1. Technical codes
Signifier Signified
Shot type
Big close up Emotion, a vital moment, drama
Close up Intimacy
Mid shot A personal relation to the subject
Long shot
Context, public distance
Camera angle
High Domination, power, authority
Eye-level Equality
Low Weakness, powerlessness
Lens type
Wide angle Dramatic
Normal Everyday normalness
Telephoto Voyeurism
Composition
Symmetrical Posed, calm, religiosity
Asymmetrical Natural, everyday
Static Lack of conflict
Dynamic Disturbance, disorientation
Focus
Selective focus Draws the attention ‘look at this’
Soft focus Romance, nostalgia
Deep focus All elements are important, ‘Look at
everything’
Lighting
High key Happiness
Low key Sombre
High contrast Theatrical, dramatic
Low contrast Realistic, documentary