Action!
Roll the camera
‘Action!’ is an interactive installation that immerses visitors in a hands-on experience of camera movements in cinema. The setup features multiple behind-the-scene filming studios, each showcasing a cinematic technique such as Dolly Zoom, Arc Shot, Zero-Gravity Shot and Mirror Shot.
Description
Cameras in filmmaking are more than just recording devices— they are storytelling tools that shape what audiences focus on. This installation allows audiences to step into the role of the cameraman by exploring classic movie clips demonstrating each technique. By physically playing with the camera, they can simulate professional cinematographic effects. Their real-time footage is displayed alongside the original movie clip, offering a direct visual comparison and a deeper understanding of the techniques.
As an engaging and educational experience, ‘Action!’ makes the production part of cinema accessible to a general audience. Audiences not only gain insight into the technical aspects of filmmaking but also leave with their own recorded movie clips, allowing them to share their creations and continue the conversation beyond the exhibition space.
4 movies showing cinematic techniques
- Dolly Zoom -> Jaws, 1975
- Arc shot -> Matrix, 1999
- Zero Gravity shot -> 2001: A space odyssey, 1968
- Mirror shot -> Black swan, 2010
Technical Materials
Hardware:
- 1x Square/Round Table
- 4x Smartphones/Webcamera
- 4x Phone Holders with Handles
- 2x Sliders - for Dolly Zoom and Mirror Shot
- 2x Robot Arms - for Zero-Gravity Shot and Arc Shot
- 4x Display Screens
- 4x Studio Lights
- nx cinema miniature
- nx Mounts, stands, and cables
Software & Tech:
- ‘Action!’ Project Website (https://head-plaza.vercel.app/)
Research
Our project is rooted in the fundamental role of the camera in shaping cinematic storytelling. Unlike theater, where the audience has a fixed perspective, cinema actively directs the viewer’s attention through camera movement, framing, and shot composition. The camera is not just a recording device but an active storyteller, influencing how the audience perceives and engages with a scene.
Field Observations
To develop our concept, we conducted field research, including surveys with both film professionals and general audiences. We explored their understanding of cinematic techniques and how they impact storytelling. Professionals emphasized how camera movements create emotional depth and narrative rhythm, while general audiences often appreciated these techniques unconsciously but lacked awareness of their mechanics.
This research confirmed our project’s necessity: an interactive experience that makes cinematic techniques tangible for both enthusiasts and newcomers. By allowing users to physically recreate iconic shots, we bridge the gap between passive viewing and active cinematic engagement.
Visual Moodboard
Just like how Steven Spielberg filmed with toy trains in The Fabelmans, we wanted to create a miniature amusement park-like experience where each small film studio represents a different camera technique. This setup allows people to have fun while easily moving the camera to shoot their own films. The final installation design includes various ideas—it could be as simple as a table setup or arranged as separate studio “islands” positioned in different locations.
Shape Research
To recreate the authentic feel of original films, we conducted several tests using a 3D printer to build film studios as accurately as possible. The ideal film studio consists of a 3D-printed model with a camera track installed near the main subject, allowing users to replicate the intended camera technique as closely as possible.
Paper Prototype
We built a camera track using cardboard boxes, set up a film set with 3D-printed objects and figurines, and tested the setup using a smartphone camera.
Experiments
To accurately replicate real filmmaking techniques, we used figurines and various objects to shoot scenes using dolly zoom, tilt shot, and arc shot. Additionally, to implement the dolly zoom effect, we created a webpage that detects faces and automatically zooms in on the screen, allowing us to test the effect interactively.