Media codes - reading an image

 1) Analyse this RBK 50 Cent advert using the media codes you learned in the lesson: Technical, Written or verbal, Symbolic or non-verbal, Narrative. Write a paragraph for each one exploring the way meanings are created using those media codes.



Technical codes
Camera shot of 50 cent is a close up presented in low-key lighting which portrays the advert as dark, ominous and mysterious. This close-up on 50 cent makes him the main focus which allows the audience to examine his facial expressions. Low-key lighting has been displayed which creates shadows making 50 cent appear more mysterious and confident. The colour scheme of this advert creates a serious and powerful tone for the audience. 



Written
The slogan is written in a unique serif font which in some ways shows authority linking to 50 cent. The text is written in first person perspective which highlights the point of view of 50 cent. This quotation from 50 cent encourages the audience to focus on the present rather than the future. This quotation may also link to the clothing brand RBK. This conveys the idea of confidence towards the audience assuring them that once they wear the clothing they will feel more confident.



Symbolic or non-verbal
The text from this advert presents the O's with no gap which could represent bullet holes. This explains part of what 50 cent has gone through as he has been shot before. The colour scheme is monochrome causing the advert to feel muted and dull. His facial expressions are shown to be serious through direct address. The camouflage clothing and hat symbolises survival and connection towards street culture. Serious facial expression suggests confidence and determination. The chain may also communicate wealth and status therefore the dark colour creates an asociation with power.





Narrative
The advert indicates a story about struggle and survival. The shot may represent a difficult past whilst 50 cents confident appearance informs us that he's moved beyond his past experiences. This message could reinforce ideas of making the most of today which could help the audience to connect the product with a wider narrative of self-belief.






2) Next, analyse a print advert of your choice using the same media codes: Technical, Written or verbal, Symbolic or non-verbal, Narrative. Make sure you add your chosen print advert using the 'Add image' button in blogger (use Google Images to find the advert first and save it to your pictures or downloads).

For both adverts, remember to put media language in bold or highlight/colour it. 

When writing any media analysis, always ask yourself key questions: What meanings are being created for the audience? How? Who do you think is the target audience for this product and what effect might the product have on that audience? How does it address/attract that audience? What are the deeper connotations created by the media language choices in the product and do they reflect aspects of culture, society or ideology?
















Technical codes


By focusing on the shot of this advert, this image was taken using a close up or medium shot of Ariana which allows her to be the main focus. The colour scheme of this advert is seen from the pink and white colour palette. The use of this colour palette creates a soft, elegant and romantic atmosphere. The lighting used is high-key lighting as the image is overall bright. This makes the advert look cheerful and vibrant. The flowers surrounding her creates an attractive background associated with love and romance.




Written/Verbal codes


The title 'LOVENOTES' is written in the Georgia font coloured in white which immediately attracts the audience and informs them of the name of the product. By focusing on the phrase 'from me to you', this has connotations of love and care which creates a connection between Ariana and the one purchasing the product.



Symbolic/non-verbal codes


The colour pink symbolises romance, love, affection and femininity. The heart symbols used further reinforces ideas of love in this advert and makes the product feel emotionally meaningful. The white dress she has on represents purity, softness and innocence. As she is surrounded by flowers, this helps her reinforce romantic imagery.



Narrative


This advert creates the narrative of giving. The phrase used reinforces the message of gift giving as if Ariana is personally giving the gift to the person purchasing the product. This makes the consumer feel more emotionally connected.




The target audience is more likely teenage girls and young women especially those who are fans of her. The effects it may have on the audience is to associate the perfume with femininity and love. Ariana's celebrity image allows the product to have status making the fans more likely to have it.
















































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