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Mastering the Art of Tracking Shots

May 30, 2025

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.