The term "follow shot" in film and video production refers to a type of camera movement. It involves the camera moving alongside or behind the subject in motion. The spelling of the word "follow shot" is pronounced as /ˈfɒləʊ ʃɒt/ or "fol-low shot". The stress is on the first syllable, "fol". The "ow" sound is pronounced as in "low". The "o" in "shot" is pronounced as the "o" in "hot". Overall, the IPA phonetic transcription helps to clarify the correct pronunciation of this technical term.
A "follow shot" is a term frequently used in the field of filmmaking and cinematography to describe a specific technique or camera movement. In this context, a follow shot refers to the action of following a subject or object with the camera as it moves through a scene. The camera operator smoothly tracks the subject's movement, maintaining a consistent distance and angle, and capturing the action from a continuous perspective. This technique enables the audience to observe the subject in motion and feel more intimately connected to the scene.
A follow shot typically creates a sense of movement, fluidity, and immersion within the film. It can be executed either by physically moving the camera alongside the subject or by using specialized equipment such as a dolly or a steadicam. This technique is often employed in a wide range of film genres, including action, sports, and even dramatic sequences that require a more dynamic visual presentation.
The follow shot is an essential tool for filmmakers to convey a sense of realism, energy, and engagement with the audience. It allows viewers to experience the scene as if they were physically present, enhancing their understanding and emotional connection to the narrative. Additionally, a well-executed follow shot requires precise coordination between the camera operator, director, and actors to achieve a seamless visual flow, resulting in a more immersive and captivating visual storytelling experience.
The word "follow shot" originated in the context of cinematography and filmmaking. The term has its roots in the game of billiards or pool, where "follow" refers to applying forward spin to the cue ball after striking it, causing it to move forward while maintaining a straight line.
In the early days of motion pictures, filmmakers adopted terminology from pool to describe camera movements. A "follow shot" in film refers to a camera movement that follows or tracks the movement of the subject, as if it were "following" them. It involves the camera physically moving alongside or behind the subject to capture their actions or movement from a similar perspective.
Hence, the term "follow shot" in cinematography evolved from the concept of "follow" in billiards, ultimately referring to a camera movement that follows the action or movement of the subject.