Camera angles are essential elements of graphic animation, as they can create different effects, emotions, and perspectives for the viewers. In this article, you will learn about some of the most effective camera angles for graphic animation, and how to use them to enhance your storytelling and visual style.
A high angle is when the camera is positioned above the subject, looking down at it. This angle can make the subject appear smaller, weaker, or more vulnerable, and can also create a sense of distance or detachment. High angles are often used to show the contrast between the subject and the environment, or to emphasize the power or dominance of another character or force. For example, you can use a high angle to show a character being chased by a monster, or to show the scale of a city or a landscape.
A low angle is when the camera is positioned below the subject, looking up at it. This angle can make the subject appear larger, stronger, or more imposing, and can also create a sense of intimacy or involvement. Low angles are often used to show the importance or significance of the subject, or to convey a sense of awe or admiration. For example, you can use a low angle to show a character rising to a challenge, or to show the beauty or detail of an object or a creature.
An eye level angle is when the camera is positioned at the same height as the subject, creating a neutral or realistic perspective. This angle can make the subject appear natural, relatable, or believable, and can also create a sense of connection or empathy. Eye level angles are often used to show the character's point of view, or to establish a dialogue or a relationship between characters. For example, you can use an eye level angle to show a character's reaction, or to show a conversation or a conflict between characters.
A bird's eye view angle is when the camera is positioned very high above the subject, creating a panoramic or aerial view. This angle can make the subject appear insignificant, abstract, or mysterious, and can also create a sense of overview or scope. Bird's eye view angles are often used to show the context or the setting of the story, or to reveal something hidden or surprising. For example, you can use a bird's eye view angle to show the layout of a scene, or to show a twist or a reveal in the plot.
It largely depends on what the artist wants to convey from the scene. It's not that one camera angle is better than the other, it's just that one camera angle 'might ' be better than the other one in terms of conveying the underlying message hoped to be sent across by the artist. There are set guidelines on which shot would traditionally require which camera angle. One should study that first, and then experiment as much as needed for that knowledge and technique to be second nature.
A worm's eye view angle is when the camera is positioned very low below the subject, creating a distorted or exaggerated view. This angle can make the subject appear distorted, grotesque, or surreal, and can also create a sense of distortion or exaggeration. Worm's eye view angles are often used to show the mood or the tone of the story, or to create a visual effect or a style. For example, you can use a worm's eye view angle to show the horror or the humor of a situation, or to create a dynamic or a dramatic composition.
A tilted angle is when the camera is positioned at an angle that is not horizontal or vertical, creating a slanted or skewed view. This angle can make the subject appear unstable, disoriented, or confused, and can also create a sense of tension or movement. Tilted angles are often used to show the emotion or the conflict of the story, or to create a visual interest or a contrast. For example, you can use a tilted angle to show the chaos or the action of a scene, or to create a contrast between the subject and the background.