Introduction to camera positioning

Another facet of camera work that can have a big impact on our interpretation of a shot is the position of the camera.

Imagine, for example, a silhouetted figure framed by a doorway. This is a classic horror shot and the camera is usually positioned at a low angle, looking up at the character looming above. The camera may also be canted (slanted) which adds to the audience’s sense that things are ‘off-kilter’ or awry.

Take a look at the camera positions below to familiarise yourself with their names and how they might be used.

Can you identify any of the camera positions in stand-out scenes from some of your favourite movies?

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