Narrative Sequence

In this task we created a storyboard to plan and we leant how to film to edit.

The Storyboard

The Narrative Sequence

We followed a brief which included;

  • Filming for continuity
  • Use at least 5 different shots and angles
  • A reaction shot
  • Have one deliberate camera movement

Reflection/Focus Forward

During this task, I learned how to set up a tripod efficiently and quickly to create the best high-quality shots. This was useful as it allowed us to create the best video we could. I learned how to create a storyboard and how to film to edit. This was essential as it allowed us to produce good quality shots that would enable us to edit more precisely and confidently. I found using a storyboard very useful as it allowed us to check what shots we needed and acted as a checklist – so we didn’t miss anything out. We used Premiere Pro to cut and edit clips that provided continuity and made sense. I also slowed down the video by using the toggle animation tool, which added tension and added interest to the video. I also used the toggle animation to add a gradual red colour that connoted feelings of stress and frustration. However, one particular shot was out of focus – I chose not to use it as it would reduce the quality of the video. However, I have learned from this mistake and will ensure that when using the camera, it is in focus before I begin filming.

Previous Student’s Work

Student Video 

Analysis 

Camera

screenshot from video

In this music video, the tripod has been used throughout. However, in one particular section in the narrative the main star has enough and wants to break free, so the camera is moving in frantically in random directions with quite dramatic movements to portray that she feels trapped.

screenshot from video

Multiple camera angles have been used in each scene from close-ups to medium long shots allowing the audience to gauge a better idea of the story and making the video look more enticing and professional.

Editing

screenshot from video

A dissolve transition is used to establish that the scene is taking place within the dollhouse and then is being brought to life, emphasizing the idea that she is trapped inside the dollhouse and wants to be free.

screenshot from video

Color correction is used to make the narrative fun, bright, and upbeat – a contrast to the narrative, suggesting what it would be like for the main character to have a life outside of the doll house. A fast cutting speed is also used to and from the performance to bright colors on the screen which align perfectly with the beat of the song, adding excitement and anticipation.

Mise-en-Scene

The real-life dollhouse scenes, it is very posh, bleak, and monotonous. The parents and daughter are wearing smart clothing which is quite old-fashioned. The food they are also eating is quite plain and bland, reflective of their stale and mundane lives. There is also a large doily on the table which is quite old-fashioned and were extremely popular in the Victorian era.

To contradict the snobby narrative scenes, the performance is the opposite – with young actors, colors, and a lot of fun outfits. They have used different colors of light that they have projected across the star’s face which connotes quite youthful and exuberant images. Makeup is also used, not excessively but enough to create a lasting effect on the audience.

Assessment of video 

Reflection

By looking at previous students work I have gained an idea about what I can create and produce, it has shown me what is accessible and how we can use different professional techniques to make a music video that has a developed narrative and performance. It has taught me how well you need to focus on representing the star in an ideal way, and how camera, editing and mise-en-scene can be used to do this.

Music Video Form & Conventions

For our first task in the music video segment, we had to understand what a music video was, why they were needed, and what the typical conventions were. We decoded the narratives and performances to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of star image and how it illustrated the song. Some usual conventions where also broken, such as an anachronic music video or a disjunctive music video, and we could understand why the artist chose to do this and what message it gave to the audience.

My three chosen professional videos:

The Analysis 

Focus Forward

From this task, I have learnt the key conventions and what is needed to make a successful music video. I have established ideas about how to convey a key theme through a narrative, and how you can intentionally break conventions to portray a message. Furthermore, I was able to learn that music videos act as a vehicle for promoting the star image and they’re representation to the audience. This is important as if it is not executed correctly it could have a long lasting, damaging impact on the star.