Understanding Camera Angles in Film

• Films comprise sequences, sequences comprise scenes, and scenes comprise shots.
• Camera height and angle need to be considered when deciding on shot size and framing.

Camera Angles

• Camera angles determine how the audience perceives the subject.
• Different camera angles add another layer of meaning to the shot.

Low Angle

• The camera is positioned below the subject's eye line, looking up.
• Subjects appear more powerful with this angle.
• Works well with heroes and villains.

High Angle

• The camera is positioned above the subject's eye line, looking down.
• Subjects appear weak or vulnerable with this angle.
• Often paired with low angle shots to emphasize a power imbalance.

Aerial Shot

• An extreme variation of the high angle shot.
• Used to establish environments, cities, and landscapes.
• Can present characters moving through a large world.

Overhead Shot

• High angle approaches 90 degrees above the subject.
• Also known as a bird's-eye view or a God's eye view.
• The camera is directly above, shooting straight down.
• Best for showcasing complex movements.
• Can suggest a connection to the divine and can capture the horrific details of a crime scene.

Dutch Angle

• The horizontal axis of the frame is skewed, creating an off-kilter image.
• Can create a sense of unease, mania, terror, or bewilderment.
• Can magnify tension.

Eye-Level Shot

• Can be the most commonly used camera height.
• The audience regards the character at their natural height.
• Doesn't impose judgment on a character.
• Can still be engaging or dynamic.

Shoulder Level Shot

• If eye-level is the most common and neutral shot height then shoulder level is the runner-up.
• Lower position gives the illusion of a slightly low angle shot without its heavier connotations.
• Often used during conversations and becomes an over-the-shoulder shot or OTS.
• Can emphasize a height difference, translating to a visual power difference.
• In romantic situations, slightly upturned eye-line can enhance an affectionate glance.

Hip Level Shot

• Predominantly found in Westerns in conjunction with the cowboy shot.
• Principal reason for this is because gun holsters rest at hip height.

Knee Level Shot

• The camera is placed at the subject's knee height.
• Often doubles as low angles.
• Good way to track an environment following a character.
• Can showcase character details missed in a wider shot.

Ground-Level Shot

• Camera is placed all the way down on the ground.
• Can be slightly below ground.
• Often doubles as low angles if there is any degree of upward tilt.
• Stylish way to track a character's movement through a scene.
• Captures details within the setting.