Camera angles

Where the camera is placed in relation to the subject can affect the way the viewer perceives the subject. There are a number of camera angles, such as a high-angle shot, a low-angle shot, a bird'seye view, a worm's-eye view and natural view. A viewpoint is the apparent distance and angle from which the camera views and records the subject.

Bird’s eye view

Bird view images are often shot from a 40-degree angle. But this is also not written in stone. Many overhead shots are called bird's-eye view images, and they are taken from a 90-degree angle above the scene. In film and video production, bird's-eye view means a shot that is looking directly down on the subject.

High view

A high angle shot is when the camera looks down on the character or subject from an elevated perspective. This is usually achieved by placing the camera higher than the subject and then angling it down on them. This can range from a shallow angle just above eye level all the way to directly above the subject.

Natural view

The eye level shot is considered the most natural camera angle. Capturing the shot at eye-level offers a neutral perception of the subject. Because it is the way in which we usually see people, this camera angle can help the audience connect with the subject.

Low view

A low angle shot is a photo taken from a camera angle positioned below the average eye line and pointing up. Low angle views can be used in conjunction with wide shots, medium shots, close-ups, and most other standard cinematic shots.

Worm’s eye view

Worm's eye view photography is a type of photography that is taken from a low angle, looking up at the subject. This perspective is achieved by positioning the camera below the subject, often lying on the ground or using a tripod with the camera pointing upwards.

Other camera angles

• Hip Level Shot
• Knee Level Shot
• Ground Level Shot
• Shoulder-Level Shot
• Dutch Angle Shot
• Aerial Shot / Helicopter Shot