The Shot
In this chapter you will learn:
- What the different characteristics of a shot are.
- Fundamental compositional techniques.
- Ways to move the camera.
One talks a lot about shots in filmmaking. It is a word that is tossed around and used in almost every conversation, oftentimes incorrectly. So, what exactly is a shot? How does one define it?
A shot, quite simply, is an uninterrupted segment of motion picture time.
It might last a few frames or several minutes. It might incorporate elaborate movement or remain static throughout. It might encompass a panoramic vista or the intricate detail of something microscopic.
A powerful shot never simply shows something. Instead, it comments on what it shows in creative and compelling ways. A good shot always elicits a strong emotional response to its content.
How you use shots to make commentary on your content can be broken down into four aspects:
- size
- composition
- angle
- movement
It is up to you to decide how to incorporate each of these four aspects into your shot design. Doing so intentionally will help you convey your message that much more powerfully. This is key to your visual storytelling.
Note: A shot is not to be confused with a take. If a shot is an uninterrupted segment of motion picture time, a take is an individual version of a shot. Multiple takes are frequently filmed for the same shot.
