Codes and Conventions of horror (Camera angles)

A word cloud made up of words associated with the horror genre is below.

 

Camera angles

There are a number of camera angles and shots associated with the horror genre, for example:

• Extreme close ups
• Reaction shots
• Long shots
• Tracking shots

Close ups and extreme close ups are used to show emotion on character's faces, and give a dramatic effect to the scene. It can also be used to leave clues to us, the viewer, when used on objects in the scene.

Reaction shots, similarly to close ups, are used to show a character's instant reaction to something, and hence gives the audience a better perspective on the character and their personality.

Long shots and establishing shots are used to set the scene for the viewer.

Tracking shots are generally used in chase scenes, which are also usually paired with a horror film.