Before you can tell a story with video, you need to understand how different shot types and camera angles communicate ideas to an audience. Directors use these tools like vocabulary words — each one creates a specific feeling, focus, or perspective. This activity will get you familiar with those “visual words” so you can start speaking the language of film.
Watch this short video together:
Camera Angles & Shot Types
Research the terms:
With a partner:
Use a phone or classroom camera to take original pictures that demonstrate each shot type and camera angle.
Write a definition in your own words for each term.
Upload everything to a new page on your Google Site called “Camera Shots” (under your Video section).
EWS (Extreme Wide Shot)
WS (Wide Shot)
MS (Mid Shot)
MCU (Medium Close Up)
CU (Close Up)
ECU (Extreme Close Up)
Cut-In
CA (Cutaway)
Two-Shot
OSS (Over-the-Shoulder Shot)
POV (Point-of-View Shot)
Eye-Level
High Angle
Low Angle
Bird’s Eye
Slanted/Dutch Tilt
The Rule of Thirds
Headroom
Looking Room
Leading Room
A Google Site page called “Camera Shots” with:
Photo example of each shot/angle (original work).
Definition in your own words (1–2 sentences).
Work must be posted on both partners’ Google Sites.
Completeness → all shots/angles covered.
Originality → your own photos and wording.
Clarity → definitions show understanding, photos match the shot type.
Presentation → neat layout on your Google Site.
By the end of this activity, you’ll have a full visual glossary of shot types and angles — a reference you’ll use for storyboarding and filming in upcoming projects.