How Music Videos Are Made
A little background information on music videos is needed before moving onto how they are made. What most people refer to as a “music video” is not really a movie; it is instead a very elaborate song or marketing ploy. Music companies use music videos to showcase their songs, promote upcoming albums, and portray an overall message or image for the artist.
Music producers create filming environments and scenarios using computer-generated imagery (CGI) and/or practical locations. Sometimes these sets are designed specifically with the camera in mind so that the artists can easily be placed next to the lyrics or other key pieces of the song.
Videos are usually filmed around one week at a time with every day having its own schedule. This way, no part of the film crew has to rush off without taking care of themselves because there will always be another member available to do what needs to be done.
Music videos often feature several cameras and lighting equipment, which take up large amounts of space and resources. The more advanced the camera, the higher the cost! That is why there are sometimes only one or two shots in a specific area. Cameras with greater depth perception also require better facilities or additional money spent.
There are many different types of films and styles used to make a music video, but all start with a script. A writer writes down or composes a story based on the lyrics of the song and the general theme of the video.
Art direction
Creating a music video is not as simple as just having someone dance or sing for a few minutes. The way that a song becomes a music video depends mostly upon the artist’s art director, production designer, and/or graphic designer. These people are in charge of everything from the lyrics to the overall design theme and style of the clip.
Artists like Mel B (The Spice Girls) and Miley Cyrus have very artistic directors who help them convey their message and style while also keeping up with the latest trends in fashion and decor.
Their designers create all of the artwork, graphics, and layouts used for the videos and songs. For example, the cover image for the album “Bangerz” was designed by Mel B herself!
Music artists depend heavily on these individuals to express themselves through visuals and to maintain an elegant look that reflects the artist’s style.
Visual styling
Styling a music video is a tricky process that can really make or break the film depending on what looks good. The main element of any song video is the visual style, or how it’s marketed to the audience.
Music videos are usually categorized as either having an urban feel, with lots of flashy effects and bright colors; hip hop, which typically feature very elaborate costumes and fashion; or something in-between, such as keeping things simple but adding interesting touches.
The artist will also choose the location for the video, whether it be outside or indoors, and if there’s anything specific they want to show off like a house or boat.
Costume design
Costumes are one of the most important components in music video fashion. A lot of artists choose to dress in very expensive or flashy clothes, but they are not necessarily fashionable. Artists that understand costuming make it an integral part of their style.
Music videos often feature elaborate costumes designed by artistic people. These designers use inspiration from various sources to create incredible looks.
Costume designs can be categorized into two main types: casual and formal. Casual costume designs are slightly more relaxed, typically with loose pants and shirts. Formal outfits are much tighter fitting and/or rich materials.
Some examples of casual costume designs include Miley’s “Party In The USA,” where she is wearing a crop top and tight jeans, Taylor Swift‘s “Bad Blood” where she is in a simple white shirt and leather jacket, or Drake’s “Too Good” where he is in a long sleeve black t-shirt and some patterned sweatpants.