There are multiple ways audiences can learn about who a character is. How they talk, how they dress, how they move, and how they interact with other characters all reflect a character’s personality. To capture a character as a whole, filmmakers often use the full shot. In this article, we’ll answer, "What is a full shot" along with the various reasons to use a full shot in film. We’ll also take a look at some iconic full shots from some of cinema’s best films of all time. Let’s dive in. Continue reading What is a Full Shot in Film? Types of…
In narrative filmmaking, the relationship between the director and the actors is arguably the most important relationship on set. And yet, for many directors beginning their careers, the process of working with an actor can seem mystifying. No one director collaborates with actors the same way, and yet many of the most celebrated actors’ directors follow certain tenets. Study up, and you can help create a great performance.Continue reading Directing Actors — How to Get the Best Performances
What is a lined script? And what does it have to do with your shot list?On the surface, a shot list is exactly what it sounds like. A list of shots that communicates to your crew what camera shots you intend to get. Yet we all know once you get to set, issues arise and something always has to give. And that something is often your favorite camera angles.But with a little forethought and a lined script, we can prepare our shoot to make sure we get everything we need. Here's how you do it.Continue reading How to Make a Lined Script…
We've all seen films that constantly use medium shots, but how often do you notice? Every shot and edit matters. Today we're focusing on the medium shot. The visual glue of many scenes and films.Continue reading Medium Shots: Creative Examples of Camera Movements & Angles
The dolly zoom is one of the most discussed cinematic techniques. You can use them in many ways, but a great director will find a logical reason to include them. When paired with the correct story moment, the dolly zoom can draw the audience into the story and the character's state of mind. Continue reading What is a Dolly Zoom — Scene Examples of the Vertigo Effect
Using non-diegetic sound is a great way for filmmakers to support the worlds that they build. You may have heard this fancy term before but what is non-diegetic sound? The answer is much less complicated than you think. In this article, we’re going to define what non-diegetic sound is. Then, we’ll look at examples from cinema history that show us how to properly and creatively use it.Continue reading What is Non-Diegetic Sound — Definition and Examples
I f you’re a filmmaker, you’re always hunting for great filming locations. But, as you know, time and resources don’t always allow for the focus you need for this complex task. There’s hope: with just a little diligence and effort, you can find locations you've only dreamed of. You just need to learn how to be a film location scout, or at least think like one. In today’s post, I’ll show how I’ve done it on a budget. Continue reading How to Become a Location Scout (and Find Better Film Locations)
Crediting one person and nailing the exact year of when the camera was invented isn’t that simple. Mainly because the internet gives a ton of different answers. It turns out, a quick history lesson solves the problem. So, if "when was the camera invented" or "who invented the camera" are questions that keep you up at night, you’ve come to the right page.Continue reading When Was the Camera Invented — Dates & Inventors Explained
When countries are at war, every industry within them is also under attack. Or at the very least, is vulnerable to change. After WW1, German films became stranger and quite a bit darker. The control of the government banning foreign films also aided to their isolation. From there, German Expressionism was born. But what is German Expressionism in film? Let’s find out.Continue reading What is German Expressionism in Film? Defining the Style
Where can you download great B-roll footage online? Anyone with a camera can capture B-roll video, but that doesn’t mean it has the right frame rate, color correction, or have the right subject matter. It could be more affordable to just purchase your B-roll footage. Don’t worry because we’ve put together a list of the best websites for finding affordable or free B-roll footage online. We also provide websites for paid B-roll video just in case. Lezgo. Continue reading 24 Websites to Find Affordable or Free B-Roll Footage
