Extra Help Film Techniques


Movement in Film

Movement in film is produced by camera motion. Each type of movement causes a specific effect. Following are a few of the main types of camera movements used by directors as they film their work.


View a video below on camera movement. 

Transitions in Film

If not for transitions, films would be choppy collections of various clips, which viewers would find difficult to follow. Transitions ease the flow from one film clip to another, keeping the viewing experience flowing smoothly for the audience.



View the video below to see what transitions can do.

Types of Shots

When film is "shot", still and moving images are recorded physically on film. A camera captures images from many different angles for specific effects. Some of these techniques are the same for photography as for film.

Framing Shots

Although the angle of the shot is always important, details included within the frame of the shot (whatever is captured by the lens and frame of the camera) must be selected deliberately. Shots are framed in various ways, each with its own purpose toward meaning.

Sound


Sound is vital to film.
Sound provides 

  • information about plot through dialogue among characters
  • clues to environment or atmosphere within a scene
  • key information about mood or emotion
  • emphasis for action on screen
Sound manipulates the emotions of viewers, keeping them engaged.

Lighting


Heroes or protagonists usually are brightly coloured and brightly lit to emphasize their strengths and positive influences.


Lighting in film can make a scene appear either serene or blood-curdlingly terrifying.

Altering lighting in various shots affects the mood and atmosphere the film producer is attempting to communicate.

Lighting produces suspense and emotions in film, but it can affect how characters on-screen are perceived by audiences.

Often, villains or antagonists are portrayed as dark figures, shown in shadows.