In this tutorial we look at the various shot sizes and their meanings and uses. Different shot sizes can be used to convey different information to the viewer: wider shots help viewers understand the action and locations, whilst tighter shots convey emotions. 

Establishing Shot. 

This shot is most often seen at the start of a scene to introduce the viewer to a new location, time or setting, and it rarely includes any details of the characters. 

Master Shot. 

The Master Shot captures all the action within a scene in a single shot, so the viewers can understand how the characters are spatially positioned. Through careful staging it is possible to use the Master Shot to explain the status of each character in relation to one another. 

Wide Shot. 

The Wide shot depicts a character in a time and location, so the viewers understand where the character is, but can also be used to create a sense of isolation. In terms of framing, a Wide Shot of a character is anything wider than a Long Shot. 

Long Shot. 

This is framed from the feet to just above the head and is used to introduce a character. Once the audience has seen the character in this framing, they will recognise them in future. 

Medium Long Shot. 

This is framed from just below or just above to knee to above the head. It has the same purpose as the Long Shot but can be used to differentiate a principal character. It is also sometimes referred to as the Cowboy Shot, as it includes the holsters in frame. 

Medium Shot. 

This is a really important shot, as it is the first size at which your audience can read the emotions on the face of your character. It is framed from the waist to just above the head. 

Medium Close-Up. 

Framed from the chest to just above the head, this shot does the same job as the Medium Shot, except it can be used to differentiate a principal character from others. 

Close-Up. 

The Close-Up is a really intense shot. It is framed from the collar bone to just above the head. Think about those times in your life when you have been so close to someone that all you can see of them in your field of view is their shoulders and head – you have to get pretty close! Use the Close-Up in the same way for the best results. 

Big Close-Up. 

This shot cuts off the top of the head but includes the chin, so really only the features of the character are visible. It is mega intense, so use it sparingly unless you want the viewing experience to be an ordeal. 

Extreme Close-Up. 

The Extreme Close-Up focuses on a single feature, like an eye or a mouth. It is really unusual to experience this level of detail in real life, unless perhaps you are a doctor or a surgeon, so this shot is often seen in horror, as it is quite jarring to experience.