Generic Conventions of Music Videos

There are many generic conventions in music videos, I am going to demonstrate these by using The Scientist by Coldplay as an example:

Varieties of different camera shots will be used to show the artist, here we can see a close up of Chris Martin.

 Camera movement is also very common within music videos as we can see from the close up the camera pans to a long shot.
Lighting is also very important within music videos, as it highlights the artist and makes them look better or more attractive which then appeals to a larger audience.

 This screenshot also demonstrates camera movement as the camera pans from Chris's feet to a full body shot.







Music directors try to include different backgrounds and scenery to keep the audience entertained.

Again, a large range of camera shots are used, here we can see an establishing shot.

Costume/outfit changes are also a generic convention of music videos, here we can see Chris in a changed outfit. This may be due to product placement or to display the artists style.






Props are generic conventions in music videos. In this video this car is a prop. Props can be used by the artist or be included within the narrative of the story.






This screenshot shows the narrative within the video, having a narrative within the music video is also a generic convention.