Full shot

The subject appears from head to feet with some surrounding space.

Visual traits

• Full-body contour
• Feet and ground
• Surrounding space

Expected changes

• Whole-body pose and movement are more likely to be legible
• Some surrounding setting is more likely to remain

Definition

It includes the subject from head to feet so pose and relation to the setting can be read. It differs from a long shot centered on distant setting.

In more detail

It can show whole-body movement, clothing, and contact with the ground while retaining context. Viewpoint, composition, and lens directions remain separate.

Includes

• A frame where a person or animal's full body is legible

Excludes

• A face-only close-up
• A long shot centered on distant scenery

What this does not imply

• A particular viewpoint
• Centered composition
• A particular lens

Variability

Adjust surrounding space for subject count and setting.

Usage

• Keep the subject from head to feet in frame
• Specify viewpoint separately

Distinguish similar expressions

• Use medium shot when showing roughly the waist upward

Typical uses

• Show a person's pose and clothing
• Show an animal in relation to the ground

Possible failure modes

• Cropping off head or feet
• Making the subject too small while scenery becomes primary