What is the technique of handheld shooting?

Handheld shooting is a technique where the camera is supported and controlled primarily with the operator's hands, often using two hands and sometimes incorporating the shoulder for stability. This approach allows for greater mobility and flexibility, enabling the filmmaker to capture dynamic shots in various environments where a tripod might be impractical.

By using two hands, the operator can maintain better control over the camera movements, resulting in smoother and more intentional framing. This technique is particularly useful for capturing action scenes, interviews, or situations where a more intimate or real-time perspective is desired. The use of the shoulder as a stabilizing point can further enhance the steadiness of the shot, reducing unwanted shake while still allowing for a more organic and immersive feel compared to the rigidness of tripod setups.

Other options, such as filming while walking or using one hand, might suggest a level of instability or reduced control, which is not ideal for the visual storytelling typically aimed for in professional video production. Using a tripod is a completely separate technique that offers a very different level of stability, useful for static shots but not representative of handheld shooting.