

River Phoenix:

My first judgement when I saw this picture was that he could be a teenager living alone in a big city, for example NYC. As I thought that he was living alone, I thought that he may have a well paying job. He looked like he could be an actor or a model. By what he is wearing it seems as though he cares about what he looks like. For example the holes in his t-shirt look like they are there on purpose, this demonstrates that he cares about what he looks like, because he is wearing an edgy t-shirt. 

Who he actually is:

This is River Phoenix who is an actor and has modelled. He is known for being in: Stand by Me (1986), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989) and My Own Private Idaho (1991), as well as many more. River was seen as being a hippy and was a vegan. He sadly died in 1993, aged 23. 

Film Production

Film production is the process of making a film. 

The stages of film production:


Development - This is simply the process of 'finding' a story. Ideas for films come from a variety of sources, they can range from novels, real life events to computer game adaptations. Once you've got an idea you'll need someone to write a pitch for you which you take to a film producer in an attempt to get some funding to make your film. Even at this very early stage you need a very clear idea of who you're aiming you film at so you can include elements that will appeal to them.
Pre-production - Once you've got funding you establish your budget and can begin to get a film crew together, you can storyboard the script. You also need break the script down into individual scenes and identify all the locations, props, cast members, costumes, special effects and visual effects needed.
Production - This is simply the process of 'making' the film. Provided you've done your job properly in the pre-production stage making the film should be straight forward. 'Film' is very expensive and difficult to store so an increasing number of film makers are using digital cameras to save money.
Post-production - During this stage you take all the 'film' you've shot and give it to a film editor. They will then begin putting it together. Special effects will be added, a soundtrack will be added, any missing dialogue will be re-recorded and added resulting in a 'rough cut'. This will be shown to the director and a test audience who will offer feedback. Often this causes scenes to be filmed and added or removed.

Key roles:

• Writer: A screenwriter creates screenplays for films. They provide the blueprint for the creative input of the Producer, Director, Production Designer, Composer and Editor, cast and crew. A screenplay should allow whoever is reading it to be able to visualize how the film would work on the screen. It should include interesting characters, an exciting plot and it should fit in with basic principles of dramatic construction, and fit the format and style expected in the industry. Writers have to produce highly creative writing to meet strict deadlines. Producers might bring in another screenwriter to develop and improve certain aspects of the screenplay. In this situation, Screenwriter may share a credit with the original Screenwriter. Screenwriters pitch original ideas to Producers in the hope that they will be optioned or sold. An example of screenwriters would be Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, Derek Connolly and Colin Trevorrow. They were the screenwriters for Jurassic World.      Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver

• Producer: Producers have overall control on every aspect of a film's production. They bring together and approve the whole production team. Their main responsibility is to make the cast and crews talents flourish. The producer is often the first person to get involved in a project. The responsibilities of the Producer span all four phases of production. In pre-production, they bring together the key members of the creative team. Producers also approve locations, studio hire, the final shooting script, production schedule and budget. Once a film is in production, the producer is in charge of the smooth operation of the team. During post production, Producers are expected to liaise with the Director and post production department. The producers of Jurassic World are  Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley. 

Patrick Crowley 

• Casting Director: In pre-production, Casting Directors work with both the Director and Producer to assemble the perfect cast for the film. This means that they must have an up-to-date knowledge of new and existing acting talent. They are responsible for matching the ideal actor to each role. They have to think about a number of factors, such as the actor's experience, ability, reputation, availability and box office appeal. Casting Directors organise and conduct interviews for each part. As well as offering each individual actor a certain amount of money to be in the film. Casting Directors would need a vast knowledge of actors and their abilities to be able to cast the appropriate and best actor for a certain part. An example of a Casting Director would be John Papsidera who cast Jurassic World. 

Cast of Jurassic World

• Director: Directors are responsible for translating the film's written script into actual images and sounds on the screen. Directors may write the film's script or commission it to be written. They have to develop a vision of the finished film and work out how to achieve that vision. During pre-production directors make important decisions when choosing the cast, crew and locations. Then they direct rehearsals and performances when the film is in production. They may also manage or help with technical aspects such as the camera, light and sound. During post production, Directors work closely with Editors through the many technical processes of editing. Throughout the whole film making process, the Directors job is also to keep the team motivated to produce the best results. They are ultimately responsible for a film's artistic and commercial success or failure. Colin Trevorrow was the Director of Jurassic World.   Colin Trevorrow 

• Film Finance: A Financial Controller has a challenging as they are responsible for controlling the accounting, taxation and financial analysis for all of the work a company does, including development, production and distribution.  Financial Controllers normally help Producers and Executive Producers to prepare budgets and raise finance. They may undertake some or all of the Production Accountant's activities. This can include tasks such as controlling cash flow so that payments are made on time. Thomas Bianco is an example of a Finance Controller who was the Finance Controller for Jurassic World.

• Camera Operator: Camera Operators carry out the Director of Photography’s (DoP) and Director’s instructions for shot composition and development. They normally start at the end of pre-production and work closely with the Director of Photography and the Director. They are responsible for the First Assistant Camera, Second Assistant Camera  and the Camera Trainee. Once the Director and DoP have rehearsed and blocked the shots, the Camera Operator and DoP decide where to position the camera and what lenses and supporting equipment to use. During the filming, the Camera Operator is in charge of all aspects of the camera operation. Camera Operators make sure the camera and equipment are prepared for the required set-ups and ready for any last-minute changes. Camera Operators also work closely with the cast, guiding them on what can and cannot be seen by the camera. For Jurassic World the camera Operator was Grant Babbitt.

IMAX camera 

Editor: Editors are one of the key Heads of Department on feature films, responsible for First Assistant Editors, and on bigger productions, Second Assistants and Trainees. The editor works closely with the Director before shooting begins, deciding how to maximise the potential of the screenplay. To ensure that the story flows from beginning to end, each shot is carefully chosen and edited into a series of scenes. This then makes up to final film. Editors select the best takes and edit them together to create scenes. During the post production stage, the Director and Editor works together to create the Director's cut, which is them must be approved by the Producers until they achieve the fine cut. Kevin Stitt is the Editor of Jurassic World. 

Kevin Stitt

• Production Designer: Production Designers are heads of department on film crews, and are responsible for the entire art department. The help the Director to achieve the look and feel of the film that they are aiming for. Production Designers begin work at the very early stages of pre-production. They could be asked to look at scripts to provide spending estimates. After preparing a breakdown of the script they meet with the Director to discuss how best to shoot the film and work out whether to use sets and/or locations. They discuss what should be built and what should be adapted. They talk about whether CGI should be used. Production Designers must work out the budgets and decide how the money will be spent. Production Designers deliver their design sketches to Art Directors who oversee the production of technical drawings and models. These are then used by the Construction Department to build the sets and adapt locations. When the start of shooting approaches, Production Designers have to manage many people. The Production Designers for Jurassic World was Ed Verreaux. 

Jurassic World set

• Marketing: The Marketing and Publicity Managers' main responsibility is to convince the public that this is a 'must-see' movie. Once Distributors have identified the target audiences, the marketing campaign should reach target audiences before and during film releases. After the release of the film, Marketing have to increase more interest with promotion. Marketing and Publicity Managers must be fully aware of the Distributors' needs and requirements. As every film is different, the marketing campaign must be unique to the film. Big budget films spend more money on marketing than small 'indie' films, as they have less to spend.   Jurassic World marketing

• Exhibition: Programmers are responsible for choosing the right films for the right target audience.  Programmers must view everything they select for exhibition. Once they have selected a film, programmers may be responsible for organising deals with Distributors, and ensuring that all the necessary paperwork is completed. They should also be aware of any  technical issues concerning the film print, and ensure that this information is passed on to Projectionists. Programmers have to work to budgets.  Depending on the size of the venue, the Programmer may also be responsible for marketing and promoting the films. This involves organising promotional events.   

Film exhibition example 

5x5

5x5

5 alternative albums

1. Peace- In Love: (songs: California Daze, Wraith)

2. The Kooks- Inside In Inside Out: (songs: Ooh La, See The World)

3. The Wombats- This Modern Glitch: (songs: Anti-D, Our Perfect Disease)

4. Catfish and The Bottlemen- The Balcony: (songs: Hourglass, Kathleen)

5. Haim- Days Are Gone: (songs: The Wire, Forever)

5 TV dramas/sitcoms

1. Skins: A group of teenagers in Bristol, England, are followed through two years of sixth form dealing with controversial issues.

2. Misfits: A group of young offenders doing community service get stuck in a storm where they obtain super powers.

3. Friends: American sitcom which follows the lives of a group of 6 living in New York.

4. Breaking Bad: High school chemistry teacher Walter White turns to making crystal meth to help his family.

5. The Big Bang Theory: An American sitcom which follows the lives of a group of scientists who live and work together.

5 favourite magazines

1. i-D- A magazine which looks at music, fashion and culture. It has built a reputation to be a source of inspiration in fashion culture.

2. Vogue: A fashion magazine which looks at the favourite fashion trends and celebrities.

3. Dazed & Confused: An edgy fashion magazine that celebrates unique style.

4. Elle: A magazine which looks at fashion, culture and beauty.

5. Nylon: A fashion magazine which talks about celebrities, beauty and the world of music.

5 favourite bands

1. The Kooks- Naive, Sway The Kooks youtube

2. The Wombats- Let's Dance to Joy Division, Tokyo The Wombats youtube

3. Peace- California Daze, Lovesick Peace youtube

4. The 1975- Chocolate, Talk! The 1975 youtube

5. Catfish and The Bottlemen- Hourglass, Cocoon Catfish and The Bottlemen youtube

                                       

 5 favourite actors/actresses

 1. Leonardo Dicaprio- Titanic, The Wolf of Wall Street

     2. Johnny Depp- Pirates of the Caribbean, Edward Scissor Hands

        3. Anne Hathaway- Les Miserable, The Devil Wears Prada

 4. Daniel Radcliffe- The Harry Potter films, The Woman in Black

  5. Emma Watson: The Harry Potter Films, The Perks of Being a Wallflower