We are always told to ‘tell stories’ with our images and video footage; however, sometimes that just doesn’t feel obvious. How do we tell a story with just images? And how literal does that story have to be? Well, one rule of thumb is that it doesn’t have to be a literal story in the ‘Once upon a time’ sense, it can be quite loose.
Having a rough framework and planning your shoot will set you up to tell a more complete story with your images, and telling it in four simple shots is a great starting point to set you up for success. In this video, Alvin Ojoy shares his four-shot secret to telling a more complete visual story, which works for both video and stills.
The Four-Shot Sequence: A Foolproof Template
1. The Wide Shot (Establishing the Scene)
The first shot in Alvin’s sequence is the wide shot, which sets the stage for the entire scene. This shot captures the environment, giving the audience context about where the story takes place. It also establishes the relationship between the subject and their surroundings.
Alvin recommends using the rule of thirds to position the subject on the left or right side of the frame to create a balanced composition. A wide shot isn’t just about showing space; it’s about grounding the viewer in the world you’re creating.
2. The Medium Shot (Bringing the Subject Closer)
Next, Alvin transitions to a medium shot, framing the subject from the waist up. This shot strikes a perfect balance, it’s close enough to see emotions and interactions, but wide enough to maintain some environmental context.
Medium shots are great for:
- Introducing secondary characters
- Showing body language and movement
- Serving as a transition between wide shots and close-ups
3. The Close-Up (Highlighting Emotion and Detail)
The third shot in the sequence is the close-up, which zeroes in on the subject’s face, hands, or any key detail that drives the story forward. Close-ups are powerful because they convey emotion and subtle nuances that wider shots might miss.
Alvin often uses close-ups to:
- Show reactions (a smile, a frown, a thoughtful gaze)
- Focus on actions (typing, holding an object, gesturing)
- Create intimacy between the subject and the audience.
4. The Flexible Shot (Adapting to Your Story)
The final shot in the sequence is where creativity truly shines. Depending on the narrative, this could be:
- Another close-up (to emphasise a crucial detail)
- A return to a medium or wide shot (to show a character exiting the scene)
- A brand-new angle (like an overhead or Dutch tilt for dramatic effect)
For example, if Alvin wants to show a character leaving a location, he might end the sequence with another wide shot, smoothly transitioning to the next scene.
Practical Tips for Better Shot Sequences
1. Keep Your Editing in Mind
A well-planned shot list saves time in post-production. By sticking to this four-shot structure, Alvin ensures he has enough coverage without drowning in unnecessary footage.
2. Experiment with Movement
Static shots work, but adding motion, like a slow push-in or a tracking shot, can elevate the sequence. Alvin often pairs his medium shots with subtle camera movements to keep the visuals dynamic.
3. Use Natural Light to Your Advantage
Lighting can make or break a shot. Alvin prefers shooting during golden hour for soft, flattering light or using diffusers to avoid harsh shadows in close-ups.
4. Don’t Overthink It
When in doubt, Alvin falls back on this four-shot method. It’s a reliable starting point that keeps his work structured while leaving room for spontaneity.
Even the most seasoned photographers face creative blocks. But with a solid template like this, you can always craft compelling sequences, no matter the situation. Whether you’re shooting a documentary, a travel vlog, or a short film, mastering these four shots will give your storytelling clarity and impact.
