Codes and conventions of a short film

There are many different codes and conventions used withing a short film.

Music: Music is used to create generally to create atmosphere and add to a scene. It can be used in many different ways, for example it can be used in an action short film to heighten the tempo to match the scene, to create tension in a horror short film and even show love in a romantic film.

Camera work: Camera work can be incredibly important in short films as a short film is just that, short, it needs to draw a viewer in even quicker. Also in a short film camera angles can be essential for symbolism.

Acting: This is more important for a short film as it is more focused on than in things such as a music video as generally the audio and acting is more focused on.

Costume: This is another thing which can instantly set the scene and theme of the short film.

Characters: In a short film generally there are only a few main character due to the time  constraints, this makes it hard for loads of character to be introduced fully.

Budgets: These are generally low for short films as they are clearly different from Hollywood films. These types are films are usually student films, new director films or films to promote causes.

Time: There are generally between 3 to 30 minutes.

Narrative: There are generally quick to the point because of the time constraint.