Camera Angles and Movements

Directors use a variety of camera angles to set the scene and introduce characters in movies. These camera angles can also be used to increase or reduce tension, especially in horror movies. I have used "The Cabin in the Woods" as an example to show the different camera angles.

Medium and Long Shots
Very Long Shot:
This type of shot is usually used to establish setting. There is usually very little detail in the shot as it is meant to give a general impression of an area rather than specific information.

This shot from "The Cabin in the Woods" makes the audience feel slightly uneasy as they realise that the characters are in the middle of nowhere and they won't be able to get help.

Long Shot:
This type of shot is also used to establish setting. A long shot however gives the audience more of an idea of the immediate surroundings rather than the whole location.

For example, the very long shot showed the audience that the characters were in a forest. The long shot on the other hand, shows the audience that the characters are staying in an isolated cabin in the woods. This is where they will be staying for most of the movie, so the long shot gives the audience a chance to get used to the location so that they can understand what is happening.

Medium/Medium Long Shot:
Medium shots can be used to show a character's size, their clothes and what they look like. They are also commonly used during conversations.

This shot shows a group of people talking. As well as the conversation, the audience gets a feel of what the character looks like including their height and their clothes.

Close-Up Shots
Medium Close-Up:
This kind of shot is very similar to the medium/medium long shot. It is mainly used for conversations, but can also be used to show a character in more detail.

Close-Up:
Close-ups tend to be used to show a character's facial expression. They can also be used to create tension.

This shot shows that the character is tired and weak. This adds to the tension by showing that he might struggle to escape if something were to attack him. It makes the audience feel uneasy as they think that something bad is about to happen.

Big Close-Up:
Big close-ups are also used to create tension using the character's facial expression. It makes the audience wonder what the character is looking at and why they are reacting that way.

Special Shots
Low Angle Shot:
Low angle shots can be used to make someone or something look bigger than it is. They are also commonly used if a character is looking down at something.

For example, in this scene, the hatch to the basement just opened and the characters are looking down at it trying to decide what to do.

High Angle Shot:
High angle shots are often used to make something look smaller. This can be used if characters are in a room with a high ceiling or if they are looking up at something.

Over the Shoulder Shot:
An over the shoulder shot can be used to show what a character is looking at. They are used a lot for conversations or if a character is reading something. They can also be used if the director doesn't want to reveal a character's face yet.