How to Determine Shots in a Film Scene

Figuring out what camera angles and styles to film a certain scene can be very tricky. Overdo it and audiences will notice. Underdo it and they will be confused. Getting it just right is what separates great film scenes from good film scenes. This tutorial will get you started on figuring out the best ways to diagram shots in any given scene.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• actors
• script
• location
• pen
• paper

How to Determine Shots in a Film Scene

1. Read the completed script. Be sure to note what previously happened and the context of when this scene takes place.
2. Secure your location. You cannot diagram shots if you have no idea where you will film. This way, gameplans do not need to be changed if a location throws a curveball at the production.
3. Arrange a rehearsal. The actors may play certain lines and actions out differently than you imagined.
4. Take notes during the rehearsal about where the characters naturally move. What seems natural for the actors will look natural to an audience.
5. Understand the tone of the scene. A simple dinner conversation does not need swooping jib shots or anything along those lines. Be true to the emotions and do not go overboard.
6. Be sure to get a master shot of each scene. A master shot is a wide angled shot consisting of the entire scene.
7. After the master shot, use Steps #1-#5 to devise a gameplan for covering the scene. Remember that the complementary angles must make sense. If you shoot an Over-the-Shoulder Shot of Character A, the same must be done for Character B.