Mise en scene

The dictionary definition of mise en scene is:
noun, French.

1.

the process of setting a stage, with regard to placement of actors, scenery, properties, etc.

2.

the stage setting or scenery of a play.

3.

surroundings; environment.

 

In media we understand mise en scene to include lighting, costume, make up, props ,colours, positioning and composition.

 

Mise en scene is important in a music video as it adds meaning to what you see. All of the factors within mise en scene influence what we think as the audience about what's one the screen.

An example of mise en scene in a music video is 'young and beautiful' The Great Gatsby...

 

The Great Gatsby was originally a book published in 1925, and is known as one of the foremost pieces of American fiction of its time. It is a novel of triumph and tragedy, noted for the remarkable way its author captures a cross-section of American society. It is known for the imagistic and poetic style, and how it holds a mirror up to the society of which the author was a part of.

 

Lighting: Often dark lighting due to their setting and that the location is often outside, although very well lit when focused on main characters to emphasis who the audience is to be focused on.
Costume: Clothing is fitting to the period it was set in (1925). Women with head decorations and men in a smart suit.
Makeup: Women have dark eyes and colored lips. Some even have a beauty spot phases go in and out of fashion.
Props: Fitting to the narrative, for example golf clubs or often alchol to show theyre class.
Color: The overall colour of the music video is black and white through costume and flowers which shows formality and sifistication. It also means that when other colours are intoduced they stand out, for example a red dress which can show passion.
Positioning and composition: A lot of aerial and setting shots looking down on crowds or centered buildings to reveal the setting.

In order for our music video to look like a professional product, all aspect must work together, for example, genre, style, etc. In this case mise en scene must be fitting for our song.