Research Blog: Music Video Conventions

 The genre of the song I chose, Six Feet Apart by Alec Benjamin, is Pop. Music video conventions of any genre are in the categories of style, type of camera, sound effects used, variety of editing software and techniques, transitions, etc. Being as big of a genre as it is, there are plenty of different executions to these types of music videos. Usually, in pop music videos, there is a colorful and bright aesthetic. Whether the color is captured from a smoke bomb, fireworks, or the clothing on the artist and or their companions in the video, color is a big aspect when it comes to pop videos. Often, for costumes, the artist may be wearing a different color from anyone else in the video. This gives the impression that they are the star of the production. On the other hand, there can be casual clothing or slightly sexual to appeal to audiences. The main premise is to sell the song and role being played. The performances in these videos are either the artist dancing along with background dancers, a cute romance concept, or the artist alone. These all have a targeted emotion they want the audience to feel, but it all revolves around the same topics, pop. Even if a pop music video has a narrative, the artist would still portray the main character.

Pop music videos ultimately have similar editing techniques. There tend to be short cuts, especially due to the theme of partying or dancing scenes. When it comes to transitions, none are slow, they are quick cuts. Props tend to differ based on what the song is about. The lighting in these types of videos are bright. The video might be shot in daylight, and if not, then on a colorful set. The intent is to exude happiness and fun.