2. DIFFERENT TYPES OF
CODES IN THE MEDIA
INDUSTRY
Definition: A code is a system of signs which can be decoded to
create meaning.
In the industry of media, there is a huge range of codes, and
these are one of a few:
technical codes - all to do with the way a text is technically
constructed. (camera angles, framing, typography...)
verbal codes - everything to do with language- written OR
spoken
symbolic codes - codes that can be all the things which draw
upon our experience and understanding of media texts.
3. CONVENTIONS IN THE
MEDIA INDUSTRY
Definition: Is what you would expect to see in a
certain genre, for example: in a horror movie you
would expect there to be some evil, maybe a
serial killer or a demon.
4. THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF
CODES AND
CONVENTIONS
The codes and conventions in media can be separated into
3 groups:
Technical: camera angles, movements and shots
Symbolic: clothing, colours
Written and audio: music
5. SOME CODES AND
CONVENTIONS FOR GENRES:
SCIENCE FICTION
• Aliens
• Spaceships
• Rockets
• Vibrant colours
• High advanced technology
• Futuristic sounds
• Galactic setting
• Many species
6. CODES AND CONVENTIONS IN
MUSIC MAGAZINE MASTHEADS
Mastheads that are recognizable throughout the issues of the magazine, for example Kerrang!
Always has the same masthead, however, it’s colours differ, but the font and the location is
always the same, which creates a convention for that magazine.
Q is the same, they keep their mastead at the top right corner, and they do not change colours
most of the time, however, a few years ago their noticeable red was a mere mustard yellow,
and I believe it was changed in order to create a stronger brand identity.
7. CODES AND CONVENTIONS IN
GENRES
There are codes that are expected to be seen in specific genres of music magazines. For
example, in a metal music magazine, dark colours, edged fonts. The stars would be wearing
leather or black, with long hair, serious faces and tattoos because that is what people
associate with the metal genre.
However, a pop magazine that tries to appeal to teenage girls would be expected to be pink,
with bright colours and young teenage boys on the front covers, with possible games inside.
There would be flowers and hearts and sparkling glitter, because that is something
conventional for girly girls and magazines.
