This shot is where the head takes up the entire screen so there is no background, making sure the shot is focusing fully on the characters facial expression. Because it is quite an intense shot it is usually used for dramatic effect in thrillers.
Close-Up
This is a shot taken of somebody's head from above the head to the top of their chest. By doing this it introduces the character, but also means you can get a clear sense of how the character is feeling. It can either include some background or none.
Like the close up this shot is taken from just above the head, but is taken from the lower chest instead. This slight difference allows the audience to be able to see the character clearly, what they are wearing and where they are as you are able to see more of what is going on behind them. This particular shot is good for when two characters are having a conversation.
The mid shot is used so you can see the character in more detail, but so you can also see props and backgrounds. Usually used when two characters are having a conversation.
Medium Long Shot
This is used so that you can see the context of the characters in their environment. It's a bit like the mid shot, but gets more in the background.
Long Shot or Wide Shot
The shot is used so you can still see the whole of the character but can also see the surroundings, to help set the scenes. There tends not to be too much detail in the background as it is only meant to give you a vague idea of what is going on.
Two Shot
This shot is particularly used when introducing another character to the scene. It can also indicate whether there is some kind of relationship going on and also make it quite clear to the viewer the status of each character.
Three Shot
This shot is used in exactly the same way as the two shot, but would mainly be used when there is a conversation going on between the three characters as it can show the emotions and reactions of all the characters clearly. However this shot does not mean the characters have to be next to each other.
High-Angle Shot
By using this shot it is easy to make the character look vulnerable as it is almost like you are looking down on them. It is usually used for dramatic effect, but can also be used to show the viewer an overall view of the film.
Low-Angle Shot
A low angle shot is filmed from below the eye line and can be used to make the character look powerful and more dominant.
Over-The-Shoulder Shot
This shot is used from over the shoulder of another character and usually used when characters are having a conversation.
Establishing Shot
Establishing shots are used to show the start of a new scene and where the following scene is taking place.
By doing this research it will help us when it comes to our practical work as it is important to know what shot is used for what and what kind of impact it can have on the overall piece. It will also help with our storyboard so we can plan out the shots properly and know exactly what we are going to use and when.
