Representation

The literal definition of representation is the "description or portrayal of someone or something in a particular way or as being of a certain nature."

"Media representations are the ways in which the media portrays particular groups, communities, experiences, ideas, or topics from a particular ideological or value perspective. Rather than examining media representations as simply reflecting or mirroring "reality," we examine how media representations serve to "re-present" or to actually create a new reality." - Source

In the media, people are represented in a variety of different ways such as age, gender, ethnicity, culture, and even status, through signs know as codes and conventions. In the example below, taken from Taylor Swift's music video 'You Belong With Me', a wide range of characters have been portrayed, representing very contrasting stereotypes within a high school setting. 

These first pictures have been taken from the beginning and middle of Taylor's music video. Within them it is apparent that the director's have attempted to represent her character as a shy, nerdy girl who carries connotations of big glasses, books and dull, basic clothing. Not only does this stereotype become immediately recognisable to the teenage audience but it allows the viewer to empathise with her quiet personality in the situation portrayed. 

This second character is in fact played by the artist again, but portraying a completely different teenage girl. Highlighted through the recognisable conventions of a cheerleader uniform, sunglasses and sports car, the viewer can see a stereotypical 'popular girl' that directly contrasts the initial shy character. 

The last stereotype presented in this music video is shown through the identity of the male protagonist. He carries conventions of being the school 'hunk'/sports star because of his relationship status with the popular girl, his charming looks and his position on the sport's team.

As a result of this analysis, I have realised the importance of representations and how they manage to connect to the audience through a variety of different signs, codes and conventions. This has inspired me to carefully consider my character choices and how they will be represented in my music video.