Original subtitles

Another aspect to take into account when composing a shot

is the natural architectural lines of a scene.

As a viewer, it is natural to follow these lines with our eyes

so we can use these lines to draw

the viewer deeper into the frame or pull them out.

Let's take a look at an example.

Here we see a man standing against a stone wall.

The horizontal lines of the image intersect with the subject

at perpendicular angles.

The lines do not draw us into the frame, but rather reinforce the grid

like pattern of the background by shifting the camera to the side.

We can get a very different perspective

by implementing

the rule of thirds and recognizing the lines of the background.

We are able to create a much more dynamic image.

The lines of the wall now run back into space.

Drawing the viewer into the subject perspective

lines can be used in other ways as well.

Here we have positioned the subject so the lines direct

the viewer's attention to the center of the frame

by being aware of naturally occurring lines within your frame.

You can create dynamic composition that work with the organic flow

of an image that enables you to selectively emphasize dramatic elements

by adjusting the scale of a particular subject

to establish its importance within the story.

Hitchcock used this to great effect

by equating the size of an object in the frame to its importance

because of these, some people refer to it as the Hitchcock's rule.

We can establish tension and suspense by filling the frame with an object

before our audience understands its significance by placing characters

and objects deep within the frame.

You cannot just a passive relationship between the character

and their environment.

It may take a bit more lighting and planning to successfully utilize

great depth of field in your projects, but it can make a world of difference.

This isn't to say there is a certain style that is preferable.

It all depends on the story you're trying to tell.