camera shots and techniques

CAMERA SHOTS AND

TECHNIQUESORPHAN BLACK EPISODE 1

ESTABLISHING SHOT

• This is used at the start of the programme to establish the relationship between the set and location within the scene.

• Can also be used when changing locations.• Helps the audience picture where it is set.• Denotes where the character currently is or planning to go.• Especially useful when there are multiple location changes, as it ensures

the audience doesn’t get lost.

CLOSE UP

• Extreme close ups are used to draw in the audience and portray emotions of certain characters.

• Close ups are also used to show relevance in an object. For example, a close up of an object that seems out of place often becomes a repeated theme in the series.

• The object may have importance to a certain character.

LOW-ANGLE SHOT

• Long angle shots are where the camera approaches the subject from below eye level.

• This shot emphasises the protagonist and adds perspective.• It makes the character seem small and weak.• Can also be used with no cuts to show a change of scenery or location.

HIGH ANGLE SHOT

• This shot provides a view of the subject from above eye level to make them appear vulnerable and isolated.

• Conversation between two people, one who is higher up than the other can use this angle as well as a low angle to use a shot/reverse/shot technique.

CRAB SHOT

• This shot involves the camera being placed in a confined space. • In this shot the camera is confined in a wardrobe/cupboard.

TIGHT FRAME

• Shot composed with just the persons face, with little space around them. This shot can make the characters look important.

POINT-OF-VIEW SHOT

• Shot taken from the position of the subjects, • Used to enhance a sense of realism and make the audience feel involved. • This shot shows what the character is seeing.• Can show important information or objects just like a close up can do.

AERIAL SHOT

• A view from directly overhead to afford a clear view. • This shot shows what the character is doing and is used to emphasise the

spectacle.

FOCUS PULL

• A shot where one thing was on focus, then the lens changes and another thing comes into focus.

• In this shot the focus changes from the female to the male.

HEAD-ON SHOT

• Shot where the action comes directly towards the camera. • This increases audience involvement and excitement.• Moves the action towards the audience instead of the audience being

drawn closer.