MIGRAIN: Reading an image - media codes

TASK 1

TECHNICAL CODES

CAMERAS WORK / PHOTOGRAPHIC - the camera work shows a close up of 50 cent expression of being serious which conveys his career and lifestyle. 

LIGHTING - On the print the low key, high control lighting  is shining above 50 cent, making him the spotlight and the central of the ad, which presents intensity, connoting danger and seriousness

The dark lighting behind 50 cent conveys black lives matter, attracts different audience for reebok, such as 50 cent's fan base and black people.

SOUND - None

EDITING - Moreover, the image is spilt into two sides, one showing 50 cent and the other showing fingerprints which presents his presence and past. 

Additionally, the photo is black and white which portrays the mood and sets the tone of being dark and yet evil.

Along with the Size hierarchy, Placing 50 cent as the bigger image which portrays he is the main idea of this ad 

VERBAL CODES

LANG / WORDS - "Where I am from, there is no plan B, so take advantage of today because tomorrow is not promised" This presents himself and his life story along with. Tomorrow is not promised which could symbolise the ad trying to sell a limited edition product such as shoes or a cap which 50 is wearing 

SLOGAN - "I am what I am" suggests his ideologies are so clear product has been seen so limited edition. 

BRANDING -  The Reebok (RBK) logo codes the commercial context, linking the celebrity persona with consumer culture.

SYMBOLIC CODES

FONT - Additionally, the o's have been shaded in to symbolise how many times he has been shot which presents his past. While the gothic font for the main title codes connotations of his strength. 

ICONOGRAPHY - Fingerprints code individuality, identity, and intertextually reference criminal/justice systems, reinforcing 50 Cent’s “street credibility."

COSTUME - Camouflage cap codes connotations of combat, survival, and toughness.

PROP - necklace and earrings codes wealth, success, and status within hip-hop culture.

NARRIATIVE CODES

Enigma Code -  The fingerprint imagery raises questions,  is it about crime, identity, or uniqueness? Audiences are invited to decode

Action Code -  The phrase “there is no plan B” codes urgency and survival, suggesting a backstory of struggle and resilience.

                                                       

                                                            TASK 2 

TECHNICAL CODES

CAMERAS WORK / PHOTOGRAPHIC - Full body shot of Hyunjin along with props such as a pattern scarf and dark angel wings.

LIGHTING - the high key lighting along with the dark shadows seen

The dark lighting behind Hyunjin conveys to the main prop such as the dark angle wings which coveys the devil. 

SOUND - None

VERBAL CODES

W" (title) → Brand identity of the magazine, associated with prestige in fashion.

"stay with music" (cover line) → Direct message connecting fashion, music, and lifestyle. The word stay also links symbolically to Stray Kids’ fandom name “STAY.”

"STRAY KIDS" (masthead) → Identifies the celebrity/group, appealing to fans

Versace (on jacket) → Brand placement reinforcing luxury.

Korean text at the bottom → Provides cultural anchoring and context for the magazine issue

SYMBOLIC CODES

Black wings  Symbol of power, transformation, rebellion, or a fallen angel motif. It suggests something dark yet artistic.

Clothing (Versace)  Symbol of status, luxury, and high fashion.

Black monochrome outfit Represents mystery, strength, and edginess.

Facial expression & pose  A serious, intense look connoting confidence and artistic depth

Scarf with bold patterns  Adds a contrast of elegance and movement, symbolizing creativity and freedom.

NARRIATIVE CODES

Enigma code - The wings make you wonder if he’s meant to be an angel or something darker, there’s a mystery about what they mean. His serious expression also makes you question what he’s thinking or what story the photo is trying to tell.

Action code - The way he’s holding the scarf looks like he’s about to move, almost like something’s about to happen. The wings suggest flight or transformation, like there’s an action about to take place. The text “stay with music” also feels like it’s telling the audience to do something  to carry on with music.