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Techniques

Parallax

AI-generated reference clip

Parallax

Parallax slideArc slide

The camera moves sideways while rotating to keep the subject in place, so foreground and background slide past at different speeds.

Camera Movement · Medium
NarrativeHow it worksWhen to useYour kitCompared withMistakesDrill

Narrative

Depth and 3D feel: the subject stays put while the world slides past at different speeds. Looks expensive.

How it works

1Place a foreground element between you and the subject.
2Move sideways while rotating to keep the subject in the same spot in frame.

When to use

Wedding
Slide past flowers while staying locked on the couple.
Product
Hero shot: product centred, background sweeping behind.
Corporate / interview
Establishing B-cam move before the subject talks.

Your kit

Needs gear you don't own yet.
Best option
Slider + slowly panning the head to keep the subject centred.
Gimbal: arc slightly around the subject while side-stepping.

A7 V + 24-70 settings

A wide focal length close to the subject = strongest parallax; 70mm from far = compressed and subtle.

Compared with

Orbit / arc
An orbit circles much further around the subject.
Truck / side-track
A truck keeps its direction, so the subject moves through the frame.

Mistakes

Subject drifting in the frame: practise the rotate-while-sliding coordination.

Drill

Parallax on a coffee cup with plants in front and a window behind. 3 takes, compare smoothness.

Related techniques

Truck / side-track
Orbit / arc