These shots are typically used as establishing shots because they often show landscapes or massive building exteriors. The extreme wide shot is a shot taken from a long distance, used to impress the audience. Image: The Lord of the Rings from New Line Cinema The shot alone should tell the audience everything they need to know.Ĭheck out this video compilation of establishing shots from Alexander Friedrich. The establishing shot does not rely on narrative. They also showcase relationships between characters, like a patient and doctor, or a teacher and students. This not only gives the audience a sense of location, but they also realize what time the scene takes place.Įstablishing shots can also be used to set up a concept, such as a squadron of flying helicopters representing war. The establishing shot is often an extreme wide shot of a city or building. It literally establishes the context and space of a scene. The establishing shot is typically the first shot an audience ever sees, and sets up any new scenes in a film too. It’s the cinematographer’s role to frame the shot and bring it to life. These are the shots you will see on every script and shot list. We go back to Filmmaking 101 for a look at these standard frames of cinema.įor any newcomer to filmmaking, or movie fans in general, this is a look at some of the staples of film production.

Every film ever made uses these camera shots.

Iconic best cinematography shots