A2 media studies

In pre-production, planning for props and costumes is essential to ensure visual consistency and to support the emotional storytelling of the music video. Although the concept relies on simplicity, every item used on set has symbolic significance and contributes to the character’s visual identity. For props, I focused on selecting objects that subtly enhance the narrative without overwhelming the scene. For example, items such as mirrors and symbolic masks were chosen to represent dual identities and internal conflict. Each prop will be carefully organised prior to filming to ensure that it is ready when needed. Labeling, grouping, and positioning props according to the shooting sequence will minimise delays and maintain continuity between takes. For costumes, the character’s main outfit a white dress was selected for its neutral and ethereal quality. This allows the focus to remain on facial expressions, makeup changes, and subtle movement, reinforcing the dreamlike and introspective ...

During pre-production, exploring different storyboard options and shot ideas was an essential step to ensure that each scene effectively conveys emotion, symbolism, and narrative flow. Rather than immediately settling on a final storyboard, I experimented with alternative compositions, camera angles, and visual perspectives to determine the most impactful way to present the story. For the initial exploration, I sketched multiple variations of key shots, focusing on how framing, distance, and camera movement influence the viewer’s emotional experience. For example, I experimented with placing the character off-centre in some sketches to emphasise isolation, while in other sketches I tested symmetrical framing to create balance and calmness in certain reflective scenes. I also explored different camera heights eye level, slightly high-angle, and low-angle to see which perspectives best conveyed vulnerability, introspection, and emotional tension. Another part of the exploration involved ...

Visual and audio references are a crucial part of pre-production, as they provide inspiration and guidance for the style, mood, and pacing of my music video. Since my project is inspired by Billie Eilish’s “Everything I Wanted,” I have studied similar interpretive music videos, films, and visual media that convey introspection, dreamlike atmospheres, and emotional subtlety. This research ensures that my video maintains coherence with my creative vision and supports the song’s emotional tone. For visual references, I have collected images and clips that emphasise muted colour palettes, soft lighting, negative space, and symbolic objects. For example, stills from low-key music videos and short films demonstrate how shadows and reflections can represent internal conflict, which directly aligns with my concept of fractured identity. I also referred to stock images and Pinterest collections that illustrate subtle composition, empty spaces, and minimalistic framing to guide the mise-en-scene...

To capture the emotional depth and dreamlike atmosphere of my music video, careful consideration of camera equipment and filming techniques is essential. The focus of the project is on subtle performance, visual symbolism, and controlled framing, so the choice of equipment directly affects the final outcome. For filming, I will primarily use a digital camera, which provides a vintage aesthetic and produces stable, high-quality footage. This choice allows me to achieve the dreamlike and slightly nostalgic tone I want for the video while making the editing process simpler, as less correction is needed for stability or colour grading. For certain scenes where mobility is required, I will also use a smartphone camera with stabilisation, which offers flexibility for dynamic or handheld shots, especially in outdoor locations. Camera techniques will focus on close-ups, medium shots, and controlled slow pans. Close-ups are particularly important for emphasising subtle facial expressions, which...

Lighting plays a crucial role in communicating the emotional depth and psychological tone of my music video. Since the concept explores identity fracture and internal struggle, the lighting style must feel soft, controlled, and slightly melancholic rather than bright or dramatic. For the indoor scenes, I plan to use low-key, diffused lighting to create a calm and introspective atmosphere. Instead of harsh overhead lights, softer light sources will be positioned at angles to create gentle shadows on the face. This will emphasise facial expressions and add depth without making the scene look theatrical. Controlled lighting indoors allows me to maintain consistency across shots, particularly during moments involving mirrors and symbolic objects. Shadows will be used intentionally rather than avoided. Partial shadow across the face can visually represent dual identity and emotional tension. The lighting will not be completely dark, but it will remain muted and neutral to preserve the dream...

As part of my pre-production process, I considered potential challenges that may arise during filming and developed contingency plans to ensure the project can continue smoothly. Since the music video includes both indoor and outdoor locations, careful preparation is necessary to manage environmental and technical risks. One major challenge is outdoor lighting conditions. Natural light changes quickly, especially during sunset and evening scenes. If lighting becomes inconsistent, it may affect continuity between shots. To manage this, I plan to film outdoor scenes within a controlled time window and prioritise essential shots first. If lighting becomes unsuitable, I will adjust camera settings or reschedule specific shots for another day with similar conditions. Weather is another potential challenge, particularly because some scenes rely on a wet road surface for reflections. Rain cannot be fully controlled. As a contingency plan, I will monitor weather forecasts in advance and remain...

Casting and crew planning were important parts of my pre-production process to ensure the music video could be executed smoothly and effectively. Since this is an independent project, I worked with trusted individuals from my immediate circle to help bring the concept to life. The main character in the music video is portrayed by my neighbour. She was chosen because she fits the age and emotional presence required for the role. The concept relies heavily on subtle facial expressions, controlled body language, and natural performance rather than dramatic acting. After discussing the idea with her, I felt she would be able to represent the internal emotions and quiet intensity needed for the character. Using someone familiar also creates a comfortable working environment, which is important for achieving authentic and relaxed performances on camera. The crew responsibilities will be supported by my family members. They will assist with practical elements such as handling lighting adjustm...

Location scouting was an essential part of my pre-production process, as the environment plays a significant role in communicating the emotional tone of the music video. Since the concept explores identity fracture and internal struggle, the locations needed to visually reflect isolation, introspection, and quiet psychological tension. The music video will include both indoor and outdoor settings. The indoor location is a minimal, controlled space that allows for soft lighting and focused framing. This environment supports the more intimate and reflective moments of the video. A simple interior space helps remove distractions, allowing the audience to concentrate on the character’s emotions, facial expressions, and symbolic props. The lack of clutter reinforces the feeling of emotional emptiness and introspection. The outdoor location consists of an empty road within my hometown. This setting was selected because it visually represents distance, solitude, and emotional detachment. Open...

As part of my pre-production planning, I have created a proposed shooting schedule to ensure that the filming process is organised, efficient, and aligned with the emotional structure of the music video. Although the schedule may be slightly adjusted depending on practical circumstances, the primary filming date is planned for 12 March. The video includes both indoor and outdoor settings. To maintain visual consistency and manage lighting effectively, I plan to divide filming into structured time blocks. Indoor scenes will be filmed earlier in the day when natural light can be controlled more easily, allowing for soft, diffused lighting that supports the dreamlike tone. Outdoor scenes, particularly those requiring a darker or reflective atmosphere, will be filmed later in the evening to capture natural low-light conditions and enhance the melancholic mood. The schedule is designed to follow the emotional progression of the video rather than filming randomly Scenes with minimal makeup a...

In preparation for my music video, I carefully planned the props, costume, and overall production design to ensure that every visual element supports the emotional theme of identity fracture under social pressure. Rather than using excessive props or dramatic settings, I intentionally chose a minimalist design approach. This allows the audience to focus on the character’s internal emotions instead of being distracted by complex backgrounds. The main costume is a simple white dress. The choice of white is symbolic it represents innocence, vulnerability, and the character’s authentic self before external pressures influence her. The simplicity of the dress reinforces the idea of purity and emotional honesty. As the video progresses, makeup becomes a key visual element. However, this is not conventional beauty makeup; instead, it is artistic and symbolic. It represents the socially constructed version of the character a performed identity shaped by expectations. Props play an important sy...