Shot size refers to the framing of a shot – how much of the subject and its surroundings are visible within the frame.
Definition
The Shot Size refers to the framing of a shot – i.e., how much of the subject and its surroundings is visible within the frame. It is one of the most fundamental visual elements of film language.
Classic Shot Sizes
From far to near:
| German Term | English | Depicts |
|---|---|---|
| Supertotale | Extreme Wide Shot | Landscape, tiny figures |
| Totale | Wide Shot / Full Shot | Full figure with surroundings |
| Halbtotale | Medium Wide Shot | Figure from head to knees |
| Amerikanische | American Shot | Figure to below the hips |
| Halbnahe | Medium Shot | Figure from the waist up |
| Nahe | Medium Close-Up | Head and shoulders |
| Großaufnahme | Close-Up | Face only |
| Detail | Extreme Close-Up | Eye, hand, object |
Dramaturgical Effect
Each shot size has a psychological effect on the viewer:
- Wide Shot: Orientation, distance, objectivity
- Medium Wide Shot: Body language visible, still provides context
- Medium Close-Up: Intimacy, focus on emotion
- Close-Up: Maximum emotional impact
- Extreme Close-Up: Emphasis, symbolic meaning
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