Analog horror, an intriguing sub-genre that harks back to a bygone era, has been increasingly prevalent in the horror scene. Fusing elements of nostalgia, suspense, and eeriness, it presents a unique exploration of fear through a retro lens. But what is analog horror and how does it distinguish itself from other subgenres of horror? How does it use elements from the past to evoke fear? Continue reading What is Analog Horror — History and Examples Explained
Have you ever noticed how some artworks seem to move or flow? This is achieved through the use of rhythm. Rhythm in art is a powerful tool that can draw viewers into an artwork and create a sense of harmony and connection. In this article, we will explore the meaning of rhythm in art, how it can be achieved through visual and auditory elements, and provide some examples of its application. Join us as we take a closer look at rhythm in art.Continue reading What is Rhythm in Art — Principles, Types & Techniques
In a story, context can change how we perceive and experience a narrative. Sometimes, writers use a larger story as the context for another. This technique is known as a frame story. Frame stories add depth to a narrative, creating an initial lens through which we view the rest of the story. This lens can be retrospective, subjective to a character, or it can simply establish the degree 0f accuracy of another story being told. The various ways frame stories can be used prove their value as a storytelling technique.Continue reading What is a Frame Narrative — Stories Inside Stories
Language is the basis of communication. Within communication, specifically written language, writers may have different purposes with their work. As a reader, it's beneficial to understand a writer’s goal, and as a writer, it’s important to understand how to use language to work for your own goal. Therefore, understanding text structure is vital for both readers and writers. What is text structure, and why are the types of structures that exist? Let’s dive into it. Continue reading What is Text Structure — Definition, Examples & Types Explained
Dialogue can be a critical piece to a great screenplay. It’s how characters interact with each other and how the writer interacts with the audience and communicates information. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to format dialogue in a script so you can create dialogue in a simple format.Continue reading How to Format Dialogue in a Script — Screenplay Fundamentals
Literary devices aim to utilize words to communicate more efficiently and more effectively to readers and audiences. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at a literary device that aims to do just that simply by using the same word or phrase again and again. This is of course repetition. Repetition may seem straightforward, but there are various types of repetition that are defined by how and where words or phrases are repeated. So, what is repetition actually used for? Let’s take a look at those types of repetition and how iconic writers have used them throughout history. Continue reading What…
One of the best ways for filmmakers to visually create a cohesive and intentional film tone is through lighting. The best cinematographers in the industry have a great understanding of the relationship between lighting and story. High key lighting has a long history in the world of film and television for both logistical and artistic reasons. While there may be some debate to the effectiveness of high key lighting versus more dynamic lighting techniques, it may surprise you to know that one of the pioneers of dramatic, low-key lighting also pioneered the use of high key lighting in television. Who is…
The benefits of using a wide angle camera lens can be found in the work of some of the best filmmakers from Steven Spielberg to Roman Polanski to Stanley Kubrick. What is a wide angle lens used for? The answer to that varies. Wide angle lenses can create visual and psychological effects depending on how they are used. Understanding these different effects is a great way for any filmmaker to learn how to make a scene more immersive. Before we dive into when to use a wide angle lens in film, you may be wondering “What is a wide angle…
Special effects in film are a crucial component of modern movie-making. They have the power to transport audiences to fantastical worlds, create realistic portrayals of historical events, and add an emotional depth that enhances storytelling. In this article, we will explore what special effects are in film, the different types of special effects that exist, their history in cinema, and their impact on modern-day filmmaking.Continue reading What are Special Effects in Movies — History & Types Explained
Portraits existed long before the invention of photography. Far before there was a camera even to take a photograph, rulers and monarchs hired painters to paint their own portraits. Today, portrait photography has taken the place of this tradition. Continue reading What is Portrait Photography — Types, Styles, Concepts & More