Film Techniques Flashcards

Flashcards covering various film techniques and terminology.

Extreme long shot

Shows the entire scene, often used for establishing shots.

Long shot

Shows a person in full length on-screen (head-to-toe).

Medium shot

Frames the subject from the waist up, providing more detail.

Close-up

Focuses on a specific detail or part of the subject for emphasis.

Extreme close-up

Frames a small portion of the subject, often for dramatic effect.

Bird’s eye or aerial

An overhead shot that provides information about a scene or the scope of action.

High angle

Camera looks down on the subject, making it seem smaller or weaker.

Eye-level

Camera is at the same level as the subject, providing a neutral perspective.

Low angle

Camera looks up at the subject, making it appear larger or more imposing.

Facial expressions

Reveal the character’s emotions and personality.

Body language

How an actor positions themselves - their posture and movement.

Tone of voice/accent

The way in which an actor speaks (accent, intonation, register)

Set design

The arrangement of elements within the frame.

Costume design

The clothing worn by characters.

Props

Objects within the frame that are used by characters.

Cut

Transition between one shot to another.

Fade

Transition where one shot gradually disappears as another emerges.

Cross-cutting

Alternating between two or more scenes that are happening simultaneously.

Montage

A series of shots edited together to condense time or information.

High-key lighting

Bright lighting with few shadows, often used in comedies or musicals.

Low-key lighting

Dark lighting with strong shadows, creating a sense of mystery or tension.

Backlighting

Light coming from behind the subject, creating a silhouette.

Natural light

Using available light sources, like the sun, to illuminate the scene.

Diegetic sound

Sounds that originate within the world of the film (For example, footsteps, dialogue).

Non-diegetic sound

Sounds that come from outside the world of the film (For example, music, voiceover).

Soundtrack

The musical score accompanying the film.

Silence

The intentional absence of sound for dramatic effect.

Tone

The overall mood or attitude conveyed by the words spoken