What does 'leading the subject' refer to in camera work?

'Leading the subject' in camera work refers to positioning the camera slightly in front of the subject. This technique is employed to create a sense of movement and direction in a shot. By placing the camera ahead of the subject, it provides visual space in front of where the subject is headed, guiding the viewer’s eye towards the action as it unfolds. This not only enhances the narrative by suggesting forward motion but also keeps the audience engaged by anticipating what the subject will do next.

In this context, options that suggest placing the camera behind the subject or focusing purely on background action do not facilitate the idea of leading; instead, they may clutter the scene or distract from the main focus. The use of a wide angle to capture surroundings, while visually dynamic, does not specifically pertain to the concept of directing attention ahead of the subject, which is crucial for a proper interpretation of 'leading the subject.' Thus, positioning the camera slightly in front effectively serves the storytelling purpose by correctly anticipating and framing the subject's movement.