• A photographer or cinematographer making still photographs or movies can control the effect an image will have on the viewer. One way is by using particular camera angles for specific purposes. A photographer doesn't simply end up with a certain photograph by accident; he has thought about how that picture will communicate to viewers.
  
  

Eye-Level Camera Angles

• Eye-level shots are the most common camera angle, both in still photographs and in movies. The photographer positions the camera at the level of the subject or at the average human eye level. This angle calls less attention to the camera's presence and may make the viewer feel like she is in the same space as the subject, confronting it directly.
  
  

Low-Angle Camera Angles

• For a low-angle shot, the photographer positions the camera below the subject. This angle can make the person photographed appear much larger than he is, making him seem strong, powerful, imposing or intimidating. A villain shot from a low angle might frighten the viewer, while a hero or leader shot from a low angle might earn the viewer's admiration. Photographers often use a low angle when making portraits of presidents, leaders or athletes.
  
  

High-Angle Camera Angles

• A high-angle shot can have the reverse effect of a low-angle shot. A person photographed by a camera much above her eye level will appear small, weak or vulnerable, particularly if she is looking up at the camera. The viewer might then feel pity or sympathy for the subject. On the other hand, a high-angle shot might also imply that God is watching over the subject, particularly if the subject is simply going about his business without looking at the camera.
  
  

Bird's-Eye View

• For a bird's-eye view shot, the camera must be positioned directly above the subject, whether the subject is a landscape, cityscape or interior. In landscape and cityscape photography, this angle can make individual people seem to merge into a larger abstract design.
  
  

Canted Camera Angle

• A camera angle is canted if the photographer has turned the camera to one side so that the picture plane is no longer parallel to the horizon. This angle might unsettle the viewer, making her feel nervous, disoriented or frightened.