Media Language ( Shot Sizes )

Media Language : 

Media language refers to the way media texts convey meaning to the audience. It is the codes and conventions used by producers to create meaning in their work. These are interpreted but the audiences often subconsciously and help them understand what’s going on in the sequence.

Shot Size :

One of the most important elements of media language is shot sizes. Shot sizes determine how much of the subject we will be able to see in our screens. They are very effective in shaping narratives , emotion and engage the audience. 

There are several types of shots : 

1. Establishing Shot :

The establishing shot shows a really wide view of the setting often used to establish a location. Although , it makes character seems relatively small and insignificant but used in the beginning of the scenes where the audience is typically hooked so it is really important. For instance , a war film could use the battlefield as their establishing shot. The purpose of the shot is to show the setting and with a character in the shot it suggests the character’s loneliness and feeling of getting lost.

2. Full / Wide Shot : 

A full shot shows a charater's full body from head to toe in the frame. The purpose of the shot is to show the body language and movement of the character which is effectively used to represent their personality. Moreover , it can be used to create relationships or action between characters. A common example of this shot is a dance or fight scene where the full body of the characters are shown. This is used to let the audience determine the physical performance while showing the environment and setting of the scene.

3. Mid Shot :

A mid shot shows the character above from the waist height and only half of the character’s body is framed in the shot. This is the most commonly used in dialogue scenes and creates a sense of suspense through the facial expressions and gestures. For example , when two people having a conversation will be shown a mid shot could be used to show their expressions. It is the best shot to naturally show the character’s activities and let the audience relate with the characters.

4. Medium Close Up :

Medium close up usually has the subject framed from chest or shoulders up. It signifies on the facial expressions , builds an emotional connection and still feels quite realistic. It is an ideal shot for emotional scenes. For instance , a medium close up is perfect for showing a moment of realization in a scene. Its purpose is too make the viewers focus on emotional details of the characters.

5. Close Up :

A close up shot focuses only on the face of the subject or a specific object. Knowing from its name , a close up is a very closely framed shot focusing on the smaller details of something. It shows emotion in detail , creates tension and directs the attention of the audience towards something. It is quite often used in emotional situations and reaction shots. Furthermore , close ups enable the audience to empathize with the character and relate with the story. 

6. Extreme Close Up :

An extreme close up shows a very minute detail such as eyes , lips or a little object. This can create great suspense and intensity or can create a sense of curiosity for the viewers. This is most often used in horror and thriller genres. This can suggest that the detail shown is crucial to the storyline or emotional sense of the character. 

7. Over the Shoulder Shot (OTS ) :

An OTS shot is framed from behind the shoulder of one character , looking at another. This is commonly utilized in conversations , establishing relationships and creates realism. An OTS shot is mainly found in an argument or confrontation scene. This shot gives the audience a perspective of the character and make the feel present in that moment.