Common Video Shot TypesCommon Video Shot Types

Six Categories of Video ShotsSix Categories of Video Shots

Every time you choose one type of shot over

another, you’re communicating with your

audience.

Extreme Wide ShotExtreme Wide Shot

The establishing shotThe establishing shot

(XWS)

A few seconds long. Reveals little detail. Allows the producer to

create a false reality with a single shot.

Wide ShotWide Shot (WS)

You can typically see an entire person head to foot.

It shows the background, surroundings, and the full action of the subject.

Medium ShotMedium Shot

A thigh-to-headthigh-to-head or waist-to-headwaist-to-head shot is generally considered a medium shot.

(MS)

It shows some of the background, surroundings, and the subject’s action.

Close-up ShotClose-up Shot

Isolates a single object or one person’s face.Isolates a single object or one person’s face.

(CU)

It shows a little of the background, surroundings and subject’s actions.

Typically a shoulder-to-Typically a shoulder-to-head shot.head shot.

Extreme Close-up ShotExtreme Close-up Shot (XCU)

Designed to bring the viewer nose to nose with the subject.

All about detail

Shows very little of the background, surroundings

or subject’s actions.

Draws the viewer into the story.

Completely focused on the subject.

Creates intimacy

Cutaway

shot that abruptly introduces content, scenery, etc., away from the central action.

Two Shot

Typically used in drama and interviews, a two-Typically used in drama and interviews, a two-shot frames two individuals so that their shot frames two individuals so that their interaction can be isolated and observed.interaction can be isolated and observed.

(2 shot)

Wide, Medium, & Close-Up Shots

These are the most commonly used shot types (once the scene has been set).

• If the shots move from wide to medium to close-up as the scene progresses, the viewer will sense a growing intensity.

• If one actor is shown in close-up while the other is shown in a medium shot, the viewer will emotionally favor the actor featured in close up.

• The closer the shot, the more intimate or “warm” it is. The wider the shot, the more emotionally “cool” it is.

Now you try!

Make an add where the different camera shots appear.