Composition in films refers to how a shot has been set up. The composition in every shot should be visually pleasing and interesting, but should not take away from the key part of a scene. There are different techniques that can create good composition, all of which should be considered when choosing how a shot will look.

One often used and basic composition technique is the rule of thirds. By cutting a frame in thirds both horizontally and vertically, we can see where points of interest on that frame should be. These are where the lines intersect, and by placing objects or actors in those positions the audience’s eyes will be first attracted to them. It also prevents having a shot in which an object is in the centre, which is usually used to present something powerful; therefore the rule of thirds is used when a less strong composition is desired.The rule of thirds has been around for a long time- the original source is thought to be a 1797 book by John Thomas Smith- and is an important part of composition in most art forms.

Another basic composition technique that can be effective is the rule of space. This basically means using space to imply that something is off screen, for example, when a character is looking a certain way, having empty space on that side draws attention to the fact that there is more than the audience is seeing. The character is looking at or talking to something.It can also be used to show where a character is going to travel, or where they came from- achieved by leaving space in front or behind a moving subject.

From “Blade Runner” 1982

From “Les Miserables” (2012)

In addition, the perspective of the shots can change how the composition makes the audience feel. A shot from above will make the subject seem small and unimportant, using this when the character is at a low point in their story would prove to be effective. In correlation to this idea, a shot from below will make a subject look powerful - it could be used to show a villain who is in charge and dominating.

There are many kinds of shots that are used for different purposes in a film. For example, in order to establish a setting an extreme wide shot (EWS) is often used, also called an establishing shot. Unlike a wide shot, an EWS has no subject, and is just meant to convey setting to the audience. A wide shot will show a subject fully; they usually take up the full frame but have space around them.A mid shot shows part of the subject (usually the shoulders and head) and then a close up focuses on a certain feature (usually the face). These are basic shots that are used in scenes that need no obvious visually pleasing twist- it’s often to focus on setting, character or dialogue.

As well as these basic shots, there are many other kinds of camera angles/movements that can be used to create a range of aesthetically pleasing sequences. For example, an over-the-shoulder shot focuses on a character talking, whilst including the person they are conversing with. It makes a change to only using close-ups to show a person whilst talking, and can also add mystery to scene. It means the focus is on the main character, even though showing the others in the scene. A good example of this is in the opening of The Godfather (1972). The main character talks to a range of people, but it stays in an over-the-shoulder shot focusing on him, showing that he is leader that others listen to.

The point-of-view (POV) shot is another technique that can be used effectively. This is when a shot is shown through the eyes of a character, putting the audience into their shoes- allowing them to get closer to the characters emotions and thoughts. This could be used with any character, though it is usually the hero. As we have already related to them and their struggles, we are more likely to understand how they would feel when seeing what the shot is causing the audience to see. However this is not always the case, in the example of “Jaws”

From “The silence of the lambs” (1991), this shot from below makes Hannibal Lecter look menacing, putting tension in the audience.

1975, we are put into the body of the ferocious shark with a POV shot, allowing us to see how frightened it’s victims are from the predator’s point of view. It is also used in other horror films, to show the perspective of a killer.

“Jaws” (1975)