Cinematographic Techniques Used in Horror Films

Cinematographic Techniques Used in Horror Films


The Horror genre of film has always been something which interests me. Even though I cannot go through an entire scary movie without screaming or covering my head with a blanket, there is just something about the thrill that keeps me coming back for more! Since I love horror films so much, I wanted to read more on the different film techniques that are used in this specific genre.

1) Jump Scares

The "Jump Scare" originated in the 1976 horror film Carrie and utilizes sound to scare the *crap* out of the audience. A jump scare begins with near silence which is then followed by something either leaping out at the character, or a loud sound interrupts the silence, catching both the character and the audience off guard. 

2) Sound 

Music and sound play a really interesting role in horror genres. Individuals watching the movie can be clued in to what is about to go down in a scene based off of the music that is playing. If the music is light and carefree, then usually nothing bad is going to happen. However, once the music becomes dark and suspenseful, it becomes very clear to the audience that something terrible is about to happen. 

3) Underexposed Environments

Horror films heavily rely on shadows and the absence of light to create a terrifying ambiance. The lack of light helps to create an uneasy feeling among the audience, and gives them a sense of impending doom. 

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