Language: English

Master Shot

A shot that captures all the action and dialogue of a scene in one take. It names a unit of filming rather than a size: it is framed wide enough that every character and important object in the scene stays in frame from start to finish. Using it as the base, closer shots (coverage) like singles, over-the-shoulders, close-ups and inserts are filmed separately and cut in between.

Camera position seen at an angle from the side. The blue camera steps back about 4.6 m at eye level and takes in three bunnies and a small table with a carrot on it.
Camera view. Three bunnies standing in different spots and the table with the carrot: every character and the whole set fit in one frame. In the comparison, the camera moves in on one bunny and it becomes a medium shot.

How it feels

  • Overview
  • Sense of space
  • Relationship
  • Reference
  • Stage play

When to use it

  • The first setup when filming a conversation scene
  • Scenes where several characters move around
  • When later close shots need a reference for matching performance and positions

In the movies

Inglourious Basterds (2009) · Source: Movieclips (YouTube) · Original video
12 Angry Men (1957) · Source: Movieclips (YouTube) · Original video

    Not to be confused with

    Wide Shot
    A wide shot is a size, about how small the person looks in the frame. A master shot is a role that covers the whole scene, so with few people it may be framed closer.
    Establishing Shot
    An establishing shot is a short shot that shows the location; a master shot is a unit of filming that covers the whole scene. Some people use the two names interchangeably.
    Long Take
    A long take is about length: one shot running for a long time. A master shot is usually cut up in editing and mixed with other shots.

    Prompt

    Keyword

    master shot

    Descriptive

    Wide master shot of the whole room, all three rabbit mascots visible throughout the scene.

    Try these combinations

    • Master shot + eye level: two people on a terrace

      Wide shot showing the terrace and both characters, eye level, natural daylight

    • Master shot + practical light: a family at the dinner table

      Wide master shot of a dinner table, all four family members visible, warm practical lamps

    Related terms