Camera Shots

(MCU) Medium close up The medium closeup is half way between a mid shot and a close up. This shot shows the face more clearly, without getting uncomfortably close.

MCU - Over shoulder (Pan right) Half way between a MS and a CU. Shows the face more clearly, without getting uncomfortably close Also Panned with space over the shoulder for graphic

(MS ) Medium Shot Shows part of the subject in more detail while still giving impression of the whole subject. Shot where the subject & background share equal dominance. A medium shot of an individual will take in the body from the knees or waist up.

MS - Over the shoulder (Pan right) A shot of an individual from the knees or waist up. Panned with space over the shoulder for graphic

Two Shot There are a few variations on this one The idea is to have a comfortable shot of two people. Often used in interviews, or when two presenters are hosting a show Good for establishing a relationship between subjects

Over the shoulder interview shot Framed from behind a person who is looking at the subject. The person facing the subject should usually occupy about 1/3 of the frame Helps to establish the position of each person

Wide shot The emphasis is very much on placing subject in the environment. Often works as an establishing shot, in which the audience is shown the whole setting so they can orient themselves.

Rule of Thirds The rule of thirds is a concept where the frame is divided into nine imaginary sections. This creates reference points which act as guides for framing the image In most "people shots", the main line of interest is the line going through the eyes. Often placed approximately 1/3 of the way down the frame