Tells the viewer where and when the story takes place at a glance.
When to use it
Introducing the setting in the first 0–2 seconds (a city view, a store exterior), and the first shot after the location changes.
Example videos
Establishing Shots — Setting a scene like Kubrick, Wes Anderson, and Michael Bay — Explainer: From 1:11, examples of establishing shots from Hollywood films follow, including Kubrick and Wes Anderson.Ultimate Guide to Camera Shots: Every Shot Size Explained (The Shot List, Ep 1) — Explainer: From 1:24, the establishing shot section, which tells you the place and time first.Mastering AI Video: 26 Camera Angles, Shot Types, Perspective & Lens Effects You NEED to Know — AI: From 0:55, it shows wide and establishing shots made with AI.
Will AI handle it well?
Public AI example available — Kling 'Establishing Wide Shot', Veo 'establishing shot'
One-click prompt
Establishing wide shot of a sleepy seaside town at dawn, pastel houses stacked on a hillside, fishing boats in the harbor, thin mist on the water, a slow gentle drift to the right, 24mm lens, soft pink-orange sunrise light, peaceful mood, 6-second shot.
Tell the AI like this
establishing wide shot of a seaside town at dawn, slow drift