Media Studies - key terms

Enigma code

Enigma code

an element of mystery within a text.

Polysemic

the concept that media texts can

have multiple meanings and interpretations.

Stereotype

widespread oversimplifications of

people and groups / a preconceived idea of

what a person is like, based on a range of

different, usually traditional factors.

Progressive

modern, socially reform-minded, forward thinking and open minded, making positive change.

Regressive

small minded, traditional, old fashioned views on society

Establishing shot

shows the setting to establish the

location, provides insight and further detail for

audience

Long shot

shows the subject in full, gives the

audience a full look at the person / object.

Mid shot

shows half of a subject – normally from the waist

up of a person. Focuses the audience attention onto their

body language and mode of address

Direct mode of address / Indirect mode of address

Making eye contact with the camera or not

High-key lighting

bright, makes things vibrant and easily visible for the audience.

Low-key lighting

dark, shadowy, establishes a particular mood,

enigmatic

Verisimilitude

a sense of realism created through familiarity

Reinforce

to support or back-up something.

Subvert

to challenge or go against something