Film buffs adore tracking shots the way the Guinness Book of World Records adore a hot dog eating champion. But tracking shots accomplish a lot more than meets the eye. As with Orson Welles’ B-movie masterpiece, “Touch of Evil,” the opening shot remains one of the most famous examples of a sustained tracking shot. Not only does it execute a glorious 3:30 shot in one stroke, but it becomes more than just a visual novelty.
Tracking shots lock the subject in a graceful choreography of camera and scenery, where the actors dance with the DP. While a hot dog champion is still a hot dog champion (but we still think they’re cool).
2 Comments to “TZ26 - Basics of Tracking Shots”
Monday February 18, 2008
I love your site and your videos, keep up the good work. I used to watch movies and get sick of just knowing it was all acting, it would really take away from the story if the acting wasn’t perfect. Now, regardless of acting, I watch movies with a new found appreciation because of your videos and lessons. I will be looking out for tracking shots from now on, can’t wait to see how the HD looks.
Thanks. - Larry
Thursday March 13, 2008
Hi! I wasn’t born with english speaking as my native language… so pardon.
I’m following your youtube episode and it helped and inspired me a lot. I’m a video and photo enthusiast from Philippines. I just wanna thank you guys for those tips and DIY that you featured. Keep it up and I will surely appreciate it.
God Bless….
Leave a Comment