Space

Space is the area within the frame that is at the filmmaker’s disposal. It is a section of mise en scène and offers a three-dimensional stage, which can be filled with objects and characters. 

The space that is directly visible in the frame is called onscreen space. Meanwhile, space that is suggested (beyond the borders of the frame) is termed offscreen space. Its configuration and the corresponding effect can be manipulated by certain camera distances, lighting, or lens types.

According to mise en scène, special uses of space are:

• positive space
• negative space
• ambiguous space
• deep space or flat space
• tight framing or loose framing