There are several conventions that are typically followed in music videos. They include establishing a relationship between the lyrics and visuals, including many close-ups of the artist, and relating the music and visuals. Different music genres may have distinct styles and icons used in videos. Videos often reference voyeurism and develop the artist's public image. Intertextual references to other media like films and other music videos are also common.

1. Conventions of Music Videos Andrew Goodwin These are the main points that Andrew Goodwin believes follow the conventions of a music video. There should be a relationship between the lyrics and the visuals There is a demand for lots of close ups of the main artist/vocalist in the video There is a relationship between the music and the visuals Particular music genres can have their own music video style and iconography There is likely to be reference to voyeurism The artist may develop their own star iconography There are likely to be intertextual references to films, TV , texts or other music videos.

3. MUSIC: A music video tends to make use of the tempo of the track to drive the editing.

4. GENRE: While some videos transcend genre, others can be easily categorised. These features may be reflected in the types of mise en scene, themes, performance, cinematography and editing style.

5. CINEMATOGRAPHY: As with any moving image text, the way the camera is used has a significant impact on meaning. Camera movement, shot and distance all need to be analysed. Camera movement may accompany the movement of performers (Walking, dancing) but may also be used to create a more dynamic feel to stage performance e.g. consistently circling the band as they perform on stage. The close up predominates music video, partly due to the size of the screen but also due to the desire to create an intimacy for the viewer. It also emphasises the commodity on sale – the artist and voice. - EDITING: Although the most common form of editing used is the fast-cut montage- rendering many of the imaged impossible to grasp in the first viewing- ensuring multiple viewings- some videos do use slow pace and gentler shot transitions/cuts to establish mood.

7. To establish a relationship to familiar film or TV genres in a narrative based video

8. As part of voyeuristic context by suggesting a setting associated with sexual allure, such as a sleazy nightclub or boudoir.

9. Or, as John Steward suggests, to emphasise an aspirational lifestyle, as in the current emphasis on the latest gadgetry.