Media Codes and Conventions - Fidelis Senior High School

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the Media Codes and Conventions lesson.

Media language

The set of visual, auditory, and textual codes and conventions used in media to convey messages and influence audience perceptions.

Codes

Systems of signs and symbols used to convey meaning in media.

Technical codes

The methods and techniques used to produce and manipulate media content (e.g., camera, lighting, editing).

Symbolic codes

Signs and symbols used to convey deeper meanings or themes (e.g., color symbolism).

Written codes

Text-based signs such as headlines and captions used to communicate messages.

Camera angles

The placement of the camera in relation to the subject being filmed or photographed.

High angle

The camera is above the subject, placing the viewer at an elevated level.

Dutch angle

A tilted or oblique camera angle (canted) to create disorientation or tension.

Bird's-Eye View

An overhead vantage point that looks down on the scene.

Close-up

A shot that tightly frames a subject to reveal emotions or details.

Long shot

A wide shot that captures a broad perspective of the scene.

Medium shot

Also called a ¾ shot; frames the subject from the knees up.

Backlight

Light placed behind the subject to create depth or a silhouette and separate the subject from the background.

Spotlight

A focused light that highlights a specific area or subject.

Editing

The process of selecting, arranging, and assembling footage or audio to create a coherent narrative.

Color symbolism

The use of colors to convey meanings, emotions, or themes.

Icon and symbols

Visual elements that represent ideas or concepts using recognizable images or shapes.

Headlines

Bold, attention-grabbing text that summarizes the main point or theme.

Caption

A brief explanatory text accompanying an image or graphic.

Genre conventions

The typical themes, narratives, and stylistic features of a media genre.

Format conventions

The standard structures and formats used in the production and presentation of media content.

Conventions

The general stylistic features and practices commonly used within media genres and formats.

Typography

The style and appearance of printed or displayed text as a visual code.

Imagery

Visual images used to convey messages and evoke meanings.

Sound

Auditory elements (music, dialogue, effects) used to convey mood and meaning.

Layout

The arrangement of visual elements on a page or screen.