Camera shot guide

Medium Shot

Medium shot is when a person can be can be seen from head to waist. This creates effect because you are able to see the majority of the characters body language, in order to help you engage with the characters emotions and actions.

Medium close up

Medium close up is a shot in which a person can be seen from head to shoulders/upper body. This is often used to emphasise the facial expression of the character. This shot shows the face, but without getting uncomfortably close to the character.

Close up

A close up is a shot in which a persons head is captured. This is to show that just the importance of the character in the shot. This shot is used in Sherlock to show the intense emotions people feel throughout the show, in the second still it shows the extent that Sherlock is intoxicated, and how his behaviour is changing as a result.

Extreme Close-up

XCU is a shot which captures a specific feature or reaction on a persons face. Extreme close ups are often used in order to invade the characters personal space in order for the audience to understand the emotions of the character that would otherwise go unnoticed from afar. It can also help the audience to feel sympathy for the character.

Point of View shotPoint of view shot is a shot captured from a persons point of view. This shot is often used in spy/action movies in order to build up the action and show how the action is unfolding. It is also used in spy films in order for you to be able to identify the spy.

High Angle ShotA high angle shot is where the camera is positioned at an angle above the object, to create the effect of looking down on the character/object.It is typically used to emphasise danger and inferiority.

Low Angle Shot

A low angle shot is where thecamera is positioned at an anglebeneath the object.It is typically used to give a sense of superiority.

Establishing ShotAn establishing shot is a wide shot of a location that establishes a sense of environment and surroundings.It is typically used to let people know where the film/programme isgoing to take place.

Extreme Long ShotAn extreme long shot is a wide shot that places a person or an object a long way fromthe camera.

Long ShotA long shot is where a person can be seen from head toe.

Medium Long Shot

A medium long shot is a shot where aperson can be seen from