Grammar of the Shot

By Christopher J. Bowen and Roy Thompson

Book Overview

The newly-revised and updated fourth edition of Grammar of the Shot teaches readers the principles behind successful visual communication in motion media through shot composition, screen direction, depth cues, lighting, camera movement, and shooting for editing. Many general practices are suggested that should help to create rich, multi-layered visuals. Designed as an easy-to-use reference, Grammar of the Shot presents each topic succinctly with clear photographs and diagrams illustrating key concepts, practical exercises, and quiz questions, and is a staple of any filmmaker's library.

New to the fourth edition:

an expanded companion website at www.routledge.com/cw/Bowen, offering downloadable scenes and editable raw footage so that students can practice the techniques described in the book, and instructional videos showcasing examples of different compositional choices;

new and expanded quiz questions and practical exercises at the end of each chapter to help test readers on their knowledge using real-world scenarios;

updated topic discussions, explanations, illustrations, and visual examples.

Together with its companion volume, Grammar of the Edit, the core concepts discussed in these books offer concise and practical resources for both experienced and aspiring filmmakers.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1138632228
• ISBN13: 9781138632226
• Release Date: July 2017
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 308 Pages
• Weight: 1.04 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.9" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

Get Down with the Lingo

As an amateur photographer, this book has definitely helped me in learning how to frame my shots and what the overall effect of my choices are. Definitely something to pick up if you're interested in photography, film or directing.

THE BEST BOOK FOR THE LANGUAGE OF THE FILM

This book is AMAZING.I'm a film student and i have to say i learned more from this book than the past three years in school.

excellent work

This book, shall we say, 'cuts to the chase scene' of what to look for in a good shot. Rather than contain lots of useless trivia look so many other books on filmaking and editing ["here's what a movieola looks like...it was invented in 1272 by Sir Random Dingleberry...", etc.], this book describes in no uncertain terms what ABSOLUTELY MUST BE IN EACH AND EVERY SHOT -- so that the successful film-maker can build a story that flows smoothly. This book will help you to be artistic, but will also help you to avoid confusing your audience. A small book that is easily read in the space of an hour, the student or novice film-maker will find himself using it as a quick reference many times over. Highly recommended.