Cheat Sheet

0 Comments
In our previous lessons, we have been watching and analysing some short clips and looked at the different micro elements of each one. Our small task was to create a 'cheat sheet' of camera angles, camera shots and/or camera movement. We had to decide on how we were going to create the images; it can either be photographs of people/toys or drawings. After having a discussion with my partner, Maytha, we decided to focus on camera angles and shots:
Illustrations by me

Since we worked in a pair, my partner and I split our jobs; I drew the illustrations and Maytha had to note down the effects of each camera angle/shot.

WHAT I HAVE LEARNT
Whilst creating our cheat sheet, I have gained a better understanding that camera shots are used to demonstrate different aspects of a film's setting, characters and themes. As a result, camera shots are very important in shaping meaning in a film. For example, an extreme close-up shot is effective as it puts emphasis on a character or object and also allows the audience to look at the details.This technique is quite common in horror films as it creates an intense mood and provides interaction between the audience and the viewer. On the other hand, An extreme long shot is often used at the beginning of a scene or a film to establish a general location or setting.

Furthermore, I have also learnt that it is easy to confuse a camera shot with a camera angle. Camera angles are used to position the audience so that they can understand the relationships between the characters. For instance, the high camera angle (shown in the cheat sheet) could imply that the audience is more superior than the dog making it look vulnerable because it is as if we are "looking down" on it. Contrastingly, a low angle shot could make the audience feel vulnerable as the object becomes more dominant. Additionally, an eye-level angle is used to establish comfort between the viewer and the character because it makes them feel equal to the object.

 This article has also helped me understand these various camera angles and shots in depth: http://www.empireonline.com/movies/features/film-studies-101-camera-shots-styles/

WHAT I CAN DO TO IMPROVE
If I was to create a cheat sheet again, I would perhaps take photographs so I can practice how to capture the various camera angles and shots. However, if I decide to stick with illustrations, I will not draw my them back to back, but instead draw the camera angles and shots on one side, then write the definitions on the back. This is because once I gave my sheet to Maytha, I discovered that drawing all of the illustrations together on each side did not give her enough room to write down the effects of the camera angles and shots.

HOW IT CAN HELP ME
Personally, I feel that I have gained more knowledge by doing this task because if we did not look further into the different camera angles and shots, I would have never noticed the importance and effect of each one. Also, this cheat sheet can help me make better decisions when I film because now I have a something to reference to which can help me create a more effective opening sequence.


About The Author

An ENFP who happens to be an aspiring globe-trotter with a love for art, music and iced coffee. Trying to be pretty alright at everything.

No comments: