Camera Shots & Movements

Camera Movements

Tracking shot - this is a very simple movement in or out of a shot. Into a spot symbolises something is going to happen or creates tension where as out of a shot symbolises the end of a scene or conversation.

Tilt shot - a tilt shot is a simple up and down movement of a camera on an axis. This shot is used by directors to create a sense of height and power.

Zoom - Zoom is a alternative to a tracking shot where a camera zooms in or out of a shot. Done well, this shot can be easily confused as a tracking shot.

Arc shot - this is when the camera moves a full or semi circle around two or more characters to show the reactions and faces of all the people in the conversation.

Crane shot - this is acheived by attaching the camera to a crane, and allows the director to capture the action in a vertical direction.

Panning shot - this is when a camera is attached to a tripod and moved from left or right or vice versa. It is often used to follow a moving object or used in conjuction to a point of view shot to show whats going on.

Camera Shots

Extreme long shot / Establishing shot - this shot is usually an exterior shot to establish time and place, this is an important shot to inform the audience of the setting of the storyline.

Long shot - this shot is usually a follow up from an establishing shot. It gives a head to toe view of a character or object, this shot allows the audience to get a brief idea of the type of person this character is.

Mid shot - this shot is used to show the waist up of a character while having an equal amount of background showing aswell. There should be space for hand gestures to still be seen and facial gestures should be visible.

Two shot - a two shot is when two people are included in the frame. This can be used to show a conversation between the two characters or show whatever they are doing.

Close up - these shots are used to give a detailed look at expression on characters faces, or certain patterns on objects. These come in very useful to add affect and ideas of personality.

Extreme close up - These are used to give very detailed looks at characters expression or to emphasis something that has happened by showing it in high detail. They are great for showing emotions.