Have you ever seen a shot in a film that carried you through a scene without you even realizing it? It was most likely a tracking shot.
This camera technique has the power to transport viewers directly into the action. It’s considered one of the most essential building blocks in cinematography.
In this article, we will discuss what tracking shots are, why filmmakers use them, famous films that incorporate tracking shots, and how to use them for your next project.
So, without further ado, let’s explore this effective technique.
What is a Tracking Shot?
“Tracking shot” is a broad term that can include many things. Simply put, it’s when the camera physically moves through a scene, following one or more subjects.
Tracking shots set the film’s pace, establish a setting, introduce characters, evoke emotion, and reveal information.
You’ve probably seen opening or closing scenes use what’s known as a single-take or long take. These shots run for an extended period of time, almost like a mini-story unfolding within a film.
Many people think they need to follow a subject from a static position using a tilt, pan, or zoom. This is false. A tracking shot can include a tilt, pan, or zoom, but the camera must be mobile.
A Brief History Of The Tracking Shot
Historically, cinema cameras were very heavy. Therefore, the only way to achieve smooth movement was to put the camera and operator on a dolly with tracks. This is known as a dolly shot, which is a type of tracking shot. We’ll explain more about the different types of tracking shots later.
Over time, they have evolved into various forms. In fact, the first Steadicam was invented on the set of Bound for Glory (1976). This was all thanks to a camera operator named Garret Brown, who was the first to film smoothly while walking. Later, his test shots from running up the steps of the Art Museum in Philadelphia landed him a job on the low-budget boxing movie Rocky (1976).
You can see his story and how his invention changed cinema below.
Why Do Filmmakers Use Them?
Tracking shots are one of the most effective ways to immerse viewers into a film. Embodied by the camera, they become part of the story, silently observing characters and anticipating what will happen next. They can help do the following:
- Set the pace
- Create a mood
- Serve as a film’s opening
- Heighten tension
- Drive action
- Reveal information
- Connect the audience to the characters
- Establish character relationships
- Serve as a film’s climax
7 Types of Tracking Shots
As mentioned, a “tracking shot” is a broad term. Here are 7 different ways to capture the feeling and style of this camera movement.
1. Follow Shot
A follow shot is a type of tracking shot where the camera travels with the subject. The camera is generally synced with the subject’s movement while maintaining consistent speed and framing.
2. Dolly Shot
A dolly shot is any shot where the camera is fastened to a dolly. The camera can move smoothly in any direction on wheels or a track. Frequently this shot is used to move toward or away from the subject, commonly referred to as ‘dolly in’ or ‘dolly out’.
3. Trucking Shot
A trucking shot is where the camera travels smoothly left or right with the subject. This is also known as a lateral, or side to side movement.
4. Long Take
A long take, or one take shot, is a scene without cuts for a significant length of time. Long takes tend to be immersive as they maintain focus and build tension in real time.
5. Steadicam Shot
A Steadicam shot is achieved by using a stabilizing camera rig that’s attached to an operator vest. This device stabilizes the shot by mechanically isolating the operator’s movements. As a result, the operator can move freely in any direction while maintaining a very smooth shot.
6. Crane Shot
A crane shot is a camera movement that captures sweeping horizontal shots or vertical shots from various heights. The camera is mounted to a crane with counterweights, which allows for fluid and dynamic camera movement. The crane shot is often used to open or close scenes cinematically.
7. Drone Shots
Drone shots are capable of omnidirectional movements at any angle. This tech offers a wide gamut of possibilities with different focal lengths to choose from.
Examples of Tracking Shots in Films
There’s no better way to explain this technique than with examples. Here are some notable tracking shots from film history, all of which produced great results.
The Wrestler (2014)
This tracking shot from The Wrestler (2014) is packed with metaphors, visually and audibly. In this continuous shot, Mickey Rourke gets ready for his new job as a meat slicer. His journey downstairs to the kitchen brings him back to the good ‘ol days of grand entrances as a wrestling star. As he crosses through the vertical blinds, the building roar of a fantasy audience fades to his current reality out of the spotlight.
Type of tracking shot: Steadicam Shot
Forrest Gump (1994)
In this classic example from Forrest Gump (1994), several tracking shots are used effectively. We first see a static start in which Forrest realizes the presence of danger. Then, tension builds as he slowly attempts to escape. Next, we see a tension-building POV of the bullies on bicycles, who are gaining ground. Finally, there’s a hair-raising trucking shot racing along Forrest as he defies all odds. This unforgettable scene is told with brilliant camera movement.
Type of tracking shot: Dolly, Trucking, and Crane Shot
1917 (2019)
This tracking shot example directed by Sam Mendes is one of a kind. It’s hard to blink. The shaky tracking shot resembles wartime footage with a concert of well-constructed action. In this scene, you feel the agony of an impossible mission. In fact, the whole movie is edited to make it seem like one continuous shot.
Type of tracking shot: Steadicam Shot
Children of Men (2006)
One long take worth examining is from Children of Men (2006). First, this scene begins calm and collected but slowly evolves into chaos. The camera rotates from the center console of the car between four characters allowing the viewer to feel like a passenger in the car. The tracking camera movement is a breathtaking ride.
Type of tracking shot: Custom 2-axis dolly car roof mount
Enter the Void (2018)
Enter the Void (2018) is full of tracking shots. Most of the movie is shown from the main character’s POV until a shocking moment where he crosses to the other side, life after death. In this one-take shot, he shares a deep conversation all the way from his apartment to The Void, where he meets his demise.
Type of tracking shot: Steadicam and Handheld Shot
The French Dispatch (2021)
In this montage from Wes Anderson’s romantic comedy The French Dispatch (2021), you see a series of follow tracking shots. These shots allow the viewer to experience the story from the character’s perspective. This is an immersive way to engage the viewer in the action.
Type of tracking shot: Follow Shot or Dolly Shot
How to Shoot The Perfect Tracking Shot
First, don’t rush it. Tracking shots can be complex with many moving parts, so preparation and planning are vital. Being detailed and as intentional as possible will reflect in your final results.
Follow these simple guidelines to get a better idea of what to consider during pre-production.
Mood
First, know the mood you’re trying to achieve. It’s helpful to examine some popular films and see how they accomplished their desired effect. Then, seek out unique ways to reveal information about the setting, characters, and motives, as well as ways to generate the element of surprise.
Shot Duration
The speed of the tracking movement can evoke different emotions. For instance, a quick tracking shot can elevate the shot’s energy, while slow motion can create intimacy or tension.
Eye Trace
Eye trace is a technique that draws a viewer’s eyes to a specific area of the frame. By doing so, you provide the viewer with a relaxed experience, gracefully carrying the eye from one action to the next. You want the viewer to know where to look, and an eye trace can help you avoid confusion.
Framing & Composition
One of the beauties of a tracking shot is that you can include several different compositions in one shot. For example, you could start with a close-up of a key object, and then transition from one character to another. Framing also informs who or what has control in a scene.
Staging & Blocking
Framing a tracking shot is extremely dependent on two other key elements: staging and blocking. One way to start planning your scene is to match your camera movement to the setting and the actions of your characters. A starting point would be to decide whether the camera is in front of or behind the subject. Remember, careful choreography is an art, and even small changes can produce dramatic results.
Rehearsal
It’s important to know the space and communicate clearly with the crew and actors. For instance, mark the ground for the camera operator’s movement. Do the same for the actors, both primary and secondary. If any element fails, it’ll all have to be repeated.
7. Editing
When it comes to editing, tracking shots can be a helpful way to transition from one scene to another. For example, you could match the camera movement from the end of your shot to the opening of your next scene, providing a continuous viewer experience. Keep this in mind before shooting; this step pays off in the end and makes the editing process easier. Also, storyboarding gives you a clearer vision of the bigger picture.
What Equipment Do You Need?
Obviously, your choice of equipment is crucial when planning a tracking shot. Luckily, there are plenty of options for all scenarios and budgets. For Example:
- 3-axis motorized gimbal
- Steadicam
- Slider
- Tripod Dolly
- Jib/Crane
- Drone
However, if you’re pressed for budget, there are several alternative ways to get a smooth tracking shot. For example, you could ride in a car, use a wheelchair, or even try a skateboard. If you have a smooth surface, you can even put tennis balls on the feet of your tripod.
A tracking shot can vary based on your choice of lens. A wider lens allows for a more open experience while minimizing the technical requirements, such as focus. Contrastingly, a telephoto lens compresses the space around the subject, making an already hectic scene even more intense.
Wrapping Up
In summary, tracking shots are essential for any filmmaker’s toolkit. They can shape the experience of your story and fill every frame with meaning and suspense, making any story more compelling
Whichever way you pull them off, you can elevate your film by creating a stronger emotional connection with the audience. So dig deep and discover unique ways to execute memorable tracking shots.
