Relax, Shoot A Movie

Photo courtesy of Camille Cruz

Unless you are an underchassis car mechanic, there is no other job in the world that will require you to work in a supine position. As a filmmaker, I am very meticulous when it comes to shooting angles. The more angles you have, the more interesting your film becomes. Shooting from a low angle (also known as the strong angle or heroes angle) can make a character look powerful. At the same time it is my only chance to lay on my back, relax, and rest my legs. Of course this works best when filming in a hotel room with wall-to-wall carpet (see photo below).

Photo courtesy of Tammy David

To add more "umph" to shooting from low angles, try panning or tracking. This movement paired with a wide angle lens can make the subject even more heroic. But of course this shooting technique is not limited to people only. You may also try this with trees, buildings, etc. Just make sure that you check the surface you will be laying on. 

And lastly, don't fall in love with this technique too much. Aside from making your film look like it was shot by a midget, this too might happen:

Photo courtesy of Tammy David