Camera Angles

Camera Angles – Key Terms

The way that the camera is positioned determines what type of angle the shot will give; the types of camera angles vary in the production of music videos, as this conveys different images. Examples of angles are:

Eye level – this type of camera angle is commonly used, this is seen as the real world angle that we’re all used to seeing, it’ll show matters that we’re used to seeing in real life.

High angle – this angle shows the matter from above, where the camera angle is facing down towards the artist or object, which usually gives off the effect of making someone or something feel less powerful, less significant or even submissive.

Low angle – this is where someone or something is shown from below with the camera facing up; this angle gives of the impression that the subject is more powerful or dominant.

Birds eye – this angle is where the subject or the scene is shown from directly above looking straight down onto them, this angle is usually used to create a more dramatic effect or showing it from a different perspective. It can also show different actions, positions and motions that the characters or object is performing, which therefor enables the audience to see things the character may or may not see.

Slanted – this is when the camera is slanted which is known as a Dutch angle where the camera is purposely tilted to a side so the prospect is on an angle; this is a creative angle to use for making dramatic scenes and effects. The Dutch angle is popular in the MTV-style video productions, where an unusual angle and other camera movements play a big part.

Camera angles play a big part when it comes to shooting a music video, as they project the characters emotions and expressions. Other camera angles that are more common in music videos are angles like close ups, which usually shows the artist lip syncing, and extreme close ups where lyrics can be linked to the visuals; the camera never usually stays in one angle for more than 3-5 seconds.

By Danniella Chapman