Questions about "drifting" shots

MatthewC

MatthewC

Well-known member
I am a big fan of really subtle movement in films. I really enjoy CU/MCUs having a bit of drift going on, where the background is slowly moving. What's the best way to implement/film them? Should I worry about visually throwing the viewer off too much if they change directions from the CU to the master, or does the average viewer not notice this?

In EX: I have a campfire scene coming up with two men, one is good, one is bad. I was going to try and drift the good guy, in the same direction as the master shot at all times. The bad going, was going to be in reverse of the master, as some sort of visual nudge that he is a bit off.

In terms of trying to film things in that way, I'd figure do a couple camera rehearsals and get the timing down for when to switch directions for the GOOD GUY and the MASTER SHOT so they are always going the same way.

This is the first time I'm trying to use this movement (just got my IndieSlider) in my films, and I just thought I would try and learn more about the proper way to do. Thanks for all the advice that I know is gonna be coming!
 
Ryan Patrick O'Hara said:
Long focal length lenses, a camera slider, and a talented operator. :)
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I understand the logistics of getting it done. I've got an indieslider, I've got long lenses, I'm wondering more about the rules and continuity for the edit. Tips and ideas for someone trying this technique for the first time?
 
MatthewC said:
I understand the logistics of getting it done. I've got an indieslider, I've got long lenses, I'm wondering more about the rules and continuity for the edit. Tips and ideas for someone trying this technique for the first time?
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if you've got everyrhing you need... The best way to learn is to test. Always.
 
Be careful however, make sure that your camera move is motivated by the story, whether you're a fan of a particular camera move or not.
 
Noel Evans said:
Be careful however, make sure that your camera move is motivated by the story, whether you're a fan of a particular camera move or not.
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What is exactly considered the motivation for a shot like this? To me it adds a bit of intensity to the scene, makes it feel a bit more hurried and not as relaxed. I'm only going to add it to scenes when things start to get a bit more intense, IE a character starts getting angry and kicking **** around. I'd love to read a bit of theory about shots like this as well. I'm just wondering, what's the best way to shoot them? Does it throw the audience off if not done a certain way for the edit/continuity? Will I screw editing over if they keep going in adverse directions, etc.?
 
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