Indie Filmmaking 101: Shot Types

Shot types are some of the most important aspects of filmmaking. They can set the scene, the tone and even portray emotion.

Extreme Long Shot

This shot helps to set the setting for the scene. For example a shot such as this tells us the scene is taking place down a backstreet suggesting it may be dodgy or dangerous for the characters.

Long Shot

Usually show the entire character whilst maintaining a large part of the background. The shot above shows a majority of the setting showing where the character is.

Medium Shot

Typically show majority of the character whilst maintaining a smaller part of the background. Typically from the waist to the chest and upwards.

Close-Up

Shoulders up showing the emotion on the face of the character. The picture above shows the emotion on the characters face as he looks down the camera menacingly.

Extreme Close-Up

This shot will focus closely on a certain area that is significant to the scene. For example in this shot you can see the cuts on her face showing she is hurt and her eyes as they move around showing she is scanning the room.

Low Angle

This shot is taken from below eye level and looks up giving whoever or whatever is in frame more power than the audience

High Angle

This is the opposite to the low angle and is taken from above the eye level giving whatever is in frame less power.