Grammar of the Shot, 2nd Edition

Blocking Talent

Remember that humans respond well to brightness, color, and movement. The movement of talent, then, within the static frame is a great way to infuse your shot with visual energy. The term staging is often used to describe the physical placement of subjects on the film set and within the confines of the recorded frame. The term blocking is often used to describe the physical movement of subjects on the film set and within the confines of the same frame. Creating interesting blocking can engage the viewer’s eye and keep them involved in the current image and therefore in the story. Talent blocking across the screen (left to right or vice versa) helps reinforce space and direction. Talent blocking deep into the set or location adds ...