Focus Techniques

Where the camera is focused, determines where the attention of the audience will be directed. There are numerous focusing techniques all recognisably used within moving image production.

Deep Focus refers to a shot that keeps all areas of the frame in sharp focus, including the foreground, mid-ground and background. This means that each detail which is featured within the shot must be planned and positioned with care, as it will be visible in the frame. This technique was beloved and commonly used by Orson Welles and cinematographer Gregg Toland.

Still taken from 'Citizen Kane' 

In order to achieve this technique, the use of a higher f/stop would be required, to ensure that everything in the shot is clearly in focus. This also adds compositional value, as the rule of thirds has been considered. Within the film 'Citizen Kane', Welles also makes use of a wide angle lens, to add an element of psychological tension; the effect results in the predominant character Kane appearing superior in size, as opposed to others in the shot; this acts as a metaphorical expression for his powerful and overbearing personality.

Conversely, the use of a Shallow Focus, will produce a video in which only a certain section of the frame is in focus. This will depend upon the aperture setting and focal length of the lens. In addition, the distance that the camera is, from the subject is also a determining factor in what effect the focus technique will create. This type of focusing is good for directing the viewers attention to a particular area of the shot, naturally, the eye will follow whatever is in focus.

Rack Focus, also referred to as Pull Focus, alludes to a technique which entails shifting the focus from one area in a shot to another point. For example, from the foreground to the background or vice versa. As opposed to deep focus, the use of a shallower depth of field would be more relevant in trying to achieve this technique, as there will be more of a noticeable shift in focus.

For my own example of rack focus, I decided to shoot something that was, in terms of visual presentation, fairly consistent in structure. So that I could alternate the focus between areas of the frame effectively, as well as implementing a sense of balance.




Reference List:
FREER, I. Film Studies 101 [Online] Available from: http://www.empireonline.com/features/film-studies-101-camera-shots-styles/p1[Accessed: 23rd September 2015].

Brown, B. (2012) Cinematography - Theory and Practice. 2nd Edition. Oxford: Focal Press.