At Taculia Entertainment, I’ve been telling stories through a camera lens since 2012. From shooting movies and music videos to weddings, funerals, and dedications, one thing I’ve learned is this: medium shots are the bread and butter of filmmaking.
They strike the perfect balance between close-ups that capture emotion and wide shots that set the scene. Over the years, I’ve used medium shots to bring characters to life in films and create timeless memories at events across Akwa Ibom.
What is a Medium Shot?
A medium shot typically frames the subject from the waist up. It captures both facial expressions and body language while still revealing enough of the background to provide context.
Types of Medium Shots
- Standard Medium Shot (Waist-Up):
Perfect for conversations. I use this often in wedding films when the couple is sharing vows. - Medium Close-Up (Chest-Up):
Creates intimacy while keeping the background visible. This is common in music videos where artists deliver emotional verses. - Medium Long Shot (Knees-Up):
Gives space for movement and gestures. I often use this in funerals or stage performances to capture full expressions and subtle actions.
Why Use Medium Shots?
In my years of cinematography, I’ve found medium shots to be indispensable because they:
Balance Emotion and Context: You see expressions while still feeling the environment.
Show Relationships: Perfect for dialogue, especially in movies where character interactions matter.
Feel Natural: This is how we normally see people in real life.
Add Flexibility: They blend easily into close-ups and wide shots for smooth storytelling.
Examples in Filmmaking
Drama Films: Two characters arguing in a living room scene.
Music Videos: An artist performing, framed waist-up against a scenic backdrop.
Weddings: The couple exchanging rings — faces, hands, and body language all visible.
Documentaries: Interview shots where the subject is relaxed and connected to the audience.
Tips for Shooting Medium Shots (From My Experience)
- Camera Height: Keep it at eye level for a natural feel, unless you want to tilt for power or vulnerability.
- Lens Choice: I prefer 35mm–50mm for medium shots because they keep perspective true without distortion.
- Composition: Apply the rule of thirds but don’t be afraid to break it when storytelling demands.
- Depth of Field: Blur the background slightly so the subject stands out while context remains visible.
- Movement: A slow pan or dolly-in can add cinematic flavor to an otherwise static medium shot.
Mistakes I See Beginners Make
Cluttered Backgrounds: Always clean up or choose a background that complements the subject.
Flat Angles: Position your subject away from the wall to create depth.
Overcrowding the Frame: Too many people in a medium shot makes it messy.
Continuity Errors: When filming dialogue, make sure both characters’ shots are framed consistently.
Conclusion
At Taculia Entertainment, I’ve found that mastering medium shots is one of the fastest ways to improve your filmmaking. They are versatile, natural, and essential for storytelling. Whether you’re shooting a feature film, a music video, or documenting life events, medium shots will always give you the balance you need.
👉 You can check out some of my portfolio on Taculia Entertainment Blog to see how I’ve used medium shots in real projects.
You may also like:
The Ultimate Guide to Camera Shots and Angles
Close-Up Shots in Filmmaking: Definition, Uses, and Examples
Wide Shots: Establishing Context in Visual Storytelling