Analysis of Camera Work

Shot types

Establishing shot - establishes where the shot is filmed, it may also establish when it is set. Often the first shot you see in a TV programme, but not always.

Helicopter shot - taken from a helicopter, shows that the film has a high production value.

Master shot - establishes the limit of an action taking place.

Long shot - shows a person from head to toe, used to show them in relationship to their location, their body language, or even their appearance.

Medium shot - shows a person from the waist upwards. Often used when there is more than one person in the shot. shows relationship.

Close up - shows someones face, used to show an emotion or reaction.

Extreme close up - shows them doing something, e.g. pouring a drink or pulling a trigger.

Camera Movement

Pan/Panning - The movement of the camera horizontally, used to show everything.

Tilt - The movement of the camera vertically, often used to scan the body of an attractive female. Good to show representation of gender.

Dolly Shot - The camera tripod is put on something on wheels, it travels smooth and shows that something else is happening outside of the shot. Similar to a pan.

Steady Cam - The camera is on an object which is balanced, it looks like your following an action from someones eyes.

Camera Angles
High - Looks down on something, often making them look vulnerable and weaker.

Low - Looks up at something, makes then look stronger and more powerful. You can also meet small objects at their level.

Cantered angle - The camera is not straight itself, often at a diagonal.