Mastering the Camera in Once Human- A Comprehensive Guide to Capturing Life’s Moments

How to Use the Camera in Once Human

In the captivating film “Once Human,” directed by Alex Garland, the use of camera techniques plays a crucial role in enhancing the storytelling and immersing the audience in the dystopian world. This article will delve into the various camera techniques employed in the film and provide insights on how to effectively use the camera to achieve a similar effect.

One of the most striking camera techniques used in “Once Human” is the extensive use of long shots. Long shots, also known as wide shots, provide a broader perspective of the scene, allowing the audience to fully grasp the setting and the characters’ interactions. To achieve this effect, directors and cinematographers often position the camera at a distance, capturing the entire scene in one frame. This technique not only emphasizes the vastness of the world but also highlights the isolation and loneliness of the characters.

Another key camera technique in “Once Human” is the use of handheld shots. Handheld shots create a sense of urgency and chaos, making the audience feel more connected to the characters. To replicate this technique, filmmakers can use a handheld camera rig or simply hold the camera in their hands while filming. This approach adds a natural and unsteady feel to the footage, contributing to the overall intensity of the scenes.

In addition to long shots and handheld shots, “Once Human” employs close-ups to focus on the characters’ emotions and reactions. Close-ups allow the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level, capturing their facial expressions and body language. To achieve effective close-ups, cinematographers must pay attention to lighting and composition, ensuring that the details of the characters’ faces are clearly visible.

One of the most innovative camera techniques used in “Once Human” is the use of green screen. Green screen technology allows filmmakers to create a surreal and immersive environment by replacing the green background with any desired setting. To effectively use green screen, filmmakers must ensure that the green screen is properly lit and that the actors are well-framed within the frame. This technique can be particularly useful in creating a dystopian world like the one depicted in “Once Human.”

Lastly, “Once Human” utilizes crane shots to capture the grandeur and scale of the world. Crane shots provide a unique perspective, allowing the audience to see the characters from above. To achieve crane shots, filmmakers can use a crane or a drone to elevate the camera to a higher vantage point. This technique adds a sense of awe and wonder to the scenes, making the audience feel like they are part of the world.

In conclusion, “Once Human” employs a variety of camera techniques to create an immersive and captivating experience for the audience. By incorporating long shots, handheld shots, close-ups, green screen, and crane shots, filmmakers can effectively convey the story’s themes and emotions. To use the camera in a similar manner, directors and cinematographers should focus on capturing the essence of the scene, paying attention to lighting, composition, and the overall perspective. By mastering these techniques, filmmakers can create their own dystopian worlds that resonate with their audience.