How does the media product represent social groups?

Brandon Evans

The image on the left is a screenshot from an article in NME magazine and the image on the right is a screenshot from my music magazine which I have created. Both images portray rap artists. Due to budget limitations and other factors I was unable use gold in my photographs. The camera quality I used was excellent but it was shambolic compared to the vastly expensive camera used to capture the image seen of Drake in the left image.

Introduction

Similarities

There are multiple similarities between both images. Both models have poses which show that they are relaxed and laid-back, this is shown as Drake is sat down and my model is looking away from the camera, this creates the feeling that he isn’t bothered and doesn’t care about anything. Both images are also mid-shots, mid-shots have been used in each image as they are arguably the most effective shot type as they show the face and clothing as well as some of the background.

Similarities

Both photographs were taken in high key lighting, this was done so that the models are clearly visible. Both facial expressions create the illusion that they have laid-back personalities and have an enjoyable stress-free lifestyle.

Differences

There are also many differences between the two images. The costumes of both of the people in the images differ significantly, Drake is wearing an expensive gold watch and a gold chain as well as a denim shirt, whereas my model is wearing a casual t-shirt, a grey hoodie and a black and grey mock leather jacket. The costumes represent different social classes as Drakes costume and clothing choices show that he is from a working class background whereas my models choice of clothing represents that of someone from a working class background.

Differences continued

Drakes hairstyle is that of a short, casual, curly afro and my models hairstyle is shaved at the sides and longish on top with a floated fringe going across the forehead. Drakes hairstyle is due to his ethnicity and is almost impossible to be replicated by people not of his or a similar ethnicity. My photo’s shot angle is from a neutral view whereas the shot angle of Drake is inbetween a neutral and a high angle view.