{"id":83287,"date":"2022-06-30T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-06-30T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/?p=83287"},"modified":"2024-06-15T01:02:57","modified_gmt":"2024-06-15T05:02:57","slug":"dutch-angle-shot-cinematography-photography","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/dutch-angle-shot-cinematography-photography\/","title":{"rendered":"Dutch Angle: What It Is and When to Use It"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When looking for new techniques to try in photography, we can often find inspiration in movies. Many filmmaking techniques can be readily adapted to photography, from lighting and composition to everything in between. One of these techniques, in particular, has proven to be quite impactful and requires special consideration when used in either medium. I\u2019m talking about the Dutch angle. Filmmakers and photographers have long debated whether its use qualifies as artistic vs. cliche, but no one can deny its impact. Whether or not you find yourself a fan of the Dutch angle, knowing what it is, why it\u2019s used, and when you might use it effectively in your own photos will make you a better photographer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is a Dutch Angle?<\/h2>\n\n\n
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Photo by SLR Lounge<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The term \u201cDutch angle\u201d originates from its use in classic German films, and it\u2019s actually a mispronunciation of the \u201cDeutsch\u201d angle. As for what it is, a Dutch angle in photography and cinema describes a shot in which the camera is tilted to one side, either the right or the left so that the horizon does not run parallel with the bottom of the frame. The degree to which you tilt the camera is your call, but extreme tilts will render stronger reactions from the viewer. Editing software includes tools specifically designed to help us straighten the horizon, but we won\u2019t need them here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Use a Dutch Angle?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Because we\u2019re used to keeping a level horizon, Dutch angles can feel awkward to look at (and shoot). Filmmakers like Alfred Hitchcock have used Dutch angle shots to great effect, often to create a sense of tension or anxiety. It\u2019s because of the reaction we have to seeing Dutch angle photos that we need to use the technique intentionally. Use it too often and the effect will either turn viewers away from your work or the impact will fade. If you use it sparingly, however, in a context that makes sense, it can prove a powerful visual tool. Many sports, architecture, fashion, and street photographers have figured this out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dutch Angle | What is It and When to Use It<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Photo by Lin & Jirsa Photography<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tip 1: Establish the Mood<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Much has been made of the effect of using Dutch angles in photography and cinema. As mentioned above, Dutch angles tend to evoke a sense of tension or uneasiness. Knowing this, we can use moody lighting and build our shot around a Dutch angle to establish a mood. The tricky part here, however, is recognizing the right moment during a typical shoot to use it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the context of a suspenseful Hitchcock film, you can see how certain scenes might call for Dutch angles to impact the viewer\u2019s experience. If you\u2019re capturing photos for a project that hopes to capture this vibe, you know a Dutch angle will deliver and fit perfectly in context. But what about during a wedding or a family portrait session? While a Dutch angle will not always (or more accurately, will rarely) be a go-to for capturing these genres, it can help you quickly establish other moods in various settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use a Wide Angle and Get into the Action<\/h3>\n\n\n
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Getting Into the Moment With In-Action Portraits | Master Your Craft<\/div><\/div>
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