From the course: Cinematic Composition for Video Productions

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Why establishing shots are important

Why establishing shots are important

- In this section, we will be discussing different methods for establishing a scene. An establishing shot can be a long shot, a wide shot, a two-shot, or a group shot. Essentially, an establishing shot is any frame that provides a context for the action. That context can work to set up the location, time, or relationship between the characters and their environment. This was a pleasant enough scene to watch. But do we have any idea what's going on? It is important to consider that although you may be able to visualize the scene, because you conceived it and understand the context, your audience will not be able to. Let's take another look at the sequence, but with an establishing shot. By using a variety of shot types, we are able to convey much more information to the viewer. We now understand where the characters are in relationship to the world, as well as to each other. Perhaps the context is unnecessary for your story, but for the most part, the audience expects scene to be…

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