Camera Shots 101!

I've learnt that there are various different camera shots that are used within film, such as:

Establishing Shot

The Establishing Shot is a very wide shot across the scene that gives the audience a sense of knowing where they are, whether it be a big lanscape of a row of shops etc. It is generally used at the start of the film or scene to offer the audience knowledge of what might come about in the scene.

Long Shot

The Long Shot shows both the character (often the main character) and the environment the person is in. The Long Shot also shows the relationship between the two. This also gives the audience extra information about what the film will include and show.

Mid Shot

The Mid Shot allows the audience to get to know the character and become familiar with their looks, mannerisms and also their body language.

Two Shot 

The Two Shot shows the relationship between two characters and how they act and feel with each other.

Close-Up Shot

The Close-Up Shot puts all the audience's attention and focus onto the character that is being presented to them.

Extreme Close-Up Shot

The Extreme Close-Up Shot usually focusses on the character's eyes as they express the most amount of emotion when dealing with a character and his/or her position. This shot also gives extra attention to the character and how they are reacting to whatever the audience cannot immediately see.

Over The Shoulder Shot

The Over The Shoulder Shot gives the audience a look into more of what the character is seeing and focusses attention on the character opposite as they most likely talk.

Point Of View Shot

The Point Of View Shot gives the audience a direct insight to what the character is witnessing. It is a very strong and interesting shot to use.

Other Shots

There are other shots that are frequently used such as the high angle shot; which hovers above the scene, low angle shot; which stays below, looking up at the scene/characters. Another shot used is the Dutch/canted angle which is off balance to create a sense of disorientation in the audience's mind.

Shots are based on steadiness and control as well as creating ( in thrillers case) suspense and a sense of mystery. All of the shots I have mentioned above are frequently and widely used in the process and making of filming.

- I borrowed all pictures from http://www.mediacollege.com/

I found this video on youtube a little while ago, and it's helped me to understand not only how to create various shots, but also the purpose of them and how they effect the audience.