Vertical field of view

Definition

Vertical field of view refers to the extent of the observable world that can be captured vertically by a camera, typically measured in degrees. This concept is crucial because it influences how much of a scene can be included in a shot and is directly affected by both the focal length of the lens and the size of the camera sensor. Understanding vertical field of view helps cinematographers make informed decisions about composition, framing, and how to visually convey a story.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The vertical field of view is calculated using the formula: $$2 \times \arctan(\frac{h}{2f})$$ where 'h' is the height of the sensor and 'f' is the focal length.
2. Shorter focal lengths result in a wider vertical field of view, allowing more of the scene to be captured vertically.
3. Conversely, longer focal lengths narrow the vertical field of view, making it ideal for focusing on specific subjects.
4. Different aspect ratios can impact how the vertical field of view is perceived within a frame, affecting overall composition.
5. In video production, understanding vertical field of view is essential for maintaining consistency across shots and achieving desired visual storytelling.

Review Questions

• How does focal length affect the vertical field of view in cinematography?
  • Focal length has a direct impact on vertical field of view. A shorter focal length results in a wider vertical field, enabling more of the scene to fit into the frame vertically. This allows cinematographers to capture expansive landscapes or large groups within one shot. In contrast, a longer focal length reduces the vertical field of view, which helps to focus on specific subjects but may exclude significant portions of the background or context.
• Discuss how aspect ratio interacts with vertical field of view when framing a shot.
  • Aspect ratio plays a significant role in how vertical field of view is perceived when framing a shot. For example, in a 16:9 aspect ratio, there is more room for vertical elements compared to a 4:3 aspect ratio. This difference affects composition choices; filmmakers may need to adjust their vertical field of view by altering lens choice or framing techniques to ensure that important visual elements are not cut off or distorted, thereby maintaining clarity and storytelling impact.
• Evaluate how understanding vertical field of view can enhance narrative storytelling in film production.
  • Understanding vertical field of view allows filmmakers to make strategic decisions about composition that enhance narrative storytelling. For instance, using a wider vertical field can create a sense of openness or isolation, while a narrow field can focus viewer attention on specific characters or details. By manipulating this aspect thoughtfully, filmmakers can evoke particular emotions or reactions from the audience, ensuring that visual elements align effectively with the story being told. This awareness contributes significantly to creating visually compelling narratives.

Related terms

Focal Length:

The distance between the lens and the image sensor, which determines how zoomed in or out a shot will be.

Aspect Ratio:

The ratio of the width to the height of an image or screen, influencing how much visual information fits into a frame.

Camera Sensor Size: The physical dimensions of a camera's sensor, which affects the field of view and depth of field in an image.