The EssentialShowbiz Dictionary™

of Entertainment Industry Terms

Single-Cam

1 minute read | Last updated: 5 months ago

What does Single-Cam mean?

Single-Cam refers to a style of television production where only one camera is used to shoot a scene at a time, as opposed to multi-cam setups, which use multiple cameras simultaneously. Single-cam productions are often associated with more cinematic storytelling and are used for dramas, comedies, and high-production-value series. Related terms include Multi-Cam, which uses multiple cameras to shoot a scene from different angles, and Single Take, where an entire scene is filmed in one continuous shot.

Example:The single-cam sitcom had a more cinematic feel, relying on varied camera angles and dramatic lighting compared to traditional multi-cam sitcoms.
Example: Many modern TV dramas are shot single-cam to allow for greater control over the composition and pacing of each scene.

Did You Know?
Single-cam comedies, like The Office and Parks and Recreation, helped popularize the mockumentary style in television!

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