Camera and Film Stock:
* Hand-cranked cameras: Most early silent films were shot using hand-cranked cameras, requiring a cameraman to manually turn a crank to advance the film. This method could lead to inconsistent frame rates and jerky movements, contributing to the characteristic "stop-motion" aesthetic of early cinema.
* Film stock: Initially, silent films were shot on nitrate film, a highly flammable and unstable material. Later, acetate film replaced nitrate, offering greater stability and longevity.
* Camera movement: While some early cameras were fixed, techniques like panning, tilting, and tracking shots were eventually developed to add dynamism and storytelling depth.
Lighting:
* Natural light: Many early silent films relied heavily on natural light, limiting shooting hours to daylight and creating dramatic shadows.
* Arc lights: As filmmaking progressed, powerful arc lights were introduced, allowing for shooting in artificial settings and at night. These lights produced intense heat and could be dangerous, but they provided a more controlled and consistent light source.
Sound:
* No sound recording: Silent films were initially devoid of recorded sound. Instead, they relied on:
* Live music: An orchestra or pianist would play a score live in the theater during the film's projection.
* Sound effects: Sound effects were created live using instruments, vocalizations, and everyday objects during the film's screening.
Acting:
* Exaggerated gestures and facial expressions: Because there was no dialogue, actors had to rely on physical gestures and facial expressions to convey emotions and narratives.
* Use of intertitles: Text cards, known as intertitles, were used to provide dialogue, narration, and other essential information for the audience.
Production and Editing:
* Limited editing: Early films had limited editing capabilities, with scenes often filmed in long, unbroken takes.
* Special effects: Although limited by technology, filmmakers experimented with early special effects, including stop-motion animation, matte paintings, and double exposure techniques.
Overall, silent films were innovative and resourceful in utilizing available technologies to create compelling narratives. Despite their limitations, they laid the foundation for the development of the cinematic language that we know today.