Main Task Research - Different Camera Shots

Different Camera Angles
 
High Angle

A high angle shows the subject from above, i.e. the camera is angled down towards the subject. This has the effect of diminishing the subject, making them appear less powerful, less significant or even submissive.

Low Angle

This shows the subject from below, giving them the impression of being more powerful or dominant.

Bird's Eye

The scene is shown from directly above. This is a completely different and somewhat unnatural point of view which can be used for dramatic effect or for showing a different spatial perspective.In drama it can be used to show the positions and motions of different characters and objects, enabling the viewer to see things the characters can't.The bird's-eye view is also very useful in sports, documentaries, etc.

Slanted

Also known as a dutch tilt, this is where the camera is purposely tilted to one side so the horizon is on an angle. This creates an interesting and dramatic effect. Famous examples include Carol Reed's The Third Man, Orson Welles' Citizen Kane and the Batman series.

Framing or Shot Length

Extreme Long Shot

This can be taken from as much as a quarter of a mile away, and is generally used as a scene-setting, establishing shot. It normally shows an exterior, eg the outside of a building, or a landscape, and is often used to show scenes of thrilling action eg in a war film or disaster movie. There will be very little detail visible in the shot, it's meant to give a general impression rather than specific information.

Long Shot

A long shot typically shows the entire object or human figure and is usually intended to place it in some relation to its surroundings.

Medium Long Shot

Medium Long Shot shows more detail on the character but retains the setting quite clearly.

Medium Shot

A Medium shot focuses on the character or an object showing them from knees or waist to just above the head.

Medium Close Up

Shows the subject from mid-chest to the top of the head. This shows much more detail of a character.

Close Up

This shot shows head and shoulders of an character. It is used to show emotion, feelings and reactions.

Extreme Close Up

Shows a small part of a face or object, can also show extreme fear or emotion if focused on the eyes.

Camera Movement

Pans

A movement which scans a scene horizontally. The camera is placed on a tripod, which operates as a stationary axis point as the camera is turned, often to follow a moving object which is kept in the middle of the frame.

Tilts

A movement which scans a scene vertically, otherwise similar to a pan.

Dolly shots

A movement that follows the action, the camera can be placed on a track or attached to a vehicle.

Crane shots

Its like a dolly shot, but in the air. It can move up, down, left, right, swooping in on action or moving diagonally out of it.

The aerial shot

An exciting variation of a crane shot, usually taken from a helicopter. This is often used at the beginning of a film, in order to establish setting and movement.