Wednesday 1 December 2010

Types of Camera Angles_ Point-Of-View Camera Angles

I have introduced objective camera angle and subjective camera angle before, and now I will talk about the last type of camera angle--point-of-view.

Point-of-view, or simply p.o.v., camera angles record the scene from a particular player's view-point. The point-of-view is an objective angle, but since it falls between the objective and subjective angle, it should be placed in a separate category and given special consideration.

A point-of-view shot is as close as an objective shot can approach a subjective shot-- and still remain objective. The camera is positioned at the side of a subjective player- whose viewpoint is being depicted- so that the audience is given the impression they are standing cheek-to-cheek with the off-screen player. The viewer does not see the event through the player's eyes, as in a subjective shot in which the camera trades places with the screen player. He sees the event from the player's viewpoint, as if standing alongside him. Thus, the camera angle remains objective, since it is an unseen observer not involved in the action. An on-screen player looking at the player whose view-point is depicted, looks slightly to the side of the camera- not into the lens, like picture 02.


"Presto.BDRE." made by Pixar in 2008. 01

"Presto.BDRE." made by Pixar in 2008. 02

Point-of-view shots may be used whenever it is desirable to involve the viewer more closely with the event. The audience steps into the picture, so to speak, and sees the players and the setting from the viewpoint of a particular player- by standing beside him. This creates a stronger identity with the screen player in the action, and provides the viewer with a more intimate glimpse of the event.

The shots often follow over-the-shoulder shots, when a pair of players face each other and exchange dialogue. Each player may be seen from the opposing player's point-of-view.

Reference:

Mascelli, J. V. (1965). The Five C's of  Cinematography. The United States: radstone publications.

All of pictures are from "Presto.BDRE." made by Pixar in 2008.

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