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Camera shot types

Carefully chosen camera shot types help filmmakers tell their story. This article introduces some of the key shot types.

In the next activity, we’ll be recording our mindfulness films. To help us to create the best film possible, we’ll need to think about how to capture the perfect shot.

To do this, we’ll explore camera angles and movements, but first we’ll look at camera shot types.

Filmmakers carefully choose the camera shot type to make each moment in their story as impactful as possible for the audience. It is used to convey information, emphasise an emotion or establish a mood.

The video on this step explores six key shot types:

  • Extreme long/wide shot
  • Long shot
  • Medium long shot
  • Mid shot
  • Close-up
  • Extreme close-up

The information will come in handy when you start planning your own film. It will help you focus on the vital information needed for each shot and how your framing can help you communicate your ideas most effectively.

On a practical level, it also means you’ll know what equipment you need well in advance and won’t have to waste time searching for the best position to place your camera as you film.

Downloads
For support while you film, you can download the Camera shot types guide below. It’s a simple way to remind yourself of the key shot types and to give out to learners to support them through their planning and filming activities.

This article is from the free online

Mindfulness Through Film

Created by
FutureLearn - Learning For Life

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