The Videomaker Guide to Video Production, 5th Edition

33 Basic Training: The Nine Classic Camera Moves

Brian Schaller

Figure 33-1

Professional videographers usually follow this one rule of thumb: when it comes to camera movement, it must be motivated. “Because it looks cool”, is usually not a valid reason for using tricky camera moves. Instead, you can use camera moves to change the viewer’s perspective making what you shoot look bigger, smaller, or even scarier. You should use camera movement to tell your story better and to enhance the viewer’s experience.

We’ll break it down movement by movement so you will know how to execute each shot and why you might use it. We’ve also divided the chapter ...