But in actuality, these shots can be used to convey a plethora of different emotions. The term was coined by French film critic, André Bazin, who used it to describe camera angles that show people’s backs from behind and look over them from above.Ī lot of people see over-the-shoulder shots and think they are just a part of cinematic style. Its main function is to show another person’s point of view by looking at what they are looking at and hearing through their ears. Over-the-shoulder shot is one of the most common shots in cinema. When we talk about an Over The Shoulder Shot, there are actually two different types of shots that people use: one where the subject being filmed faces towards the camera and another where they face away from the camera. When these shots occur in a film, you will notice that the faces do not move during the shot.Ī camera is a pretty basic thing, but when you start to break it down and think about how many tiny parts are required in order for it to function, the concept can be rather complex. What is also important to note is that when using this shot in a film, the angle can make the shot look artificially created.įor example, some actors who are simply watching the camera may appear to look like they are looking into the sky. Sometimes this results in awkward moments when you are trying to figure out what the subject is looking at. This type of shot can be very interesting because it is often difficult to tell whether the person on the opposite end of the camera is watching you or not.

It is intended to give viewers an intimate and personal view of the lives or thoughts of those who are being filmed.

This kind of filming technique often sees use in documentary-style productions and movies. The term over-the-shoulder can also refer to footage that shows someone else’s hands typing on their computer keyboard. OVER THE SHOULDER SHOT What Is An Over The Shoulder Shot?Īn over-the-shoulder shot is a type of camera angle where the person in front of the camera is shown from behind, with their body blocking most or all of what’s being filmed.

Look over the shoulder action poe