CLINT TILL
Video Production and Photography

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How To Use Shallow Focus To Tell A Story

Image by Ben Seidelman

Image by Ben Seidelman

I came across the following video on the Nerdwriter YouTube channel recently. If you haven't subscribed to Nerdwriter yet, I encourage you to do so. The channel offers well thought-out video essays on various topics related to filmmaking, art, and popular culture. 

This particular essay centers on the topic of shallow depth of field and how filmmakers need to start thinking about using shallow focus as a strategic element in storytelling and not just as a novelty. As an example, the essay uses the Hulu original series The Handmaid's Tale and breaks down the practical reasons why shallow depth of field is employed and why it helps shape the audiences view of the characters and the world around them.