Shot Size Flashcards
(37 cards)
What is shot size?
Shot size refers to how much of the setting or subject is displayed within a given frame of a video, photo, or animation.
What do different types of camera shots communicate?
Different types of camera shots in film or video communicate different narrative value.
How are shot sizes typically abbreviated?
Most filmmakers use standard names for shot sizes, often abbreviated into 2 or 3 letters on a shot list or storyboard.
What is the abbreviation for a close-up shot?
A close-up shot is abbreviated as ‘CU’.
What is the abbreviation for a wide shot?
A wide shot is abbreviated as ‘WS’.
What is an establishing shot?
An establishing shot is a shot at the beginning of a scene that clearly shows us the location of the action.
What are the rules for establishing shots?
Establishing shots have no rules other than helping to build tone and context.
Are establishing shots required to be wide or from a drone?
No, establishing shots are not required to be wide or from a drone.
Do establishing shots need to be accompanied by a title card?
No, establishing shots do not need to be accompanied by a screen-sized title card.
What is an extreme wide shot (EWS)?
An extreme wide shot (also known as an extreme long shot) is a camera shot that makes your subject appear small against their location.
When should you consider using an extreme wide shot?
Consider using an extreme wide shot when you need to emphasize the location and the relationship of the characters within it.
What effect does an extreme wide shot have on the subject?
An extreme wide shot can make your subject feel distant or unfamiliar.
What is a wide shot (WS) or long shot (LS)?
A wide shot, also known as a long shot, is a camera shot that balances both the subject and the surrounding imagery.
What does a wide shot typically include?
A wide shot often keeps the entire subject in frame while giving context to the environment.
What is important about the space in a wide shot?
A wide shot should keep a good deal of space both above and below your subject.
What does a long shot help to convey?
A long shot gives a better idea of the scene setting and how the character fits into the area.
How do wide shots affect narrative distance?
Wide shots create narrative distance with the subject, often dwarfing characters against an expansive terrain.
What is a full shot (FS) in film?
A full shot is a camera shot that lets your subject fill the frame from head to toe while still allowing some features of the scenery.
Full shots can be used to feature multiple characters in a single shot.
What effect do wide shots have in film?
Wide shots create narrative distance with the subject, often dwarfing characters against an expansive terrain.
Can you name two films that utilize full shots?
North by Northwest (1959) and Thor (2011).
What is a medium wide shot (MWS)?
A medium wide shot frames the subject from roughly the knees up. It splits the difference between a full shot and a medium shot.
What is another name for a medium wide shot?
A medium wide shot is also known as a medium long shot (MLS).
Can you frame medium wide shots from different angles?
Yes, you can always frame camera shots from any angle, so consider medium wide shots when behind a character.
What is a medium shot (MS)?
The medium shot is a common camera shot that frames from roughly the waist up and through the torso.
