1/9 01. Film Language and Visual Form Free Online FlashCards

What is the basic unit of cinematic construction?

A shot is one continuous recording made by a camera between the beginning and end of a take.

What does a close-up emphasize?

A close-up concentrates on a face, object, or detail. It may create intimacy, emphasize a reaction, or make an object important, depending on context.

What is framing in film?

Framing is the way the image’s borders select and organize visual information, including what is shown, excluded, centered, cropped, or surrounded by space.

What does aspect ratio describe?

Aspect ratio is the proportional relationship between an image’s width and height. It influences how much horizontal or vertical space the frame can accommodate.

What does mise-en-scène include?

Mise-en-scène is the arrangement of elements before the camera, including setting, props, costume, lighting, figure placement, movement, performance, and composition.

What characterizes low-key lighting?

Low-key lighting uses stronger contrast and more pronounced areas of shadow. It may support mystery or danger, but can also create beauty or ambiguity.

What is blocking?

Blocking is the planned movement and positioning of performers within a space. It can establish dominance, separation, attention, or changing relationships.

What is negative space in composition?

Negative space is empty space around a subject. It may suggest loneliness, vulnerability, freedom, or anticipation, depending on the film’s broader pattern.

What is the rule of thirds?

The rule of thirds divides the frame into a three-by-three grid and places important elements near its lines or intersections.

What does depth of field measure?

Depth of field is the range of distance that appears acceptably sharp. A shallow range isolates a subject, while a deep range keeps multiple planes relatively clear.

What is a rack focus?

A rack focus shifts sharpness from one subject to another within a shot, redirecting attention without a cut.

What is a canted camera angle?

A canted angle tilts the horizon rather than keeping it level. It may suggest instability, disorientation, intoxication, conflict, or stylization.