The Importance of Shot Type
PHOTO CHALLENGE |
The ability to tell a story through photographs is created through a series or essay that the photographer defines and captures, it’s unlikely that any two could truly be the same. There are a plethora of variables and experiences brought to the table that determine how we “see” something and translate that into our images.
Stories are told by “showing” not “telling” so there is descriptive and explanatory information that slowly reveals the plot to the reader/viewer. As photographers, we show that by taking multiple compositions, angles, and perspectives to draw viewers in and deliver an engaging story. In photography, we can create a similar formula by looking at it somewhat like this:
Establishing shots | Introducing your subject, scene, or person.
Transition shots | Related images that show action, surrounding elements, supporting characters, etc.
Cutaway & Details | Build suspense for the story by showing creative angles and perspectives, close-ups, and sense of time and place.
Revealing | This could be compared to an end scene, the wrap up, and the wide shots.
Shot types
Extreme long shots | Usually taken with a zoom lens with a clear objective and focus. You can show a subject from a distance within the landscape or scene. Scale is often a notable feature and the images themselves feel big and don’t need supporting information. These types of images are great for revealing or end shots. Consider using a 70-200mm or 85mm lens.
Long shots | Framing your subject within the scene, as they are apart of it and show dominating scenery. These types of shots can create intrigue while bringing the viewer in and creating emotional distance. Wide angles lenses without distortion are great for this. Consider using a 24mm or 35mm lens.
Medium shots | Framing the subject or person from the waist up, this type of image focuses on the character of the image while still showing the surrounding elements, this is great for a “fill the frame” shot with a 35mm lens.
Medium close shots | This is where the nifty fifty lens comes in and shows its potential! You want to separate your subject from the background with a shallow depth of field and reveal the emotions and details present in the scene. It can be hard to relate to these types of images, but they are important in storytelling.
Close up shots | Another good use for the 50mm, tightly frame details of your subject or scene to create connection and involve the viewer in the story. It’s okay to allow parts of the scene to be visible, but you want the detail to be front and center.
Cut away shots | As if you’re going to watch someone walk away, or you’re turning back to wave goodbye, be sure to capture that ending or transitioning image. Sometimes this can be shooting through or around your subject to show a different perspective, or allowing yourself to include a supporting element as the subject.
