Last Updated on January 13, 2019
Its critical to understand Filming Techniques so here we look at the more important ones . As you may have observed, audiovisual technology is advancing in ways beyond what we may have anticipated. As a result, there are a lot of aspiring filmmakers now looking into shooting, editing and producing their very own short or feature-length films. Although these tools do provide powerful utilities, it is still that organized and efficient approach that makes for a high quality production. Begin your own creative process by first knowing what techniques are essential in filmmaking.
Okay, let’s start!
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Over-the-shoulder Shots
Over-the-shoulder shots are actually among the most time-consuming to shoot properly as there is the need to ensure that there will neither be too little or too much shoulder within the frame. However, they are great in that they draw viewers in through a sense of intimacy.
The key to making this work is getting the exact amount of shoulder within a frame. This means working extensively with actors over whose shoulders will be shot to ensure they are leaning into shots by the right amount. It will take practice but it’ll be rewarding in the end.
Some directors actually openly claim not shooting these types of shots as it takes a long while to get what they really want. But in my honest opinion, I think they truly are missing out.
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Panning Shots
Panning shots are horizontal equivalents of tilt shots. They are simple conceptually and are thus often poorly executed, if not overused. The best practice consideration for panning shots is to have them designed in a way that will lock off tilt axis to maintain the purity of the panning. Because it requires framing accuracy and precise timing, an expert camera operator will be necessary.
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Tilt Shots
One of the simplest film techniques out there is perhaps tilting the camera up or down. In its simplicity, it can still emerge elegant especially when the tilting is properly executed and when there is coordination between the action and the camera operator. It is very important that tilt shots are executed confidently, smoothly and without overshooting final frames.
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Zoom Shots
Zoom shots introduce this cool feel, especially when blended into a successful directorial style. The key to making zoom shots effective and, perhaps, creepy is to shoot them smoothly and not too quick.
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Crane Shots
Cranes are often used to obtain the vertical translational movement. Whenever you witness the camera moving more than several feet in films, the shot is most likely done with a crane or a jib. These shots do not just add value in the production but also improve the reel for the storytelling.
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Tracking Shots
Tracking shots are much harder to set up as compared to panning or tilt shots. Just remember that focal length is something very important when it comes to these shots. Although most believe that tracking shots work with wide lenses only, long lenses can actually equally work as well.
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Dutch Angles
Dutch angles are shots that have been rotated on camera axis, resulting to tilted verticals. They emit a sense of disorientation and unease for the viewers. They are commonly applied to music videos but are sparingly used in filmmaking.
Well, now that you know what techniques are essential in filmmaking, start your creative process and begin experimenting your way through these types of shots! Understanding Filming Techniques is essential!
