Shot / Reverse Shot

‘Shot / Reverse Shot’ is a film making technique used typically in dialogue scenes.  First, a SHOT of one character might be shown (where they are looking to the left), the film maker would then follow this with the REVERSE SHOT of the other character (looking to the right).  By using the Shot / Reverse Shot techniques we help the viewer to understand that our two characters are facing one another (even if they are never actually seen together in the same shot).  

It is typical however for dialogue scenes to begin with a Master-Shot which will include both character in the same shot.  Master-Shots help to establish where the characters are in the location and which way they are facing - they help to orientate the viewer.

Fig.1  (Top to bottom)
Master Shot, Mid-Shot, Reverse Shot.

Other popular shots used in dialogue scenes are called ‘Over the Shoulder shots’ (OTS), here the shot is taken in such a way that the back of one character AND the face of the other can seen together in the same shot.

By following the 180 Degree Rule, a film maker would always ensure that a ‘Master Shot’, a ‘Shot / Reverse Shot’ or an ‘Over the Shoulder shot’ is always perfectly achieved.