Camera Angles

Different types of camera angles 

Big Close-Up

This camera angle is used so you can clearly see the characters face and what their expression may be. It also increases the intensity and is sometimes used in thrillers because it is very close to the characters eyes so you can see clearly into them

Close-Up

This camera angle is used quite a lot in romantic genres and it helps as you identify the character. This angle helps draw the viewer closer to the character and is a very good angle in observing what emotions the character is feeling.

Medium Close-Up

This angle is not as close as the past two so you can see more of the background so you can see where the character is. It is also used to establish the character because it helps to identify who the character is it also establishes what the character is wearing. 

Mid-Shot

This angle is shot from the stomach up so you can see even more of the characters outfit and you can also see if the character is carrying a prop.

Medium long shot 



This angle is sometimes used as a sequence between Mid-Shot and Medium Long Shot. The angle shows more of the background and setting than the rest of the shot.

Long Shot or Wide Shot

This angle would most commonly be used at the beginning of a sequence either getting closer to the character or further away. It can be effective as an establishing the scene for the action. 

Two Shot

This angle helps to convey to the viewers that there is some sort of relationship going on with the characters and also is a way of introducing another character to the scene. 

Three Shot 

This angle is most commonly used when a conversation happens between three characters.

High angle shot 

This angle provides a view from above the character this makes the character look vulnerable or powerless. 

Low Angle-Shot

This angle gives the connotation of someone being menacing and the idea of a criminal.

Over-the-Shoulder

This angle is used in conversations between characters and provides a intimate angle into the conversations. 

Researching various camera angles helps us when we want to storyboard our film opening to help us reach level 4 shots. I also helps us to understand why we will use certain shots to convey certain messages in our opening.