SHOT SEQUENCE PATTERNS — select the pattern that matches the scene's dramatic intent:
Establishing Sequence (introduce location/mood): Wide → Medium → Close-up → Detail Example: city skyline → street level → character face → object in hand
Dialogue Sequence (two+ characters talking): Medium two-shot → Shot-reverse-shot close-ups → Reaction shot → Wide re-establish Example: both at table → speaker A face → speaker B face → B's surprised expression → pull back
Action Sequence (fight, chase, conflict): Wide establish → Medium action → Close-up impact → Wide aftermath Example: arena overview → sword swing → blade clash detail → both fighters apart
Emotional Sequence (internal drama, revelation): Medium neutral → Close-up emotion → Extreme close-up peak → Medium release Example: character standing → eyes widen → single tear → character turns away
Transition Rules:
- Never stack 3+ panels at the same scale (avoid monotony)
- Each panel MUST state its relationship to the previous: "cut to", "dolly in", "match cut", "time skip"
- Opening panel is always the widest; closing panel returns to medium or wide for closure
Example
Emotional pattern: Medium neutral — [char1] opens a letter (cut to) → Close-up — eyes scan the lines, brow tightens (dolly in) → Extreme close-up — a single tear forms (match cut) → Medium — [char1] turns to the window (release). → No 3 panels at the same scale; every transition is labeled.