Tutorial 3: Basic framing.
In this tutorial I will introduce you to some basic camera techniques and their key terms. If you've never done photography before and you feel like your photos are always a bit off, this tutorial should help you.
The rule of thirds:
The rule of thirds is a great tool for any beginner photographer. What is it? Well this website explains it better than me, but for a brief overview:
The rule of thirds is a camera technique where you split the screen into nine squares and you align your model with the lines, or alternatively in the middle of any of the squares.
Most people tend to make their subjects in the dead center of their photos, which is a camera technique on it own, however anything along the vector lines attracts the eye, which makes the rule of thirds a very popular technique.
What does it mean for my sims?:
The rule of thirds can help you balance your scenes, highlight characters and make your photos less wonky.
the vector line in this case is more dominant than the blocked out side because the face is framed between the bookcase and the blonde, so our eyes automatically go to blue's face.
The balance is good on this photo because both models align with the vector lines. the sideboard also creates a horizon line in the middle. (the lighting is terrible in this so it was hit with a NG but this tutorial isn't about lighting 😅)
The tree creates a vector line and our line of sight is automatically drawn to the middle.
the fence line in this photo creates a vector line to the middle it also creates an artificial horizon line separating the building from the sky. The table adds balance to the photo by matching the bottom line.
The rule of thirds isn't the be all end all of composition but it's a great trick that never gets old. When you don't know how to frame your scene, the rule of thirds has your back.
Framing and Film Shots:
The second camera technique we will look at is common film shots and what they do.
Camera shots help you understand what kind of photo you are taking and what photo you need. It's not necessary to learn the names, however, you've probably already taken photos with one of the above shots.
When taking pictures of a model, you may not know what kind of photo to take. Do you want to focus on the face? or the outfit? perhaps there's two or three people in the photo. Understanding what you need can become much more simple if you know what kind of shot to take.
Some comparisons:
The first shot looks empty and bland. there isn't anything happening in the frame to warrant such a wide shot. The second one is wonky and shows too much. There's too much of the bland green wall and we don't need to see his whole leg, it's not interesting.
the third is good, it fills up the entire space however the fourth is better. the plant prop adds dimension and the lighting adds drama.
Composition for sims stories:
Whether its painting, comics, movies or sims stories, if you make stories in a visual medium the chances are you'll use these common shots.
Why is it good for my sims?
For sims stories, varying your shots creates dynamic storytelling. Four pictures in a row, with the same four compositions can make your story static and can work against you, especially if you've got a very drama packed story. Experimenting with different shot angles allows you to express your stories in more creative way. It livens things up.
Comparison:
(you'll need to click on the pictures to see the full thing)
The left feels quick and the body language suggests a flirty tone, however the right feels tense. The pause and close up of his face shows us his hesitation. The silliness of his expression in the final shot releases that tension, almost as if he is hiding his feelings.
Sometimes you'll need scenes like the left example to move the story along at a quicker pace, but changing the shots like the one in the right allows the pauses and expressions to speak the quiet parts out loud. This creates more tension in scenes, allowing it to build up and release.
This is the way framing, composition and camera angles can help bring your sims stories to life.
I hope this tutorial helps you think of your sims story more dynamically. There's no wrong way to make art and this includes sims stories, however, being able control your sims story in the way you like can allow for some true uniqueness to shine through.
Happy Simming :)
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