TRAIN DREAMS is a masterclass in visual framing - especially for those working with taller aspect ratios (such as 3:2, which it was uniquely shot with).
Most filmmakers are taught to use the rule of thirds when framing, and that can be a helpful guide with wider aspect ratios like 2.39:1. But when you’re working in 4:3 (or 3:2 in this case), using quadrants to frame your shots can be incredibly powerful.
Almost every shot in the film either places the focal point in one of the four quadrants, or filling one half of the shot (top, bottom, left, or right). Occasionally, shots are center framed too, which is a powerful shift after you’ve settled into the use of negative space as a viewer.
I also love the choice of wider angle lenses for closeups, which helps bring more of the environment into the nearly square frame.
Brilliant work by director Clint Bentley and DP Adolpho Veloso.