Dollying

Dollying is similar to zooming, in that the camera moves in toward (or away from) a subject. However, a dolly shot doesn't use the zoom control at all. In feature film shoots, a dolly is a platform that holds the camera and rides on rails similar to railroad tracks. When filming, one or more people (known as grips) push the dolly, resulting in a smooth shot.

When you zoom, the camcorder's lens is simulating the appearance of moving closer to your subject. When dollying, you're actually moving the camera closer. The difference is especially pronounced in the background, which appears different depending on the method you use (Figure 3.4).

Figure 3.4. These two shots are similarly framed, but look at the plant in the background to see how the two approaches differ.

Tips

• As with zooming, you want to ease in and out of a dolly shot. Grips aren't just people who push equipment around. A good grip can accelerate and decelerate smoothly and, often more importantly, consistently during multiple takes.

• A dolly shot is a professional-looking camera move, but it's likely you don't have a dolly setup or want to spend the money to rent one. But you can use a number of alternative dollies. Wheelchairs are great (and comfortable!), and skateboards also work in a pinch. It doesn't matter so much how you get the shot, only that the shot turns out the way you want it.