Camera Shots IN HORROR FILMS

1. High Angle Shot Used to present

vulnerability of a character Shows their powerlessness Similarly relates to a bird

eye view shot Audience see the

perspective of the killer/predator

2. Low Angle

Emphasises on how strong, dominant, scary and intimidating the villain is.

Could also possible make the audience feel insignificant as well as weak.

Gives a clear idea about who has more power in that moment of the storyline.

3. Titled Angles Adds dramatic tension to the shots Could imitate a supernatural being

pushing/moving the camera Intrigues the audience and entices

them as it presents a different way the shots are seen in

Good for also presenting victim’s perspectives and what you see, they see.

4. Hand-held Camera Shot Often used in horror-thriller films Adds a sense of realism Makes the audience feel more

involved Imitation of you actually being

there with the hand held camera shots

Works closely with static, night vision shots etc.

5. Point of view shot Taken from the point of view of the

character Popular in horror films as the

audience becomes emotionally attached and more scared

For example a monster could be running towards you and the scene you would see would be as if you were running away trying to dodge obstacles in the way

6. Over the Shoulder Shot Used to create tension

Extremely common in horror films and thrillers

Used around mirrors and reflections as well

Shows the audience what’s happening the same time the character finds out

Generally used to show a figure standing behind a victim

7. Close Up Shots Used to present the character’s

emotions through the actor/actresses.

Used to capture detail in the scene. The facial expressions indicate

whether what they face is good or bad.

E.g. if something bad was to occur in the movie, the facial expression would tend to be with a frightened look.

8. Extreme/Long Shot

Used to establish locations/settings etc.

Gives the perspective of deserted town or city

The location tends to give the idea of the type of horror story (though some do go against the normal conventions)

9. Zoom

Adds elements of suspense and fear

Adds dramatic effect Could be to zoom into see

something you normally wouldn't have spotted like a super natural being

Fear; as you don’t know what you are going to see next

10. Tracking/Panning Shots Connotes movement

Resembles a character being followed/watched/stalked.

Full view can be seen therefore establishes the scene

Builds tension Suspense; as you are unaware of

what you will be shown next