Subject and Object in Cinematography: Understanding the Dynamic Relationship

Cinematography is the art of guiding the viewer’s eyes and emotions through carefully designed visual elements. Two essential components in this visual storytelling are the subject and the object. These terms go beyond simply describing people within a frame; they encompass any element, living or non-living, that occupies space and contributes to the story.

What makes cinematography so fascinating is the dynamic nature of these roles. Who—or what—is the subject or object in a given frame is never fixed. The roles change depending on the composition, narrative focus, and the intentions of the director.

What is a Subject in Cinematography?

The subject is the main focus of the frame. It leads the audience’s attention and often carries the emotional or narrative weight of the scene. While it’s easy to assume that the subject is always a person, this is not necessarily the case.

A subject can be:

A character delivering a line or making a significant movement.

An inanimate object such as a ringing phone, a flower in bloom, or a weapon in a close-up shot.

A natural element like a storm, sunset, or river that drives the emotional tone of the scene.

The subject doesn’t have to be static or unchanging. In fact, its dynamic nature is what makes cinematography exciting.

What is an Object in Cinematography?

Objects fill the frame around the subject, adding depth, context, and visual interest. While they don’t usually drive the narrative directly, they serve a crucial purpose: supporting the subject and enhancing the story.

An object can be:

A person who is not the primary focus of the frame.

Props like furniture, books, or tools that set the mood.

Background elements such as landscapes, buildings, or vehicles that enrich the composition.

Objects often exist to help guide the viewer's eyes toward the subject or to add subtle storytelling cues. However, objects can temporarily take over as the subject, depending on the shot’s intent.

How to Identify the Subject and Object

There is no fixed rule to determine the subject and object in a frame; it depends on several factors:

1. Frame Composition

Composition plays a significant role in determining the subject. The subject is often positioned prominently in the frame—centered, aligned with the rule of thirds, or framed by leading lines.

2. Focus and Depth of Field

The subject is usually the element in sharp focus. A shallow depth of field isolates the subject, blurring the background (objects) to emphasize the subject's importance. Conversely, when the focus shifts, objects may temporarily become the subject.

3. Dominance in Space

The subject often occupies the most space within the frame. For example, a character in a close-up shot naturally becomes the subject due to their prominence.

4. Action and Movement

The subject is often the element driving the action. A character walking, speaking, or reacting will likely take precedence over stationary objects.

5. Narrative Context

Sometimes, the narrative dictates the subject. For example, a seemingly mundane object like a key may become the subject of a frame if it holds significant meaning to the plot.

Examples of Subjects and Objects

Example 1: A Conversation

Imagine a scene where two people are talking. If the camera focuses on the speaker, they are the subject, while the listener becomes the object. However, if the camera shifts to capture the listener’s reaction, they temporarily become the subject.

Example 2: Symbolic Objects

A close-up of a wedding ring on a table transforms it into the subject, emphasizing its symbolic importance. The surrounding elements—such as the table, background, or even a hand reaching for the ring—serve as objects supporting the subject.

Example 3: Action Scenes

In an action sequence, a car chase might feature the fleeing vehicle as the subject. However, as the camera pans to the pursuing car, the roles reverse. Here, the subject and object change rapidly, maintaining the viewer’s engagement.

The Fluidity of Subject and Object

One of the most important aspects of cinematography is the fluid relationship between subject and object. This fluidity is what makes visual storytelling so compelling and dynamic.

1. When Subjects Become Objects

Subjects don’t always remain in the spotlight. In a group scene, the person speaking or acting is usually the subject. However, as the focus shifts to another character or element, the original subject becomes an object.

For instance, in a classroom scene, a teacher might be the subject while delivering a lecture. However, when the camera pans to a student daydreaming, the student becomes the new subject.

2. When Objects Become Subjects

Objects can take center stage when their importance to the narrative is emphasized. A close-up shot of a ticking clock in a suspenseful scene turns the clock into the subject, symbolizing urgency and tension.

Techniques to Establish Subject and Object

Cinematographers use a variety of techniques to define and manipulate subjects and objects within a frame:

1. Framing

The way a subject is framed can draw attention to it. A subject framed by a doorway or window naturally stands out from the surrounding objects.

2. Lighting and Contrast

Lighting is a powerful tool to emphasize the subject. High contrast between the subject and the background helps the audience focus on the intended element.

3. Leading Lines

Lines within the composition, such as roads, fences, or architectural elements, can guide the viewer’s eye toward the subject.

4. Movement

The subject is often the moving element in the frame, while static elements serve as objects. Camera movement, such as tracking or panning, can also highlight the subject.

Why Understanding Subject and Object Matters

Grasping the relationship between subject and object is crucial for filmmakers, as it allows them to:

Guide Audience Attention: Subjects and objects shape how viewers perceive and interpret the story.

Enhance Narrative Clarity: Properly defining these roles ensures that the story remains coherent.

Create Emotional Impact: Dynamic shifts between subjects and objects can evoke surprise, tension, or empathy.

Practical Applications in Filmmaking

1. Emotional Scenes

In emotionally charged moments, the subject might be a character’s face showing vulnerability, while objects like a tear-soaked letter add context and weight.

2. Symbolic Storytelling

Filmmakers often use objects as subjects to convey deeper meanings. For example, a wilting flower can symbolize lost hope or decay.

3. Dynamic Action

In fast-paced scenes, subjects and objects change rapidly to maintain excitement. A chase sequence might alternate focus between the pursuer and the pursued, keeping the viewer engaged.

Conclusion

The concepts of subject and object in cinematography go far beyond fixed definitions. They are dynamic, changing with the composition and narrative demands of a scene. A subject leads the frame, driving the story forward, while objects provide essential context and support.

Understanding this interplay is key to mastering visual storytelling. Whether it’s a person, object, or even an abstract element like light or movement, the roles of subject and object continually shift to create meaning and impact.

By skillfully manipulating these elements, filmmakers can craft compelling stories that resonate with audiences, one frame at a time.

GRIDLINE UNIVERSITY

Search This Blog