Camera Shots (Frames)

Another name for "shots" are called "frames." Framing, or simply distance, is how far away the viewer is from the image that was captured. The range of the shot determines how significant something in the story is. For example, a shot of something from far away can make it appear less significant and therefore less scary, while a more close-up shot can create urgency and signficance in a scene.  The three basic frames are: wide, medium and close-up.


Wide Shot Description:Shows whole body or space.
Purposes: Establish scene or setting, allow room for action.A wide shot usually isn’t too personable but it can tell a viewer a lot about where they are. Writers like Hemingway can go on for pages describing the setting. You can sum it all up in one wide shot.

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Medium ShotDescription: Shows subject from waist up.
Purposes: Allows connection with subject while providing room for gestures. Most frequently used shot.This is your most commonly used shot and is what you want for general, run-of-the-mill action. It gives a nice, loose feeling.

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Close Up Description: Shows enlarged view of part of subject.
Purposes: Close-ups reveal the most emotion to the audience and are considered the single most important type of shot. It draws attention to details and adds emotion. If you really want to show someone’s pain, get a tight shot of their face contorted in agony.