Circles
Using circles in your composition – whether they are formed by the setting, props or the arrangement of…
Staging
Cowboy shot
The cowboy shot is usually associated with westerns. Filmed from waist height and usually showing a gunslinger’s…
Behind legs
Camera height makes a huge contribution to storytelling. While it’s most conventional to position the camera around…
Reflections
Many different surfaces – everything from windows to puddles – can be used to create reflections that can…
Profile talking to background
Here’s a neat variation on the standard two shot. Instead of having two characters standing or sitting…
Triangles
Any shot with three points of interest – such as the faces of actors – naturally forms…
The Kubrick stare
The Kubrick stare is a very specific type of shot composition. It’s only probably useful if you’re making…
Silhouettes
Silhouettes are a great way to make someone look menacing or mysterious. Simply position your actor in…
Frame within a frame
Using a frame within a frame is a great way to draw your audience’s attention to part…
Back to the camera
Positioning an actor with their back to the camera is one way to create a sense of mystery and…