CAMERA SHOTS!

A camera shot is the amount of a space that is seen in one shot or frame. Camera shots are used to demonstrate different aspects of a film's setting, characters and themes. As a result, camera shots are very important in shaping meaning in a film. Reviewing the examples on the right hand side of this page should make the different camera shots clearer.

MEDIUM LONG SHOT!

This shows the whole person as well as some of the background.

PURPOSE: Places the persons in the context.

Here is an example:

BIG CLOSE UP!

This is full head height and the head takes up the entire screen. It contains little or no backround.

PURPOSE: This shows the detail of the character's face.

This is an example :

VERY CLOSE UP!

This is a face shot taken from the mid-forehead to above the chin. Here is the purpose of this.

PURPOSE: this shows the character´s eyes and mouth in detail. It can be used to heighten tension

this is an example

Extreme close up!

An extreme close up contains on part of character's face or other object. This technique is quite common in horror films. This type creates a intense mood and provides interaction between the audience and the viewer.

Here is an example of extreme close up:

Close up!

A close up contain's just one character's face. This enables viewers to understand the actor's emotions and also allows them to feel empathy for the character.

Here's an example of a close up shot:

Full shot!

A full shot contains a complete view of the characters. This shot allows viewers to have a look at the characters' costume and may also help to demonstrate the relationships between characters.
Here's an example of a Full Shot: