Cinematography: Camera Shot Types

Cinematography- The science or art of motion picture photography.

High-angle shotFor a high-angle shot the camera looks down on the subject from a high angle and can make the subject seem vulnerable or powerless when applied with the correct mood, setting and effects.

Low-angle shotThis is when the camera angle is positioned low, anywhere below the eye line, looking up. Psychologically, the effect of a low angle shot is that it makes the subject look strong and powerful.

Two shotTwo-shot camera shots are good for establishing a relationship between subjects and showing interactions within a conversation.

Point of view shot(also known as POV shot or a subjective shot) is a short film scene that shows what a character (the subject) is looking at (represented through the camera).

Medium close upShows the subject usually from the waist up to include torso, head and shoulders.

Establishing shotEstablishes where the film is set or where the action will take place.

Close upTight shot of the subject- for a person usually just the head o face of the actor.

Extreme close upShowing only the mouth, eyes or other features etc if a person is the subject. Usually this shot type is used to show emotion.

Long shotFull body shot of the actor (or full view of the subject in picture).

Over the shoulderOften used during conversations camera position to demonstrate interactions between characters.