Generic Research: Language and Digital Convergence

How do media producers use language to communicate meaning?

Mise-en-scene 

- Location

The setting is an extremely vital aspect that media producers use in order to communicate meaning. This can establish a specific overall atmosphere of the documentary itself.

For example - In the documentary "Odd One Out", the first location is set in Jesy's home - creating a very personal and intimate atmosphere as she reveals what her life was like.

- Costume

Costume can help represent a character or establish a situation for the audience without the use of commentary. In criminal documentaries, the audience understand who the prisoners are from their clothing, e.g orange jumpsuits.

In "Abused by My Girlfriend" the lack of clothing worn by Alex at the start, suggests he is vulnerable and damaged - making the audience feel sympathetic towards him.

- Lighting

Lighting can also create a certain ambience, setting the tone for that specific scene. Warmer lighting is used to enhance the scenes positivity and joyful atmosphere, where darker more cooler hue is used to convey sadness or seriousness.

- Camera angles/shots

Camera shots are probably the main technique used to communicate meaning.

Low camera angled shot = shows authority and dominance

High angled shot = inferior, suppressed

Wide shot = actor's expression and surroundings can be seen

Close up shot = focuses on the actor's emotion and expression

Long shot = establishes setting and surrounding

POV shot = making the audience feel included, that they are a part of the film

Over the shoulder shot = personal, inclusivity

Tilted shot = uneasy, uncomfortable situation

Music/Speech

Non-diegetic music can evoke dramatic feelings from the audience. It heavily sets the tone for films and is used in documentaries frequently to heighten the atmosphere.

How do media producers use digital convergence to link their products?

Digital convergence is primarily seen through websites. Easter eggs are the most commonly used, which is shown in the Jesy Nelson website on BBC 3. On their website, the BBC 3 logo has an easter egg which links back to the main website. This could encourage audiences to explore the main website and their other documentaries.

Other links are presented on the website such as social media platforms: Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and their other apps such as BBC iPlayer. This promotes an active audience where the audience is able to speak back to the producers (Jenkins). 

Brand identity is maintained through the use of colour, which can be seen through every website. Netflix uses the colours red and black, and BBC 3 pink and white, which is maintained throughout their websites.