Film language and Conventions Flashcards
What is an Establishing shot?
Shows the full landscape of the scene, introduces the setting.
What is a Wide shot?
Helps to show landscape, although subjects are now identified, and we see more details in surroundings.
What is a long shot?
Shows the character from top to bottom so we can see the characters costume, posture while also their surroundings.
What is a Mid shot?
Shows the character from the waist up, often used for conversations as the audience can see the character and context of what is going on in the scene.
What is a Close up?
Shows the characters full face, it helps us to identify changes us in emotion.
What is an extreme close up?
Used to focus on a specific detail.
High angle?
When the camera is high, looking down on the subject. It makes the subject look vulnerable or in danger.
Low angle?
When the camera is low, looking up at the subject. It makes the subject look powerful, strong and dominant.
Birds eye view?
When camera is looking directly down it can help track movement, introduce a setting or show the scale of something.
Dutch angle?
When the shot looks off balance, creates a sense of unease and makes audiences feel disorientated.
Panning?
When the camera stays in fixed position but can swivel left to right
Tilting?
Directs the camera upward and downward, while staying in a fixed point.
Tracking?
Physically moves the camera through the screen for an extended amount of time.
Zooming (in or out)?
Altering the focal length of the lens to give the illusion of moving closer to or further away from the action.
What is High key lighting?
Is when all the lightning in the frame is bright and balanced, creating almost no shadow. It suggests that the vibe is cheerful, airy and happy. It can also be used to create an optimistic or hopeful tone.
