Viewpoint and camera angle

Photographic Compositions, Continued Viewpoint and Viewpoint is the camera position in relation to the subject. Camera angle is camera angle the angle in which the camera is tilted. The terms “viewpoint” and “camera angle” are often used in conjunction with one another and sometimes are used interchangeably. They can also have different meanings depending on how you apply them. Repositioning subjects within the viewfinder and changing the camera angle are two simple ways to control composition. Photographs made from ground level with the camera held horizontal to the ground is referred to as a low viewpoint (camera position); however, the same picture made from ground level with the camera tilted up may be referred to as a low-camera angle. Low viewpoints and low-camera angles can add emphasis and interest to many otherwise ordinary scenes. This type of photograph is useful in separating subjects from backgrounds, eliminating backgrounds and foregrounds, distorting scale, adding strength, and for creating the illusion of greater size and speed. A picture made from a high or elevated position with the camera held horizontal with reference to the ground is referred to as a high viewpoint; however, if the camera is pointed down at some angle between horizontal and vertical, the camera position is referred to as a high-camera angle. High viewpoints and high camera angles help orient the viewer by showing relationships among all elements within a picture area. High viewpoints and camera angles also minimize apparent strength and size of subjects. Horizontally held, eye-level photographs are usually taken at a height of 5 ½ feet. With the camera tilted up or down, you have either a high- or low- camera angle, respectively. Continued on next page 1-31