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Guide · Video

Camera movement words for a video prompt

Push in, pull out, pan, orbit, handheld: the words that tell a video model how the camera moves, and why one move per clip is enough.

By GENI · 1 min read · updated

Published

Say how the camera moves

Without a word about the camera, many models keep it still or drift a little. Naming the move gives the clip intent.

The moves

  • Push in: the camera moves slowly towards the subject.
  • Pull out: away from it, revealing more.
  • Pan: the camera turns left or right.
  • Orbit: the camera circles the subject.
  • Handheld: a slight natural shake, like a phone.
  • Static: the camera stays put, only the subject moves.

One move per clip

A short clip has room for one move. "Push in, then orbit, then pull out" in a few seconds gives a nervous clip. Make three clips and cut them instead.

Combine with speed

"Slow push in" and "fast push in" are different shots. Add the speed, and the lens if it matters: a wide lens for space, a long lens for a compressed, intimate look.

Questions

Do presets help?

Yes. Camera presets add tested wording to your prompt.

Does every model follow camera words?

Most do, some more precisely than others.

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