Camera Shots
CAMERA SHOTS ARE ELEMENTS used to compose in audiovisual language. Combining different shots, the director or the editor can help to create or underline a particular situation and add meaning or sense to a scene. It is very important to understand these techniques when creating your shooting plan
Camera Shots
A single “take” of a camera is called a shot. There are three basic camera shots:
 |
|
Wide Shot
Also known as Establishing Shot or Long Shot, it shows the whole scene. Frequently used at the beginning of talk shows. It is helpful because it allows the viewer to become oriented.
 |
|
Medium Shot
This shot shows less of a scene than the wide shot. The camera seems closer to the subjects showing them from about the waist up in a medium shot. Also necessary when you need to transition between wide shots and close-up shots
 |
|
Close Up Shot
This shot shows an even smaller portion of the subject or scene. It is great for showing detail, as the emotion on a person's face. If used in an interview, this shot would show the person above the top of the chest or shoulders.
 |
|
Extreme Close Up Shot
This shot is even closer to the subject than a Close Up. For example, the person's eyes, or a ring in a finger
Sequencing Shots
“Sequencing” is a term used in video production and editing. It refers to the combination of a series of related shots to orient the viewer. While designing your "Shooting Plan" it is important to consider the sequencing principle. An example of a typical sequence in a talk show would be:
 |
|
| Wide Shot of the set allows the viewer to establish who is where. |
 |
|
| Medium shot of the host allows the host to introduce the show |
 |
|
| Medium Shot of the guest allows the host to introduce the guest |
 |
|
| Close Up of the book in the host’s hand allows the host to present the book they are going to talk about |
More Information
Ronald Rodriguez Ferrer
Video Producer