FILM & TV GLOSSARY
UKFILMNET FILM & TELEVISION PRODUCTION GLOSSARY
Browse the glossary using this index
Special | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | ALL
A |
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axis of action | ||
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In the continuity editing system, the imaginary line that passes from side to side through a main actors, defining the spatial relations of all the elements of the scene as being to the right or the left. It is also called the 180-degree line. When the camera crosses this axis at a cut, those spatial relations are reversed thereby confusing the audience. It is one of cardinal rules of continuity editing not to cross this axis during a sequence. | ||
B |
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backlighting | ||
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lighting cast onto the figures from the side opposite the camera. It creates a thin outline of light on the figures' edge. | ||
barn doors | ||
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Barn doors are an attachment fitted to the front of lights used in films, television, and theatres. The attachment has the appearance of a large set of barn doors, but in fact there are four leaves, two larger and widening on the outside, two smaller and getting narrower towards the outside. They facilitate shaping of the beam of light from the fixture, and prevent the distinctive scatter of light created by the Fresnel lens from spilling into areas where it is not wanted, such as the eyes of audience members. Barn doors are mounted with a ring that fits inside of the colour gel slot on the instrument. Because of this, barn doors have a gel slot built in to them, so the light can still be coloured. Depending on the size and local practices, barn doors may be attached to the pipe or the instrument with their own safety cable. | ||
bird's eye view | ||
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seeing from a high enough view or altitude as to give a comprehensive view of a scene; also known as aerial view. | ||