Composition & Viewpoint (Camera angles & framing)

In photography as well as cinematography there are certain 'rules of thumb' (compositional techniques) that apply to both. These are Rule of Thirds, Rule of Space and Rule of odds.

Rule of Thirds

This is a visual guideline used in both still image and moving image production. The idea is that the main subject or main point of interest is properly framed using imaginary grids called 'Thirds' in the viewfinder/Screen.

Rule of Space

 

Rule of space, this technique works in sync with the rule of thirds. It is a compositional technique used in still image & moving image production and the idea is that you have to leave negative space into the direction the subject or main object is looking into/moving towards.

 

Rule of Odds

 

This is a principle, predominantly used in photography which suggests that a photograph is perfectly balanced when there's an uneven number of subjects/objects surrounding the main area or point of interest. This technique is also used in moving image production but more common to still images.

 

Types of Shots

 

Here are examples of types of framings and camera angles used in moving image production. A shot selection is the difference maker in a text, they can be used to create certain moods and effects. For example, a low angle shot gives the impression of an object being much bigger than it actually appears and may seem quite intimidating.