Camera Movement

CAMERA MOVEMENT
 

A director of a film uses camera movement to tell set the scene of action in a series of different cuts.

Pan

 

A pans movement scans a scene horizontally. The way this is done, is that the camera is placed on a tripod horizontally opposite their shot and this helps because it is like a stationary axis point as the camera is scanning the scene. This is used often to follow moving objects in the film, and these objects are always positioned in the middle of the frame.

 

 Tilt

Similar to a pan movement, a tilt movement also scans a scene but this time vertically.

 Dolly Shot

Dolly shots, also otherwise known as ‘trucking’ or ‘tracking’ shots, is placed on a moving vehicle and follows alongside the action (usuallyy a moving figure or object) while filming it. Complicated dolly shots involve tracks being laid on the set, like a railway, for the camera to follow. In dolly shots, cameras may be mounted on cars, planes or trains anything that moves to follow the action. Shopping trolleys are also used if independent film-makers want to save money. Dolly shots help to portray movement and the journey of a character in the film. Also, it is used when moving from a long shot to a close-up, focusing on a particular character or object.

 

 

  Hand Held Shot

 

Hand-held shots can be used if directors want to move in and out of a scene with speed. ually described as producing a ‘fly-on-the-wall’ effect. This type of shot does give a jerky, messy effect and not as smooth as other shots. There is one invention called the Steadicam, which is when a camera is attached to an operator by a harness, making it move independantly because it is stabilized. This brought smoothness to the hand-held shot people desired. This type of shot is usually used in ‘walk and talk’ sequences and denote some realism within the scene to make the viewer feel a part of it.

 

Crane Shot

 

Crane shots are just like dolly shots although their in the air, the camera is carried on a crane which is a good efficent way to move the camera up, down, left, right or flying anywhere. The camera is counter-balanced with weights and cranes and are usually operated by a skilled crane member.



                                                                                                     

 

Zoom Lenses

 

This changes the magnification of an image. Meaning the photographer can get a ‘close up’ shot while being distanced from the object or character. This is very useful when trying to magnify a wild animal. Video zoom lens’ can change positioning of the audience very fast (smash zoom) or very slow barely moving the camera, saving lots of time. The zoom lense is used a lot by directors trying to portray movement and excitement in a scene.

                                                                                                

 

Aerial Shot

 

Usually taken from a helicopter, the aerial shot is similar to a crane shot. Often used at the beginning of movies, establishing setting and movement. Being a flexible version of a crane, helicopters are useful as they can move anywhere in and out of scenes