Camera angles

Camera Angles

Big/Extreme close up

Big/Extreme close up is used to show the facial expression clearly. It can also be used to increase intensity. The eyes are very visible and they are considered to be ‘the windows to the soul’ therefore, we get a more in-depth view of the character/person.

Close up

This angle may be used to identify the character and what they’re thinking and feeling. It is commonly used in the romantic genre.

Medium Close Up 

This shot can be used to put the character into context because some of the location/surrounding is also visible. It also shows some of what the character is wearing.

Mid shot

This angle is usually used in a dramatic genre. It makes the surroundings even clearer and if a prop is being used then it is usually revealed in this shot.

Medium Long Shot

This shot usually alternates with a mid shot. At this angle the viewers get to see the body posture that the character has. However, it doesn’t show the whole of the character yet but more of the background is revealed.

Long shot/wide shot

This shot is usually used at the beginning of a film/video. The whole of the character is shown therefore, we see every part of the person and from this we can deduct things about them for example what their clothes say about them, their body posture and how far away they might be from any other characters.

Two shot

In this shot between two character the viewer’s are able to see who is more prominent and the type of relationship that is being portrayed between them. It also introduces another character.

Three shot

This shot is between three characters and like the two shot the viewer's are able to see clearly the dialog that is being shared within the group.  

High angle shot

A high angle shot is used to make the character look smaller and vulnerable. This makes the character seem more submissive and also removes the significance of the character. 

Low angle shot 

A low angle shot is when the camera is looking up to the character. This intensely makes them seem more significant and also makes them seem more dominant and threatening.

Over the shoulder 

An over the shoulder shot is used to see the dialog that is being exchanged between the two characters. It also allows the audience to see the facial expression and the reaction to the other character.