Lecture Notes: The Ultimate Guide to Tracking Shots

Introduction

• Tracking Shot Definition: A moving camera follows or tracks characters.
• Purpose: Immersive camera movement used in iconic cinema shots.
• Not to be confused with: Pan or tilt movements.

Types of Tracking Shots

• Dolly: Camera moves backward or forward; movement is smooth due to tracks.
• Trucking: Camera moves laterally (left or right).
• Modern Equipment: Steady cam, shoulder mount, drone.
• Historical Context: Originally required tracks due to the bulk of early cameras.

Variables in Tracking Shots

Movement

• Dolly Movement: Extremely smooth, perfect for controlled shots, e.g., Wes Anderson's films.
• Steady Cam: Offers smooth movements without tracks, e.g., Goodfellas by Martin Scorsese.
• Cranes: Allow for vertical movement, e.g., The Player by Robert Altman.
• Drones: Provide versatility in recent films.
• Handheld: Adds energy and realism, e.g., Children of Men and Breathless.

Lens Choice

• Telephoto Lens: Compresses space, increasing intensity.
• Wide Lens: Exaggerates movement, allowing dynamic shots.
• Depth of Field: Shallow isolates characters; deep situates them in their environment.

Framing and Camera Angle

• Close-Up: Emphasizes character emotions, e.g., Son of Saul.
• Medium Close-Up: Captures shifting emotions, e.g., Tar.
• Medium Shot: Adds energy to conversations, e.g., Magnolia.
• Wide Shot: Emphasizes settings, useful to show large sets, e.g., The Revenant.

Blocking and Staging

• Character and Camera Movement: Integral for shot execution, influencing suspense and power dynamics.
• Example: The Shining uses trailing shots for suspense.
• Speed: Quick shots for energy, slow shots for tension.
• Eyeline Match: Directs viewer's attention, e.g., Boogie Nights.

Editing and Duration

• Long Takes: Impressive technical skill, e.g., The Adventures of Tintin.
• Short Takes: Create explosive energy, e.g., Mission Impossible 2.
• Mixed Techniques: There Will Be Blood uses multiple tracking shots to focus on different characters.

Conclusion

• Diverse Applications: Tracking shots suit any genre and mood.
• Purpose: Immerses audience deeper into the scene.
• Practical Tip: Use storyboard software for planning tracking shots.