Cinematography 101: Basic Shots

As a beginner cinematographer, understanding basic shot types is crucial for effective storytelling:

1. Wide Shot (WS): Captures the subject and the surrounding environment. Ideal for establishing settings.
2. Medium Shot (MS): Frames the subject from the waist up, balancing the character and background. Perfect for dialogue scenes.
3. Close-Up (CU): Focuses on a character’s face or an object, highlighting emotions or details.
4. Extreme Close-Up (ECU): Zooms in on a specific detail, like an eye or a hand, to emphasize significance or emotion.

These shots are foundational and found in every movie, helping convey your story visually and emotionally.