Published: June 21, 2024 | Last Updated: June 24, 2024
A library shot, often a stock shot, is a pre-existing piece of footage obtained from a library of audiovisual content. These shots are generic and not filmed specifically for the current production like B-roll is. Examples include aerial shots, time lapses, and establishing shots of well-known locations. The primary advantage of using library shots is their ability to save time and money while maintaining high production value.
Common Usages of Library Shots
The purpose of a library shot can vary, but it often serves to establish a location, provide scenic context, or fill gaps in production without requiring new footage to be filmed. Below, you can see common use cases.
Opening Sequences
Library shots are often used in sequences that provide context and set the scene for a movie. Especially in end-of-the-world types of movies, where you want to quickly explain what caused the current state of affairs in a realistic and gritty way.
The opening sequence of Edge of Tomorrow (2014) is a good example:
Establishing Shots
Establishing shots are broad, wide-angle views that set the scene for the audience. They typically show the exterior of a building, a cityscape, or a landscape, providing context for the forthcoming action.
For example, an establishing shot of New York City might include an aerial shot of iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building or Central Park.
The title sequence of Back to the Future II is a fun example that mixes the opening sequence and an established shot. The sequence establishes that Marty and his friends fly into the future. The cloud footage is reused from the 1982 Firefox movie starring Clint Eastwood.
Detail Shots
Detail shots focus on specific elements within a scene. These could be close-ups of objects, textures, or elements that contribute to the narrative or visual style of the project. Detail shots often enhance the storytelling by emphasizing particular aspects of the environment or action.
The opening shot of The Menu (2022) starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Nicholas Hoult of the man lighting a cigarette is stock footage:
Action Shots
Action shots include dynamic sequences like explosions, car chases, or sporting events. These are often the most expensive and challenging to film, making stock footage a cost-effective alternative. An example of an action shot could be a time-lapse of a bustling city street, providing a sense of movement and urgency.
For my short film VECT0R (around the 11-minute mark), I licensed a bunch of library shots for the sequence where the protagonist understands how the pandemic tossed the world into chaos:
Historical Footage
Historical footage captures past events and is often used in documentaries or period films to lend authenticity and context to the narrative. For instance, a documentary about World War II might include historical footage of battles or speeches.
A famous example is Forrest Gump (1994), which used archival footage of JFK in the scene where Forrest goes to the White House as a top kick returner on the All-American team.
Reasons for using Library Shots
Movie productions, commercials, and documentaries use library applications for many reasons. Here are the most common ones:
Cost Efficiency
One of the primary advantages of using library shots is cost efficiency. Filming new footage can be expensive and time-consuming, especially involving travel, special effects, or large-scale productions. Library shots provide a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on quality.
For example, unless you live in Egypt, it’s much cheaper to license a library shot of the Pyramids than to film it yourself. This ties into the next one…
Time Savings
Another significant benefit is time savings. By incorporating pre-recorded footage, editors can streamline the production process, allowing them to focus on other critical aspects of the project, such as scripting, editing, and post-production.
Enhance Production Value
Using high-quality library shots can significantly enhance production value. Well-chosen stock footage can elevate a project’s visual appeal, making it appear more polished and professional. For example, incorporating aerial shots of a city can add a cinematic touch to an otherwise simple production.
How to Use and Integrate Library Shots
Balancing library shots with original footage is key to maintaining a cohesive visual style. This requires careful consideration of lighting, color grading, and camera angles to ensure a seamless integration.
That is, unless you go for contrast – fx when you want to emphasize that something is out of time or place – like in a flashback.
Match Aesthetic and Tone
Ensure that the aesthetic and tone of the library shot align with the rest of your project. This involves considering lighting, color grading, and camera angles. A mismatch can disrupt visual coherence and distract the audience.
Resolution and Quality
Always opt for the highest resolution and quality available. Poor quality footage can detract from the overall production value and appear out of place, especially when integrated with high-definition content.
Licensing and Rights
Be mindful of licensing and rights when using stock footage. To avoid legal complications, ensure you have the necessary permissions to use the footage in your project. Many stock footage providers offer various licensing options, so choose one that suits your needs.
More Tips for Seamless Integration
- Match the Resolution: If possible, ensure the library shot matches your project’s resolution and aspect ratio. This makes it easier to integrate.
- Upscaling and reframing are often necessary for old archive footage.
- Working with footage larger than your current project is always easier (fx 6K footage for a 2K film). The larger resolution makes reframing and zooming in easier.
- Color Correction: Adjust the color grading of the library shot to match the overall look of your film. If possible, see if you can get flat footage (like log or raw) that will give you the most flexibility in post-production.
- Consistent Motion: If your original footage includes specific camera movements, try to find library shots with similar motion characteristics. As I mentioned above, this is especially important for transitional shots.
- Sound Design: Integrate appropriate sound effects and background music to blend the library shot with the surrounding footage. Consider using J and L-cuts to transition to and from library shots.
Summing Up
A library shot is a pre-recorded clip of footage, often stored in a media library and used in film, television, and video production.
It serves as stock footage, saving time and reducing costs by reusing existing visuals rather than shooting new material.
These shots typically include generic scenes like landscapes, cityscapes, or common activities, enhancing a project’s visual narrative without additional filming.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with library shots. Use them to build montages, create transitions, or add layers of meaning to your narrative.
Up Next: Good Places to Find Public Domain Footage for Filmmakers
