Analysing Images

When analysing images, it is good to know what type of shot has been used, the colour/why and to take into consideration the lighting, positioning, props and costume - these 4 can all be defined as Mise en Scene.

 

Shots

Each shot taken connotes different things, this is important because an article could say one thing, but the image paired with it could send a different message, therefore needing to know which one to use is helpful when deciding what I want to do for my music magazine cover.

• Big Close Up (BCU) - typically a persons face, used for a more personal, intense effect.
• Mid-Shot - a persons torso, often used for bands, used to show more and can include props.
• Long - Shot - shows the entirety of a person, used to show the costume or background.

Colour

The colour of an image can having different meaning and connotations. It can highlight what an image is trying to show and often enhances a particular aspect of an image, e.g. the colour of the subheadings could be green, matching the green of the artists eyes.

 

Mise en Scene

This defines what makes up a image shot. It can be broken down into 4 categories;

• Costume - what the artist wears can connote what is in the article and usually links with colour scheme.
• Positioning - the positioning of an artist can connote many different things, artists are usually shot with their eyes facing forward - this catches the audiences attention.
• Props - what is included in the shot, they would be specific instruments linked to the artist.
• Lighting - different types of lighting can suggest the context of the magazine. It also connotes different things about the artist; high key - bright/harsh, connotes the artists life is in the limelight, there is no where to hide. Low key - dark, more mysterious, mainly used in rock magazines. Backlit - light shone from behind to show artists silhouette, gives a edgy/different feel.