What Are Good Stop Motion Camera Angles?

by kim Updated: May 10, 2023

As a fan of stop-motion animation, I’ve always been intrigued by how various camera angles can drastically alter the mood of an animation.

Every time I try a different viewpoint, it’s like entering a new planet.

Stop-motion camera angles are crucial for a successful animation. Varying angles can add interest to your film. 

Low angles can make characters appear powerful, high angles can make them seem vulnerable, and medium angles are essential for a smooth film. 

In this article, I’ll share my tips and tricks for making your stop-motion film stand out with the right angles.

Best camera angles for stop motion 

Stop motion animation offers endless creative possibilities for camera angles, depending on the story you want to tell and the mood you want to create. 

As a stop motion enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the way different camera angles can completely transform the feel of an animation. 

A simple switch from a high to a low angle can create a new perspective and change the animation in many ways. 

Here are a few ideas for good stop motion camera angles to get you started:

Medium shot/angle

Medium shots are the bread and butter of stop motion animation. They’re the most common and basic type of shot, showing characters from the waist up. 

This allows the audience to concentrate on the action and expressions of the characters while still providing some background detail. 

I’ve found that medium shots work best for:

• Establishing characters and their relationships
• Capturing the essence of a scene
• Balancing action and detail

In stop motion animation, the medium shot can be used to create a sense of intimacy and familiarity with the character, as well as to emphasize their emotions and reactions. 

This camera angle is often used in dialogue scenes, where the characters are interacting with each other and expressing their emotions.

The medium shot can be achieved by positioning the camera at a medium distance from the character or object and framing the shot to include the torso and head. 

It is important to ensure that the character or object is centered in the frame and that there is enough space around them to avoid making the shot feel cramped.

One thing to keep in mind when using the medium shot is that it can become static and uninteresting if overused or if there is not enough variety in the shot composition. 

To avoid this, consider using different camera angles and perspectives, such as close-ups or wide shots, to create visual interest and variety.

A medium shot is a good starting point for beginners in stop motion animation because it is a versatile and simple camera angle that is easy to set up and frame. 

It allows the animator to focus on the basic principles of animation, such as movement and timing, without getting distracted by complex camera movements or angles.

A medium shot is also a good choice for beginners because it is a common camera angle used in filmmaking and stop motion animation. 

By starting with a medium shot, beginners can learn the basics of framing and composition, as well as how to position and move the camera to create different shots.

In addition, a medium shot can be used in a wide range of scenes and moods, from action scenes to dialogue scenes, making it a versatile and adaptable camera angle. 

This allows beginners to experiment with different types of scenes and characters and to explore their own creative style.

But the medium shot is also an excellent camera angle for the pros.

It’s great for showing off your stop motion animation skills, as they allow your audience to see the finer details of your characters’ movements.

Top-down view

The top-down view is a popular camera angle in stop motion animation because it offers a unique perspective that can add interest and variety to your shots. 

This camera angle is shot from directly above the subject, looking down on it from a high angle.

This angle can be great for showing the overall layout of a scene and can work especially well for depicting activities like cooking, crafting, or playing board games.

One of the primary advantages of the top-down view is that it allows you to capture the full layout of a scene, making it ideal for showing characters in relation to their surroundings. 

For example, if you’re animating a character walking through a city street, a top-down shot can show the entire street and all the buildings around the character, providing a more comprehensive sense of place.

Another advantage of the top-down view is that it can help to emphasize the movement and gestures of your characters. 

When viewed from above, the motion of your characters can be more easily seen and appreciated, as their movements will be more visible and less obscured by other elements in the scene.

One thing to keep in mind when shooting top-down shots is that the lighting can be a bit more challenging than with other camera angles. 

Because the camera is pointing straight down, it can cast shadows on your subject that can be difficult to work around. 

To avoid this, you may want to consider using diffused lighting or positioning your lights at an angle to the subject.

The top-down view is a versatile camera angle that can add depth and interest to your stop motion animation. 

So, if you experiment with different camera angles and perspectives, you can create dynamic and engaging scenes that will captivate your audience.

High-angle shot

A high-angle shot is a camera angle that is taken from a position above the subject, looking down. 

This angle is often used in film and photography to create a sense of vulnerability or weakness and can be a powerful tool for emphasizing the relationship between characters or objects.

When used in stop motion animation, a high-angle shot can create a sense of drama or tension and can be useful for highlighting power dynamics between characters. 

For example, a high-angle shot could be used to show a small character looking up at a larger, more intimidating character, emphasizing the power dynamic between them.

A high-angle shot can also be used to show a character’s perspective or to give the viewer a sense of the overall layout of a scene. 

This can be especially effective in stop motion animation, where the viewer is seeing a world that has been created entirely through the animator’s imagination.

One important thing to keep in mind when using a high-angle shot in stop motion animation is that it can be more difficult to set up than other angles. 

Because the camera needs to be positioned above the subject, it may be necessary to build a special rig or use a tripod to achieve the desired angle (I’ve reviewed the best tripods for stop motion here)

Overall, a high-angle shot can be a powerful tool for creating dynamic and engaging stop motion animations. 

By experimenting with different camera angles and techniques, you can create a world that is rich and immersive for your viewers.

Low-angle shot

A low-angle shot is another popular camera angle in stop motion animation that can add depth, drama, and a sense of power to your shots. 

This camera angle is shot from a low position, looking up at the subject from below.

A low-angle shot can create a sense of power or dominance and can be useful for highlighting a character’s strength or determination.

One of the primary advantages of the low-angle shot is that it can make your characters appear larger and more powerful, as they will dominate the frame and loom over the viewer. 

This can be especially effective for dramatic scenes, fight sequences, or moments where your characters need to appear strong and heroic.

Another advantage of the low-angle shot is that it can create a sense of depth and perspective in your shots. 

By positioning your camera low to the ground, you can emphasize the foreground and make your background appear farther away, creating a more dynamic and interesting shot.

One thing to keep in mind when shooting low-angle shots is that the perspective can be a bit disorienting for viewers if overused. 

This camera angle can create a sense of unease or instability, so it’s important to use it intentionally and sparingly to avoid overwhelming your audience.

Overall, the low-angle shot is a versatile camera angle that can add drama, depth, and a sense of power to your stop motion animation. 

By experimenting with different camera angles and perspectives, you can create dynamic and engaging scenes that will captivate your audience.

Eye-level shot

An eye-level shot is a classic camera angle in stop motion animation that can be used for a wide range of scenes and moods. 

This is a classic camera angle that can be used for a wide range of scenes and moods.

An eye-level shot can create a sense of intimacy or can help the viewer feel like they’re in the same space as the characters.

Since the camera angle is shot from the same level as the subject’s eyes, it provides a sense of intimacy and familiarity with the character.

It can make the viewer more empathetic towards the character and story. 

One of the primary advantages of the eye-level shot is that it can help to create a more immersive experience for the viewer. 

By positioning the camera at the same height as the characters, the viewer can feel like they are in the same space as the characters and part of the scene.

Another advantage of the eye-level shot is that it can be used for a variety of different moods and scenes. 

For example, an eye-level shot can be used for emotional scenes where characters are having conversations or for action scenes where characters are running or fighting. 

The versatility of this camera angle makes it a go-to choice for many stop motion animators.

One thing to keep in mind when shooting eye-level shots is that they can be a bit static if overused. 

To create more dynamic shots, consider experimenting with different camera angles and movements, such as tilting the camera up or down or using tracking shots to follow the characters.

Overall, the eye-level shot is a classic camera angle that can add intimacy and familiarity to your stop motion animation. 

By experimenting with different camera angles and perspectives, you can create dynamic and engaging scenes that will captivate your audience.

Also read: The key techniques for stop motion character development explained

Extreme close-up

An extreme close-up (ECU) is a powerful camera angle in stop motion animation that can be used to emphasize small details, expressions, or emotions. 

This camera angle is shot from very close to the subject, often showing only a small part of the character or object.

Basically, an extreme close-up is used by animators to show small details or emotions and can be especially effective in conveying strong feelings or reactions.

One of the primary advantages of the extreme close-up is that it can help to create a sense of intimacy and focus on small details that might otherwise be missed.

For example, an ECU of a character’s eyes can help to convey their emotions and add depth to the scene.

Another advantage of the extreme close-up is that it can be used to create tension or drama.

By emphasizing small details, an ECU can make the viewer feel more invested in the scene and create a sense of tension or anticipation.

One thing to keep in mind when shooting extreme close-ups is that they can be disorienting or jarring if overused.

To avoid overwhelming your audience, use ECU shots sparingly and intentionally.

Overall, the extreme close-up is a powerful camera angle that can add intimacy, drama, and depth to your stop motion animation.

Dutch angle/oblique angle

A Dutch angle, also known as a canted angle or oblique angle, is a camera technique used in stop motion animation to create a sense of tension, unease, or disorientation. 

This technique involves tilting the camera so that the horizon line is no longer level, creating a diagonal composition.

Basically, the camera is tilted to one side. 

In stop motion animation, a Dutch angle can be used to create a sense of unease or tension in a scene, making the viewer feel off-balance or disoriented. 

It can also be used to create a sense of chaos or confusion, especially in action scenes.

One thing to keep in mind when using a Dutch angle in stop motion animation is that it should be used intentionally and sparingly. 

Overuse of this camera technique can become distracting or gimmicky, so it’s important to use it only when it serves a specific purpose in the scene.

The Dutch angle is a powerful camera technique that can add tension and drama to your stop motion animation, especially if it’s a dark or scary animation. 

Bird’s-eye view

A bird’s-eye view camera angle is a camera technique used in filmmaking and stop motion animation where the camera is positioned high above the subject, looking down from a steep angle.

This camera angle creates a view that is similar to what a bird would see while flying over a scene.

In stop motion animation, a bird’s-eye view can be used to show the full layout of a scene, as well as the relationships between characters and objects.

It can also be used to create a sense of scale and perspective by showing the subject from a high vantage point.

A bird’s-eye view camera angle can be achieved by mounting the camera on a crane or a high platform or by using a drone or other aerial device.

It can also be simulated using special effects or CGI in post-production.

A bird’s-eye view and a high angle shot are similar in that they both involve shooting a subject from above, but there are some differences between the two camera angles.

A bird’s-eye view is shot from a very high angle, looking directly down on the subject from above.

This angle is often used to show the layout of a scene, as well as the relationships between characters and objects.

A high angle shot, on the other hand, is shot from a moderately high angle, looking down on the subject from a less extreme angle than a bird’s-eye view. 

This angle is often used to make the subject appear smaller and less significant or to create a sense of vulnerability or powerlessness.

Worm’s-eye view

A worm’s-eye view camera angle is a camera technique used in stop motion animation and filmmaking where the camera is positioned low to the ground, looking up at the subject from below. 

This camera angle creates a view that is similar to what a worm would see while moving along the ground.

In stop motion animation, a worm’s-eye view can be used to create a sense of height and power, as well as emphasize the sky or ceiling. 

This camera angle can also be used to show the subject from an unusual or unexpected angle, creating a sense of novelty and interest for the viewer.

A worm’s-eye view camera angle can be achieved by placing the camera on the ground or using a low-angle tripod, or by using special effects or CGI in post-production.

One thing to keep in mind when using a worm’s-eye view camera angle is that it can make the viewer feel small or insignificant, as the subject will appear larger and more dominant in the frame. 

This can be used intentionally to create a sense of tension or intimidation in the scene. 

Although worm’s eye view is similar to the low angle, there’s a bit of a difference.

A worm’s-eye view is shot from a very low angle, looking up at the subject from a position close to the ground. 

This angle is often used to emphasize the sky or ceiling and create a sense of height and power.

A low-angle shot, on the other hand, is shot from a higher position than a worm’s-eye view but still from a low angle.

This angle is often used to make the subject appear larger and more dominant or create tension or intimidation.

So while both a worm’s-eye view and a low-angle shot involve shooting a subject from a low position, the degree of height and angle differs between the two, leading to different effects on the viewer. 

The worm’s-eye view emphasizes the height and power of the subject, while the low-angle shot emphasizes its dominance and strength.

Over-the-shoulder angle

This camera angle is shot from behind one character, looking over their shoulder at another character. 

This can be used to create a sense of intimacy and focus on the interaction between characters.

In stop motion animation, the over-the-shoulder angle can be used to create a sense of dialogue and interaction between characters, as well as to convey emotions and reactions. 

This camera angle is often used in conversation scenes, where two characters are facing each other and talking.

The over-the-shoulder angle can be achieved by positioning the camera behind one character and framing the shot to include the shoulder and part of the head of the other character. 

It is important to ensure that the shoulder of the character in the foreground does not block the face of the character in the background, as this can make the shot unclear and confusing.

One thing to keep in mind when using the over-the-shoulder angle is that it can be overused if the shot is not varied or if the dialogue scenes are too long. 

To avoid this, consider using different camera angles and perspectives to create visual interest and variety.

Point-of-view angle

The point-of-view camera angle is a camera technique used in stop motion animation and filmmaking where the camera is positioned to show what one character is seeing. 

This camera angle creates a sense of immersion and empathy with the character as the viewer sees the scene from their perspective.

In stop motion animation, the point-of-view camera angle can be used to create a sense of involvement and engagement with the character, as well as to show their reactions and emotions. 

This camera angle is often used in action scenes, where the viewer can feel like they are part of the action and can experience the scene from the character’s perspective.

The point-of-view camera angle can be achieved by mounting the camera on the character’s head or chest or by using a camera rig that simulates the character’s movement. 

It is important to ensure that the camera movement is smooth and not shaky to avoid making the viewer feel disoriented or dizzy.

One thing to keep in mind when using the point-of-view camera angle is that it can be overused if the scene is too long or if the camera movement is too jerky. 

To avoid this, consider using different camera angles and perspectives to create visual interest and variety.

Overall, the point-of-view camera angle is a powerful technique that can add immersion, engagement, and emotional depth to your stop motion animation. 

Pan 

Pan doesn’t refer to a specific angle, but it’s a camera movement technique stop motion animators use frequently. 

The pan camera movement is a camera technique used in stop motion animation and filmmaking where the camera moves horizontally across the scene, often following a moving subject. 

This camera movement creates a sense of movement and action in the scene.

In stop motion animation, the pan camera movement can be used to show the movement of characters or objects, as well as to create a sense of continuity between shots. 

This camera movement is often used in action scenes, where the movement of the camera can add to the sense of excitement and energy.

The pan camera movement can be achieved by using a tripod or camera rig that allows for horizontal movement or by hand-holding the camera and moving it across the scene. 

It is important to ensure that the movement is smooth and not jerky to avoid making the viewer feel dizzy or disoriented.

One thing to keep in mind when using the pan camera movement is that it can be overused if the scene is too long or if the camera movement is too repetitive. 

To avoid this, consider using different camera angles and perspectives to create visual interest and variety.

Overall, the pan camera movement is a powerful technique that can add movement, energy, and excitement to your stop motion animation.

Wide angle/wide shot

A wide angle or wide shot is a camera technique used in stop motion animation and filmmaking that shows a wide view of the scene or environment. 

This camera angle is often used to establish the location or setting of the scene and to give the viewer a sense of the space and context.

Wide shots, sometimes called long shots, are designed to show the entire scene, including the characters and their surroundings. 

These shots are particularly useful for:

• Establishing the setting and atmosphere
• Showing the scale of a scene or location
• Giving the audience a sense of the bigger picture

This camera angle is often used in opening shots or establishing shots, where the viewer needs to understand the context of the scene before the action begins.

The wide angle or wide shot can be achieved by positioning the camera at a distance from the subject or scene, and framing the shot to include a wide view of the environment. 

It is important to ensure that the subject or objects in the scene are still visible and recognizable, despite being small in the frame.

Something to keep in mind when using the wide angle or wide shot is that it can be less engaging or interesting for the viewer than closer shots or different camera angles. 

To avoid this, consider using different camera angles and perspectives, such as close-ups or medium shots, to create visual interest and variety.

Overall, the wide angle or wide shot is a powerful technique that can add context, setting, and perspective to your stop motion animation.

Close-up shot

A close-up shot is a camera technique used in stop motion animation and filmmaking that shows a detailed view of a character, object, or part of a scene. 

This camera angle is often used to emphasize emotions, reactions, and details that might not be visible in a wider shot.

Close-up shots are all about capturing the finer details of a character or object. They’re perfect for:

• Highlighting important objects or actions
• Revealing a character’s emotions or reactions
• Creating a sense of intimacy and connection with the subject

This camera angle is often used in emotional or dramatic scenes, where the viewer needs to see the character’s expressions and reactions up close.

The close-up shot can be achieved by positioning the camera close to the subject or object and framing the shot to include a detailed view of the face, hands, or other important details. 

It is important to ensure that the subject or object is in focus and well-lit and that the shot is steady and not shaky.

One thing to keep in mind when using the close-up shot is that it can be less engaging or interesting for the viewer if overused or if there is not enough variety in the shot composition. 

To avoid this, consider using different camera angles and perspectives, such as wide shots or medium shots, to create visual interest and variety.

Stop motion camera angles vs photography camera angles

Are stop motion camera angles unique?

No, they’re used by photographers and filmmakers, too, but you might use a combination of angles to make your stop motion animation. 

While there are similarities between stop motion camera angles and photography camera angles, there are also some differences between the two techniques.

In both stop motion animation and photography, camera angles are used to create different perspectives and visual interest. 

However, in stop motion animation, the camera is typically moved or adjusted between shots, while in photography, the camera angle is usually set for a single shot.

In stop motion animation, camera angles can be used to create movement and action within the scene, while in photography, camera angles are often used to capture a moment or composition in a single frame. 

Additionally, in stop motion animation, camera angles are often chosen to match the movement and expression of the characters or objects.

In photography, camera angles are chosen to emphasize the subject or create a specific mood.

Some camera angles, such as the close-up or the wide shot, are common in both stop motion animation and photography. 

However, some angles, such as the dutch angle or the worm’s-eye view, may be more common in stop motion animation due to the ability to manipulate the environment and create a sense of movement or action.

Overall, while there are similarities between stop motion camera angles and photography camera angles, the differences between the two techniques lie in the use of movement, action, and manipulation of the environment in stop motion animation versus the capture of a single moment or composition in photography.

Camera angles and visual storytelling

Alright, folks, let’s talk about camera angles and visual storytelling!

You know how sometimes you’re watching a movie or a TV show, and you’re like, “Wow, this shot is really cool!” 

Well, that’s because the camera angle plays a huge role in telling the story. 

There are different types of camera shots that can be used to convey different things. For example, a wide shot can show the entire scene and give you a sense of the surroundings. 

This is great for establishing shots and helping the audience understand where the action is taking place. 

On the other hand, a close-up shot can really focus on the emotions of a character and give you a sense of what they’re feeling. 

Camera angles can also be used to manipulate the audience’s perception of a scene.

For example, a low-angle shot can make a character look powerful or intimidating, while a high-angle shot can make them look vulnerable or small. 

Visual storytelling is all about using these camera angles and shots to tell a story without relying solely on dialogue. 

It’s about showing, not telling.

By using different camera techniques, filmmakers can convey information to the audience in a way that’s more engaging and memorable than just having characters explain everything through dialogue. 

So, next time you’re watching a stop-motion animation like Coraline, pay attention to the camera angles and shots.

You might be surprised at how much they’re telling you without saying a word!

Final thoughts

In conclusion, camera angles are an essential element in stop motion animation.

They can be used to create movement, action, emotion, intimacy, and visual interest in the scene and can help to establish the context and mood of the story. 

From low angles and high angles to close-ups and wide shots, there are many camera angles to choose from in stop motion animation, each with its own unique effect on the viewer.

It’s important to keep in mind that camera angles should be chosen carefully and used thoughtfully to serve the story and the characters. 

Overuse of a particular angle or lack of variety in the shot composition can make the animation feel repetitive or uninteresting. 

Ultimately, camera angles in stop motion animation are a powerful tool that can add depth, emotion, and visual interest to the story.

Learn about more brilliant Stop Motion Camera Hacks for Awesome Animations

Hi, I'm Kim, a mom and a stop-motion enthusiast with a background in media creation and web development. I've got a huge passion for drawing and animation, and now I'm diving headfirst into the stop-motion world. With my blog, I'm sharing my learnings with you guys.