Master Shot
A Master Shot is a fundamental filming technique where an entire scene is captured in one continuous take, showing all the actors and the full setting. Think of it as filming a play from the best seat in the theater - you can see everything happening at once. This shot serves as the foundation for a scene, and other closer shots (like close-ups of actors' faces) are typically filmed afterward to add detail. When reading resumes, you might see this term used to show that a candidate understands basic filming principles and can plan scene coverage efficiently.
Examples in Resumes
Directed and planned Master Shot sequences for 12 commercial productions
Supervised camera crew during Master Shot setup on independent film projects
Coordinated lighting and actor positioning for complex Master Shots in television series
Typical job title: "Film Directors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Film Directors
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you plan a complex master shot with multiple actors and moving elements?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss location scouting, blocking rehearsals, technical requirements, and backup plans. They should explain how they coordinate between departments (camera, lighting, sound) and manage time efficiently.
Q: How do you handle budget constraints while still achieving high-quality master shots?
Expected Answer: They should discuss prioritizing resources, creative problem-solving, and knowing when to compromise without sacrificing the essential story elements. Should mention experience with various budget levels.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when choosing between a master shot approach versus coverage-based filming?
Expected Answer: Should explain practical considerations like time constraints, scene complexity, and artistic goals. Should demonstrate understanding of both approaches' advantages.
Q: How do you communicate your master shot vision to the camera crew and actors?
Expected Answer: Should discuss use of storyboards, floor plans, rehearsals, and clear communication techniques with both technical crew and creative talent.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a master shot and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's a wide shot capturing the entire scene and its importance as a foundation for editing and scene coverage.
Q: What basic equipment is needed for a typical master shot?
Expected Answer: Should know fundamental camera equipment, basic lighting needs, and standard tools used in setting up a master shot.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic camera operation
- Understanding of shot composition
- Knowledge of basic lighting setups
- Ability to follow shot lists
Mid (2-5 years)
- Scene blocking and rehearsal management
- Advanced camera movement techniques
- Crew coordination
- Problem-solving on set
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex shot planning and execution
- Department coordination
- Budget management
- Creative decision-making
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic film grammar
- Lack of practical on-set experience
- Poor communication skills
- No knowledge of industry standard equipment
Related Terms
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