What does "static shot" refer to in cinematography?

In cinematography, a "static shot" refers specifically to a shot that is taken from a fixed position without any camera movement. This technique emphasizes the composition of the frame and allows the viewer to focus on the action and details within the scene without the distraction of shifting perspectives. By maintaining a stable viewpoint, the static shot can enhance storytelling by giving the audience a grounded perspective on character interactions or important visuals.

This approach contrasts with shots that involve extensive camera movement, such as pans or tracking shots, which can create a sense of dynamism but might detract from certain narrative elements. While steady handheld filming may appear stable, it typically involves some degree of movement, thus not qualifying as a static shot. Integrating multiple camera angles simultaneously usually pertains to techniques like editing or using multi-camera setups, which diverges from the definition of a static shot that focuses on remaining fixed in one position.