Romantic Comedy - Film Language

Other than iconography, there are many other aspects of a film that could differentiate it from other genres, for example the cinematography and editing. A few examples of this could be:

Over the shoulder shot. This is arguably the most common shot used in romantic comedies, because it really captures a conversation between two people and shows their authentic facial expressions and possibly their body language as well. 

Long shots are used to show the intimate relationship between the characters and focus on the setting as well. 

Mid shots are used to show the characters somewhat personal connection with the audience, so they can relate more to the protagonist. It is also effective when introducing characters and setting the scene. 

Extreme long shot - this is typically used in the beginning of films to introduce the setting and to give more context as to where the film will be set.

Close up shots are used to capture the emotion or facial expression of a character. This helps establish an emotional connection between the audience and the characters. 

Establishing shots would be used in the beginning of films to show the setting of the film.

Another aspect of establishing a genre is the lighting. Romantic comedies use high-key lighting or natural lighting, as these types of lighting bring out the light atmosphere that is needed in this genre. It is very rare that a romantic comedy would include dark low-key lighting, because they have a bright atmosphere and want their lighting to reflect that. 

The editing in romantic comedies is typically very smooth, as opposed to very fast in action movies or very slow in horror films to create anticipation; however sometimes romantic comedies might consist of quick editing cuts to emphasize arguments or quick snappy conversations, as well as slow editing to build anticipation, just as it would in any other genre. Cross cuts and fade outs are often used to give a sense of continuity from one scene to the next. 

Split screen editing is also commonly used in romantic comedies if the character is seen to be doing multiple activities, or there are multiple shots of the scenery.