The Psychology of Framing-Andrei

Out of curiosity, I decided that I wanted a deeper, more detailed knowledge behind the framing of shots. Therefore, I did my own research on how to make the framing of our shots for fitting and interesting in order to attract and engage a wider range of target audiences.

The most popular shot types are:

• Wide Shot
• Medium Shot
• Over-the-shoulder Shot
• Close up Shot
• Macro Shot

Throughout our title sequence we want to be using as many variations of shots as possible, enabling us to maintain variety and prevent our viewers from becoming slightly bored of seeing the same exact shot types.

Another thing we could do to further develop our title sequence more professionally, is using 'The rule of thirds'. This involves:

1. Dividing the frame into nine equal blocks
2. Placing the subject(character) in the middle of the four intersecting lines.
3. This causes the viewer to follow the subject into the frame 
4. Then, unconsciously focusing on the edge of the frame
5. And returning their eye trace towards the subject once again
6.  This creates a more dynamic image

The above only takes place if the subject is on one side of the screen. However, if the subject is in the center of the frame, the viewer's eye remain static as  there is an equal distance between the borders of the frame and the subject, creating a more still image which could be effective if we want to raise tension or show the 'power' of a character.

We could also use 'Frame Balancing'. This technique juxtaposes images within a frame so that the objects are of equal visual weight. When different parts of attention command your attention more than others, the right balance is achieved. This could be extremely useful in our title sequence as we can use 'frame balancing' to direct the viewers attention on a certain character or object and manipulate their emotions much more easily.

This video has also made me understand that the distance between the viewer and the subject correlates to the difference between the camera and the subject. Accordingly, framing could help us establish relationships between the target audience and the characters right from the title sequence. If the camera is more distant from a character, it means that the character will also seem more distant and mysterious. On the other hand, if the camera is closer to the subject while filming, it will helps us develop a really impactful, strong emotional connection between the character and the viewer. Moreover, we can also decide to change the frame of certain scenes to denote how the character is feeling and further develop a character to viewer relationship, while also helping our target audience figure out the genre of the movie. 

Understanding framing on a deeper level and the connection it can create for the viewer,we can use it to create the desired effects and enhance our title sequence overall.