Notice: This site is designed to be accessible in all web browsers or internet devices, but it's visual layout is best suited to browsers compliant with current w3c web standards. Please install one of these browsers if style layout is a concern for you.

Instructor: Kathy Cennamo

< Previous | Next >

Movement of the Entire Camera

In these situations the entire camera is physically moved around the set.

Dolly

A dolly is the movement of the entire camera toward or away from the subject or scene. The command is usually "Dolly in" or "Dolly out". In professional situations the camera is rolled on a special track to ensure smooth movement. Similar results can be achieved with a rolling chair or table, or with a tripod that has been fitted with wheels.

Watch this example of a dolly

Truck

A truck is the lateral, or side-to-side movement of the entire camera. The command is usually "Truck left" or "Truck right". Often the truck shot is used to follow a moving subject as it crosses the set. This is very different from panning to follow a subject because with a truck you are moving the whole camera, thereby changing the shooting angle at the same time.

Watch this example of a truck


Movement pages and videos created for a class project by David Halpin, Mike Mansfield, and Carrie Steffy, 1998.

< Previous | Next >