Although filming two people having a conversation is much more simple than filming someone walking, there are still a definite set of rules and techniques it is important to follow during filming.
In order to set up there scene there needs to be an establishing shot - this is usually the simplest of the shots. If, for example the two people are sitting down at a table then the establishing shot would generally be of the table side on, showing the two subjects sitting at it. For example, as the picture to the right demonstrates, this would become the master shot which the camera returned to every so often. These shots would be filmed on the first camera.
While this is going on the second camera will be capturing what are known as pick up shots. Generally speaking these are the irregular camera angles which are returned to at least twice in one scene. The nature of pick up shots can vary massively, but good examples are birds eye shots (e.g. over the table) and close ups. Both of these give new outlook on the scene and keep the conversation as interesting to watch as it is to listen to.
The Rules
The 180 degree rule - This is essentially the same as the idea of not crossing the line. Simplified this rule means that the camera can shoot from any angle so long as it is in the 180 degree radious. If this rule is not followed then it can often look as though charachters have switched sides which can be confusing to look at.
Shot variation - As I have mentioned above, it is important for a variety of shots to be included in a scene. If a whole scene was being shot from one specific angle then it would be dull to watch and it is therefore important to feature many differing pick up shots and one strong master shot.
Continuity editing - Continuity is one of the major problems in filming. It is enevitable, considering how many takes a scene takes to film correctly, that problems will occur but with careful editing it can mostly be avoided or else smoothed over.
Shot/Reverse shot - In films this is a rechnique often employed. Put simply it is when there is a shot of a charachter is looking at something and then the camera angle changes to show what they are looking at and then back to show the charachter again. It is useful to display expressions without having to vocalise them.
Master Shot (see above).
ECU (pick up shots - see above).
Below is the famous 'tipping scene' from Resevoir Dogs. In this clip of conversation are examples of the very sophisticated camera techniques that helped establish Quentin Tarintino as one of the finest modern directors.
