In a high-angle shot (aka top angle shot), the camera is elevated and looks down on the subject. This angle can vary from slightly above eye level to a steep, almost overhead position. It can provide narrative information not achievable by other angles, highlight vulnerability, and communicate large-scale environments. While often used to diminish the… Continue reading High-Angle Shots in Film: Definition, Use, and Examples
framing
What is an Extreme Close-Up Shot? Definition & Examples from Film
An extreme close-up (ECU) is a framing technique that focuses on a tiny subject detail, isolating a specific feature, such as an eye, a hand, or part of an object. ECUs magnify the subject to the point where the surrounding context is minimal or absent, drawing our attention to the intricacies of that particular detail.… Continue reading What is an Extreme Close-Up Shot? Definition & Examples from Film
What is an Over-the-Hip Shot in Film? Definition & Examples
An over-the-hip shot (OTH) is a framing technique that captures a character’s perspective from behind. It focuses on the scene in front of the character while including the character’s hip and sometimes the lower part of their body in the foreground. As it places the viewer near the center of the character’s body, it is… Continue reading What is an Over-the-Hip Shot in Film? Definition & Examples
What is a Close-Up Shot? Definition & Examples from Film
A close-up shot is a framing technique that captures a subject in detail, focusing closely on a particular feature, object, or character’s face. Close-ups use tight framing, often excluding the background and emphasizing the subject’s emotions, expressions, or intricate details. Reasons to use Close-Ups The primary purpose of a close-up shot is to create a… Continue reading What is a Close-Up Shot? Definition & Examples from Film
What is a Two Shot in Film? Definition & Examples
A two-shot is a camera framing technique in which two characters or subjects are captured within the same shot. It is typically used to emphasize the relationship, interaction, or dynamic between the two individuals, whether they are in conversation, confrontation, or simply occupying the same space. Two Shot Framing and Composition A two-shot can vary… Continue reading What is a Two Shot in Film? Definition & Examples
Guide to Camera Shots and Camera Angles
No decision is more critical to what is being communicated on screen in film than the shot! A “shot” is the placement and angle of the camera relative to what is being shown in the frame. It is the most fundamental part of visual storytelling. A shot captures a specific subject or scene and is… Continue reading Guide to Camera Shots and Camera Angles