Shots

A shot is everything that goes on in a specific section of a script. It is like a page of a book or a stanza of a poem. A shot may include several different camera angles.

Close-up shot Full shot Establishing shot

Focused on the face, with the audience unable to see the rest of the scene. This type of shot can be used to establish a strong emotional connection with the audience, who are able to see intimate details and emotions on the subject’s face.

A wider shot, showing the character from head to toe, so the audience can clearly see what they’re doing. This type of shot allows the audience to read emotions on a character’s face while simultaneously seeing their physicality, body language and actions. An even wider shot, showing the surroundings and actions taking place in a wider setting. This type of shot establishes the geography, context or setting of the film, and informs the audience about where and when a scene is taking place.

READING

ACT IVITY Look at the six film stills below. Each one is an example of the different camera angles and shot types you have just learned about. Complete the cinematography task in your activity book (see page 78).

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