Camera Language - types of shot
Generic Connotations of Elements AND Key Terms
These are a list of generic terms and possible connotations of some of the most common elements used when constructing a representation.
NOTE: Please don't use these generically as they still have to be applied to whatever representation is being constructed.
CAMERA
Types of shots
CU: Normally used to draw audiences closer to reactions/emotions key characters are feeling or highlight what is happening. This could be used to encourage or challenge stereotypes. For example: a CU of the "traditional man" becoming emotional when watching a movie with his wife could be challenging his stereotype.
MS or Head and Shoulder shot: Normally used to involve the audience within a scene, perhaps in the middle of a conversation between characters.
LS: Normally used to establish where the scene takes place. It could construct a positive or negative representation of the location the scene takes place in.
Wide shot: Essentially a very LS. This could be used to establish a location or to emphasise isolation of a single figure.
High-Angle shot: Makes characters look vulnerable and weak/powerless. It could be used to challenge of encourage stereotypes. For example: A high angle shot looking down to an MS of a prisoner from a warden's POV could connote that the prisoner is powerless in relation to the warden.
Low Angle shot: Makes characters look powerful, in control and/or dominant. For example: A low angle shot looking up at the warden from the prisoner's POV could connote that the warden is more powerful than the prisoner.
Over the shoulder shot (OTS): click here for an example. Why would you use this shot?
Hand Held shot: the camera is not on a tripod, which creates a feeling slight shakiness. Usually used to position the audience within a scene (POV) or to add energy to a moment. Can you think of a type of scene/scenario in which you'd use this?
Rule of thirds: States that there needs to be space in front of the characters depending on where they are positioned within the frame... if they are framed to the right, they should have space on the left. When a character is framed in the middle it usually connotes that they are either addressing a large group of people (usually breaking the forth wall - classic presidential shot) or they are very important within the scene.
Example 2. Why is this a good use of the rule of thirds?Example 3.
Tight Frame: Describes a shot is composed with the person or object given very little space around them. Usually connotes that the person is either trapped within a situation or that they are very important. For example: If a teacher is having a go at a student we might use a tight frame in a CU of the student's face to symbolise that he is feeling very uncomfortable in a situation he can't get out of.
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