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Categories All categories Film terms
- 3D filmA motion picture that utilizes special filming techniques to create the illusion of depth perception.
- 30-degree ruleA film editing guideline stating the camera should move at least 30 degrees relative to the subject between successive shots to avoid jump cuts.
- 180-degree ruleA basic guideline regarding the on-screen spatial relationship between characters within a scene. By keeping the camera on one side of an imaginary axis between two characters, the first character is always frame right of the second character.
- Abby Singer ShotThe second-to-last shot of the day, named after assistant director Abner E. 'Abby' Singer.
- Above-the-lineThe costs associated with major creative talent (director, actors, writers, producers).
- Accelerated montageA series of shots edited together at an increasingly rapid pace.
- Accent lightSecondary light that emphasizes certain features.
- AcousmaticSound heard without seeing its originating cause.
- Action axisThe imaginary line between actors in a scene (see 180-degree rule).
- ActorA person who portrays a character in a performance.
- AdaptationThe transfer of a creative work to motion picture format.
- Aerial perspectiveVisual technique creating the illusion of depth through atmospheric haze.
- Aerial shotA shot filmed from overhead, typically from a plane, drone, or helicopter.
- AllegoryAn extended metaphor where a film suggests correspondence between visible elements and abstract meanings.
- AlliterationA literary technique linking words that share the same first consonant sound.
- AllusionAn implied or indirect reference to something in general discussion or within a text.
- Alternate endingA conclusion to a film different from the one initially released.
- Ambient lightNatural light or pre-existing light in a location (also called available light).
- American nightA filming technique to simulate night scenes during daylight.
- American shotAlso called a 3/4 shot, a medium-long film shot showing characters from the knees up.
- Anamorphic formatA widescreen technique that 'stretches' a distorted image during projection.
- AngleThe relative position of the camera to the subject.
- Angle onDirecting the camera to move and focus on a particular subject.
- AnimationFilmmaking technique where individual drawings of static objects are filmed one frame at a time.
- AnimeA distinct form of animation with roots in Japan, recognized by colorful images and stylized backgrounds.
- AntagonistThe character or force opposing the protagonist.
- Anthology filmA movie with multiple segments devoted to different narratives.
- Anti-climaxA disappointing or unsatisfying conclusion following a film's high point.
- Anti-heroA protagonist who lacks traditional heroic attributes.
- ApertureThe opening of a camera lens that controls the amount of light passing through.
- Apple boxDifferent sized wooden boxes used for various purposes on set.
- Arc shotA shot that captures a subject while moving around in a circle.
- ArchetypeA character, thing, or place presented in film with a certain characterization.
- ArmorerCrew member responsible for weapon safety on set.
- ArretA French term for an in-camera technique where the camera stops, an object is placed within the frame, and filming resumes.
- Art departmentThe production division responsible for set design and props.
- Art directorThe person in charge of the feel, look, and design of the set.
- Art-houseA niche movie theater specializing in non-mainstream films.
- Artificial lightLight sources provided by the film crew.
- ASA speed ratingA measurement of film sensitivity to light.
- AsideWhen a character breaks the fourth wall to address the audience directly.
- Aspect ratioThe proportional relationship between an image's width and height.
- AssemblyThe first step in editing where shots are arranged by script order.
- AsynchronousWhen audio tracks are out of sync with visuals.
- AtmosphereThe aesthetic that adds to a film's dimensional tone.
- AudioThe sound component of a film.
- Audio bridgeOutgoing sound that carries from one scene to the next.
- AuditionThe process where actors read from a script to be considered for roles.
- AuteurA director with a distinct style who is considered the 'author' of the film.
- Automated dialogue replacement (ADR)Re-recording dialogue after filming (also called looping).
- Available lightSee ambient light.
- Avant-gardeExperimental or abstract film movement that challenges conventional techniques.
- Axial cutA jump cut where the camera moves closer to or further from its subject along an invisible line.
- b-movieA low-budget, offbeat film typically from independent producers.
- b-rollSupplementary footage intercut with the main shots.
- baby platesSmall lighting equipment.
- back projectionTechnique where live action is filmed in front of a transparent screen with a background added later.
- back storyEvents that transpired before the film began.
- backdropA large photographic painting used as background for a scene.
- backgroundThe rear plane of action in a frame, often abbreviated as 'b.g.'
- background actorSee extra.
- background artistPerson responsible for designing visual backgrounds.
- background musicScore or music that sets the tone of a scene.
- backlightingLight placed behind the subject to separate it from the background.
- backlotStudio property where outside scenes can be shot in an enclosed area.
- balanceHow light, movement, and sound work together in a scene.
- balloon lightA soft, overhead light source.
- barn doorsMetal folding doors on lights that direct illumination.
- beatA pause before an actor's movement or dialogue.
- beatscriptA script formatted with emotional or action beats noted.
- below-the-lineProduction costs not related to creative talent.
- best boyAssistant to the gaffer or key grip.
- billingThe placement of actors' names on promotional materials.
- biopicA biographical film about a real-life subject.
- bird's eye shotA shot taken directly from above.
- bit partA small acting role with minimal lines.
- black comedyA sub-genre treating serious subjects with macabre humor.
- blacklistingWhen individuals have trouble finding work in the industry.
- blaxploitationLow-budget 1970s films featuring African-American casts and tackling gritty topics.
- blockbusterA highly successful film at the box office.
- blockingThe precise staging of actors, cameras, and lights for a scene.
- blooperA mistake made during filming, sometimes shown during end credits.
- blow-upThe process of enlarging a film frame or image.
- blue comedyComedy characterized by explicit language and sexual innuendo.
- blue screenMonochromatic background used for special effects (see green screen).
- body doubleA performer who substitutes for an actor in certain shots.
- bollywoodThe filmmaking industry in India.
- bookendsWhen opening and ending scenes complement each other.
- boom shotA shot where the camera is mounted on a mechanical arm.
- bootlegIllegally obtained and distributed version of a film.
- bounce boardDevice used to reflect light during filming.
- bracketingShooting the same scene multiple times with different exposures.
- bridging shotTransitional shot used to indicate a jump in time or place.
- brutalist locationFilming locations featuring bold, raw concrete architecture.
- bumperPre-film segment showing the studio's logo.
- butterflyLarge fabric sheet used to diffuse light.
- c-clampA device used to secure equipment.
- c-standA sturdy light stand with adjustable legs and arm.
- call sheetSchedule given to crew members for a day's filming.
- call timeWhen crew is expected to be on set.
- callier effectOptical effect related to film development.
- cameoBrief appearance by a famous person in a film.
- cameo lightingSpotlight accentuating a single subject against a darker background.
- cameraDevice that captures images for filmmaking.
- camera angleThe point of view from which the camera photographs a subject.
- camera boomA mechanical arm that suspends a camera.
- camera coverageThe variety of shots obtained for a scene.
- camera dollyA wheeled cart used to move cameras horizontally.
- camera movementThe act of moving the camera to capture various angles.
- camera operatorPerson who physically operates the camera.
- camera solvingSee match moving.
- camera stabilizerDevice that prevents unwanted camera movement.
- candles per square footMeasurement of light intensity.
- capsule reviewA very short movie critique.
- captionText at the bottom of a frame describing or translating content.
- caricatureAn exaggerated portrayal of a character.
- cash cowA guaranteed financially successful film.
- castThe collective performers in a film.
- castingThe process of selecting actors for roles.
- casting directorPerson responsible for casting actors.
- catchphraseA memorable phrase said by a character that gains cultural significance.
- catharsisThe emotional release experienced during a film's climax.
- celIndividual hand-drawn sheet for animation.
- century standSee C-stand.
- CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery)Digital special effects used in filmmaking.
- change-over cueSignal to a projectionist that a reel change is needed.
- characterAn individual within a movie portrayed by an actor.
- character actorActor who specializes in unique or supporting roles.
- character animationAnimation focused on bringing characters to life.
- character sheetDocument detailing character attributes.
- character studyFilm where characterization takes precedence over plot.
- chiaroscuroHigh-contrast lighting technique emphasizing light and shadow.
- chick flickTerm for films primarily appealing to female audiences.
- child actorPerformer under the age of 18.
- chimeraCloth frame that softens a hard light source.
- choker shotExtremely tight close-up.
- chroma keyingTechnique for compositing images based on color (see blue/green screen).
- chromatic aberrationOptical distortion where colors don't focus at the same point.
- cine lensSpecialized lens designed for filmmaking.
- cineasteFilm enthusiast.
- cinéma véritéFilmmaking style dedicated to capturing 'real life.'
- CinemaDNGDigital cinema file format.
- CinemaScopeWidescreen film presentation technique using a 2.35:1 aspect ratio.
- cinematographerPerson responsible for a film's photography and lighting.
- cinematographyThe art of motion-picture photography.
- cineramaWide-screen film process using three cameras and projectors.
- clampsDevices used to hold equipment in place on set.
- clapperboardDevice used to synchronize picture and sound.
- claymationAnimation style using clay or plasticine figures.
- cliffhangerAn ending that leaves the primary conflict unresolved.
- climaxThe highest point of tension in a narrative.
- clock wipeTransitional effect where a line rotates like a clock hand.
- close shotSimilar to a close-up but slightly wider.
- close-upShot taken from a close distance to emphasize details.
- closing creditsText at the end of a film listing contributors.
- cold openBeginning a film with story scenes before the title sequence.
- color conversion filterFilter that adjusts color temperature.
- color corrected fluorescent lightModified light source for accurate color rendering.
- color correctionProcess of altering the color of light in a scene.
- color gelTransparent colored material placed over lights.
- color gradingPost-production process of altering a film's color scheme.
- color rendering indexMeasurement of a light source's ability to show true colors.
- color reversal internegativeFilm intermediate used in color processes.
- color temperatureMeasurement of light's color characteristics.
- color timerTechnician who adjusts film color during processing.
- colorizationAdding color to black-and-white footage.
- coming-of-age filmMovie about teenagers growing into adulthood.
- command performanceAn outstanding acting performance.
- composerMusician who creates a film's score.
- compositingCombining visual elements from separate sources into a single image.
- compositionThe arrangement of visual elements in a frame.
- concert filmMovie recording a live musical performance.
- continuityConsistency of elements across shots and scenes.
- continuity editingEditing technique maintaining spatial and temporal logic.
- continuity errorMistake in the logical consistency between shots.
- contrastThe difference between light and shadow in a scene.
- conventionTypical element audiences expect from certain film genres.
- Coogan's LawLegislation protecting child actors' earnings.
- Cooke tripletType of lens design.
- cost reportDocument tracking production expenses.
- coverageThe complete set of shots obtained for a scene.
- craft servicesDepartment providing food and beverages on set.
- crane shotCamera shot taken from a mechanical arm or boom.
- creative geographyUse of separate locations edited to appear as one.
- creditsText listing the cast and crew of a film.
- crewCollective of individuals involved in technical aspects of production.
- criticPerson who publishes analytical reviews of films.
- cross-cuttingEditing technique alternating between different scenes.
- cross-fadeTransitional technique where one scene fades as another appears.
- cross lightingIllumination from opposite sides.
- cross-overFilm appealing to multiple demographic groups.
- crowd shotScene featuring a large group of extras.
- cucolorisDevice filtering light to create patterns or shadows.
- cueSignal for an actor to start performing.
- cue cardBoard with printed dialogue for actor reference.
- cutAbrupt transition from one shot to another.
- cut inEditing to insert a close-up into a wider shot.
- cut outEditing to return to a wider shot from a close-up.
- cutaway shotQuick shot inserted between a continuously-filmed sequence.
- cutting on actionEditing technique that creates continuity through matching action.
- cutting rhythmSee external rhythm.
- cycloramaSeamlessly curved backdrop used for scenery.
- daily call sheetSchedule for a particular day of filming.
- daily editor logRecord of editing work completed.
- daily production reportDocument summarizing a day's filming.
- daily progress reportUpdate on production status.
- dark horseLittle-known film that becomes unexpectedly successful.
- day for nightTechniques used to simulate nighttime while filming in daylight.
- Day Out of DaysChart tracking paid days for cast members.
- day playerActor hired for a single day's work.
- deadpanExpressionless comedic delivery.
- deadspotArea without proper lighting.
- deep focusTechnique keeping foreground, middle-ground, and background in focus.
- delayed releasePostponing a film's distribution.
- denouementResolution following a film's climax.
- depth of fieldArea in focus in relation to the camera.
- depth of focusAdjustment maintaining focus throughout multiple planes.
- deus ex machinaContrived plot resolution through external intervention.
- dialect coachCoach who helps actors with accent and speech patterns.
- dialogue editorPerson who edits spoken lines in post-production.
- dichroic lensSpecialized lens that splits or filters light.
- diegetic soundSound logically existing within a scene.
- diffractionLight behavior around edges of objects.
- diffusionSoftening or reduction of light intensity.
- digital audioSound recorded or converted to digital form.
- digital cinemaFilmmaking using digital technology.
- digital cinematographyRecording with digital image sensors instead of film.
- digital compositingProcess of digitally assembling multiple images.
- digital distributionSharing media via the internet.
- digital filmFilm shot and distributed digitally.
- digital image processingManipulating digital images via computer.
- digital intermediateDigital process in the film production workflow.
- digital negativeOriginal digital capture of a film.
- digital Picture ExchangeFile format for digital film frames.
- dimmerDevice controlling light intensity.
- direct lightingIllumination pointing directly at the subject.
- directing the eyeUsing composition to guide viewer attention.
- directorArtist responsible for a film's artistic control.
- director's cutVersion of a film edited according to the director's preferences.
- dissolveGradual transition where one image fades into another.
- distributionProcess of making a film available to audiences.
- DMXDigital protocol for controlling lighting.
- documentary filmNon-fiction film documenting reality.
- dogme 95Filmmaking collective establishing rules rejecting special effects.
- dolby StereoSound system for enhanced audio quality.
- dolly gripCrew member who operates the camera dolly.
- dolly shotShot where the camera moves horizontally on a dolly.
- dolly zoomCamera technique combining a zoom with dolly movement.
- double exposureExposing film twice to create overlapping images.
- double-system recordingRecording sound separate from the camera.
- douserDevice that blocks light.
- drawn on film animationAnimation created directly on film stock.
- dubbingAdding or replacing sound after production.
- dump monthsLess desirable release periods (typically January-February).
- dutch angleShot with the camera tilted to create uneasiness.
- dynamic compositionFrame arrangement creating visual energy.
- dynamic frameTechnique masking the image to different ratios.
- f-numberLens aperture measurement.
- f-stopSetting controlling the lens aperture.
- fade-inGradual appearance of an image from black.
- fade-outGradual disappearance of an image to black.
- fast cuttingEditing technique using very short shots.
- fast motionSee time-lapse.
- favor onCamera focus on a specific subject within a shot.
- feature filmFull-length movie intended as the main attraction.
- feature lengthMinimum running time for a full-length film.
- field of viewArea visible through the camera lens.
- fill lightLight reducing shadows created by the key light.
- filmMedium for recording motion pictures.
- film budgetingProcess of estimating and controlling production costs.
- film gateOpening in a camera through which film is exposed.
- film grainLight-sensitive material in a film's emulsion.
- film inventory reportDocument tracking film stock.
- film modificationAlterations made to film footage.
- film noirDark film style featuring shadowy visuals and cynical themes.
- film planeSurface where the lens focuses an image.
- film productionProcess of making a motion picture.
- film recorderDevice transferring digital images to film.
- film releaseDistribution of a completed movie.
- film scannerDevice converting film to digital format.
- film scoreOriginal music written for a film.
- film speedMeasurement of film's sensitivity to light.
- film stockPhysical medium used for recording images.
- film theoryAcademic study of cinema.
- film transitionTechnique used to connect shots or scenes.
- film treatmentDetailed summary of a film's story.
- filmmakingComplete process of making a motion picture.
- filmographyList of films by a particular contributor.
- filterMaterial that alters light quality.
- fine cutNearly finished edit of a film.
- fish-eye lensUltra-wide angle lens creating curved distortion.
- flagLight-absorbing cloth used to block illumination.
- flash-forwardScene depicting future events.
- flashbackScene depicting events from the past.
- flicker fusion thresholdRate at which individual images appear as motion.
- floodlightBroad, even light source.
- focusSharpness of an image.
- focus pullerAssistant responsible for maintaining focus.
- follow focusMechanism for adjusting focus during shots.
- follow shotCamera movement tracking a subject.
- followspot lightManually operated spotlight.
- footageRaw, unedited film material.
- forced perspectiveTechnique creating optical illusions of scale.
- foregroundAction or objects closest to the camera.
- foreshadowingIndicating future plot developments.
- found footageTechnique using seemingly discovered video material.
- fourth wallImaginary barrier between the film and audience.
- frameSingle still image in a motion picture.
- frame compositionArrangement of visual elements.
- frame rateNumber of frames displayed per second.
- freeze frame shotShot where action appears to stop.
- french hoursProduction schedule without a lunch break.
- fresnel lensSpecialized lens used in lighting.
- full frameUsing the maximum film gate area.
- full shotSee wide shot.
- gafferHead electrician on a film set.
- gaffer tapeStrong, removable fabric tape used on set.
- gateMechanism holding film steady during exposure.
- gelColored filter for lights.
- general releaseWidespread distribution of a film.
- genreCategory of film with common thematic elements.
- go motionStop-motion technique simulating motion blur.
- goboObject placed in front of a light to shape shadows.
- godspot effectDramatic overhead lighting.
- greenlightApproval for a film to enter production.
- greenscreenSee blue screen.
- grindhouseTheater showing exploitation and B-films.
- gripCrew member handling camera movement equipment.
- grossTotal box office revenue.
- guerrilla filmLow-budget film made without permits.
- handheld shotCamera shot deliberately unstabilized.
- hanging miniatureSmall model photographed to appear full-sized.
- hard lightDirect, focused illumination creating sharp shadows.
- hays CodeHistorical censorship restrictions in Hollywood.
- head-on shotShot where action comes directly toward the camera.
- head shotClose-up of an actor's face.
- heart wipeTransition effect shaped like a heart.
- helicopter shotAerial shot taken from a helicopter.
- helmAnother term for directing a film.
- high-angle shotShot looking down on the subject.
- high conceptEasily pitched film idea with a clear premise.
- high definitionImage with enhanced resolution.
- high-intensity discharge lampPowerful lighting source.
- high-key lightingBright, even illumination with minimal shadows.
- hip hop montageRapidly edited sequence with musical accompaniment.
- hitting a markActor moving to the correct position during filming.
- hmiPowerful light used to simulate sunlight.
- homageRespectful reference to another film or filmmaker.
- honeywagonMobile bathrooms on a film set.
- hookElement designed to capture audience interest.
- horrorGenre intended to frighten viewers.
- hybridFilm combining elements of multiple genres.
- hydrargyrum Medium-Arc Iodide lampHigh-intensity light source.
- iconographyUse of recognizable symbols within a film.
- IMAXLarge-format film projection system.
- in-camera editingFilming scenes in the exact order needed.
- independent filmMovie made outside the major studio system.
- inkSigning a contract to work on a film.
- insertMaterial added between shots.
- insert shotClose-up of an object or detail within a scene.
- inside jokeReference understood only by those with specific knowledge.
- intercut shotsAlternating shots of simultaneous events.
- interludeShort sequence between major scenes.
- intermissionBreak in the middle of a film.
- internal rhythmPace created by action within a shot.
- interpositiveIntermediate positive film print.
- intertitleText inserted between scenes in silent films.
- iris in/outCircular transition effect.
- italian shotShot emphasizing an actor's eyes.
- j cutEdit where audio precedes the visual cut.
- jibCamera crane used for movement.
- jump cutAbrupt transition creating discontinuity.
- jump scareSudden shocking moment designed to startle viewers.
- juxtapositionPlacement of contrasting elements for effect.
- key gripSupervisor of grip crew.
- key lightPrimary light source in a scene.
- kino FloFluorescent lighting system for film.
- klieglightPowerful carbon-arc lamp.
- kuleshov effectPhenomenon where viewer interpretation is influenced by shot sequencing.
- l cutEdit where visuals change while audio continues.
- landmark filmRevolutionary or historically significant movie.
- lap dissolveGradual transition between scenes.
- lavalierSmall microphone attached to an actor.
- leading actorPrincipal performer in a film.
- leitmotifRecurring theme or element.
- lensOptical glass that focuses light onto film.
- lens flareLight scattered within a lens.
- letterboxingProcess of adapting widescreen for standard displays.
- limited releaseDistribution to a small number of theaters.
- line producerProducer handling daily operations and budget.
- lip syncSynchronizing mouth movements with recorded sound.
- locationPlace used for filming.
- location managerPerson who finds and manages filming locations.
- location scoutPerson who searches for potential filming locations.
- location soundBackground audio recorded on location.
- lockupArea controlled during filming to prevent interruptions.
- loglineBrief summary of a film's premise.
- long shotCamera view from a distance.
- long takeShot of unusually long duration.
- loopingSee ADR.
- low-angle shotShot looking up at the subject.
- low-key lightingDramatic lighting with prominent shadows.
- macGuffinPlot device driving the action but ultimately unimportant.
- magic hourOptimal filming time around sunset or sunrise.
- martini shotFinal shot of the day.
- maskBlocking part of the frame with darkness.
- master shotLong take showing the entire scene.
- match cutTransitional edit linking visually similar elements.
- match movingTechnique tracking camera movement for effects integration.
- matte artistPerson creating painted backgrounds.
- matte shotCombining separate elements into a composite image.
- medium close-upShot framing from the chest up.
- medium shotShot from a medium distance, typically waist-up.
- melodramaFilm with intensely emotional characters and plot.
- metaphorFigure of speech using comparison without 'like' or 'as.'
- method actingActing technique drawing on personal emotions.
- mexican filterYellow filter used to depict Mexican locations.
- MIDI timecodeSynchronization standard for music equipment.
- miniatureSmall-scale model photographed to appear larger.
- mise-en-scèneTotal visual composition of a shot.
- mixingCombining various sound elements into the final soundtrack.
- mockumentaryFictional film styled as a documentary.
- money shotClimactic moment that justifies the production cost.
- montageSeries of short shots assembled to create a composite sequence.
- mood lightingIllumination designed to evoke specific emotions.
- morris the explainerCharacter who explains plot elements.
- motifRecurring thematic element.
- motion pictureFilm or movie.
- motion picture content rating systemClassification system for audience suitability.
- movement mechanismDevice controlling film movement.
- movie cameraDevice for capturing moving images.
- MPAAMotion Picture Association of America.
- multiple-camera setupUsing several cameras simultaneously.
- multiple exposureExposing film multiple times to layer images.
- mumblecoreIndependent film movement featuring naturalistic acting.
- narrationSupplemental information provided by voice off-screen.
- naturalismHyper-realistic film style.
- negative costTotal production expense.
- negative cuttingPhysical editing of film negatives.
- neo-realismFilm movement emphasizing location shooting and non-professional actors.
- new HollywoodAmerican film movement from 1967-1976.
- new waveMovement of innovative French filmmakers.
- nickelodeonEarly movie viewing establishment.
- nitrate film baseHighly flammable early film material.
- non-diegetic soundSound not originating from within the film's world.
- nutOperating expenses for a film exhibition.
- off bookActor who has memorized all lines.
- omniscient point of viewNarrative perspective knowing all characters' thoughts.
- one-linerBrief, memorable joke.
- origin storyNarrative detailing a character's beginnings.
- over-the-shoulder shotShot from behind one character looking at another.
- overcrankingRunning the camera faster to create slow-motion.
- overexposedShot with excessive light causing washout.
- overhead shotCamera positioned directly above the subject.
- overtureOpening music before a film begins.
- ozonerSlang for a drive-in theater.
- p.o.v. shotCamera angle showing a character's perspective.
- pa (Production Assistant)Entry-level crew member with various responsibilities.
- paceTempo of dramatic action.
- panHorizontal camera movement.
- pan and scanTechnique adapting widescreen for standard displays.
- paradoxSeemingly contradictory statement containing truth.
- parentheticalScript direction for acting delivery.
- pay or playAgreement guaranteeing payment regardless of production.
- persistence of visionOptical phenomenon creating the illusion of motion.
- pipelineProject in development.
- pixilationAnimation technique using humans as stop-motion subjects.
- plato's allegoryPhilosophical concept about perception vs. reality.
- positive printFilm with the original light image.
- post-credits sequenceScene appearing during or after end credits.
- post-modernArt that rejects modernist themes and expectations.
- post-productionAll production phases occurring after filming.
- pre-CodePeriod between 1930-1934 before censorship enforcement.
- pre-productionPlanning stage before actual filming begins.
- pre-screenTest showing of a film before public release.
- prequelFilm chronologically set before the original movie.
- principal photographyMain filming period featuring lead actors.
- principalsMain characters with dialogue in a film.
- producerPerson responsible for business and management aspects.
- production agreementContract between parties for film work.
- production designOverall visual look and aesthetic of a film.
- production valueQuality level of a film's technical elements.
- prologueScene or introduction preceding the main plot.
- protagonistCentral character driving the story.
- pull backCamera movement away from the subject.
- push inCamera movement toward the subject.
- racking focusChanging focus between foreground and background elements.
- reaction shotShot showing a character's response to something.
- real timeWhen story time equals screen time.
- realismStyle presenting events as naturally as possible.
- rear screen projectionSee back projection.
- recceInitial visit to a potential filming location.
- redlightCancelled film project.
- reelSpool for winding film or highlight compilation.
- rembrandt lightingLighting technique creating a triangle of light under the eye.
- reshoot contingencyFunds reserved for additional filming.
- retro locationFilming site featuring vintage décor and elements.
- revealPlot device exposing previously unknown information.
- reverse angle shotShot from the opposite side of a subject.
- reverse motionRunning film backwards for special effect.
- revival houseTheater specializing in classic or art films.
- riggerCrew member who sets up lighting equipment.
- roadshowHeavily promoted exploitation film that toured.
- rotoscopingAnimation technique tracing over live footage.
- rough cutEarly, unrefined edit of a film.
- rushUnprocessed footage from a day's shooting.
- satireFilm that mocks or ridicules social institutions.
- scandi locationFilming location featuring Scandinavian design elements.
- sceneUnified action in a single location.
- scoreMusical portion of a film's soundtrack.
- screenMesh used to cut light intensity.
- screen directionMovement direction of characters and objects.
- screen testTest filming for actors, costumes, or effects.
- screenerCopy of a film sent to critics or awards voters.
- screenlifeStyle where action takes place entirely on computer screens.
- screenplayScript for a film production.
- screenwriterPerson who writes film scripts.
- second optionSecondary right to use a location.
- second unit photographyCrew filming secondary scenes.
- sepia toneBrown-tinted monochromatic image.
- sequelFilm continuing the story of a previous movie.
- sequenceSeries of related scenes.
- settingTime and place of a story.
- shallow focusLimited depth of field.
- shepard toneAudio illusion creating impression of endless rising/falling.
- shooting in the roundFilming from all angles.
- shooting scheduleTimeline for filming.
- shooting scriptScreenplay formatted for production.
- shotContinuous run of the camera.
- shot listPlanned shots for a filming day.
- shot/reverse shotTechnique showing characters looking at each other.
- showrunnerPerson with primary creative control of a TV series.
- shutter speedDuration a single frame is exposed.
- silent filmMovie without synchronized sound.
- simileFigure of speech comparing using 'like' or 'as.'
- single-camera setupProduction using one camera.
- skip frameOmitting specific frames for effect.
- slateBoard identifying the shot for sound synchronization.
- sleeperFilm that becomes unexpectedly successful.
- slow cuttingEditing technique using shots of long duration.
- slow motionEffect making action appear slower than normal.
- smash cutAbrupt transition for dramatic effect.
- SMPTE timecodeStandard for labeling video frames.
- snubNotable exclusion from awards nominations.
- soft boxDevice that diffuses light.
- soft focusDeliberate slight blurring of the image.
- soft lightDiffused illumination that minimizes shadows.
- sound designCreation of a film's audio elements.
- sound designerPerson creating audio elements.
- sound editorPerson who edits audio components.
- sound effectAudio element added in post-production.
- sound reportDocument tracking audio recording details.
- soundstageSoundproof studio space for filming.
- soundtrackComplete audio portion of a film.
- spaghetti westernItalian-produced Western films.
- spec scriptScreenplay written without commission.
- special effectsVisual or audio illusions created for film.
- special effects supervisorPerson overseeing effects creation.
- spin-offDerivative work featuring characters from another property.
- split editTransition where audio and video change at different times.
- split-reelTwo short films combined on one reel.
- split screenTechnique showing multiple images simultaneously.
- spoilerPlot information that can diminish viewing enjoyment.
- stage lightingIllumination for theatrical performance.
- stalker visionCamera technique showing a predator's perspective.
- stand-inPerson substituting for an actor during technical setup.
- stately locationGrand, impressive property for filming.
- steadicamCamera stabilizing system for smooth movement.
- step outlineScene-by-scene breakdown of a screenplay.
- stillSingle frame or promotional photograph.
- stingerSurprising element at the end of credits or extension cord.
- stock footagePre-existing footage used in a film.
- stop motionAnimation technique using incrementally moved objects.
- storyboardSequential sketches showing planned shots.
- storyboard artistPerson who creates storyboards.
- strikeDismantling and removing equipment after filming.
- striplightLong, narrow light fixture.
- stunt doublePerformer who replaces an actor in dangerous scenes.
- stunt performerSpecialist in dangerous action sequences.
- subjective cinemaFilm presenting a personal point of view.
- subplotSecondary storyline complementing the main plot.
- substitution spliceEdit replacing one element with another.
- subtextUnderlying meaning beneath dialogue or actions.
- subtitlesText translation or description at bottom of frame.
- superimpositionLayering one image over another.
- supporting actorPerformer in a non-lead role.
- surrealismArt movement presenting dreamlike, irrational imagery.
- swish panExtremely fast horizontal camera movement.
- symbolismUse of objects to represent abstract ideas.
- symmetryBalanced visual composition.
- taglineShort phrase summarizing a film for marketing.
- takeSingle continuous recording of a scene.
- talking headShot framing only a person's head and shoulders.
- tech recceTechnical reconnaissance of a filming location.
- technicolorEarly color film process with vivid saturation.
- telephoto lensLong focal length lens that brings distant subjects closer.
- test screeningPreview showing to gauge audience reaction.
- themeCentral message or idea of a film.
- third wallBreaking the medium's convention by acknowledging it.
- three-point lightingStandard lighting setup with key, fill, and back lights.
- three shotCamera shot of three people.
- tight onClose-up shot with narrow framing.
- tilt shotVertical camera movement up or down.
- time-lapseTechnique where frames are captured at intervals.
- timecodeNumeric sequence for synchronizing recordings.
- tintColor applied to film stock for mood.
- title sequenceOpening credits of a film.
- tracking shotCamera following movement alongside the subject.
- treatmentDetailed summary of a film's story.
- trunk shotShot from inside a car trunk.
- two shotCamera shot of two people.
- typecastingRepeatedly casting an actor in similar roles.
- u-maticObsolete ¾-inch magnetic tape format.
- undercrankingSlowing camera frame rate to create fast motion.
- underexposureFilming with insufficient light.
- unionOrganization representing film industry professionals.
- unit baseArea where film crew sets up facilities during shooting.
- unreliable narratorCharacter whose perspective is questionable.
- upfrontsTV network presentations to advertisers.
- vertigo effectCamera technique combining zoom and dolly movements.
- video productionProcess of creating video content.
- videographyCapturing moving images electronically.
- vignetteSelf-contained scene that stands alone.
- visual effectsPost-production imagery added to footage.
- visual effects supervisorPerson overseeing effects creation.
- voice actingPerformance using only one's voice.
- voice actorPerformer who works primarily with voice.
- voice artistSee voice actor.
- voice-overRecorded dialogue from an unseen speaker.
- walk and talkScene where characters converse while walking.
- walk-onBrief, often non-speaking appearance.
- walk-throughInitial rehearsal on set.
- wardrobeCostume department or individual outfit.
- whip panSee swish pan.
- white balanceCamera setting establishing color accuracy.
- wide angle shotShot using a lens with broad field of view.
- wide releaseFilm playing in numerous theaters nationally.
- widescreenRectangular aspect ratio wider than standard.
- wildRemovable piece of set for camera access.
- wipeTransition where one shot replaces another across the frame.
- worm's eye viewShot from a very low angle looking up.
- wrapCompletion of filming.
- X ratingAdult content classification.
- Z-movieUltra-low-budget independent film.
- zoetropeEarly animation device.
- zoomCamera lens adjustment changing field of view.
- zoom shotShot using variable focal length.
- Zoptic special effects3D process for depth illusion.
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