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Aerial Shot
Camera & compositiona shot filmed from above, typically using drones, helicopters, or cranes.
Education / The language of film
From your first call sheet to picture lock. Find the words you hear on set, in the edit and everywhere in between.
269 terms · 7 topics
a shot filmed from above, typically using drones, helicopters, or cranes.
Also known as Atmos
natural background noises present in a location.
the amount of a scene captured by a camera lens.
an animated storyboard sequence with temporary sound.
A laboratory print of a film, with picture and sound where applicable, made for approval before release prints are produced. It is checked for colour, sound synchronisation and printing quality.
the opposing character or force to the protagonist.
Also known as Iris
opening in a camera lens regulating light exposure.
a sturdy wooden box used to raise actors, props, or equipment.
person responsible for the look of sets and physical elements.
For example
An art director coordinates the practical delivery of sets and scenic work within the production designer’s overall vision.
unwanted visual error in digital images or compression.
width-to-height ratio of an image frame.
a rough first edit combining all scenes in order.
character reflecting the audience’s viewpoint.
rule maintaining consistent spatial orientation by not crossing an imaginary line during a scene.
supplementary footage used for cutaways or context.
Also known as Rear Projection
technique of projecting a background behind live actors.
light placed behind a subject to separate them from the background.
even distribution of visual elements within a frame.
adjustable metal flaps on light fixtures controlling light spread.
A traditional title for a senior assistant to the gaffer or key grip. The precise duties and use of this title vary between productions and countries.
a small acting role with minimal lines.
pre-planned movement and positioning of actors within a scene.
For example
During rehearsal, the director and actors agree where a character enters, pauses and sits; camera and sound teams then plan around that movement.
blue background for chroma key compositing (less common than green screen).
directional microphone mounted on a long pole.
crew member handling the boom mic.
Recording different exposure settings to compare results or combine images later. It is common in still photography and some specialist moving-image workflows.
character directly addressing the audience.
a transitional shot linking sequences.
visual effect slowing down action while the camera moves around it.
slang for a wooden clothes peg used to attach gels to lights.
Also known as Utility Stand (C-Stand)
versatile adjustable stand for lights, flags, or equipment.
document listing the cast, crew, locations, and schedule for a shooting day.
For example
A crew member checks tomorrow’s call sheet for their own call time, unit base and the location address before travelling.
the position and orientation of the camera relative to the subject.
physical movement of the camera (tilt, pan, dolly, handheld).
person physically operating the camera on set.
For example
The operator frames a moving performance and works with the director and DoP to achieve the agreed shot.
Also known as Dutch Tilt (Canted Shot)
a shot with a tilted camera to create unease.
selecting actors for roles in a film.
visual effects made digitally.
a deliberately adjusted shot to improve continuity or practicality.
dramatic lighting using strong contrasts between light and shadow.
technique for replacing a solid-color background in post-production.
A camera assistant who handles the slate, camera reports and equipment support. On film shoots, duties can include loading film; digital productions allocate media handling according to their workflow.
Also known as Slate
tool used to mark scene and take details for syncing sound and picture.
For example
The slate identifies the scene and take; its closing sticks create a visible and audible reference for syncing separate recordings.
a tightly framed shot, usually of a face or object.
Also known as Color Correction
Adjusting colour and exposure to balance images and make shots consistent. Usually part of the wider grading workflow.
Also known as Color Grading
Shaping a film’s colour, contrast and overall visual look during finishing, often building on correction and shot matching.
combining multiple visual elements into a single image.
Consistency across shots and scenes, including actions, props, costume, eyelines and story details, so edited footage feels coherent.
For example
If a character lifts a mug with their right hand in the wide shot, that action should match in the close-up.
The range of shots recorded to tell a scene and give the editor usable choices, including wider views, closer angles, inserts and reactions.
For example
A conversation might be covered with a two-shot, an over on each speaker and an insert of a letter.
moving shot from a camera mounted on a crane.
quick, sudden zoom in or out for emphasis.
A production contact list organised by crew member, role and department. Access and sharing should respect the personal information it contains.
For example
Production keeps department contacts organised so the right people can be reached when plans change.
Also known as Parallel Editing
alternating between different scenes happening at the same time.
a prompt for action, dialogue, or technical element.
direct edit between two shots.
a shot interrupting the main scene to show something related.
Also known as Rushes (Dailies)
raw, unedited footage shot each day for review.
For example
The director reviews yesterday’s footage to check performances and whether the needed shots were captured.
technique of shooting during the day and making it appear as night through filters or grading.
a cinematography technique where both foreground and background remain in sharp focus.
the range within a shot that appears acceptably sharp.
the fictional world within a film’s story.
sound that originates within the film’s world (dialogue, car engines, etc.).
material placed in front of lights to soften their quality.
A digital finishing workflow, originally for scanned film, in which images are graded and prepared for final output. It can also describe the resulting digital master.
the creative lead responsible for overseeing the artistic and dramatic aspects of a film.
Also known as Cinematographer
head of the camera and lighting departments, responsible for a film’s visual look.
For example
The DoP works with the director on framing, lenses and lighting to create a consistent visual approach.
a gradual transition between two images.
a wheeled platform for moving a camera smoothly.
crew member who operates the dolly.
a moving shot achieved with a dolly.
Also known as Zolly (Dolly Zoom)
a zoom combined with dolly movement creating a distorted perspective.
superimposing two images onto the same film strip.
A theatre term for the area closer to the audience. On a screen set, clarify directions relative to the agreed camera or staging position.
Dubbing can mean adding or replacing dialogue, including another language version. ADR (automated dialogue replacement) specifically involves re-recording dialogue to match an existing performance.
a light placed behind a subject to create a rim of light outlining them.
the process of selecting and combining shots into a coherent sequence.
person who assembles and refines the footage into the final cut.
For example
An editor compares takes and builds a scene around performance, story clarity and rhythm.
a wide shot introducing a location or setting.
person overseeing financing, contracts, and high-level decisions.
the amount of light reaching the camera sensor or film.
Also known as XCU (Extreme Close-Up)
a very tight shot focusing on a small detail (eyes, mouth, object).
a shot showing a subject at a great distance, often for scale.
a setting controlling the aperture size of a lens and exposure.
a transition from a black screen to an image.
a transition from an image to a black screen.
when action is sped up on screen.
a light modifier used to block or shape light.
a scene set later than the present story timeline.
a scene set earlier than the present story timeline.
even lighting with little contrast, often used for comedy or documentaries.
a flag with a fold-down flap.
A lens measurement in millimetres that affects field of view together with the image format. On the same camera format, a shorter focal length gives a wider view.
assistant responsible for maintaining sharp focus.
For example
The first AC adjusts focus as an actor moves from a doorway towards the camera.
sound effects created in post-production to match on-screen actions.
technique of adjusting focus to keep a moving subject sharp.
a shot that physically follows a subject’s movement.
the area of the image closest to the camera.
objects positioned between the camera and subject for depth.
the medium used for shooting (digital, 35mm, etc.).
a single still image in a film or the boundaries of the visible screen.
Also known as Frames Per Second (FPS)
The number of frames captured or played each second, expressed as frames per second (fps). Capture and playback rates can differ to create slow or fast motion.
For example
Recording at 50 fps and playing that material at 25 fps gives half-speed movement. The camera and post teams agree the workflow first.
the composition of elements within the frame.
a single frame repeated on screen to create a still image.
An over-the-shoulder framing from behind a person, often showing more of the back of their head than a conventional over. Usage can vary between crews.
the chief lighting technician, head of the electrical department.
For example
The gaffer translates the DoP’s lighting intentions into a practical plan with the lighting team.
a compilation of humorous mistakes and outtakes from filming.
the camera opening through which light reaches the film or sensor.
a geared camera head offering precise pan and tilt movements.
a colored, heat-resistant filter placed over lights to alter color or quality.
portable power source for location shoots.
a green background used for chroma key compositing in post-production.
In UK film and scripted TV, a technician who supports and moves cameras using equipment such as dollies, tracks, cranes and mounts. Department responsibilities differ between countries.
For example
The grip team prepares and operates camera support for an agreed moving shot.
a focusing screen in a camera viewfinder or eyepiece.
A small, flexible approach to filming with limited crew and resources. The term does not remove requirements for permission, safety, privacy or location access.
a shot taken with a camera held by the operator, creating a shaky, immersive look.
light that casts strong, defined shadows.
the space between the top of a subject’s head and the frame’s upper edge.
a shot taken from above looking down on a subject.
lighting style with bright, even illumination and minimal shadows.
mobile trailer providing restrooms and dressing rooms on set.
a set where props and positions must remain undisturbed for continuity.
For example
Props remain exactly as dressed between takes; anyone entering checks with the responsible department before moving anything.
a crane with fluid-controlled movements for smooth camera motion.
the starting frame of a clip or edit.
practical effects created during filming rather than in post-production.
a close-up detail shot inserted into a larger scene.
script abbreviation indicating a scene takes place indoors.
text displayed between shots in silent films or to convey information.
an edit designed to look like a continuous shot, hiding the transition between takes.
a shot that opens or closes to a circle, often for dramatic emphasis in old cinema.
A rating used for film speed or a digital camera’s exposure setting. Raising a digital ISO or exposure index can make the displayed image brighter; noise and highlight behaviour depend on the camera.
an edit where the audio from the next scene begins before the image changes.
For example
We hear the next scene’s train before the picture cuts from the character at home to the station.
An informal description of a reveal in which a person or object suddenly enters the frame. It is less standardised than shot-size or camera-movement terminology.
placing two shots or elements side by side to create meaning through contrast.
the head grip in charge of rigging, dollies, cranes, and camera movement gear.
the main source of light illuminating a subject in a scene.
a light placed behind or to the side of a subject to create a highlight or outline.
instruction to turn off specific lights.
an edit where the image changes before the audio does.
For example
A character’s dialogue continues while the picture cuts to the listener’s reaction.
the numbered roll of developed film sent to the lab.
Also known as Flare
streaks or circles of light caused by direct bright light hitting the lens.
intentionally detaching the lens while filming for light leaks and softness.
black bars above and below a widescreen image on a standard screen.
the person managing the budget, scheduling, and daily operations of a film shoot.
For example
The line producer checks whether the proposed shooting plan is achievable within the agreed resources.
a crew member responsible for finding suitable shooting locations.
For example
A scout photographs possible locations and checks their practical suitability with the locations team.
instruction to secure a camera or object in position.
a one- or two-sentence summary of a film’s plot.
a shot showing a subject’s full body in frame, often for spatial context.
a continuous, uninterrupted shot lasting significantly longer than usual.
a shot taken from below, looking up at the subject.
a high-contrast lighting style using shadows for dramatic effect.
the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset with soft, warm natural light.
a precise spot on the floor indicating where an actor or camera should land.
For example
A discreet floor mark helps an actor return to the agreed position for focus and framing.
the final shot of the day’s filming.
an edit joining two similar-looking scenes or objects for continuity or symbolism.
a painted representation of a landscape, set, or location, composited with live footage.
a shot framing a subject from roughly the chest up.
a shot framing a subject from the waist up.
a scaled-down physical model used to simulate large sets or environments.
a robotic system for repeating precise camera movements.
a sequence of shots edited together to condense space, time, or information.
A shot recorded without synchronised production sound. The abbreviation has several proposed origins; the practical meaning is picture without sync sound.
For example
A silent insert of a hand turning a key can be slated MOS if no sync production sound is being recorded.
the streaking of moving objects in a frame, often due to slow shutter speed.
an early machine used for film editing.
spoken commentary in a film, often by an off-screen voice.
empty areas around the subject in a frame, used to emphasize isolation or mood.
sound that the characters in the film’s world cannot hear (e.g. musical score).
digital editing where scenes can be rearranged without affecting others.
the space in front of a subject’s face when looking toward one side of the frame.
areas outside the camera frame, implied or referenced in the story.
In production paperwork, a compact schedule listing each scene with key information on one line. In dialogue, it can also mean a short joke or memorable line.
For example
A coordinator shares a compact schedule showing the scene number, location, cast and planned day for each scene.
the first image or sequence in a film, setting the tone and establishing the world.
a shot or scene not used in the final film.
a shot taken from behind a character’s shoulder, often used in dialogue scenes.
when too much light hits the camera sensor, resulting in a washed-out image.
a shot taken from directly above the subject.
characters speaking over one another in a scene.
a horizontal camera movement from a fixed point.
cropping widescreen images to fit a 4:3 frame, moving across the image to follow action.
a small shot filmed after principal photography to fix or enhance the edit.
Also known as Locked Cut
The point when the edited picture is approved for finishing, allowing sound, music and visual effects to work to a stable cut. Later picture changes require coordination.
For example
After picture approval, the sound team receives the locked edit. A later scene trim needs a new version and clear change notes.
a verbal or written presentation of a film idea to potential backers.
the phase after filming where editing, sound, effects, and color correction occur.
For example
After the shoot, picture editing, sound, music, effects and grading work towards the agreed delivery.
a shot from a character’s visual perspective.
an effect created on set in real life, without digital intervention.
a visible light source within the scene, like a lamp or TV screen.
the planning phase before shooting begins.
For example
A team breaks down the script, plans locations, schedules the shoot and prepares the budget before filming.
the person overseeing production logistics, financing, and management.
For example
A producer develops the project, brings a team together and coordinates the resources needed to deliver it.
head of the art department, responsible for the visual concept of a film’s world.
For example
The designer develops the environments and visual world, then works with the art team to realise them.
the crew member responsible for recording clean sound on set.
For example
The sound mixer monitors dialogue recordings and notes issues that could affect the edit.
the main character of a film’s narrative.
a monitor view dividing the screen into four camera feeds simultaneously.
a mounting plate allowing a camera to be easily detached from a tripod.
a promotional video highlighting positive critic quotes for marketing.
Also known as Pull Focus (Rack Focus)
shifting focus from one plane of depth to another in a shot.
For example
Focus shifts from a person in the foreground to someone standing behind them, guiding the audience’s attention.
Original, unedited recordings from a shoot. This does not necessarily mean a camera RAW file format: unedited footage can use many codecs.
a cutaway to a character’s emotional response.
A visit to a potential filming location to assess creative, technical and practical requirements before the shoot.
a physical spool of film or a selection of edited footage for presentation.
returning actors and props to starting positions for another take.
the number of pixels in an image (e.g. 1920x1080, 4K).
a shot taken from the opposite angle of the previous shot, often in conversations.
a technician responsible for setting up and securing lighting, scenery, and camera supports.
light placed behind a subject to create a halo effect along edges.
frame-by-frame tracing or cutting out of elements for compositing.
An early edit in which structure, timing and performances are still being refined. It is usually more developed than the initial assembly.
a section of a film taking place in a continuous time and location.
original instrumental music composed for a film.
the consistent left-right movement of characters or objects within a scene.
the script containing dialogue, scene headings, and action descriptions.
For example
A scene heading identifies an interior or exterior, its location and time of day; action and dialogue describe what happens.
the person ensuring visual and narrative consistency between takes and scenes.
For example
The script supervisor records take information and action details so the edit can match performances across angles.
a separate crew filming supplementary footage like stunts, inserts, or establishing shots.
a series of related shots forming a distinct narrative segment.
a constructed environment where scenes are filmed.
objects and props used to decorate a set.
a document listing every planned camera setup for a scene or shoot day.
For example
Before filming, the director and DoP list the planned setups, framing and movement needed to cover a scene.
a technique alternating between two characters’ viewpoints in a conversation.
the amount of time each frame is exposed to light.
a highlight video promoting a film, concept, or company.
a technique of filming or playing back at a slower-than-normal speed.
diffused light producing gentle, undefined shadows.
the creative process of creating and selecting sounds for a film.
a large, soundproofed indoor studio space for filming.
a screenplay written without prior commitment from a buyer or studio.
tape or mark on the floor indicating actor or object positions.
unwanted light hitting areas of a set unintentionally.
a shot using a special lens to keep both foreground and background in sharp focus.
a person taking the place of an actor for lighting and camera setups.
a shot with a stationary camera.
a stabilizing system worn by a camera operator for smooth handheld shots.
industry slang for an extension power cable.
previously shot footage reused in a new film.
a series of drawings mapping out shots visually before filming.
To remove or dismantle a set or piece of equipment. In lighting, “strike a lamp” can also mean ignite it; confirm which meaning is intended.
underlying meaning not explicitly stated in dialogue or action.
Also known as Whip Pan (Swish Pan)
a rapid horizontal pan creating a blurred motion effect.
sound recorded on set in perfect sync with the picture.
a single filmed version of a shot.
collective term for the actors on set.
A lens with a relatively narrow angle of view for the camera format. Shooting from farther away can make distances appear compressed; perspective depends on camera position.
a standard lighting setup using key, fill, and backlights.
a vertical camera movement up or down from a fixed point.
digital time reference for syncing picture and sound.
a shot following a subject, typically moving on a dolly or gimbal.
a prose summary of a film’s plot, characters, and tone.
The interval between finishing work on one day and the next call. Required rest arrangements depend on contracts and the applicable working rules.
a shot featuring two characters in the same frame.
when too little light reaches the sensor, resulting in a dark image.
camera movement without an apparent reason in the story.
The upper third is a compositional area near the top of the frame. Title safe is a separate margin within the image intended to keep important text visible on the target display.
A theatre term for the area farther from the audience. On a screen set, clarify directions relative to the agreed camera or staging position.
digital enhancements or alterations made to footage in post-production.
a system allowing the director and crew to watch a live video feed of what the camera is recording.
a gradual darkening of a frame’s edges to focus attention on the center.
an image or visual motif symbolizing a larger idea or theme.
narration spoken by an off-screen character or narrator.
a moving shot following characters as they walk and converse.
all clothing and accessories worn by characters in a film.
a camera setting ensuring colors appear natural under different lighting.
For example
The camera team sets an agreed colour reference for a scene so a neutral surface is rendered as intended.
a shot capturing a subject’s full body or a large environment.
Sound recorded separately from a synchronised picture take, such as room tone, dialogue or a specific effect, for use in editing.
For example
After a scene, the sound team records the room’s ambience without a picture take so the editor can build a consistent background.
the official end of filming for the day or production.
For example
“That’s a wrap for today” ends filming, but departments still need time to pack down and hand over safely.
a celebratory party held after a film’s completion.
a type of extremely bright light used in projectors and film lighting.
An informal description sometimes associated with historic sodium-vapour travelling-matte techniques. These used specialised lighting and optical separation, rather than ordinary modern green-screen keying.
A general word for the usable output of work, rather than a standard film production measurement. Teams should specify whether they mean takes, footage, scenes or another measure.
An informal phrase for emerging performers or creatives. It is not a technical crew grade or a standard production role.
A photographic method of relating scene brightness to exposure and tonal values, developed for still photography and sometimes used to discuss film exposure.
a change in focal length during a shot, enlarging or reducing the image.
a lens with adjustable focal length.
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Built on the original London Film Club glossary. An introductory reference: terminology and responsibilities can vary between crews and countries.