Definition
What is a single shot?
A single shot, or single, is a composition that presents one principal character or subject. It can be wide, medium, or close, and may still include background extras or a blurred foreground shoulder without changing its central focus.
Singles give a performer visual ownership of a moment. In dialogue coverage they allow an editor to remain with a person’s reaction, delivery, and eyeline without sharing the image with the conversational partner.
A so-called dirty single includes part of another person in the foreground, often a shoulder or edge of a head. That foreground element can preserve the feeling of a conversation, but it should not obstruct the main performance or create confusing screen direction.
Example in the edit
During an argument, each actor receives a medium single; the editor stays on one speaker for a difficult admission.
Why editors use it
Singles provide focused performance coverage and give editors control over whose reaction the audience sees.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions about Single shot
Can a single include background people?
Yes. It is defined by the one principal featured subject, not by an empty background.
What is a dirty single?
A single that includes a portion of another person in the foreground, often to retain conversational context.
Is a single shot one uninterrupted take?
Here, single means one featured subject. A continuous uncut take is a different use of the word shot.