1. Cinematography
Shot Types/Movements
Establishing shot
Establishing shots are usually on the top of a film or TV episode. It tells us where we are. It is usually
a landscape of where we are. It also tells us when we are. Also called an Extreme long shot.
Wide shot
It zooms the camera out wide. It tells us when and where we are. Also a landscape. It is more detailed
compared to an establishing shot.
Crane shots
It works like a real crane. A camera is attached to the end of a crane and it has a whoosh movement.
Can create a birds eye view.
2. Aerial shots/drone shots
Attaches a camera to a helicopter (now drones) it is used usually for following something. Can be
both a birds eye view or and/or an establishing shot.
Bird’s eye view
Just like a bird looking down.
3. Long shot
A shot usually used to look at a person from head to toe, usually focused on the MC.
Medium shot
Films a person from the waist up. Gives a bit more information about the shot and the character.
Close-up
Films the face of someone, used to emphasise the emotions of a character. If it is an object, it is to
show that it is important in some way to the story.
4. Extreme close-up
Shows us a close-up of facial features like just an eye/2 eyes or something like that. If it is an object,
more information/detail on the item that can be seen.
Point of view
To see what the character is seeing. Also might include body parts like hands/arms/legs. Example:
Used in horror films. Putting us in their shoes.
Over the shoulder shot
Usually used to film conversations. The camera will stand behind over someone’s shoulder to make
us feellike we are there.
Two shot
Filmed to show the relationship between 2 characters. Like how far apart they are from each other. If
there is a gap, it can signify that they don’t get along. If they are touching/very close they have a good
relationship with each other.
Shot reverse shot
Over the shoulder/point of view shot that goes from 1 shot to another shot to the same shot.
180 degree rule
Stay on the same side otherwise they will switch places.
Angles/Movement
5. Low angle
When the camera is low and looks up on something/someone. To feel vulnerable/inferior than them.
High angle
When the camera is high and looks down on something/someone. To feel superior to them.
Pans
When the camera is still and rotates from left to right vise versa.
Tilts
The same as panning but goes up and down instead.
Dolly shots/tracking shot
The camera is attached to a vehicle to follow a moving thing. If there is a track where the camera is
moving, it can track it that way.
Hand held shot
When you hold the camera... with your hand. Creates realism.
6. Zoom/reverse zoom
Zooms in and out for effect like dramatics, shows something important.
Zoom lens means it zooms without the camera moving to make intense surveillance.