Tracking shot

A tracking shot is a type of cinematography technique where the camera is moved smoothly alongside the subject being filmed. This movement can be achieved using a variety of equipment, such as a dolly, Steadicam, or a tracking vehicle. Tracking shots are often used to follow a subject or to explore a space, providing a dynamic and immersive experience for the audience.

History

The tracking shot has been a staple of filmmaking since the early days of cinema. One of the earliest examples can be seen in the 1914 film Cabiria, directed by Giovanni Pastrone, which utilized a dolly to create smooth camera movements. The technique gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, with filmmakers like Alfred Hitchcock and Orson Welles employing it to great effect.

Technique

Tracking shots can be executed in several ways, depending on the desired effect and the available equipment. The most common method is using a dolly, which is a wheeled cart that moves along tracks laid on the ground. This allows for smooth, controlled movement. Alternatively, a Steadicam can be used, which is a stabilizing mount for a camera that allows for fluid motion without the need for tracks.

In modern filmmaking, tracking shots can also be achieved using remote camera heads mounted on vehicles, such as the Newton stabilized remote camera head. This allows for high-speed tracking shots that can follow fast-moving subjects, such as cars or athletes.

Notable Examples

Tracking shots have been used in many iconic films to create memorable scenes. In Goodfellas (1990), director Martin Scorsese used a long tracking shot to follow the characters through the Copacabana nightclub, immersing the audience in the bustling atmosphere. Another famous example is the opening scene of Touch of Evil (1958), directed by Orson Welles, which features a continuous tracking shot that sets the tone for the film.

Related pages

• Dolly shot
• Steadicam
• Cinematography
• Film techniques

References

• Brown, Blain. Cinematography: Theory and Practice: Image Making for Cinematographers and Directors. Focal Press, 2016.
• Malkiewicz, Kris, and M. David Mullen. Cinematography: A Guide for Film Makers and Film Teachers. Simon & Schuster, 2005.

A tracking shot being filmed on location.

A Newton stabilized remote camera head mounted on a tracking car.

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  Newton stabilized remote camera head on a tracking car