
Grammar of the Shot
Focal Press
2nd Edition
Published on 20. March 2009
Book
Paperback/Softback
232 pages
978-0-240-52121-3 (ISBN)
Article exhausted; check for reprint
Description
Learn how to use the basic "grammar? of making films and videos in Grammar of the Shot! This book shows you in no uncertain terms what you absolutely need to know to put together your own film or video, shot by shot. Whether you are just learning how to frame a shot or if you just need a refresher, this book gives you a basic toolkit of how to build a successful visual story that flows smoothly.
Grammar of the Shot begins with an explanation of the essential visual language of filmmaking-the book takes you from the basic shape of a shot, to different types to shots, to composition of visual elements within each frame. You will be given the basic building blocks essential for successful shot lighting, screen direction, 3D elements, camera movement, and many general practices that make for a richer, multi-layered visual presentation. Most importantly, you will be given crucial background information to expand your visual vocabulary and help jumpstart your career in film and video.
Designed as an easy-to-use reference, each topic is covered succinctly and is accompanied by clear photographs and diagrams that illustrate the key concepts presented in the book. Simple, elegant, and easy to use, Grammar of the Shot is a staple of any filmmaker's library.
Don't miss the companion volume, Grammar of the Edit! (9780240521206)
Grammar of the Shot begins with an explanation of the essential visual language of filmmaking-the book takes you from the basic shape of a shot, to different types to shots, to composition of visual elements within each frame. You will be given the basic building blocks essential for successful shot lighting, screen direction, 3D elements, camera movement, and many general practices that make for a richer, multi-layered visual presentation. Most importantly, you will be given crucial background information to expand your visual vocabulary and help jumpstart your career in film and video.
Designed as an easy-to-use reference, each topic is covered succinctly and is accompanied by clear photographs and diagrams that illustrate the key concepts presented in the book. Simple, elegant, and easy to use, Grammar of the Shot is a staple of any filmmaker's library.
Don't miss the companion volume, Grammar of the Edit! (9780240521206)
Reviews / Votes
"Roy Thompson and Christopher Bowen provides a clear and concise explanation of motion picture visual language. This universal language (or grammar) is an essential foundation for filmmakers to produce a film or video....I highly recommend Grammar of the Shot for film and video production classes. In addition, it would be useful for emerging filmmakers and for those who need a refresher." --Amazon reviewer of the second edition.More details
Edition
2nd New edition
Language
English
Place of publication
Oxford
United Kingdom
Publishing group
Taylor & Francis Ltd
Target group
College/higher education
Novice filmmakers, film students, or videographers who want a distilled guide to the principles of shooting.
Edition type
New edition
Illustrations
Approx. 140 illustrations
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Weight
340 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-240-52121-3 (9780240521213)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
New editions

Christopher J. Bowen
Grammar of the Shot
Book
03/2013
3rd Edition
Focal Press
€28.46
Article exhausted; check for reprint
Additional editions

Christopher Bowen | Roy Thompson
Grammar of the Shot
E-Book
10/2012
2nd Edition
Routledge
€16.99
Available for download

Christopher Bowen | Roy Thompson
Grammar of the Shot
E-Book
10/2012
2nd Edition
Routledge
€16.99
Available for download
Persons
Instructor of cinematography and film production at Framingham State College, formerly of Boston University; Avid certified instructor; Creative Director/Production Manager, Fellsway Creatives
Instructor of cinematography and film production at Framingham State College, formerly of Boston University; Avid certified instructor; Creative Director/Production Manager, Fellsway Creatives
Instructor of cinematography and film production at Framingham State College, formerly of Boston University; Avid certified instructor; Creative Director/Production Manager, Fellsway Creatives
Content
Chapter 1 THE SHOT AND HOW TO FRAME IT
Chapter 2 THE ART OF COMPOSITION
Chapter 3 COMPOSITION - BEYOND THE BASICS
Chapter 4 PUTTING YOUR SHOTS TOGETHER: PRE-THINKING THE EDITING PROCESS
Chapter 5 DYNAMIC SHOTS - TALENT AND CAMERA IN MOTION
Chapter 6 WORKING PRACTICES AND GENERAL GUIDELINES
Chapter 7 IN CONCLUSION
Chapter 2 THE ART OF COMPOSITION
Chapter 3 COMPOSITION - BEYOND THE BASICS
Chapter 4 PUTTING YOUR SHOTS TOGETHER: PRE-THINKING THE EDITING PROCESS
Chapter 5 DYNAMIC SHOTS - TALENT AND CAMERA IN MOTION
Chapter 6 WORKING PRACTICES AND GENERAL GUIDELINES
Chapter 7 IN CONCLUSION