What I've learned so far

Since starting the media course, I have learned the ten different sectors, the different methods of production, the purpose of music videos, the representation of men and women in media and the different styles of music.

The ten media sectors are used to appeal to a wide audience across all platforms these media sectors consist of: radio, gaming, websites, photo imaging, moving images (film and TV), publication, advertising, marketing, animation and interactive media. The media industry aims their products at two different types of target audiences through using the different sectors; primary and secondary. For example, someone who is interested in action/ crime games such as GTA V may be interested in the action/ crime films such as Batman – The Dark Knight.

Furthermore, I have also looked at the different methods of production. The method starts with pre-production where we would carry out research and planning. After this is done then production starts this is when you can start filming or recording. Once you finish producing your production then post-production can start. Once post-production starts you can carry out editing and begin to focus on the overall end product.

The purpose of music videos is to extend income by getting a wider interest in the artist and record label by appealing the genre of music to a wider target audience. By having a wide target audience promotes a lifestyle and a way of thinking. Another purpose for music videos is the extension of outlets for example music channels such as MTV, Box and Capital. Another extension outlet method is websites, DVDs and CD sales.

Gender representations are tied up with ideas of masculinity and femininity. The concept of being masculine is formed over rigid stereotypes that men are sexually attractive, have a good physique and are independent. The representation of men in the media industry is that all men are physically strong and dominant. This reinforces the stereotype that men are the main breadwinners, and this creates the ideology that men are successful in all careers paths and are finically stable. Whereas, women are represented as emotional, domesticated and weak. This follows the generic codes and conventions that women are submissive to men. However, this ideology is now being challenged in modern society as women are now being presented as powerful, dominant and in control over what they do.

In conclusion, I have also learned about the different music styles. Popular music is aimed at pre-teens and teenagers due to the themes they cover in their songs and music videos. Within popular music there are many sub-genres such as bubble-gum pop and pop-rock.