Composition, Framing and Shot Types notes

Composition, Framing and Shot Types

Composition and Framing

Composition – Where objects are placed.

Rule of Thirds – Where lines cross, points of interest occur.

The Golden Mean – Point of interest occur along diagonal line.

Framing – What you choose to include in the shot and what you leave out. What you leave out can be important. A thriller shot might exclude objects to create tension.

Shot Types

Extreme Longshot(ELS) – Subject isn’t clearly visible. Shows subjects surroundings. Establishing shot- where action is taking place.

Longshot – Subject takes up almost all of the frame. Shows character in environment.

Midshot – Some part of the subject is shown in more detail. Like seeing a person in the flesh.

Medium Close Up (MCU) – Halfway between a midshot and a close up. Shows face clearly.

Close Up (CU) – Certain features or part of the subject takes up most of the frame. Useful for showing detail. Emphasizes their emotional state.

Extreme Close Up (ECU) – Shows extreme detail. Need a specific reason to get this close. Important object in detail.

Cut Away (CA) – Usually of something other than the current action. Used as a buffer between shots.

Two Shot – Good for establishing relationships between subjects. Could involve movement or action. Equal prominence in frame.

Over the Shoulder Shot – The shot is framed from behind a person who is looking at the subject. Helps to establish position of each person.

Noddy Shot – Common in interviews. Shows person listening and reacting to the subject.

Point of View – Shows object from someone’s perspective.