All the advanced mounting gear on the previous page has one purpose: to move the camera smoothly while shooting. This ebook does not focus on camera moves, because it’s an advanced technique. Filmmakers and video producers should begin with solid non-moving shots. Once those skills are mastered, then the more advanced techniques of the moving camera can be incorporated.

In some circles, it’s fashionable to move the camera unnecessarily, but the best filmmakers and video producers only move the camera when there is a good reason—for instance, following a moving object. In the example at right, the actors walk a fair distance, but viewers don’t really notice because the camera is simply following the movement.