Using a high camera angle can upgrade your podcast interview shots and make your videos stand out. Camera angles play an important role in storytelling; they help you connect with your viewers, keep them engaged, and give your podcast a professional look.

Below, you’ll learn about the purpose of using a high angle, see examples of how it works in both small and large studios, and the reasons to choose this angle, whatever your setup size.

The Purpose Behind a High Camera Angle

A high camera angle means placing your camera above eye level, pointing down at you or your guest. This is different from an eye-level angle, which is straight across, and a low angle, which points up at the person being filmed.

The main purpose of a high angle is to guide the story visually, keep attention where it matters, and create the right mood for your show.

Using High Angle in a Small Studio

When space is limited, every inch counts. And the way you place your camera can help you get the most out of the room.

By placing your camera above eye level and pointing it slightly down, you open up the shot. You can show more of your table, mic, and setup without needing extra space. This angle also hides some of the clutter that might be on the floor or in the background.

Here’s how you can use it in your small studio:

• Corner Setup: If your desk is in the corner of a room, mount the camera above your monitor or on a high tripod. This gives a clear view of your face and mic while keeping the background simple.
• Overhead Look: You can also place the camera a bit higher to get a top-down view. This is great if you want to show your podcast gear or include two people sitting side by side.
• Wall Mount or Shelf: Try placing the camera on a high shelf or wall bracket if you don’t have space for a tripod. Just angle it down slightly to keep everything in frame.
• Bookshelf Setup: Use the top of a sturdy bookshelf behind or beside your desk to position your camera. It’s a creative way to get a high angle without needing extra equipment, and it keeps your floor space open.
• Clamp Mount: Attach a clamp mount with an articulating arm to a nearby shelf or desk edge. This flexible option lets you adjust the height and angle easily, especially in tight spots where tripods won’t fit.

When you’re short on space, this angle helps you look more professional and keeps the focus where it should be – on your podcast.

Using High Angle for Large Podcast Studios

If you have a big podcast studio, using a high camera angle can help you show off the space and all the people in it. Since you have more room, you can place the camera up high to get a wide view of the whole setup.

Here’s how you can use a high angle in a large studio:

• Group Shots: If you have several hosts or guests, a high angle lets you fit everyone into the frame without crowding. You can show the whole table and people’s faces clearly.
  
• Show the Studio: A high angle can capture cool details of your studio, like lights, decorations, or equipment. This makes your podcast look more professional and interesting.
  
• Action Shots: If your podcast includes demonstrations or uses props, a high angle helps viewers see what’s happening from above. This is useful if you want to show hands working or objects on the table.
• Stage or Panel View: If your podcast setup includes a stage or a long table for panel discussions, a high angle helps capture the entire layout and everyone’s reactions at once.
• Lighting Integration: Mounting your camera near the ceiling alongside lighting rigs gives a seamless look. This setup lets you manage both light and visuals without extra clutter in your space.

Using a high angle in a big studio keeps your shots clear and balanced, so your audience can focus on the conversation and the environment. 

Best Reasons to Use a High Camera Angle

So, why use a high angle? Here are several important reasons:

1. It Changes How People See You

A high camera angle can make the person on camera look smaller, calmer, or more thoughtful. It softens the scene and can create a feeling of openness or humility. This can be useful if you’re interviewing someone with a big personality or talking about serious topics.

Eye-level shots feel more equal, like you’re sitting across from a friend. Low angles, on the other hand, make someone look bigger or more powerful, which can sometimes feel intense or even intimidating.

2. It Directs Attention

This angle can help your audience focus on the person’s face and upper body. It also cuts down on background distractions, especially in smaller studios. 

If your space is tight or cluttered, shooting from above can help you keep things clean and polished on camera.

3. It Sets the Tone

Research shows camera angles shape how people see you. A Memory & Cognition study found that high-angle shots made characters seem more passive, which can help you highlight vulnerability or humility in your podcast.¹

In addition, a Journal of Advertising study found that a downward-looking angle (high camera angle) made people feel more in control of a product, leading to better reviews. This shows that high angles can also suggest authority, depending on the context.²

4. It Helps with Framing

A high angle can also help you frame your shot better. If you’re working with a co-host or guest, a high angle gives you a nice top-down view that can show both of you clearly. 

It reduces the chances of someone being partially out of frame or overshadowed by equipment. This is especially helpful in small studios where space is tight.

By thoughtfully applying a high camera angle, you can enhance the visual storytelling of your podcast, engage your audience more effectively, and present a more professional image.

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Sources:

1. Kraft, R. N. (1987). The influence of camera angle on comprehension and retention of pictorial events. Memory & Cognition, 15(4), 291–307. https://doi.org/10.3758/bf03197032
2. ‌Xuan, C., Chen, R., Lin, S., & Huang, H. (2023). Looking Up or Down? The Effects of Camera Angle on Evaluations of Anthropomorphized Products in Advertisements. Journal of Advertising, 53(4), 530–548. https://doi.org/10.1080/00913367.2023.2282998