What is the Difference Between Trucking and Tracking Shot? Comprehensive Guide

Defining Tracking and Trucking Shots

What is a Tracking Shot?

A tracking shot is a camera movement where the camera follows the subject as it moves through a scene. The movement can be forward, backward, or alongside the subject. The key characteristic of a tracking shot is that the camera moves with the subject rather than simply panning or zooming in from a fixed position.

How is a Tracking Shot Achieved?

To execute a smooth tracking shot, filmmakers use:

• Dolly and tracks – A dolly is a wheeled platform that moves on tracks to achieve a fluid motion.
• Gimbals and stabilizers – These tools help filmmakers achieve steady tracking shots while moving freely.
• Handheld cameras – Often used for a raw, immersive effect in films.
• Drones – Used for aerial tracking shots in action sequences or landscape shots.

Example: The long tracking shot in Children of Men (2006) is one of the most famous examples, where the camera seamlessly follows the characters through a chaotic war zone. Check out this comprehensive guide on camera movements in filmmaking, for more insights.

What is a Trucking Shot?

A trucking shot is similar to a tracking shot, but instead of moving forward or backward, the camera moves side to side, following the subject’s lateral movement. This technique is often used to reveal environments, track characters walking or running, or follow vehicles in motion.

How is a Trucking Shot Different from a Tracking Shot?

• A tracking shot can move in any direction with the subject.
• A trucking shot specifically moves perpendicular to the subject’s movement.

Example: In The Shining (1980), Stanley Kubrick used a trucking shot to follow Danny as he rides his tricycle through the eerie hotel corridors, creating a sense of suspense and unease.

The Purpose and Impact of Tracking and Trucking Shots

1. Enhancing Storytelling and Immersion

A well-executed tracking shot can make the audience feel like they’re part of the action, whether it’s a tense chase scene or an intimate character moment.

2. Creating a Sense of Movement and Energy

These shots add dynamism, making scenes feel more alive. In action films, tracking shots help maintain intensity, while in dramas, they can emphasize emotional depth.

3. Following Action and Maintaining Continuity

A continuous tracking shot eliminates the need for excessive cuts, making sequences more fluid and natural. This technique is often used in war films, sports movies, and dance sequences.

4. Revealing Settings and Environments

Trucking shots are great for showing the environment without breaking immersion. This is particularly useful in historical dramas, sci-fi films, and epics.

5. Building Tension and Suspense

Filmmakers use slow tracking shots to build tension in horror and thriller films. The camera’s movement suggests something is about to happen, keeping the audience on edge.

Famous Examples of Tracking and Trucking Shots in Film:

• Goodfellas (1990) – The iconic Copacabana tracking shot.
• 1917 (2019) – The entire film is made to look like one continuous tracking shot.

Pulp Fiction (1994) – A famous trucking shot follows Vincent and Jules walking through a hallway.

Techniques and Equipment for Tracking and Trucking Shots

• To execute a perfect tracking or trucking shot, filmmakers use various tools:
  

  1. Dolly and Tracks

  Used for smooth, controlled movement, especially in professional productions.

  2. Gimbals and Stabilizers

  Lightweight and versatile, used for handheld tracking shots without the shakiness.

  3. Handheld Tracking/Trucking

  Creates a raw, documentary-style feel, often used in intense or chaotic scenes.

  4. Drone Tracking/Trucking

  Ideal for large-scale shots, such as following a car chase or showcasing a vast landscape.

  Tips for Smooth and Effective Shots:

  • Plan the shot carefully to ensure smooth movement.
  • Use stabilizers to prevent unwanted shakes.
  • Match the speed of the camera with the subject for a natural look.
  • Consider lighting conditions to maintain consistency.

Tracking and Trucking vs Other Camera Movements

Practical Applications and Examples

Using Tracking and Trucking Shots in Different Genres

• Action Films – Used in chase sequences (Mad Max: Fury Road).
• Horror Films – Slow tracking shots build suspense (It Follows).
• Dramas – Follows character interactions (Birdman).
• Sci-Fi/Fantasy – Establishes large-scale environments (Blade Runner 2049).

The “Copacabana” Shot from Goodfellas

Martin Scorsese’s legendary tracking shot in Goodfellas follows Henry Hill as he enters the club, providing insight into his world, power, and influence—all in a single, seamless take.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Conclusion

Whether you’re filming an indie project or a high-budget film, experimenting with tracking and trucking shots will enhance your visual storytelling skills. So grab your camera, plan your shot, and start moving!