Certain images in the film are designed to create a particular feeling or narrative in the production. When done correctly, these shots can become the film’s highlight. One of the common types of shots that one might see in a film they enjoy is an over-the-shoulder shot. Knowing what this looks like will make it easier to identify in the next film you see.

What is an Over-the-Shoulder Shot?

An over-the-shoulder shot is defined as a shot where the camera is angled over the shoulder of another character. It is intended to provide the viewer with an image that is not all that different from what it would look like if they were viewing the specific character in the frame at that moment. It is also known as a third-person shot, and it is a common tactic used to create the sensation of looking directly at the character in the frame at that moment.

Why Use an Over-the-Shoulder Shot?

Filmmakers will tell you why they opt to use an over-the-shoulder shot. A few of the top reasons include:

• Offer a New Point of View – There are circumstances when it simply makes sense to offer different perspectives within a video. An over-the-shoulder shot can offer exactly that and allow you, as the viewer, to enjoy something in a way that you might not have otherwise thought possible.
• Create a Sense of Intimacy Between the Characters – There is a certain dynamic between the two characters in the shot. The filmmakers get to choose what that dynamic is. When the filmmaker wants that dynamic to be more intimate, they can use an over-the-shoulder shot to create that sense of intimacy between the two.
• Easier for Emotional Responses and Reactions – Sometimes, it is easier to register the characters’ emotions in the scene using an over-the-shoulder shot. It is a way to immediately register how a particular character is receiving the information offered by another. This can be used to great effect in many films.

These are just three of the reasons why filmmakers have long relied on over-the-shoulder shots to improve upon the work that they have created.

The Over-the-Shoulder Shot Applied

Remember some of the best practices for over-the-shoulder shots when considering using them. Since this type of shot has long been used by filmmakers, a set of best practices has emerged that can be useful when filming these scenes. These best practices include:

• Pay Attention to the Eye Line – You don’t want to forget how the eyes are filmed in these scenes, as they often describe the characters’ emotions.
• Ensure Movements are Natural – Actors can be easily influenced to make unnatural movements when they know the camera placement. Avoid this by letting them know that they should attempt to move as naturally as possible.

You don’t want to forget these two things while creating these scenes.

Learn More About an Over-the-Shoulder Shot at BeOnAir

Among the many things you can learn at BeOnAir is how to shoot the over-the-shoulder shot you are looking for. Our instructors have plenty of experience with these types of shots and will gladly work with you to ensure you can create the perfect over-the-shoulder shot to include in your next film. To learn what you need to know about this and more, contact us today to get signed up for classes.