Getting Started with POV Shooting: Expanding the World of Snapshots | Knowledge #336
Cover photo by navy
※ cizucu-certified writer masa contributed this magazine article.
Have you heard of the term “POV shooting”?
POV stands for “Point of View,” which translates to “perspective” in Japanese. In essence, “POV shooting” refers to capturing videos or photos from the photographer's perspective, or in first-person view.
With the rise of short video trends and the widespread use of action cameras, POV videos have become increasingly common. They are particularly well-suited for snapshot photography and are frequently uploaded to platforms like by photographers, especially overseas.
In this article, we’ll explore the appeal of “POV shooting.”
The Perfect Method for Video Beginners
One of the main attractions of “POV shooting” is its simplicity.
The method involves mounting an action camera or smartphone to a part of your body, such as your chest or shoulder, and pressing the record button. After that, you can go about your day without worrying about the camera.
Photo by Enzo
Although it may feel uneasy at first to shoot videos without checking the screen, as long as the camera is mounted parallel to the ground, you can capture the world almost exactly as you see it. This ease of use makes it an ideal method for those new to video creation.
Conveying Immersive Experiences
First-person perspective videos are incredibly immersive. One of the appeals of “POV shooting” is that viewers can relive the photographer’s experience.
When you use “POV shooting” for street snapshots, the video captures where the photographer was, how they found their subjects, how they framed their shots, and when they pressed the shutter. This information is conveyed to the viewers through the video.
Photo by Yuya
Viewers can not only see the snapshots but also understand the context behind them, allowing them to feel closer to the photographer’s perspective and emotions. For those who enjoy snapshot photography as a hobby, “POV shooting” has the potential to enhance its appeal even further.
The Elegance of Holding a Camera
While engaging in street snapshots, there are moments when you rediscover the beauty of the camera you’re holding. Or, perhaps embarrassingly, you might imagine how cool you look while holding the camera.
Photo by masa
“POV shooting” allows you to capture not only the snapshots but also the actions involved in taking them. For instance, the quick motion of adjusting the aperture ring to match the scene in front of you, or the subtle adjustments to the composition while checking the monitor. These small, intricate movements, familiar to anyone who enjoys snapshot photography, can look incredibly stylish when viewed later.
With “POV shooting,” you won’t miss capturing even these fine moments.
