An Introduction to Film

subjects within a shot and their implied proximity
to each other—has been placed there to develop
the narrative’s outcome and meaning. Our inter-
pretations of these on-screen spatial relationships
happen as unconsciously and automatically as they
do in everyday life.
To get a sense of the importance of proximity,
imagine yourself on a crowded dance floor at a club

or party. Among all the other distracting things in

your field of vision, you see an attractive person

looking at you from the opposite end of the room.

You may assign that person some significance from

that distance, but if that same person walks up to you,

virtually filling your field of vision, then the person

suddenly has much greater significance to you and

may provoke a much more profound reaction from

FIGURE 6.2 Basic Aspect Ratios

1.33:1

1.85:1

2.35:1

FRAMING OF THE SHOT 249