What Is Establishing Shot?

An establishing shot in filmmaking and television production sets up, or establishes, the context for a scene by showing the relationship between its important figures and objects.

What is the purpose of the establishing shot?

Establishing shots introduce new scenes and tell the viewer where and when the action is happening. They can also set up a point of view or help develop character.

What is meant by an establishing shot?

: a usually long shot in film or video used at the beginning of a sequence to establish an overview of the scene that follows.