Ex. D
For this week’s in-lecture exercise, we were given the task of choosing a subject to photograph and composing it in various shot sizes and camera angles, and explaining the purposes of using these techniques and effect it has on audiences.
I decided to take a trip down memory lane and bring out some of my old pokemon figurines to use as subjects.
Shot A: Extreme long shot
To establish the scene and let the audience know what is happening, I have decided to use an extreme long shot for the first photo in my photo series. Using the rule of thirds, I positioned the Pokemon Battle, which is the most important elements of my image at the intersection points, as I want the eyes of the audience to be drawn there first.
Shot B: Over the shoulder shot
After which, I used an ‘over the shoulder’ shot to provide another perspective to show where the subjects are in relation to one another and to offer the audience a new point of view to make the scene more dynamic. Some of my audience who are familiar with the Pokemon game would recognize this angle as the cutscene that plays whenever the player engages in a Pokemon battle as well!
Shot C: Mid-shot
Next, I used a mid-shot to highlight Ash Ketchum’s body language, here I used the rule of thirds once again to compose the shot of Ash Ketchum ready to send out his Pokemon to battle. I feel that a mid-shot is the ideal distance to capture his subtle physicality choices. namely his stance and determined look on his face.
Shot D: Low-angle shot
This angle forces the audience to look at Ash Ketchum from the Pokemon’s point of view. I used it to create a sense of intimidation in the audience, as they are forced to look up at Ash Ketchum thereby making his build appear large, strong and more powerful.
Shot E: Close up shot
This shot allows the audience to get a clearer view of the expression on Ash Ketchum’s face and see the intense look in his eyes. This lets the audience connect better with the subject on an emotional level and feel the passion that the subject has for Pokemon battles.
In conclusion, that is how I composed 5 different shots to show how a Pokemon battle plays out. I hope reading this post made you feel the same level of excitement I felt when taking these photos! Perhaps I should start playing Pokemon again…
