What is a Tracking Shot?
A tracking shot is a very commonly used camera movement or shot that takes place frequently in video production. As you prepare a list of camera angles and shots that will work for your production, consider a tracking shot to add creativity to your production. We’re answering the question, “What is a tracking shot,” and showing you how the tracking shot is used in film.
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TRACKING SHOT DEFINITION
The tracking shot is a term used to describe the movement of the camera along a scene for an extended period of time such that the camera operator captures the scene extensively. Tracking shots are often used to capture a traveling subject as they walk through a scene and talk to others. The idea is to show of both the scene and the subject.
Tracking shots were once used to describe a completely different camera movement. In previous cinematography years, tracking was the term used to describe the lateral movement of the camera which would take place typically on a dolly.
The camera would track left or track right as it moved along the track. Similarly, forward movement was called push-in and backward movement was referred to as push-out at that time.
HOW TO CAPTURE TRACKING SHOTS
Tracking shots are captured in various ways. Tracking shots can actually be captured while using a wide range of camera movements.
Common means of capturing a tracking shot, now that we aren’t limited to a track, include the use of the following equipment:
- 3 axis gimbal
- Vest stabilizer
- Drone
- Handheld shots
- Steadicam
Advanced productions capture tracking shots with a steadicam in most cases.
WHAT DOES THE TRACKING SHOT DO?
The tracking shot moves the camera through the scene so that the audience can experience the scene themselves. The shot is often used to follow a subject from one area to another or if the subject is bouncing around.
This way, the viewer understands the scene and what is happening as the subject bounces around. Tracking shots are also used to play into an edit for an extended period of time.
Tracking the camera may mean a wide variety of things depending on the cinematographer that you speak to. Handheld tracking is often used for the beginning of a shot and then a steadicam may be used to stabilize the shot as the camera moves from place to place.
As such, it’s important for you to know what and how the tracking shot works as well as what your director means when referencing a “tracking shot.” You definitely don’t want to used handheld tracking movements if your director expects you to Steadicam the shot.
PRODUCING GREAT TRACKING SHOTS
What does it take to produce a great tracking shot? Three things, your setting that is richly detailed and worthy of being viewed in its entirety, your character that is in the scene and makes the audience feel like they are the character, and your plot which is used to enhance the tracking shot and pull of the overall balance of the story.
Tracking shots can include a wide variety of people, actions, and activities taking place within the scene. The tracking shot should show the scene in a way that multiplies the value of the scene and pulls the viewer into the shot.
Similar to a long take the tracking shot is used to keep the audience engaged with the current actions taking place on the screen while keeping a particular shot in the frame.
FOR A GREAT TRACKING SHOT, CONSIDER:
- Location
- Production Design
- Blocking
- Speed
- Stability
- Duration
This will ensure you get the most out of your shot, make the most out of your location, and provide the greatest shots for your audience.
Ready to put tracking shots to use for you? Give Beverly Boy Productions a call at 888-462-7808 to discuss your shot list and to get started on your next film production. We’re here when you ready to hire a film crew and take your video project to the next level.
