Camera Movement
Here are some common camera movements.
| Camera Move | Description | Usage Scenarios |
| Pan | Horizontal movement of the camera from left to right or right to left. | Establishing shots, following action, showing landscapes. |
| Tilt | Vertical movement of the camera up or down. | Revealing vertical elements, showing tall objects. |
| Dolly | Camera moves towards or away from the subject on a track. | Creating depth, dramatic emphasis, moving through space. |
| Tracking (Trucking) | Camera moves sideways (left or right) following a subject. | Following a character or object, showing lateral movement. |
| Crane (Jib) | Camera moves up or down through space, often with a crane or jib arm. | High angle shots, sweeping movements, vertical reveals. |
| Zoom | Lens adjustment to change focal length, making the subject appear closer or further away. | Emphasizing a subject, dramatic effect, quick transitions. |
| Handheld | Camera is held and operated by the camera operator, often with intentional shake. | Intimate shots, action sequences, documentary style. |
| Steadicam | Camera is stabilized by a harness worn by the operator, allowing smooth movement. | Smooth tracking shots, dynamic movement without shake. |
| Gimbal | Electronic stabilizer for smooth handheld movement. | Stable shots in motion, versatile camera angles. |
| Arc | Camera moves around the subject in a circular or semi-circular path. | Creating dynamic movement, emphasizing the subject. |
| Pedestal | Vertical movement of the camera up or down without tilting. | Adjusting the camera height, smooth vertical transitions. |
| Rack Focus | Changing the focus from one subject to another within the same shot. | Directing viewer’s attention, emphasizing different elements. |
| Whip Pan | Quick, rapid pan from one subject to another. | Fast-paced transitions, action scenes, comedic effect. |
| Dutch Angle | Camera is tilted to one side, creating a slanted horizon line. | Conveying unease, tension, disorientation. |
| Aerial (Drone) | Camera moves through the air, often from high above the subject. | Wide shots, establishing shots, dynamic perspectives. |
| Push-In | Camera moves closer to the subject, often slowly. | Increasing intensity, focusing on detail or emotion. |
| Pull-Out | Camera moves away from the subject, often slowly. | Revealing context, showing isolation or detachment. |
| Zolly (Dolly Zoom) | Combination of zooming in while dollying out, or vice versa. | Creating a disorienting effect, heightening tension. |
| Crash Zoom | Quick, sudden zoom in or out. | Comedic effect, shock, surprise. |