Composition in filmmaking – a guide to popular techniques

composition in filmmaking
(Image credit: © Piotrek Luszczak from Unsplash)

Understanding composition in filmmaking and putting it into practice is what will set your videos apart. A well thought-out shot quite often speaks louder than words and can help convey a message or emotion. Some of the most memorable scenes in cinema aren’t remembered because of what someone said or did, but how they were filmed.

It doesn't matter whether you're shooting on a cinema camera like the Canon EOS C70 or using the Cinematic mode on the iPhone 13 Pro Max; if you’re shooting a music video, a promotional campaign, an ad or a documentary, you’ll need to think carefully about how you want the end result to look. While the best camera for video will ensure that your footage looks professional, it's down to you as the videographer to be creative with how you shoot your project.

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Hannah Rooke
Freelance contributor

Having studied Journalism and Public Relations at the University of the West of England Hannah developed a love for photography through a module on photojournalism. She specializes in Portrait, Fashion and lifestyle photography but has more recently branched out in the world of stylized product photography. Hannah spent three years working at Wex Photo Video as a Senior Sales Assistant, using her experience and knowledge of cameras to help people buy the equipment that is right for them. With eight years experience working with studio lighting, Hannah has run many successful workshops teaching people how to use different lighting setups.