The two shot is a pretty simple idea, a shot with two subjects within the frame. Similarly, a three shot is a shot with three subjects and a four shot is a shot with four subjects. But why call it a two shot? Is it not just a long shot or a medium shot with a couple of people within the frame?
Calling a shot a ‘Two Shot’ implies that the shot will not just be a mid shot, but it will also certainly include two people. Generally, you would not just call a shot a ‘Two Shot’. You are more likely to call it a ‘Long Two Shot’ or a ‘Mid Two Shot’. Saying something is a two shot it is just another added description for a particular shot.
The above shot is a great two shot. It clearly shows two people in the shot. This two shot is used effectively as it shows the relationship between the two boys. From the shot, it is clear that these two are either very good friends or are related (brothers or cousins).
Also, because they are looking out of the frame and off to the left of the screen, the audience are now given something to question: What are they looking at? Why do they look so concerned? Or afraid? There is a lot that can be questioned about the framing of this shot.
This shot is amazing… A moment of silence for the shot… Just look at it. Not only does it help to establish a relationship between the two but it gives the audience lines to follow. Lines are useful.
Lets start with the relationship: From this shot, one could say that the two characters of the shot are in love or have a close relationship with one another, however their is a line between them, which could suggest that there is a barrier stopping them declare their love for one another. Maybe the fact that she is older than he is. Maybe she is married and therefore being in love with someone is not a good thing.
Now for the lines: For starters, the lines are red. Now this may not be to do with the framing of the shot, but the red of the string lines suggest danger which could be true (or it could be that too much thought has been taken into writing about this shot). the lines also give the audience a start and finish. They start from the camera, and follow the lines to the subject. Lines make the shot seem deeper that it truly is. Always think of you lines.
Now we have the classic Two Shot. The conversation mid two shot. Watch any movie, and there will be a point in the movie where two people have a conversation and both of them are visible on screen. It is just a simple way to say that Mr A is talking to Mrs B. Makes sense doesn’t it? Well hopefully.
There is nothing all too special about this two shot. No special techniques have been used. In some ways, this shot shows that technique and perfect framing does not always need to be thought about so much. This shot works? Yes. This shot is harmful to the eye? No. You can look at this shot and understand what is going on? Yes. Therefore… Nothing wrong with it.
So there you have it… The two shot. Something that you may never use again but some people will. If you here it, at least you now know what the hell it is. If you are set on using it, you’ve no (hopefully) been given some ideas as to how this can be put into practice. Good luck!
You may also enjoy reading these articles:
