In this lesson, we’ll delve into shot size and angle in video production. These elements play a crucial role in conveying messages effectively to your audience.

Shot Size

When shooting a full portrait video, the primary subject is typically a person—either yourself or someone else you’re filming. The shot size refers to how much of the subject is captured within the frame, and it influences the viewer’s perception of the content.

The following image illustrates various shot sizes, ranging from wide shots to close-ups, each framing the subject differently.

For full portrait videos, we primarily focus on three shot sizes:

• Medium Shot (MS)
• Medium Close-Up (MCU)
• Close-Up (CU)

During recording, it’s essential to primarily utilize the largest shot size— the Medium Shot (MS). However, in post-production editing, we may incorporate all three shot sizes as needed to achieve specific effects. Each shot size evokes a distinct response from the viewer, depending on the author’s intention.

For instance, medium and medium close-up shots are comfortable for viewers seeking informative content. However, switching to a close-up shot can draw attention to specific details or words, making the viewer more alert. It’s essential to remember this terminology, as we’ll revisit shot sizes in the video editing section of this course.

Shot Angle

Similar to shot size, shot angle plays a vital role in cinematography, influencing viewer perception and emotional response. Although we primarily focus on one shot angle for full portrait videos, understanding additional angles enhances your comprehension of their impact on the audience.

The shot angles we’ll cover include:

• Eye Level Shot
• High Angle Shot
• Low Angle Shot

In cinematography, shot angles evoke emotions and perceptions in viewers. An eye-level shot, for instance, fosters a sense of equality and connection, akin to a conversation on the same level. Conversely, high-angle shots may make the subject appear inferior, while low-angle shots convey authority and dominance.

Eye Level Shot is like a conversation on the same level. It’s akin to lowering yourself to a child’s eye level for better communication.

High Angle Shot is when the camera shoots you from high, giving the impression of someone looking down at you.

This image depicts a high-angle shot, where the camera shoots the subject from above, creating a sense of inferiority or vulnerability.

Low Angle Shot is the opposite, where you look down to your viewers, conveying authority or dominance.

This image illustrates a low-angle shot, where the camera shoots the subject from below, conveying authority or dominance.

You can see this illustration in the animal world where hierarchy is very clear when you see who lowers their head in front of the Alfa Male.

By understanding shot sizes, angles, and their effects on viewer perception, you can craft compelling videos that resonate with your audience effectively.

Avoid using high-angle and low-angle setups when recording full portrait videos, as they can inadvertently convey unintended messages to your audience.

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In the next video, we’ll explore the significance of lighting in video production and its impact on visual storytelling. Stay tuned!