coursework: Pre-production planning

1) Music video treatment

For the music treatment of Kesha's "TikTok" from 0:30 till the end, the focus will be on the vibrant and carefree party atmosphere that encapsulates the song's themes of fun and living in the moment.

Concept: The scene transitions into a lively party environment, showcasing a diverse group of friends celebrating together. The visuals will be colorful and energetic, reflecting the upbeat tempo of the music. The setting will include a house party with flashing lights, confetti, and various fun activities that embody the spirit of youth and freedom.

Visuals: As the beat drops, the camera will zoom in on Kesha, who is dancing with her friends, embodying confidence and joy. Quick cuts will show different groups engaging in various activities: dancing, playing games, and enjoying drinks. The use of slow-motion shots will emphasize moments of laughter and connection, capturing the essence of living in the now.

Symbolism: Throughout this segment, there will be playful elements like glitter and neon colors that symbolize the carefree nature of youth. Close-ups of Kesha's expressions will convey empowerment and self-expression, reinforcing the message of enjoying life without inhibitions.

Ending: The video will culminate in a group dance sequence, where everyone joins in, celebrating together. The final shot will pull back to reveal the entire party in full swing, with Kesha at the center, radiating happiness and confidence, as the music fades out.

This treatment captures the essence of Kesha's "TikTok" while highlighting themes of friendship, fun, and living life to the fullest.

2) Mise-en-scene planning

Costume: Kesha's costumewould be vibrant and playful, reflecting the upbeat and carefree nature of the song. Thinking along the lines of colorful, flashy outfits with lots of sequins or glitter to emphasize a party vibe. Other characters will wear similar styles but in variations to create a cohesive look that aligns with the pop genre and the theme of self-expression.

Lighting: Planning  for a mix of bright, colorful lighting during energetic scenes to enhance the fun atmosphere. Using natural light for outdoor scenes, possibly during the golden hour for a warm glow. For indoor shots, i'll be using ring lights or neon lights to create a dynamic and modern feel, ensuring that the lighting complements the mood of each scene.

Actors/performers: Besides Kesha,i'll be casting a diverse group of friends or party-goers who embody the spirit of the song. They will be position in a way that they interact with Kesha, perhaps dancing around her or engaging in playful activities, which will help the audience connect with the energy and message of the song.

Make-up: Going for bold and expressive make-up looks that match the costumes.such as Glitter, bright colors, and fun designs can amplify the overall aesthetic and align with the party theme.

Props: fun props like colorful drinks, party hats, or musical instruments to enhance the celebratory feel of the video. Ensuring that all props are safe and appropriate for the setting.

Setting: vibrant and lively locations, such as a party scene in a club or an outdoor festival, that reflect the energetic vibe of the song. The setting would enhance the narrative of having fun and living in the moment, which is central to Kesha's music.

3) Shot list

Shot No.	Shot	Filmed?
1	Close-up of the person getting out of the bathtub	yes
2	close up of her looking at the mirror and close up  on the toothbrush.	yes
3	birds eyes view of Kesha and friends cheering and toasting to the start of the party.	yes
4	Close-up of empty water bottle and shoe.	yes
5	Flashing lights, vibrant colors, and energetic dance sequences to enhance the party atmosphere.	yes
6	flashingf lights of the party table	yes
7	close ups of her shoes	yes
8	close up of her fingers	yes
9	birds eye view of her in  the tub	yes
10	shot of her stretching	yes
11	another birds eye view of her in tub	yes
12	close up of her picking up her shoe and the bottle off the floor	yes
13	shot of her walking out of the bathroom	yes
14	medium shot of her walking up to the sink	yes
15	shot of her holding the toothbrush	yes
16	shot of her brushing her teeths	yes
17	Extreme Close-Up of Kesha's lips syncing the lyrics.
18	Medium Shot of Kesha dancing with her friends in the kitchen.
19	Wide Shot showing the entire party scene in the music video.

20	Over-the-Shoulder Shot of Kesha looking at the clock ticking.	Filmed?
21	Point of View Shot from Kesha's perspective as she grabs her keys.
22	Tracking Shot following Kesha as she walks out the door.
23	Crane Shot capturing an aerial view of the party from above.
24	Slow Motion Shot of Kesha tossing glitter in the air.
25	Reaction Shot of Kesha's friends cheering her on.
26	Montage Shot showing different moments of the party.
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4) Shooting schedule

9th november

18

Statement of intent part3

 In the initial moments of the video, Kesha introduces a vibrant and carefree atmosphere that encapsulates the essence of youth culture. This aligns with the Uses and Gratifications Theory, which suggests that audiences actively seek out media that fulfills their personal needs, such as escapism and entertainment. The video’s colorful visuals and upbeat tempo serve to attract a demographic that values fun and spontaneity, reinforcing the idea that music is a form of self-expression and a way to connect with peers.

As the video progresses, media language plays a crucial role in conveying Kesha's message. The use of bright colors, dynamic editing, and playful imagery creates a sense of joy and freedom. This aligns with the concept of intertextuality, where references to pop culture and social media trends enhance the viewer's experience. The visual elements work in tandem with the lyrics, emphasizing themes of partying and living in the moment, thereby creating a cohesive narrative that resonates with the audience.Media language involves the use of camerawork, editing, and mise-en-scene to convey meanings to the audience. In the context of Kesha's music video for "Tik Tok," media language plays a crucial role in aligning with conventions of the pop genre, ensuring that the visuals, editing style, and overall presentation effectively communicate the desired message and aesthetic to the viewers. By utilizing these elements thoughtfully, the video can capture the essence of the song and resonate with the audience in a way that complements Kesha's unique style and music.

Representation is another key aspect of the video. Kesha embodies the spirit of empowerment, showcasing diverse characters who participate in the celebration of life. This representation challenges traditional gender norms and promotes inclusivity, allowing viewers from various backgrounds to see themselves reflected in the narrative. The portrayal of women as confident and carefree figures contributes to a broader conversation about female empowerment in the music industry, aligning with feminist media theories that advocate for the representation of women in diverse roles.

In the context of Kesha's music video for "Tik Tok," media representations play a significant role in either subverting or utilizing stereotypes to convey specific messages to the audience. By applying representation theory within social and cultural contexts, the video can effectively shape and portray Kesha's image and narrative in a way that resonates with viewers while also reflecting broader societal norms and values. Through strategic use of visual elements and storytelling, the video can navigate stereotypes, challenge expectations, and create a meaningful connection with the audience within the digital convergence landscape.

The target audience for "TikTok" primarily consists of young adults and teenagers who are active on social media platforms. The video’s energetic vibe and relatable themes cater to this demographic, encouraging them to engage with the content and share it across platforms. The participatory culture fostered by social media allows fans to create their own interpretations and remixes of the song, further enhancing audience engagement and interaction with the content.

In terms of media industries, the music video exemplifies the synergy between music and digital platforms. The rise of platforms like TikTok has transformed how music is consumed and promoted. Kesha's alignment with these platforms reflects a strategic approach to reach her audience where they are most active. This digital convergence not only enhances the visibility of the music but also allows for innovative marketing strategies that leverage user-generated content, creating a sense of community around the song.

In the music video for "Tik Tok," Kesha's portrayal and representation are designed to engage the audience and convey the essence of the song. Through visual elements, storytelling, and cultural references, the video can subvert or utilize stereotypes to create a compelling narrative that resonates with viewers. By applying representation theory within the social and cultural contexts of the music industry, Kesha's image in the video can reflect broader societal norms, challenge expectations, and connect with audiences in a meaningful way.

When discussing Kesha's music video and her impact on the industry, we can explore how she utilizes digital platforms and converges different media to reach her audience effectively. Kesha's presence in the music industry showcases the influence of digital convergence on artists' careers and the changing landscape of media consumption.

Preliminary exercise: learner response

1) Type up your teacher's feedback in full plus a summary of the comments you received from other students in the class.

WWW: good research

good opening shot- good angle

narrative elements distant

lip sync

cutaways to party - use of black and white

camera movement

EBI: more detailed shot list

more dishevelled subject- make up etc

students' feedback:

WWW: very good research

link between lyrics & visuals

close-ups

good editing

black and white

EBI: shot list too little 

could be a longer flashbacks

mise en scene

2) Using a combination of your own reflection on the preliminary exercise and the feedback you were given, write three WWW bullet points and three EBI bullet points for your work.

WWW: i have done a good research link between lyrics & visuals, close-ups, good editing

EBI: shot list too little , could be a longer flashbacks, mise en scene

3) How effectively did you complete the objective you laid out in your mini preliminary exercise statement of intent?

- I used a range of camera movements and shots

- I had my actor dress in casual clothes.

- I used the location of the bathroom eg bathtub.

- I showcased the shoes and the empty bottle that was support to be the alcohol.

4) What have you learned from the preliminary exercise that will help you in the actual coursework project?

 I learnt  how to clip scenes to match the timing of the song.

  

5) Now you have completed the preliminary exercise, will you change anything about your actual coursework video plan? This could include your concept, cast/actors or technical elements such as mise-en-scene, camerawork or editing. teacher's feedback:

the actor would have like a ruined makeup 

the actor would wear different outfit.

Preliminary exercise: Research and planning

 1) State the song you have chosen for your preliminary exercise.

"Tiktok" by Kesha.

2) Choose at least three music videos similar to your concept and watch a clip or more from each. Make bullet-point notes on everything you watch, commenting on camerawork, editing and mise-en-scene.

Camerawork:

  - Creative use of close-up shots to emphasize Lady Gaga's expressions and performance.

  - Dynamic camera movements that enhance the energetic and theatrical vibe of the video.

  - Wide shots capturing the elaborate costumes and set design, showcasing the grandeur of the production.

Editing:

  - Quick cuts and transitions matching the fast-paced beat of the song, creating a sense of urgency and excitement.

  - Visual effects like color grading and overlays to enhance the futuristic and avant-garde aesthetic.

  - Seamless editing between different scenes, maintaining a cohesive narrative flow throughout the video.

Mise en Scene:

  - Extravagant and flamboyant costumes that reflect Lady Gaga's unique style and persona.

  - Futuristic and surreal set design with bold colors and geometric shapes, creating a visually striking backdrop.

  - Symbolic props like the poker chips and cards incorporated into the scenes, adding depth to the thematic elements of the video.

Camerawork:

  - Vibrant and colorful shots capturing the sunny California vibe and beach scenes.

  - Use of aerial shots to showcase the picturesque landscapes and beach settings.

  - Close-up shots of Katy Perry and other performers, emphasizing their energy and charisma.

Editing:

  - Seamless transitions between different scenes, creating a cohesive visual narrative.

  - Visual effects like color enhancement to amplify the bright and summery feel of the video.

  - Quick cuts and dynamic editing matching the upbeat tempo of the song, enhancing the overall excitement.

Mise en Scene:

  - Beach-themed set design with palm trees, beach balls, and surfboards, creating a lively and summery atmosphere.

  - Costumes featuring vibrant colors, swimsuits, and beachwear, complementing the California beach aesthetic.

  - Props like sunglasses, ice cream cones, and beach umbrellas adding to the playful and carefree tone of the video.

Camerawork:

  - Varied camera angles capturing Pink's dynamic performance and interactions with the crowd.

  - Close-up shots highlighting emotions and expressions, adding depth to the storytelling.

  - Crowd shots showcasing the energetic and inclusive atmosphere of the video.

Editing:

  - Quick cuts and transitions matching the energetic beat of the song, enhancing the video's pace.

  - Visual effects like color grading to amplify the vibrant and celebratory mood.

  - Seamless editing between performance scenes and crowd interactions, maintaining a cohesive narrative flow.

Mise en Scene:

  - Concert-like set design with stage lighting and audience participation, creating a lively and engaging ambiance.

  - Costumes reflecting Pink's edgy style and stage presence, adding to the rebellious and celebratory theme.

  - Props like confetti, party decorations, and drinks contributing to the festive and party atmosphere portrayed in the video.

3) Write a short music video treatment for your extract (this is basically a script for your music video). You can find an example of a treatment here. If you are making your real coursework then feel free to use the treatment from your summer project.

In the opening 30 seconds of the music video for "Tik Tok" by Kesha, i set the scene with a vibrant and energetic party atmosphere. The video starts with a shot of a clock striking midnight, signaling the start of a wild night. Kesha bursts into a colorful room filled with flashing lights and a group of friends getting ready for a night out. As the beat drops, the video cuts to Kesha singing along to the catchy chorus in a bath tub. The fast-paced editing captures the excitement and carefree spirit of the song, making viewers want to join in on the fun.  The first 30 seconds set the stage for a night of adventure and fun, drawing viewers into Kesha's world of unapologetic self-expression and celebration.

4) Write a shot list containing EVERY shot you plan to film AND additional shots to create flexibility when editing (in a music video you will find you need FAR more shots than you think, particularly close-ups). These additional shots can be close-ups, alternative angles or something more creative. I advise using a simple table on Microsoft Word/Google Docs to set out your shot list - you can find an example here (this is from narrative filmmaking but the same format can be used for any video project). 

In the first 30 seconds of the music video for "Tik Tok" by Kesha, the shot list can be tailored to capture the fast-paced and energetic vibe of the song:

1. Close-up of a clock striking midnight, setting the scene for the night ahead.

2. Quick cuts of Kesha getting ready, applying bold makeup and styling her hair such as close up of her looking at the mirror and close up  on the toothbrush.

3. Group shot such as birds eyes view of Kesha and friends cheering and toasting to the start of the party.

4.  Close-up of empty water bottle and shoe.

5. Flashing lights, vibrant colors, and energetic dance sequences to enhance the party atmosphere.

5) Plan your mise-en-scene: what iconography are you including to ensure your audience understands the genre and style of your artist? Plan your settings, costume, make-up, props and lighting. 

To establish the genre and style of Kesha in the music video for "Tik Tok" within the first 30 seconds, the mise-en-scène can be carefully planned:

Settings:

- A vibrant, colorful bedroom filled with flash lights and quirky decorations to reflect a party atmosphere.

- Transition to a lively, crowded party scene with flashing lights and energetic dance moves.

Costume:

- Kesha in a bold, edgy outfit with glittery elements and statement accessories.

Make-up:

- Kesha with dramatic, glittery eye makeup and bold lip color to enhance her unique style.

Props:

- empty water bottle 

- Party drinks, and cake to enhance the party aesthetic.

Lighting:

- Bright, colorful lighting to create a lively and dynamic atmosphere, emphasizing the party mood.

- Use of flash lights and strobe effects to enhance the energetic and vibrant feel of the video.

By incorporating these elements into the mise-en-scène of the music video, the audience can quickly grasp the genre and style of Kesha, setting the tone for a fun and energetic visual experience from the start.

6) Plan a shooting schedule that will ensure everything is filmed by the deadline. Include when, where, who is required, planned equipment and any other aspects you need to arrange. 

Sunday early in the morning as it matches the theme of the music video.