Grammar of the Shot

by Bowen; Christopher J.

• ISBN13: 9780240521213
• ISBN10: 0240521218
• Edition: 2nd
• Format: Nonspecific Binding
• Copyright: 2009-03-20
• Publisher: Routledge
• More Book Details
• Purchase Benefits

Summary

Learn how to use the basic "grammar" of making films and videos in Grammar of the Shot! This book shows you in no uncertain terms what you absolutely need to know to put together your own film or video, shot by shot. Whether you are just learning how to frame a shot or if you just need a refresher, this book gives you a basic toolkit of how to build a successful visual story that flows smoothly. Grammar of the Shot begins with an explanation of the essential visual language of filmmaking-the book takes you from the basic shape of a shot, to different types to shots, to composition of visual elements within each frame. You will be given the basic building blocks essential for successful shot lighting, screen direction, 3D elements, camera movement, and many general practices that make for a richer, multi-layered visual presentation. Most importantly, you will be given crucial background information to expand your visual vocabulary and help jumpstart your career in film and video. Designed as an easy-to-use reference, each topic is covered succinctly and is accompanied by clear photographs and diagrams that illustrate the key concepts presented in the book. Simple, elegant, and easy to use, Grammar of the Shot is a staple of any filmmaker's library. * A simple and clear overview of the principles of shooting...timeless information that will improve your work * Designed as a quick reference: each topic covered in a two-page spread * Together with its companion volume Grammar of the Edit, these little books are all the beginning filmmaker needs

Table of Contents

Introduction

Define the material to be covered

Define the Audience for this material

Define the Purpose behind covering this material

Define what one can expect to learn from this presentation

Basics of Film Language

Basic Building Blocks

Shot Types ? As if still pictures a. Wide Shot b. Medium Shot c. Close Up d. ETC

Aspect Ratio

Frame Size a. Brief History b. Technical Explanation (numbers) c. Physical Frame yields aesthetic conventions

The Art of Composition

Framing

What Portion of the World do you Frame?

Simple Rules of Framing People

Head Room

Look Room

No funny objects behind the head

Illusion of 3D on a 2D Medium

Horizon Line

Parallel Lines / Vanishing Point

FG / MG / BG ? object size

Atmosphere to infinity

Mise-en-Scene ? Arrangements of Objects in the Frame

Rule of Thirds

Objects Size Equates Object Importance

Object ?Weight? in Frame

Higher = Dominant

Lower = Submissive

What?s in Focus?

Depth of Field

Focus Pulling

What?s in Light or in Darkness?

Chiaroscuro

Brightness leads the eye

Colors lead the eye, too

Camera Angle

Normal view

Low Angle view

High Angle view

Putting it together: Pre-thinking the editing process

Shooting-for-Editing: Get the coverage

Provide New Information / Detail

Focus Viewer?s Attention on Action in Scene

Match Your Shots

Continuity

Screen direction

180 Degree Rule (or Director?s Line)

Matching Action across edits

Reciprocating Imagery

Matching Shot-Reverse-Shot: Angles on Action

Singles

Over-The-Shoulders

Eyeline Match

Dynamic Images: Talent and camera in motion

Moving Talent

Moving Camera

Pan

Tilt

Dolly

Zoom

Hand-held

General Practices and Good Advice

Know the Rules Before You Break the Rules

Make Appropriate Choices

Enhance the Story

Involve the Viewer ? movies as a participatory experience

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.