This document outlines and defines 7 different types of shots used in filmmaking: aerial shot, very long shot, long shot, mid shot, medium close up, close up, and big close up. Each shot is defined by how much of the subject and background it includes. Aerial shots provide wide landscape views from above. Very long and long shots show the full body and location context. Mid shots cut at the waist. Medium close ups frame from breast to head. Close ups capture from head to shoulders. Big close ups provide an intimate view of just the face.

1. Types of Shots
1. Aerial Shot
2. Very long shot (VLS)
3. Long shot (LS)
4. Mid shot (MS)
5. Medium close up (MCU)
6. Close up (CU)
7. Big close up (BCU)

2. 1- Aerial Shot
Aerial shots are usually done with a crane or with a camera
attached to a special helicopter to view large landscapes

4. Very Long Shot (VLS)
The very long shot gives the viewer "geography". There is no doubt
where the people in these shots are.

6. Long Shot (LS)
The long shot takes in the whole height of the person. It doesn't show as
much background as the VLS but it does show enough to know the subject's
location.
Be careful not to cut people off at the ankles - and definitely don't chop off
heads!

8. Medium Shot (MS )
The mid shot cuts off at the waist. It is a good shot to introduce
people to your audience. You get a good image of the subject and
their surroundings.

10. Medium Close Up (MCU)
The MCU is the standard news interview shot (in the UK at least). It cuts
off at around the breast pocket.

11. Close Up (CU)
The common CU frames the subject from the top of the head to just
above shirt pockets. Often, such a shot is called a "head and shoulders."
Also known as a "Single" which applies to any shot that includes only a
single character.
You can see the look of concentration in a shot that is "full face".
Sometimes used for interviews - especially when things are getting
personal.

12. Big Close Up (BCU )
Very intimate shot. Great in dramatic moments when the actor is
giving their all.