terminology query

[Guest James Mariner]

Is there a name for the device used in film and television whereby the camera withdraws from the subject whilst simultaneously zooming in (or vice versa), thereby keeping the subject the same size in relation to the screen, but altering the amount of background in the shot? It's usually used to denote a sudden realisation or shock on the part of the subject, and looks great.

[Stephen Williams]

Is there a name for the device used in film and television whereby the camera withdraws from the subject whilst simultaneously zooming in (or vice versa), thereby keeping the subject the same size in relation to the screen, but altering the amount of background in the shot? It's usually used to denote a sudden realisation or shock on the part of the subject, and looks great.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

The easy way to do this is now is with motion control. In the past the camera was on a dolly with a zoom lens. The opposing moves were done by hand. This effect was first done in `Vertigo' and copied in 'Jaws' and many others.

 

Stephen Williams DP & MOCO

 

www.stephenw.com

[Gordon Highland]

I usually call that a "Vertigo" or a "Hitchcock." It's a very very overused technique, though, and maybe it's just because I'm too close to it, but I kinda groan every time I see it these days.

[Nate Yolles]

In my circle we call it a dolly-zoom, which has transformed into a "zolly."

 

Not too long ago I was working as a best boy on an HD music video where they insisted on doing a dolly-zoom against a green screen. <<bang head against keyboard now>>

[John Sprung]

.... they insisted on doing a dolly-zoom against a green screen.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

My condolances. But thanks for the laugh. ;-)

 

 

 

-- J.S.

[Felipe Perez-Burchard]

I remember reading somwhere that the proper name was a "Trombone Shot", but I just looked at a bunch of glossary pages to find out which book said that and I can't figure it out.

 

-felipe.