Establishing Shots

By definition an establishing shot in film or television sets up, or establishes the context for a scene by showing the relationship between its important figures and objects. It is generally a long shot at the beginning of a scene indicating where, and sometimes when, the remainder of the scene takes place.

This type of shot can also pertain to more than just a location. It can be used to introduce a relationship between characters or set up important dialogue in a scene.

In animation, an establishing shot is more often classified as a "location/ environment shot"

Here are examples of different establishing shots in live action and animated films:


GLADIATOR- RIDLEY SCOTT (2000)






INGLORIOUS BASTERDS- QUENTIN TARANTINO (2009)







THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS- WES ANDERSON (2001)






MULAN- TONY BANCROFT, BARRY COOK (1998)







RATATOUILLE- BRAD BIRD (2007)