Camera Shots

6 Rules of Video Composition

• Rule 1: Rule of Thirds

  • Grid the frame into thirds (both horizontally and vertically).

  • Position important elements along these lines or their intersections to create balance and harmony.

• Rule 2: Leading Lines

  • Use natural lines within the composition to guide the viewer's eyes toward the subject.

• Rule 3: Framing

  • Use elements in the scene (trees, windows) to frame the subject, adding depth and focus.

• Rule 4: Balance

  • Distribute elements in the frame to avoid heavy visual weight on one side.

  • Use symmetry or asymmetry to create dynamic balance.

• Rule 5: Depth

  • Incorporate foreground, mid-ground, and background to add layers to the scene.

• Rule 6: Space

  • Allow space around the subject to give them room to 'breathe' or suggest movement within the frame.

Types of Camera Shots

• Overview of various camera shot types used in videography.

• Importance of shot selection in conveying mood, intent, and story.

Shot Size Cheatsheet

CLOSEUP (CU)

• Emphasizes character's emotions, facial expressions.

MEDIUM CLOSEUP (MCU)

• Frames character from chest up, still focusing on facial details.

EXTREME CLOSEUP (ECU)

• Captures a small detail, such as eyes or hands.

MEDIUM SHOT (MS)

• Shows character from waist up, balancing the subject with surroundings.

COWBOY SHOT (CS)

• Frames subject from mid-thighs up, useful in Westerns to display holsters.

MEDIUM FULL SHOT (MFS)

• Similar to medium shot but includes more scenery.

FULL SHOT (FS)

• Subject fills the frame, still emphasizes surrounding environment.

Extreme Long Shot (ELS) or Extreme Wide Shot (EWS)

• Subject is small in the frame, utilized to suggest distance or unfamiliarity.

• Example: Mad Max: Fury Road features extreme wide shots showcasing vast landscapes.

Long Shot (LS) or Wide Shot (WS)

• Subject is visible but doesn't fill the frame; maintains significant negative space.

• Example: The Martian demonstrates the use of long shots effectively.

Full Shot (FS)

• Subjects fill the frame while maintaining scenic emphasis.

• Example: Django Unchained shows effective use of full shots.

Medium Wide Shot (MWS)

• Frames subject from knees up, blending medium and full shot characteristics.

• Example: The Usual Suspects uses this shot to display characters in an intimate way.

Cowboy Shot (CS)

• Frames from mid-thighs up, common in Westerns; emphasizes gun visibility.

• Example: Wonder Woman features cowboy shots to set character tone.

Medium Shot (MS)

• Commonly used; frames subject from waist up, balances visibility and surroundings.

• Example: X-Men: Days of Future Past uses this shot effectively for character interaction.

Medium Close Up Shot (MCU)

• Frames subject from chest up, focuses on facial expression while maintaining some distance.

• Example: No Country for Old Men utilizes this to heighten emotional impact.

Close Up (CU)

• Reveals character's emotions and reactions by filling the frame with the subject.

• Example: The Usual Suspects employs close-ups to enhance drama.

Extreme Close Up (ECU)

• Captures minute details or features, providing an intense focus that highlights important elements.

• Example: X-Men: First Class illustrates the use of extreme close-ups for dramatic emphasis.