Shots & Camera Movement Flashcards
tilt
shifting the camera’s view up or down without changing it’s horizontal direction
- can help you fit more into a single continuous shot
- can also help you reveal an object or person that wasn’t on screen before and add an element of surprise to the scene you’re setting
pan
you’re moving the camera from left to right or vice versa all while keeping the camera’s base fixated on a certain point
- uses a continuous shot to show the audience what you can’t fit in a single frame
pedestal
the entire camera moves up or down
- camera is fixed on one location, such as an adjustable tripod
- best used to shoot a tall character or subject
dolly
you’re moving the camera toward or away from a subject, often by placing it on a track or motorized vehicle
- often used to focus on a character when they’re lost in thought or when they’ve come to a sudden realization
truck
moving a camera along a fixed point, often on a stabilized track, but to the left or right (to the side) instead of forward or backward
- often used during action sequences when you want to keep the camera on a moving character
zoom
used to focus on a certain area in the frame and is commonly used to go from a long shot to a close-up of the subject you’re filming
- can add more drama or energy
- emphasizing a humorous expression
- use this movement sparingly to minimize distraction or overuse
handheld shooting
lets you take the camera on the go as you follow the action of a scene
- operator takes control of the camera and holds it while performing several basic camera movements
- can make production feel more authentic
steadicam, floating cam, or stabilized shot
- wearable device that gives the shot stability while providing you with the flexibility of a handheld shot
- make sure to use the range of motion to your advantage
- can be used to follow characters through uneven terrain
rack focus
camera technique that changes the focus from one point to another during a single shot
- start with focus on one item in the foreground and then quickly shift the focal point on another item in the background, or vice versa
crane or jib
a jib is the projecting arm of a crane, but both terms are used to describe this type of shot where the camera is lifted to a high shooting position by a moving crane or jib.
- jib extends the camera over an area, letting it move in various directions to get the shot
- best used for establishing shots since it helps set the scene
jib
the projecting of a crane