This technique involves using a camera mounted on a moving platform to create dynamic shots. The platform, often a wheeled cart on tracks, allows for smooth tracking movements, either parallel to the subject or following them. A classic example is a scene where the camera smoothly follows a character walking down a street, maintaining a consistent framing.
The method offers increased control over camera motion, enabling shots that are more fluid and precise than handheld alternatives. Its historical usage spans decades of filmmaking, contributing significantly to visual storytelling by enhancing the audience’s sense of immersion and providing specific perspectives within a scene. The controlled movement adds production value and allows the filmmaker to emphasize certain actions or reveal information at a deliberate pace.