Research: Similar product research 6. Establishing shots in Pop Acoustic genre music videos.

Establishing shots in 10 Pop Acoustic music videos: 

From this research of the establishing shots from 10 Acoustic Pop genre music videos I can see a common theme occurring. For example, screen capture 1,2,3,4 and 10 all have been edited to create a black and white effect. This creates a sombre and serious atmosphere for the viewer and informs them of the serious content of the video. This is an effect that we may consider for our music video considering that the pop acoustic genre frequently produces slow songs with obvious emotive intent. Videos 3 and 4 introduce the singer from the back, this aids in creating mystery surrounding the singer which is another feature we may consider in our music video. When there is introduction of colour in the many music videos of the Acoustic Pop Genre that I have seen and also researched I have noticed that many have quite a dull but also nostalgic tone. Songs with a more happy message however, introduce brighter colours.

1. James Blunt:  'Carry You Home'
This establishing shot creates a spectacular impression on the viewer. The contrast of the black sea with the grey clouds creates an interesting composition, the eye of the viewer is automatically drawn to the sea because of this. Like Bulmer and Katz suggest this makes the viewer actively try to determine what significance this has. The shot is beautiful and impressive and I think that a similar shot of an expansive view could be achieved and would look aesthetically pleasing in our music video.

2. Paolo Nutini: 'Scream'. Again this establishing shot is black and white. This gives the music video a nostalgic feel and makes it appear like an old hollywood film.

3. James Bunt: 'You're Beautiful'
The star image is already introduced in this opening shot, I think that in doing so, the video feels more raw, emotional and the viewer knows that the story will centre around this character. However the star does not address or acknowledge the audience and camera which could symbolise bad nature of the character and untrustworthiness. However it could also suggest that he is an emotionally damaged character who is hiding true feelings, which may be explored in the video. This technique is already convincing viewers to continue watching the video.

4. George Ezra: 'Cassy O'.
This is another example of introducing the character in the establishing shot. I prefer this technique to the previous as the long shot which photographs his broad stance combined with the studio lighting coming through the window contrasted with the darker foreground makes him appear powerful. I also like that the guitar is introduced in the opening shot.

 5. George Ezra: 'Barcelona'
I love this vibrant background which feels tropical and may act as a form of escapism for many viewers. The name of the song appearing on the screen stands out well against the background. However I think this editing technique could possibly destroy the illusion that the narrative is real.

 6. Hozier: 'Someone New'
I love this blurring of the light in this background and will transfer this technique into my music video.

 7. Sam Smith: 'Stay with me'
Once more the colours in this establishing shot are very dull in tone but I think that this creates a relaxed atmosphere. The shot of the street makes it feel very real as opposed to the outlandish videos that Pop artists may create. Therefore I think this establishing shot is typical of the genre.

8. Ed Sheeran: 'Photograph'
A home video may make the video feel very authentic and real however it may possibly look unprofessional if not done correctly.

 9. Ed Sheeran; 'Everything Has Changed'
This is also a very vibrant shot. The shot is also very satisfying as it has a a foreground image of the bus, the trees and then a beautiful background images in the form of a mountain. This creates a visual spectacle for the viewer and they are automatically impressed and excited for the shots to follow. I do not think that something this spectacular (e.g the mountains) would be possible for us to film without travelling for a long time.

10. Ed Sheeran: 'The A Team'.
I love this shot of the woman shot in close up, right of frame. The dark space in the left of the screen makes certain that the woman stands out and is the main focus. The dark area could be symbolic of emotions haunting or troubling her.





How this research has influenced my planning and creativity:

• This post has inspired me to try and recreate the first shot in this post. 
• I also like the last, and the use of black and white. 
• This post has also informed me to use duller colours in my music video.

A list of local locations I could use:

• The Humber bridge 
• Bedroom 
• Kitchen 
• Barton park 
• Hibaldstow lane 
• Scunthorpe high street 
• Cleethorpes beach