Research: Camera Angles

I looked into camera angles for when I planned to use mocap for the video.

Cinematic camera angles are specific camera placements and angles that filmmakers use to capture different perspectives and emotions in a scene. These angles play a significant role in conveying the narrative, mood and the relationships between characters and elements within a film.

Eye Level Shot – This is a neutral and natural perspective, where the camera is positioned at the same height as the subjects’ eyes. It provides a standard view of the scene.

Low Angle Shot – The camera is placed below the subject, looking up. This angle makes the subject appear dominant, powerful or imposing. Its often sued to emphasize a character’s strength or authority.

High Angle Shot – The camera is positioned above the subject, looking down. This angle can make the subject appear vulnerable, weak or submissive. Its often used to show a character in a position of inferiority.

Dutch Angle (Tilted shot) – The camera is tilted to one side, creating a slanted or diagonal frame. This angle is used to convey disorientation, instability or tension in a scene.

Over the shoulder Shot – This shot is frames from behind one characters shoulder, focusing on another character or object in front. Its often used in dialogue scene to show the point of view of one character while also capturing the reaction of the character in the foreground.

Point of View (POV) Shot – This shot shows the scene from the perspective of a character, giving the audience a glimpse of what that character is seeing. It helps the viewer connect with the characters experience.

Birds Eye View Shot – The camera is positioned directly overhead, looking down on the scene. This angle provides an omniscient view of the surroundings and can be used to show the layout of a location or to create a sense of isolation.

Aerial Shot – Similar to the bird’s eye view but typically captured from an elevated position, such as a helicopter or drone. Aerial shots are often used to establish location or provide sweeping views of landscapes.

Crane Shot – This shot involves a camera mounted on a crane or jib, allowing for smooth vertical or horizontal movement. Crane shots are used for dynamic and sweeping shots that can provide unique perspective.

Tracking Shot (Dolly shot) – The camera moves parallel to the action, following the subject as it moves. This can create a sense of movement and can be used to track characters or objects through a scene.

Zoom Shot – while not technically a camera angle, zooming in or out with the camera lens can be used to change the composition and focus of a shot. Zooming in can intensify emotions or reveal details, while zooming out can show context or create distance.

These cinematic camera angles are just some of the many tool’s filmmakers use to convey their storytelling and artistic vision. The choice of angle depends on the context of the scene, the emotions to be conveyed, and the directors’ creative decisions.