GRAMMAR for Television and Film enthusiasts

Television and film use certain common guidelines in audiovisual media often referred to as the GRAMMAR to convey meaning through particular camera and editing techniques.

 Grammar of the Shot helps you learn how to use the basic grammar of making films and videos. Designed as an easy-to-use reference, this book shows you in no uncertain terms what you absolutely need to know to put together your own film or video, shot by shot. Whether you are just learning how to frame a shot, or if you just need a refresher, this book gives you a basic toolkit of how to build a successful visual story that flows smoothly. Grammar of the Shot begins with an explanation of the essential visual language of film-making. The book takes you from the basic shape of a shot, to different types to shots, to composition of visual elements within each frame. You will be given the basic building blocks essential for successful shot composition, shot lighting, screen direction, 3D elements, camera movement, and many general practices that make for a richer, and not least multi-layered visual presentations. 

Most importantly, you will be given crucial background information to expand your visual vocabulary and help jump-start your career in film and video. Each topic is covered succinctly and is accompanied by clear photographs and diagrams that illustrate the key concepts presented in the book. Grammar of the Shot is simple, elegant, and easy to use with clear overview of the principles of shooting... timeless information that will improve your work.

 Together with its companion volume Grammar of the Edit, these little books are all the beginning filmmaker needs. If you want to get to grips with the editing, either in film or video, this book sets down, in a simple uncomplicated way, the fundamental knowledge you will need to make a good edit between two shots. Its intended primarily for the trainee to the craft of editing, Grammar of the Edit, is embedded in basic, jargon-free, language, illustrated by easy to follow diagrams. The book explains in simple terms the fundamental components of an edit. It lists, examines and explains the conventions and working practices of post-production editing and has been extensively class-tested globally.

Both Grammar of the Shot and Grammar of the Edit are a must have for every filmmaker’s reference library.