Camera Techniques

Camera angles and movement are very important to a production as they can convey moods and atmosphere to the audience to support the dialogue. They can also change the type of movie intended to be portrayed. For example a hand-held camera can create the sense that you are part of the movie.

Distance and Angle:

Long shot (LS) - Shot whch show all or most of the subject which usually includes much of the surroundings.



Extreme long shot (ELS) - The camera shot is furthest from the subject and emphasises its surroundings. It is often used to set the scene.



Medium long shot (MLS) - In this shot the lower frame line cuts off the feet and ankles of a standing person.



Establishing Shot - Opening shot or sequence. Used to set the scene.



Medium Shot (MS) - In this shot the subject is often occupying equal areas within the frame. In the case of an actor the lower frame passes through the waist.



Close-up (CU) - The shot shows a small part of the scene often a face or important object. Medium Close-up (MCU) - head and shoulders. Big Close-up (BCU) - forehead to chin



Angle of shot - The direction and height from which the camera takes the scene.



Viewpoint - The distance and angle from which the camera views and records the subject.



Point-of-view Shot (POV) - A shot made from a camera position close to the line of sight of a performer.



Two-shot - A shot of two people together.



Wide-angle Shot - A shot of broad field, taken with a wide-angle lens.

Movement:
Zoom - When the camera is focussed down from a long-shot to a close-up whilst the picture is still being shown. However, the camera is not moved.

Following Pan - The camera swivels to follow a moving object but the base of the camera stays the same.

Surveying Pan - The camera slowly searches the scene and often leads to a climax or anti-climax.

Tilt - A vertical movement of the camera whilst the mounting stays fixed.

Crab - The camera moves in a horizontal direction similar to that of a crab, hence the name.

Tracking (dollying) - The movement involves moving the camera smoothly towards or away from the subject. It can be used to create a mood of intensity or emotional distance. Also, the speed at which the camera is moved can also effect the mood that is portrayed.

Hand-held Camera - Using a hand-held camera can produce unsteady and unproffesional results. However, it is effective in drawing the audience in and makes them feel like they are in the production.

Process Shot - A shot made of action in front of a rear projection screen having on it still or moving images.