Film Techniques

What we see :: Camera Shot Extreme Long Shot Long Shot Medium Shot Close-up Shot Extreme Close-up The larger the shot, the longer it stays on screen

Medium Shot :: frames a human from head to hips Purpose? Take in facial expression, movement and body language

Brings us uncomfortably close. Extreme Close up Shot :: Narrows in on what the human eye might normally miss Purpose? Brings us uncomfortably close.

Long Shot :: frames a human and shows the environment Purpose? Shows the relationship of characters with the environment.

Extreme Long Shot :: shows the landscape Purpose? Orientate the audience – where will it take place?

Close up Shot :: all of a character’s head, or their hands or feet Purpose? Draw attention to one part of action. By bringing the audience close to the action it increases tension.

What we see :: Camera Angles High Angle Eye Level Angle Low Level Angle Dutch Angle

Eye level Angle :: positioned at eye level with subject Purpose? To show the subject as they really are, or encourage us to think of them as honest, good natured or genuine.

Dutch Angle :: positioned on an oblique or crooked angle Purpose? To make the audience uncomfortable, or show something peculiar is happening.

Low Level Angle :: positioned below the action looking up Purpose? To show the subject as large, evil, powerful, heroic or controlling. Distorts the body, making the upper body seem more powerful.

High Angle :: positioned above the subject looking down Purpose? To show the subject is intimated, suppressed, defeated, inferior or under pressure – the “victim”

What we hear … Music :: acts on a subconscious level emotive response type of music for relaxed day? type of music for potential danger? Dialogue, voice over and narration Sound effects

What we hear … Dialogue, voice over and narration :: - dialogue reveals elements about the characters and their actions - Voice over (dialogue continues but we don’t see the speakers) and narration (where a character retells the story) ties loose ends together, or condenses time. They both give a reflective mood.

What we hear … Sound effects :: Enhance atmosphere and meaning

What we assume … Setting and location Costume and make-up Body language Lighting