a close-up shot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a close-up shot" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
You can use it when describing a shot or scene in a film or TV show where the camera is focused on a specific subject or object in close detail. Example: The director used a close-up shot of the actor's face to capture the intense emotion in the scene.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The video begins with footage from The X Factor and then transitions to a close-up shot of McElderry in the main setting, a flooded cityscape — the scene was shot in a flooded set with a cityscape backdrop.

Wikipedia

"Oy!" she exclaimed, recoiling from a close-up shot.

The New Yorker

The film has a close-up shot of that same BB, years after the treachery has taken place.

The New York Times - Magazine

If the Broadway Bridge is a close-up shot of the city, the George Washington Bridge offers the ultimate panorama.

The New York Times - Arts

The spot closes with a close-up shot of Mr. Giuliani, bearing a toothy grin and dimples.

The New York Times

The Phones 4U sponsorship credit immediately began with a close-up shot of a woman in bed apparently having sex.

The Guardian

What could possibly go wrong?" The control room cut to a close-up shot of Mr. O'Brien, who nodded to the camera.

The New York Times - Arts

Internet commenters picked up on nuances and interactions I missed during the show, like a close-up shot of the pop singer Rihanna's unamused reaction to Ms. Cyrus.

The New York Times - Tech

It was a close-up shot, with me crawling on the top step of a short porch, my mother standing above me with my sister in her arms.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The video commences with a close-up shots of Cyrus' face as she counts in the backup band behind her.

Wikipedia

Photograph: Fabrizio Bensch/Reuters Here's a close up shot of Benzema's exquisite finish.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing visual media, use “a close-up shot” to clearly indicate the camera's proximity to the subject, enhancing the audience's understanding of the scene's focus and emotional intensity.

Common error

Be specific about what the close-up focuses on. Saying simply "a close-up shot" might leave the audience wondering what detail is being emphasized. For example, instead of "The scene used a close-up shot", try "The scene used a close-up shot of her trembling hands".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a close-up shot" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific type of camera shot where the subject is very near to the lens. Ludwig confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a close-up shot" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a camera technique that focuses on a subject at close range. Ludwig provides numerous examples from diverse sources, confirming its widespread use and acceptability. While the phrase is most prevalent in News & Media and Wiki contexts, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for various registers. When using this phrase, it's crucial to specify what is being brought into focus to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases like "extreme close-up" or "detailed view" can be employed to add nuance to your descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Extreme close-up

Specifies an even greater level of closeness.

Close-range picture

Focuses on the proximity of the image, similar to the query.

Detailed view

Emphasizes the level of detail captured.

Zoomed-in perspective

Highlights the use of zoom to achieve the close-up effect.

Macro photograph

Refers to extreme close-ups, often of small subjects.

Close-focus image

Highlights the focus being near to the subject

Tight framing

Describes how the subject fills most of the frame.

Headshot

Commonly used for a close-up of a person's head and shoulders.

Close quarters view

Emphasizes the limited space or distance.

Intimate portrait

Suggests a close-up that conveys a sense of personal connection.

FAQs

How do I use "a close-up shot" in a sentence?

You can use "a close-up shot" to describe a scene in visual media, such as film or photography, where the camera focuses on a specific detail. For instance, "The director used a close-up shot to emphasize the character's emotional reaction".

What's a good alternative to "a close-up shot"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "extreme close-up" to denote a very tight shot, or "detailed view" to emphasize the clarity of the image.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a close-up shot"?

Yes, "a close-up shot" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to describe a type of camera angle. According to Ludwig, it is perfectly valid.

What's the difference between "a close-up shot" and "a long shot"?

"A close-up shot" focuses on a subject at close range, highlighting details, while "a long shot" shows the subject from a distance, providing a broader view of the scene and context.