Friday 21 October 2011
Kanye West Previous Covers
Kanye West covers are very different, they are generally very bright to reflect his rap style. His covers includes the trademark 'Dropout Bear', this makes his products recognisable for his fans and the target audience. Below are some examples of his covers.
Although Kanye West does use bright colours, we will go with Adele's themes and colours as she is the main artist of the song. However, it is crucial that we analyse these covers as we can bring in elements such as the 'Dropout Bear', or the 'Parental Advisory' logo, perhaps even the fonts that are used.
Adele Previous Covers
It's important to analyse the previous products of both Adele and Kanye West. This will enable us to create a successful DVD cover and magazine cover that are both recognisable for the target audience, representing the song and artists well.
Adele's previous album covers are both very dark and use minimalistic colours. The song for our music video 'Melt My Heart To Stone' was originally on Adele's first album, which you can see below. You can see the use of shadows on the face, and the colour theme of browns and black. The text on the image is very basic, you can see that Adele's name is capitalized in a logo format, and is a very basic font such as Times New Roman.
The other album cover '21' is also very dark, it focuses on Adele's face as she looks down, this creates a emotional atmosphere. However, this new cover is in a black and white colour scheme and uses a different font. Again the font is very basic, and is used across all of the new single cover too, which incorporate both green and white colours.
Recently there as been a selection of new remixes of Adele songs by "Urban Noize". These include Melt my heart to stone ft. Kanye West and Won't Go ft. Jay-Z.
Adele's previous album covers are both very dark and use minimalistic colours. The song for our music video 'Melt My Heart To Stone' was originally on Adele's first album, which you can see below. You can see the use of shadows on the face, and the colour theme of browns and black. The text on the image is very basic, you can see that Adele's name is capitalized in a logo format, and is a very basic font such as Times New Roman.
The other album cover '21' is also very dark, it focuses on Adele's face as she looks down, this creates a emotional atmosphere. However, this new cover is in a black and white colour scheme and uses a different font. Again the font is very basic, and is used across all of the new single cover too, which incorporate both green and white colours.
Recently there as been a selection of new remixes of Adele songs by "Urban Noize". These include Melt my heart to stone ft. Kanye West and Won't Go ft. Jay-Z.
As you can see in these album covers they both have a "green theme' which uses a greenish background and a green font. The photos are generally quite dark and are high contrast emphasizing the shadows on the artists. This is important to note for our own DVD/digipack cover.
Wednesday 19 October 2011
Ancillary Products: Photo Shoot (Editing)
The software includes preset settings which you can use to create effects on your photos, however it also has sliders to change exposure, black, lighting, contrast, brightness, saturation and to adjust the colouring of the images. This software is actually used by professional photographers and includes advanced options and information about all the photos imported. For example, the ISO, aperture shutter speed and the focal length of the lens used.
Alternatively this other edit is extremely similar, except it is a simple black and white colour scheme. In Adele's more recent cover art, the colour scheme is often just black and white. Again I think it is important to include both artists on the cover, this means that the cover would appeal to two audiences. It would also highlight that the song is a remix featuring Kanye West. However, a downfall of this edit is that it has no sign of emotion at all. The mood of the song is not represented by colour, but by the posing which isn't totally clear.
The last two images are close ups on the Adele character. Again I have tried to edit this image so that it is similar to Adele's style. You will notice the harsh lighting and use of shadows, you can even see some of the mascara that was used in the music video. As I said before colour definitely has an impact on the mood represented by the photos, I have used a blue tint on both to emphasise the depression of Adele in this song.
In order to decide which image to use the group will have to have a discussion on what we all think is best. We will also need to research previous DVD covers and magazines to find what makes them successful. The screen shot below shows the process of editing in Lightroom, including the photo and the settings used to create this effect.
Editing Roles
Now that we have completed the filming process we need to begin on the ancillary products and editing.
We think that George should do the main editing on Final Cut, as he has the most experience and uses the software at home. Sam should help him as he wrote our the narrative, shot lists and breakdown, so he knows how the shots should come together to make sense and follow continuity. Daisy and Nick will begin to work on researching different techniques that we could use in editing, and will start to work on our ancillary products. The photos for the ancillary products have already been taken, but we still need to consider how the actual packaging should look.
We think that George should do the main editing on Final Cut, as he has the most experience and uses the software at home. Sam should help him as he wrote our the narrative, shot lists and breakdown, so he knows how the shots should come together to make sense and follow continuity. Daisy and Nick will begin to work on researching different techniques that we could use in editing, and will start to work on our ancillary products. The photos for the ancillary products have already been taken, but we still need to consider how the actual packaging should look.
Filming Day 2: Evaluation
Yesterday we were able to complete the filming process for our music video. We now need to complete editing and begin to research and experiment with our ancillary products.
Myself, George and Nick left college during our media lesson to begin filming the rap parts. Daisy came with Emily after her lesson so that we could do the remaining shots of them both on scene. We began filming at about 4:15 which gave us about 30 - 45 minutes before Daisy and Emily arrived. In this time we were able to an alternative location for some extra filming, this was not in are notes or earlier planning but feel that it suits the overall theme of the video. Below is an image of the old cricket building that we used, we put the Kanye character on the steps to begin rapping. This is also beneficial to the narrative as it isn't far from the hotel, meaning that people who know Cambridge we see this as being very believable.
After these shots we processed onto the shots of Parker's Peace, here we used a variety of shots. We aimed to used the dolly but found that this was too shaky, instead we tried a slow; steady handheld shot next to the Kanye character. We found that this worked quite well, and could create an uneasy effect for the audience after it has been edited.
The shots down at the river were very straight forward, we needed to make sure that the crucial part of the narrative was well performed. When Adele catches up with Kanye and gives him the rings, this is important so the narrative makes sense. The footage of the couple after this argument was filmed last week, we had extra time as we were able to leave earlier than expected. Of-course we needed some shots for the instrumental, which we had already got from last week but decided it was best to add some more to this.
Towards the end of the filming it began to get cold, therefore we felt as if the last few shots were quite rushed. However, we do not thing this will affect our footage too badly, we ensured that the same shot was taken many times. This gives us more options during the editing process.
Myself, George and Nick left college during our media lesson to begin filming the rap parts. Daisy came with Emily after her lesson so that we could do the remaining shots of them both on scene. We began filming at about 4:15 which gave us about 30 - 45 minutes before Daisy and Emily arrived. In this time we were able to an alternative location for some extra filming, this was not in are notes or earlier planning but feel that it suits the overall theme of the video. Below is an image of the old cricket building that we used, we put the Kanye character on the steps to begin rapping. This is also beneficial to the narrative as it isn't far from the hotel, meaning that people who know Cambridge we see this as being very believable.
The shots down at the river were very straight forward, we needed to make sure that the crucial part of the narrative was well performed. When Adele catches up with Kanye and gives him the rings, this is important so the narrative makes sense. The footage of the couple after this argument was filmed last week, we had extra time as we were able to leave earlier than expected. Of-course we needed some shots for the instrumental, which we had already got from last week but decided it was best to add some more to this.
Towards the end of the filming it began to get cold, therefore we felt as if the last few shots were quite rushed. However, we do not thing this will affect our footage too badly, we ensured that the same shot was taken many times. This gives us more options during the editing process.
Tuesday 18 October 2011
ideas for ancillary products
Melt my heart into stone - Adele feat Kanye West
Release date: 21st July 2011
Release date: 21st July 2011
- Review of song
- Review of Adele
- Information on song e.g. track duration
- Da font title?
Filming Update
Toady we will film the second part of the music video. We decided that Nick, Sam and George to leave at 3.30 so we could get as much done as possible before the light started to fade. Daisy, whilst we were doing this would wait for Emily who has to finish her lesson before coming to film her part as Adele. We planned to travel to the location by car, however there was a lack of petrol, so we have to get the bus which has consequently affected our time sheet.
We plan to film the rest of the film which includes Nick's part as Kanye and some of the storyline. we thought that this would look more effective in the daylight rather than in the dark.
We plan to film the rest of the film which includes Nick's part as Kanye and some of the storyline. we thought that this would look more effective in the daylight rather than in the dark.
Monday 17 October 2011
Ancillary Products: Photo Shoot
Last week we used the University Arms Hotel to film the first half of our music video. Whilst we were there we took the opportunity to take a photo shoot of the characters, using the lighting and realistic setting. Here are some of the photos taken, as you can see they fit with the music video footage, and the styling that we have aimed to represent. These could be edited to improve this further.
Filming Update
Last week were able to film the first half of our music video, which included all the hotel scenes. We are now left with Kanye's rap section which will take place in various locations around Cambridge. Today we made sure that everyone was organised with costumes and lyrics, along with the time that we need to be ready. I have booked the camera, dolly and tripod as we will not need the extra lights outside. I will bring the equipment back on Wednesday morning at 9am.
The weather forecast for tomorrow shows that the day will get brighter, just still cold and windy. The wind will make our shots more dramatic as they will feature motion, also giving the music video more theatrical emotion. As it will be cold it is important that we are extra organised with the shots and locations, as the Adele character will get very cold quickly.
Here is a list of shots that we need to take tomorrow, this will enable us to cover all the different parts of the song that remain. We will take the shots in a chronological order to show continuity.
The weather forecast for tomorrow shows that the day will get brighter, just still cold and windy. The wind will make our shots more dramatic as they will feature motion, also giving the music video more theatrical emotion. As it will be cold it is important that we are extra organised with the shots and locations, as the Adele character will get very cold quickly.
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| Forecast in Cambridge from UK Weather |
Here is a list of shots that we need to take tomorrow, this will enable us to cover all the different parts of the song that remain. We will take the shots in a chronological order to show continuity.
- Rap shots in hotel entrance (50-60 seconds)
- Rap shots on Parker's Piece (60 - 70 seconds)
- Take some shots of Adele walking on Parker's Piece (used later as if she's following)
- Rap on the old streets, Trinity & Kings Parade (70 - 80 seconds)
- Alley ways (80 -95 seconds)
- Adele catches up, Kanye stops walking as Adele walks off screen (95 - 115 seconds)
- Adele walking away, close up, midshot, tracking, bridge, thinking, looking at hands. (115 - 135)
- Kanye West in alley where he stopped, closeups on rings and static shots (115 - 135)
- Kanye West short rap, tacking to Adele (135 - 155 seconds)
- Shot reverse shot as Kanye raps
- Kanye and Adele end shot.
Fact File: Kanye West
His debut album "The College Dropout" was released in 2004, followed by "Late Registration" in 2005. The third albm "Graduation" saw the start of his mainstream success, with songs such as "Stronger" being popular worldwide. Since then two more albums have been released "808s & Heartbreak" and "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" which have both gone to #1 in the US. In August 2011 a collaboration album with Jay-Z was released "Watch The Throne".
Kanye has received many awards including 14 Grammy Awards. This is due to his overwhelming sales, his top five tracks have sold 18.1 million, which places him at third most digitally downloaded over the past decade.
Kanye now owns his own record label "GOOD Music" with artists such as John Ledgend, Common and Kid Cudi. He is known for his logo of the "Dropout Bear", a bear which has appeared on the covers of three of his five albums as well as several single covers and music videos.
Friday 14 October 2011
Fact File: Adele
Her first album "19" was a UK #1, causing her to receive the Brit Awards Critics Choice and BBC Sound of 2008. She spent the next two years touring and working on new material for the second album "21" which was released in 2011. The second album was incredibly popular, establishing her in the US as the album sold more than 350,000 copies in it's first week alone. In the UK the album held the #1 position for 16 week, and has now sold about 3 million copies since it's release. The singles "Rolling In The Deep" and "Someone Like You" have been most successful with music videos winning three MTV Awards. "Someone Like You" set a record by being the first single to sell more than 1 million copies in this decade.
Some of her inspirations include Pink, Beyonce, along with many female soul singers.
In October 2011, Adele has to cancel two her shows due to a hemorrhage on her vocals. She also commented on her next album which she has already begun writing for.
Thursday 13 October 2011
Filming Update
Toady we had to cancel our filming day. This was firstly due to the bad weather, and we thought that it might be dull or raining in the afternoon when we filmed, causing a disruption to continuity. Also the actor playing Adele forgot to bring her costume, this would have been a major problem and has ultimate caused us to cancel the filming.
Tomorrow we will begin editing the footage we have, and organize the re-filming date.
Tomorrow we will begin editing the footage we have, and organize the re-filming date.
Wednesday 12 October 2011
Filming Day 1: Evaluation
Yesterday we filmed the first part of our music video. Here is the evaluation of the day, including good and bad points along with any improvements that I think we could take into the second day.
We were able to start earlier that usual, we left college at roughly 3:20PM which gave us extra time for traveling to our locations and organizing both the actors and crew. As the hotel was booked for 5PM, we decided that we would try to film some shots for the instrumental section down at the river. We got several shots here, including some more intimate shots of the couple that could be used towards the end of the video. I found that we knew what we wanted to do, yet we were not exactly sure how we were going to do it. Therefore, this extra time at the river was a great advantage as we are no able to visual the location and have a better idea of the ideas which will and won't work.
After this we went to the hotel and were given our room. It took us about 30 minutes to set up the room, and organize the lighting which we haven't used before. The room was suitable for what we needed, and was realistic enough for the narrative. Whilst filming we found the lighting to be a great advantage to us, the effects it created were very artistic, especially for closeups on the Adele actor. The lights were very bright though, and sometimes they could have been seen in the mirror or back of a shot. However, we were able to overcome this. If we had the opportunity again we would defiantly use the lights, and perhaps some gels/filters if available.
It took two hours to film inside the hotel, this was an hour quicker than we had planned. This was good time management, as we had left plenty of time for the filming we needed. Although, this has made us realize how long and difficult the outdoor scenes could be. It will be important to have a thorougher plan in advance, looking over the shot list and break down will assist this.
After filming we decided to take some photos for the DVD cover and magazine cover. I brought my DSLR camera and knowledge from Photography AS to take some photos. Again we used the light to create a dramatic and theatrical look. I will upload these photos onto the blog, and also posts about the editing process of the photos. We will discuss this later.
The good points about the first filming day were that we were efficient with the time, well prepared with costumes, and had effective equipment. Whereas we need to improve on the clarity of ideas/shots before shooting, and perhaps brush up on the lyrics before tomorrow.
We were able to start earlier that usual, we left college at roughly 3:20PM which gave us extra time for traveling to our locations and organizing both the actors and crew. As the hotel was booked for 5PM, we decided that we would try to film some shots for the instrumental section down at the river. We got several shots here, including some more intimate shots of the couple that could be used towards the end of the video. I found that we knew what we wanted to do, yet we were not exactly sure how we were going to do it. Therefore, this extra time at the river was a great advantage as we are no able to visual the location and have a better idea of the ideas which will and won't work.
After this we went to the hotel and were given our room. It took us about 30 minutes to set up the room, and organize the lighting which we haven't used before. The room was suitable for what we needed, and was realistic enough for the narrative. Whilst filming we found the lighting to be a great advantage to us, the effects it created were very artistic, especially for closeups on the Adele actor. The lights were very bright though, and sometimes they could have been seen in the mirror or back of a shot. However, we were able to overcome this. If we had the opportunity again we would defiantly use the lights, and perhaps some gels/filters if available.
It took two hours to film inside the hotel, this was an hour quicker than we had planned. This was good time management, as we had left plenty of time for the filming we needed. Although, this has made us realize how long and difficult the outdoor scenes could be. It will be important to have a thorougher plan in advance, looking over the shot list and break down will assist this.
After filming we decided to take some photos for the DVD cover and magazine cover. I brought my DSLR camera and knowledge from Photography AS to take some photos. Again we used the light to create a dramatic and theatrical look. I will upload these photos onto the blog, and also posts about the editing process of the photos. We will discuss this later.
The good points about the first filming day were that we were efficient with the time, well prepared with costumes, and had effective equipment. Whereas we need to improve on the clarity of ideas/shots before shooting, and perhaps brush up on the lyrics before tomorrow.
Monday 10 October 2011
Email to Record Labels
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| (To read this, please click on the image and it will open in a new tab) |
It is important that we contact the labels regarding copyright issues, it shows that we have an awareness of the copyright issues which face the music industry today. If the record labels reply to our email, the extra information will give usual information that could be used when the magazine or Digi pack are produced.
Test Footage
Over the past couple of lessons, We have filmed and edited our test footage. Our test footage will enable us to preview what some of the shots we have chosen will look like in the music video. We have also viewed what colour tint looks like on the footage using a blue tint and a sepia tint.
Weather Report
Moodboard
Sunday 9 October 2011
Filming Week Plan
This week is our filming week, we have Tuesday and Thursday to complete the initial filming process. It is important that we take advantage of the three hour period at the hotel on Tuesday, we will need to take as many shots as possible which gives us more options in the editing stage. Here is the plan for each day this week, this includes equipment, peoples responsibilities, work in lessons, and other general notes.
Monday
We need to complete editing and upload the test footage from last week. Daisy needs to contact her friend who is going to be the Adele character, make sure she has her costume and has learnt the lyrics.
Tuesday
In this lesson we need to collect all equipment and paper work, this includes:
Wednesday
George and Sam will return the camera, tripod, dolly and lights from the previous day. No lesson this day, but a blog post should be created which evaluates the first day of filming.
Thursday
We need to collect all the equipment again for this day, except lights and fake photos will not be needed. Can start as soon as possible, take advantage of the lighting available. Film in chronological order as the light will look like it's naturally fading, shows continuity. The rings are really important for this day.
Friday
First return all the equipment. Evaluate the second day of filming, identify if we need to do further filming by checking over footage. Begin some editing for rough cut if time is available.
Monday
We need to complete editing and upload the test footage from last week. Daisy needs to contact her friend who is going to be the Adele character, make sure she has her costume and has learnt the lyrics.
Tuesday
In this lesson we need to collect all equipment and paper work, this includes:
- Call sheets
- Storyboard and shot list
- Camera
- Tripod
- Dolly
- Two lights (with gels if available)
- Costumes
- Two rings
- 'Fake' photos
- Camera to take photos for Digipack/Magazine
- Song on iPod/Phone
Travel to the University Arms for 5PM. Spend the first 30 minutes setting up and preparing the actors. The remaining two and a half hours can be used to film the hotel narrative, and experiment with many different camera angles and shots. Aim to shoot every shot three times, and then spend time experimenting with lights and other camera shots which could be used in the parallel editing.
Wednesday
George and Sam will return the camera, tripod, dolly and lights from the previous day. No lesson this day, but a blog post should be created which evaluates the first day of filming.
Thursday
We need to collect all the equipment again for this day, except lights and fake photos will not be needed. Can start as soon as possible, take advantage of the lighting available. Film in chronological order as the light will look like it's naturally fading, shows continuity. The rings are really important for this day.
Friday
First return all the equipment. Evaluate the second day of filming, identify if we need to do further filming by checking over footage. Begin some editing for rough cut if time is available.
Target Audience
It is very important to know our target audience, this will allow us to make the video more successfully by targeting our audience. We can also use our findings to incorporate good intertexuality which will appeal to our target audience. Below is a mind map which lists some of the stereotypical characteristics of our viewers, this was both for fans of Adele and Kanye West.
After creating this mind mip, I visited Find Your Tribe which categorises a person through a questionnaire. I completed the questions according to the information I have already included in the mind mip, this included being a teenager, having an interest in music, being a social person, having knowledge of rap and classy brands. The results from the questionnaire was as follows:
After creating this mind mip, I visited Find Your Tribe which categorises a person through a questionnaire. I completed the questions according to the information I have already included in the mind mip, this included being a teenager, having an interest in music, being a social person, having knowledge of rap and classy brands. The results from the questionnaire was as follows:
You are a Blinger! There’s no ghetto fab for you – just fabulous. You wear your riches on your D & G sleeve. If you’ve got it, why not flaunt it? You love those that do – especially Americans. See heroes Jay-Z and P Diddy: men that aren’t afraid to flash their cash. You might not quite have their bank balances but you can still keep up appearances – your bedroom looks better than some of the ones in Cribs.This description is very stereotypical, and it probably does represent the Kanye West audience. However, it does not describe the Adele audience. This proves that the the range of viewers for the song and video is a very big range, and there are a lot of differences between them. It would have been difficult for the song to marketed as a single, this is proved by the fact that the song did not have major impact on radio or the UK charts.
Analysis: Previous Music Video (Group 19)
We viewed a previous group's music video to gain knowledge of what a good music video project should look like. In Group 19's music video they used the song "Heart Skipped a Beat" by The XX.
The video suited the genre has it was very artistic, with the graffiti and the editing techniques used such as rewinding the video and adjusting the speed. The music and lyrics fit together, the narrative is very loose but there is some reference to the two singers being a couple. The thought that the shots and visuals all followed together very well, the shots showed continuity and the colour filter used did create a warmer tone as the group had suggested. I thought that the shots at the beginning, in the intro section of the song, were particularly professional. This because the lighting highlighted the objects well, the group had obviously thought about the lighting. The artist, The XX, has been represented as being of the indie genre and shows an appeal to the lower class with the graffiti and damaged location. There is obvious voyeurism in the piece, this is particularly realistic as the actors do not look at the camera for most of the video, and actions do not seem forced. However, the voyeurism is more relevant when the video shows narrative.
The video suited the genre has it was very artistic, with the graffiti and the editing techniques used such as rewinding the video and adjusting the speed. The music and lyrics fit together, the narrative is very loose but there is some reference to the two singers being a couple. The thought that the shots and visuals all followed together very well, the shots showed continuity and the colour filter used did create a warmer tone as the group had suggested. I thought that the shots at the beginning, in the intro section of the song, were particularly professional. This because the lighting highlighted the objects well, the group had obviously thought about the lighting. The artist, The XX, has been represented as being of the indie genre and shows an appeal to the lower class with the graffiti and damaged location. There is obvious voyeurism in the piece, this is particularly realistic as the actors do not look at the camera for most of the video, and actions do not seem forced. However, the voyeurism is more relevant when the video shows narrative.
The editing techniques used in the music video were good, it was cut on the beat and the lip-syncing was almost flawless. They also decided to use extra effects such as colour correction, and speed adjustment to give the music video some depth and create and interesting effect which suits the style of the video.
Friday 7 October 2011
Analysis: Previous Music Video (Group 51)
I believe this video to be successful even though it does not follow Goodwin's points fully. The electronic style music is portrayed perfectly in the video by the group using the UV paint. This shows the music to be 'funky', and a song that is fun. The darkness in the video makes the song seem like it is designed to be played in a nightclub again this links to the genre of electronic/dance music. The fast editing helps create a party mood and links to the upbeat music. This video represents the song very well and is very effective in creating a happy mood.
Wednesday 5 October 2011
Analysis: Previous Blog (Group 21)
In order to be successful with our music video project, and to improve our blog so far, I have taken a look at some past blogs. I found S1-21 (here) to be full of reliable, and well thought out posts, along with their final products which were also of a high standard. The groups music video was for "My Way" by the Next Men, it didn't follow a narrative, instead there was footage of skaters and graffiti in London. This definately suited the genre, and some of the lyrics in the song. However, I think the lip-syncing was not emphasised enough and looked weak or not rehearsed. Therefore we will ensure that our actors are well prepared with lyrics, costumes and acting required of them.
It was clear that the group has considered every element of the song from lyrics to the message, and had made many attempts to contact the original artists for further information. I felt that while viewing their blog I could see their thought process, as all research was documented - no matter how small or insignificant overall.
I watched some of the groups commentary, unlike other groups they were able to relay their ideas without an obvious script or prompt. This is a small thing, yet it does make a huge difference, and shows that all members of the group connected with the song, idea and statements made in the commentary.
It was clear that the group has considered every element of the song from lyrics to the message, and had made many attempts to contact the original artists for further information. I felt that while viewing their blog I could see their thought process, as all research was documented - no matter how small or insignificant overall.
I watched some of the groups commentary, unlike other groups they were able to relay their ideas without an obvious script or prompt. This is a small thing, yet it does make a huge difference, and shows that all members of the group connected with the song, idea and statements made in the commentary.
Music Video Inspiration: Love The Way You Lie
"Love The Way You Lie" is a track by Eminem and Rihanna, it shows the themes of domestic violence which we are interested in. We have also drawn inspiration from the type of shots that are included, and the editing techniques used. The narrative clearly has a similar message to our chosen song "Melt My Heart To Stone", the girl can't help but run back to him even though he treats her awfully. It's as if she can't escape, and this is represented by the juxtaposition or oxymoron of "Love" and "Lie".
The shots of Eminem rapping and then the parrallel editing back to Rihanna and the main narrative, is exactly what we want to re-creating. It makes for a fast-paced piece which also causes some suspense for the viewer as they want to see how the narrative continues and how the artists perform. The argument featured (0:45) uses a handheld shot type to represent the emotion and frantic nature of the narrative. The audience can't see the shots very clearly as they are only a few seconds long, thus also causing confusion and a sort of anxiety for the girl as she is controlled. This is something that we defiantly want to include in our own video. Although it is crucial that it suits the music and target audience, meaning that we can't make the argument to rough or extravagant as it would not fit with Adele's artist image or the music that is in the background.
This music video also shows the use of several angles for the performance of Eminem, again we have mentioned this for our Adele character whilst in the hotel room and in the instrumental section of the song. Below are some screen shots of this, along with some of the argument.
The shots of Eminem rapping and then the parrallel editing back to Rihanna and the main narrative, is exactly what we want to re-creating. It makes for a fast-paced piece which also causes some suspense for the viewer as they want to see how the narrative continues and how the artists perform. The argument featured (0:45) uses a handheld shot type to represent the emotion and frantic nature of the narrative. The audience can't see the shots very clearly as they are only a few seconds long, thus also causing confusion and a sort of anxiety for the girl as she is controlled. This is something that we defiantly want to include in our own video. Although it is crucial that it suits the music and target audience, meaning that we can't make the argument to rough or extravagant as it would not fit with Adele's artist image or the music that is in the background.
This music video also shows the use of several angles for the performance of Eminem, again we have mentioned this for our Adele character whilst in the hotel room and in the instrumental section of the song. Below are some screen shots of this, along with some of the argument.
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| Shot 1 - Close up |
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| Shot 2 - Mid shot |
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| Argument - you can see the quick action/movement in the scene |
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| Argument - Emotive close up |
Breakdown of Narrative
Here is the breakdown of our narrative, this details everything that is currently planned to happen every 10 seconds. This is a good form of planning and organisation as it ensures that the entire song is covered, and that we are aware of the time spent on each shot/event/action.
0 - 10 seconds:
Adele in the hotel room, looking to a mirror doing her make up and getting ready for to go out. Several different shots, some close-ups on items she's using or holding. The audience are not aware of another character at this point.
10 - 20 seconds:
"I find myself repeating like a broken tune", on this lyrics the Adele character will look at herself in the mirror and then look down and shake her head. This symbolizes a feeling of depression or hopelessness.
Kanye will enter the room on "I'm forever excusing your intentions", Adele will look towards Kanye with a shot-reverse-shot. The argument will begin here.
20 - 30 seconds:
At roughly 19 seconds you can hear a minor note and violins used in the music. We could take advantage of this and use it as a turning point in the narrative, meaning the argument begins here and this is where Adele begins to get upset. Minor notes and violins often indicate a sad atmosphere and are used in film soundtracks to intensify the emotions of the characters. A suggested action could be that Kanye grabs Adele's hands, while Adele tries to get free.
The shots in this section will be fast-paced and is where the frantic handheld shots will appear. This contrasts with the slower music. After the big violin note the shots will slow down, with a tracking shot following Kanye out of the hotel room.
30 - 50 seconds:
This section will begin with the drum beat before the chorus, on this beat there will be a shot of Adele in the hotel room looking sad and recked after the argument. She will be sitting on the bed or at the mirror with mascar running down her face. The entire twenty second chorus will be focused on Adele performing in the hotel room.
Shots will include long shots of the entire room, mid shots of Adele looking out the window, over the shoulder shots of the photos being torn up, and of course close ups of the mascara and her face. However, it's important to note that some shots will be used in-between Kanye's rap performance. Parallel editing will be used to show both scenes occurring at the same time, this will break Kanye's rap up and will make the narrative more continual.
50 - 60 seconds:
After the chorus ends at fifty-two seconds, a fade could be used in editing as a transition from Adele's scene to Kanye. Depending on what is available we will either begin in the hotel corridors, or on Parkers Piece. Kanye entire rap will be focused on being a performance, the actor will need to exaggerate certain words. In this section "Mr Bentley" is referenced, a car wheel motion could be used to signify this.
60 - 70 seconds:
Again intertexuality and references will be emphasised by the acting in this section. "Pay them Benjies" means to pay with 100 dollar bills, this is simply show with the action of rubbing your fingers in a "cash hand action". There will be parallel editing back to Adele sitting in the hotel, looking out the window or sorting out her mascara.
70 - 80 seconds:
By this point Kanye will be at least outside, if not in another location such as Granta Place. All shots should be tracking, panning or showing some kind of movement as Kanye walks. The references are "cold" an action is shown of shivering or freezing, "jesus piece" pointing to the sky or at a chain.
As the rap nears it's end we will see Adele get her coat, through parallel editing, and exit the hotel room. Shots of Adele doing this will following into the next section up-to 95 seconds.
80 - 95 seconds:
Old streets of Cambridge by now, alley ways near Granta Place and the river will be used. Clips of Adele in places that Kanye has been will show she is following him. A long shot will be used as we see Adele enter at the end of this section. Kanye is unaware of this, we will continue to see a tracking shot of the argument as they continue to walk.
95 - 115 seconds:
Adele has caught up with Kanye. We will see Adele sing her lyrics at Kanye, almost as these are the words that she uses to argue with him. As already mentioned she will take her ring off, throw is at Kanye and walk off-screen. Kanye will be shocked as the Adele character is fighting back at his attitude, and perhaps the domestic violence theme that we are incorporating. To symbolize this Kanye will stop walking as the camera moves away from him, in a tracking long shot motion, leaving him isolated.
In the last five seconds there is an increased beat, we will need to use this to our advantage in the editing stage with a flickering of shots, for example. We will discuss this as a group soon.
115 - 135 seconds:
Instrumental section, there we will see the use of parallel editing again. There will be shots of Adele walking, at the river, looking over the bridge, and then back at Kanye as he tries to find her. Again use similar shots to the hotel scenes - close-ups on the rings in someone's hand, their face, different distances etc. The beat is more obvious in this part of the track, the two characters could individually be nodding their heads to the beat of the track whilst doing there actions. This enables the beat and narrative to sync together, becoming closely connected.
135 - 155 seconds:
Kanye West has a short rap outro section, this will be used as he find Adele on the bridge. He could walk up to her and rap to her, as an explanation to get her back. Shot-reverse-shot of their faces as they look at each other along with midshots of them looking over the river.
155 - 165 seconds:
This is a ten second instrumental outro. One shot is used, Adele and Kanye hold hands with rings on both back on. The rings have got to be obvious and emphasised for this outro, as it is an important part of the narrative and brings us back to the equilibrium. Fades to black.
0 - 10 seconds:
Adele in the hotel room, looking to a mirror doing her make up and getting ready for to go out. Several different shots, some close-ups on items she's using or holding. The audience are not aware of another character at this point.
10 - 20 seconds:
"I find myself repeating like a broken tune", on this lyrics the Adele character will look at herself in the mirror and then look down and shake her head. This symbolizes a feeling of depression or hopelessness.
Kanye will enter the room on "I'm forever excusing your intentions", Adele will look towards Kanye with a shot-reverse-shot. The argument will begin here.
20 - 30 seconds:
At roughly 19 seconds you can hear a minor note and violins used in the music. We could take advantage of this and use it as a turning point in the narrative, meaning the argument begins here and this is where Adele begins to get upset. Minor notes and violins often indicate a sad atmosphere and are used in film soundtracks to intensify the emotions of the characters. A suggested action could be that Kanye grabs Adele's hands, while Adele tries to get free.
The shots in this section will be fast-paced and is where the frantic handheld shots will appear. This contrasts with the slower music. After the big violin note the shots will slow down, with a tracking shot following Kanye out of the hotel room.
30 - 50 seconds:
This section will begin with the drum beat before the chorus, on this beat there will be a shot of Adele in the hotel room looking sad and recked after the argument. She will be sitting on the bed or at the mirror with mascar running down her face. The entire twenty second chorus will be focused on Adele performing in the hotel room.
Shots will include long shots of the entire room, mid shots of Adele looking out the window, over the shoulder shots of the photos being torn up, and of course close ups of the mascara and her face. However, it's important to note that some shots will be used in-between Kanye's rap performance. Parallel editing will be used to show both scenes occurring at the same time, this will break Kanye's rap up and will make the narrative more continual.
50 - 60 seconds:
After the chorus ends at fifty-two seconds, a fade could be used in editing as a transition from Adele's scene to Kanye. Depending on what is available we will either begin in the hotel corridors, or on Parkers Piece. Kanye entire rap will be focused on being a performance, the actor will need to exaggerate certain words. In this section "Mr Bentley" is referenced, a car wheel motion could be used to signify this.
60 - 70 seconds:
Again intertexuality and references will be emphasised by the acting in this section. "Pay them Benjies" means to pay with 100 dollar bills, this is simply show with the action of rubbing your fingers in a "cash hand action". There will be parallel editing back to Adele sitting in the hotel, looking out the window or sorting out her mascara.
70 - 80 seconds:
By this point Kanye will be at least outside, if not in another location such as Granta Place. All shots should be tracking, panning or showing some kind of movement as Kanye walks. The references are "cold" an action is shown of shivering or freezing, "jesus piece" pointing to the sky or at a chain.
As the rap nears it's end we will see Adele get her coat, through parallel editing, and exit the hotel room. Shots of Adele doing this will following into the next section up-to 95 seconds.
80 - 95 seconds:
Old streets of Cambridge by now, alley ways near Granta Place and the river will be used. Clips of Adele in places that Kanye has been will show she is following him. A long shot will be used as we see Adele enter at the end of this section. Kanye is unaware of this, we will continue to see a tracking shot of the argument as they continue to walk.
95 - 115 seconds:
Adele has caught up with Kanye. We will see Adele sing her lyrics at Kanye, almost as these are the words that she uses to argue with him. As already mentioned she will take her ring off, throw is at Kanye and walk off-screen. Kanye will be shocked as the Adele character is fighting back at his attitude, and perhaps the domestic violence theme that we are incorporating. To symbolize this Kanye will stop walking as the camera moves away from him, in a tracking long shot motion, leaving him isolated.
In the last five seconds there is an increased beat, we will need to use this to our advantage in the editing stage with a flickering of shots, for example. We will discuss this as a group soon.
115 - 135 seconds:
Instrumental section, there we will see the use of parallel editing again. There will be shots of Adele walking, at the river, looking over the bridge, and then back at Kanye as he tries to find her. Again use similar shots to the hotel scenes - close-ups on the rings in someone's hand, their face, different distances etc. The beat is more obvious in this part of the track, the two characters could individually be nodding their heads to the beat of the track whilst doing there actions. This enables the beat and narrative to sync together, becoming closely connected.
135 - 155 seconds:
Kanye West has a short rap outro section, this will be used as he find Adele on the bridge. He could walk up to her and rap to her, as an explanation to get her back. Shot-reverse-shot of their faces as they look at each other along with midshots of them looking over the river.
155 - 165 seconds:
This is a ten second instrumental outro. One shot is used, Adele and Kanye hold hands with rings on both back on. The rings have got to be obvious and emphasised for this outro, as it is an important part of the narrative and brings us back to the equilibrium. Fades to black.
Tuesday 4 October 2011
Research: Lighting and Cinematographic Techniques in Music Videos
We viewed a You-Tube video of how to use lighting effectively in music videos. The video explained how positioning of lighting can add dramatic effect and depth to the shots. We liked the effect of using lighting on the contrast of the video and really made the artist stand out. Since the demonstrator was using two lights, we could easily re-create this with the spotlights which we will be using. We thought we could also use the lighting available in the hotel room i.e. lamps. The college has also offered us some "gels" which can be added to the lights creating a tint, for example a cold blue, which we desire for for the hotel room.
We also viewed another short You Tube video titled "Best Camera Trick Ever!" which told us how to effectively pan a camera using a rubber-band. The difference we saw between the panning where no rubber-band was used and where a rubber-band was used was that the quality of the shots looked much better. Below is the video we viewed.
We also viewed another short You Tube video titled "Best Camera Trick Ever!" which told us how to effectively pan a camera using a rubber-band. The difference we saw between the panning where no rubber-band was used and where a rubber-band was used was that the quality of the shots looked much better. Below is the video we viewed.
Shotlist
Here is our Shot-list for our music video, have tried to put as much in-depth detail as we could so that it will help us be organised when it comes to filming.
Storyboard
Here is our storyboard for our music video, We have tried to put as much in-depth detail as we can to make sure we can follow the storyboard as accurately as we can when it comes to the filming the music video.
Monday 3 October 2011
Music Video Analysis: Someone Like You
Since choosing our song for the music video Adele has released a new music video for "Someone Like You". It's been an incredibly popular song around the world. The lyrics refer to loving someone who has now left her and has a happy life with someone else, Adele wishes that she had stayed with him.
The video has been filmed in a dark greyscale filter which reminds me of high contrat photography by Richard Avedon or William Klein. This gives a raw; old fashioned effect to the video. The actual video/narrative itself simply shows Adele walking the old streets of London, which links to our video, along with looking over a bridge towards the River Thames. During the video I suspect that the narrative is showing Adele think about the man that left her, and if she could find "Someone Like You". The audience are forced to think more about the emotion and message of the song, and is one reason why the video is so simple and old fashioned.
The video also features a shot in a reflective window at the end, which is incredibly similar to our idea of the mirror at the beginning. You will notice in the last few seconds of the music video that there are closeups of Adele's eye and this reflections. There are screenshots below to further explain.
The video has been filmed in a dark greyscale filter which reminds me of high contrat photography by Richard Avedon or William Klein. This gives a raw; old fashioned effect to the video. The actual video/narrative itself simply shows Adele walking the old streets of London, which links to our video, along with looking over a bridge towards the River Thames. During the video I suspect that the narrative is showing Adele think about the man that left her, and if she could find "Someone Like You". The audience are forced to think more about the emotion and message of the song, and is one reason why the video is so simple and old fashioned.
The video also features a shot in a reflective window at the end, which is incredibly similar to our idea of the mirror at the beginning. You will notice in the last few seconds of the music video that there are closeups of Adele's eye and this reflections. There are screenshots below to further explain.
 |
| High contrast shot - reminds me of Richard Avedon |
 |
| First reflection |
 |
| Second reflection - at end |
Lyrics Analysis: Melt My Heart To Stone
Here is an analysis of the song lyrics, with some extra detail and ideas which relate to the lyrics. Below are the song, lyrics with analysis.
[Verse 1: Adele]
Right under my feet is air made of bricks (depression, almost relates to old streets for location)
That pulls me down turns me weak for you
I find myself repeating like a broken tune (relates to domestic violence theme - keeps going back)
And I'm forever excusing your intentions
And I give in to my pretendings
Which forgive you each time (can't help but love them, seen in own narrative)
Without me knowing
They melt my heart to stone (main lyric, shows she's had to become emotional strong, in narrative we see Adele rebel against Kanye).
And I hear your words that I made up
You say my name like there could be an us
I best tidy up my head I'm the only one in love
I'm the only one in love
[Verse 2: Kanye West]
And I will be trying to come around my girl acting like mister friendly
And steal the spotlight like mr. bentley (shows that he is the center of attention)
I spotted her like spud mckenzie
And for them fake boobies I paid them benjies
Get your own, I got paris he got nicky he tried to get em a clone
He said yeah you know you got extra hoes
And everything you do is extra cold
From the polo fleece to the jesus piece
I got family in high places like jesus' niece
Can I please, say my peace
If y'all fresh to death, then I'm deceased
And this one here, is a heat rocks
Spit like a beat box, the way the beat rocks
New version of pete rock!
But for that benz I get cl love
So I switch my girls around like 3lw
I'm calling
[Bridge: Adele]
Why do you steal my hand (bridge scene of narrative follows this - she runs away and he finds her)
Whenever I'm standing my own ground
You build me up, then leave me dead ooh-oh
I hear you
[Outro: Kanye West]
And yes yes y'alls one, two's
The beat won't stop (metaphor/onomatopoeia for a heart that can't stop loving)
And yes yes y'alls one, two's
The beat won't stop
The lyrics do show clear relations to our narrative, this will make the overall audience experience better as all parts of the video will link very closely together. The ideas of domestic violence fit well with the video, as they do build on Adele's own music videos giving a strong message to women. The beat and actual music in the song seems quite faced-paced but this contradicts with the feelings on Adele in the song, the beginning is lighter which will suit the hotel scene well.
[Verse 1: Adele]
Right under my feet is air made of bricks (depression, almost relates to old streets for location)
That pulls me down turns me weak for you
I find myself repeating like a broken tune (relates to domestic violence theme - keeps going back)
And I'm forever excusing your intentions
And I give in to my pretendings
Which forgive you each time (can't help but love them, seen in own narrative)
Without me knowing
They melt my heart to stone (main lyric, shows she's had to become emotional strong, in narrative we see Adele rebel against Kanye).
And I hear your words that I made up
You say my name like there could be an us
I best tidy up my head I'm the only one in love
I'm the only one in love
[Verse 2: Kanye West]
And I will be trying to come around my girl acting like mister friendly
And steal the spotlight like mr. bentley (shows that he is the center of attention)
I spotted her like spud mckenzie
And for them fake boobies I paid them benjies
Get your own, I got paris he got nicky he tried to get em a clone
He said yeah you know you got extra hoes
And everything you do is extra cold
From the polo fleece to the jesus piece
I got family in high places like jesus' niece
Can I please, say my peace
If y'all fresh to death, then I'm deceased
And this one here, is a heat rocks
Spit like a beat box, the way the beat rocks
New version of pete rock!
But for that benz I get cl love
So I switch my girls around like 3lw
I'm calling
[Bridge: Adele]
Why do you steal my hand (bridge scene of narrative follows this - she runs away and he finds her)
Whenever I'm standing my own ground
You build me up, then leave me dead ooh-oh
I hear you
[Outro: Kanye West]
And yes yes y'alls one, two's
The beat won't stop (metaphor/onomatopoeia for a heart that can't stop loving)
And yes yes y'alls one, two's
The beat won't stop
The lyrics do show clear relations to our narrative, this will make the overall audience experience better as all parts of the video will link very closely together. The ideas of domestic violence fit well with the video, as they do build on Adele's own music videos giving a strong message to women. The beat and actual music in the song seems quite faced-paced but this contradicts with the feelings on Adele in the song, the beginning is lighter which will suit the hotel scene well.
Technical Equipment
We have a range of technical equipment which is needed for the project to be successful. The first thing we used is the HD camera. This offers better quality than other cameras and has a digital memory allowing us to store more. The clips are separated so in the editing process we have a much easier way of cutting and find shots to add into our music video.
In many music videos there are scenes where the characters are walking, so we have decided to use a dolly. From previous experience we have found that the dolly can be unsteady and cause the camera to shake, therefore we will need to assess this on the day. If the dolly is not suitable then we will use steady handheld skills such as they found in Charlie Simpson's music video.
During the editing stage we will two pieces of software. The main one will be Final Cut Express for cutting and ordering clips, importing music, adding transitions and then finally exporting the sequence. We will use this program over iMovie, for example, because it is more powerful and has more professional effects. Filters and extra special effects features will be important part of our music video and these can only be achieved in Final Cut.
The next piece of technical equipment/software was Photoshop. This will be used to create the cover for the magazine and also the digipack. We have already used this software, both last year and earlier in this project, meaning our skills will be quicker and allow more advanced editing. The fonts for Photoshop will be taken from DaFont or from the standard list already available.
The last, less technical, piece of equipment is the use of the blog through Safari. It is important to use this in order to record our research. Below is a screenshot of our blog posts.
The tripod is another piece of equipment which we will need to use, this will help with the steadiness of the camerawork which is an ultimate goal for good cinematography. In our music video, it will be important to have a combination of both steady and handheld shots. It increase the pace of the video we will use handheld shots.
In many music videos there are scenes where the characters are walking, so we have decided to use a dolly. From previous experience we have found that the dolly can be unsteady and cause the camera to shake, therefore we will need to assess this on the day. If the dolly is not suitable then we will use steady handheld skills such as they found in Charlie Simpson's music video.
Extra lighting will also be very important for a dramatic look to the hotel room. We will make the room dark and use the spotlights to create shadows and dusk lighting. You can also see similar lighting to this in the video above (0:40 is where it begins). This lighting is available at college.
The next piece of technical equipment/software was Photoshop. This will be used to create the cover for the magazine and also the digipack. We have already used this software, both last year and earlier in this project, meaning our skills will be quicker and allow more advanced editing. The fonts for Photoshop will be taken from DaFont or from the standard list already available.
The last, less technical, piece of equipment is the use of the blog through Safari. It is important to use this in order to record our research. Below is a screenshot of our blog posts.
Filming Roles
We will all have different roles, varying from actors, director, camera man, costume manager.
The Director:
The Director will have control over the exact location of filming and how certain angles should be shot. Although this maybe decided before the filming process, things may need to be changed for certain reasons.
Camera Man:
The Camera Man will make sure the camera is steady, at an appropriate angle and that the camera is safe and that no equipment is left on set and captured on film or broken. The Camera Man will also have a say on how the shots are taken i.e. what angles etc.
Prop and Costume Manager:
The Prop and Costume Manager will be in control and be in charge of the costumes and props and making sure they are appropriate to the story line and theme. They will also make sure no props or costumes are left behind, broken or left in the shot during filming.
The Actors:
Will obviously be following the directions of the Director, Camera Man and Prop Manager in order to make the film look and feel how it is intended to. They will also need to try hard to make their acting seem realistic and as professional as possible.
The Director:
The Director will have control over the exact location of filming and how certain angles should be shot. Although this maybe decided before the filming process, things may need to be changed for certain reasons.
Camera Man:
The Camera Man will make sure the camera is steady, at an appropriate angle and that the camera is safe and that no equipment is left on set and captured on film or broken. The Camera Man will also have a say on how the shots are taken i.e. what angles etc.
Prop and Costume Manager:
The Prop and Costume Manager will be in control and be in charge of the costumes and props and making sure they are appropriate to the story line and theme. They will also make sure no props or costumes are left behind, broken or left in the shot during filming.
The Actors:
Will obviously be following the directions of the Director, Camera Man and Prop Manager in order to make the film look and feel how it is intended to. They will also need to try hard to make their acting seem realistic and as professional as possible.
Health & Safety
It is important to outline the health and safety concerns with our locations. The concerns highlight those both for ourselves, guests at the hotel, and the public in the outdoor scenes.
- In the hotel room we will need to be appear of the spotlights we're planning to use, this is because they could get hotel and cause damage to the room or cause us to burn ourselves.
- Another safety issue is the part of the narrative where a shoe is thrown at the wall. We need to make sure this does not damage the wall, or disturb the hotel guests.
- In Granta Place (video below) there can be busy periods in the day. We are not bothered about the public being around us as this will add extra realism to the video. The safety concern is that we do not want to obstruct any walkways or walk into something whilst filming.
- As you can see from the video, the area has lots of old style shops and buildings, along with bridges and the river. The music video will appear very traditional when in it's final form, this mirroring the style of Adele's music.
- The final safety risk is the weather. The video will not go ahead if it is raining on the Thursday, however wind and other extremities are manageable. These types of weather actually give the video more actions and bring it to life.
University Arms Hotel
I have contacted the University Arms to form some sort of agreement. I first tried via email, but had no response. Therefore I telephoned the hotel today and found that I needed to talk to the sales department. Eventually we got around to the deal of 17:00 to 20:00 (more than enough) where we can film in a family room, we are not able to use any of the room facilities and it will got a small sum of £25. Having said this, we believe that it is worth the money as we will have the best location possible and plenty of time for filming. Upon visiting the location there will also be photos and analysis of the room.
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