Question 1

What is the difference between a tracking shot and a pan?

Accepted Answer

A tracking shot (or dolly shot) involves the camera physically moving through space, usually on wheels, following a subject or revealing a scene. A pan is a horizontal rotation of the camera on a fixed tripod, scanning the environment without changing position. Tracking shots create a sense of immersion or journey, while pans are often used to establish a location or follow action within a static frame.

Question 2

How does lighting affect the mood of a film?

Accepted Answer

Lighting directly influences mood by controlling shadows, contrast, and brightness. High-key lighting, with even illumination and few shadows, often creates a cheerful, safe, or artificial mood (e.g., sitcoms). Low-key lighting, with strong contrasts and deep shadows, generates tension, mystery, or fear (e.g., film noir). The direction of light also matters: frontal lighting flattens features, while side lighting emphasises texture and creates drama.

Question 3

What is the three-point lighting system?

Accepted Answer

Three-point lighting is a standard setup using three light sources: key light (main light, usually at 45 degrees), fill light (softer light opposite the key to reduce shadows), and back light (behind the subject to separate them from the background). This creates depth and dimension, making the subject look more three-dimensional. It's commonly used in interviews and classical Hollywood cinema.

Question 4

Why do filmmakers use a canted/dutch angle?

Accepted Answer

A canted or dutch angle tilts the camera so the horizon is not level. This creates a sense of unease, disorientation, or psychological imbalance. It's often used in horror or thriller films to suggest a character's instability or a world gone wrong. For example, in 'The Matrix', dutch angles emphasise the artificiality of the simulated reality.

Question 5

How do I analyse colour in a film?

Accepted Answer

Start by identifying the dominant colour palette (e.g., warm oranges and yellows vs. cool blues and greens). Consider saturation (vivid vs. muted) and temperature (warm vs. cool). Then link these choices to themes, character emotions, or narrative arcs. For example, in 'The Grand Budapest Hotel', pastel colours reinforce the whimsical, nostalgic tone. Use terms like 'colour symbolism' and 'colour grading' to show technical knowledge.

Question 6

What is the difference between hard and soft light?

Accepted Answer

Hard light comes from a small, direct source (e.g., a bare bulb) and creates sharp, well-defined shadows with high contrast. It's often used for dramatic, gritty effects. Soft light comes from a large, diffused source (e.g., a softbox or overcast sky) and produces gentle, gradual shadows with low contrast. It's flattering and often used in romantic or comedic scenes. The choice affects texture and mood.

Cinematography (including lighting)

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

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Related Topics in OCR GCSE Film Studies

3D film

Aesthetics

Characters

Content for non-examined assessment: Exploring Film Genre (03/04)

How to Revise Cinematography (including lighting) — OCR GCSE Film Studies

Examiner Tips for Cinematography (including lighting)

Common Mistakes in Cinematography (including lighting)

Key Marking Points