Canon GL1 Instruction Manual page 32

Composition
E
The most important element in the scene does not have to be in the center. For a
more interesting picture, try to position your subject so it is slightly to one side.
Leave some space on the side of the frame that the subject is facing or moving
towards.
Don't cut off the top of the subject's head, and don't cut people off at the neck,
hips or knees (move a little bit above or below).
Watch out for distracting objects in the background.
Picture angle
Instead of zooming while recording, try to choose your
picture angle before you begin. A good way to tell a story
with video is to begin with a long shot that establishes the
situation, and then move in with medium shots and close-ups
to show the details. Remember to change your viewpoint for
each shot.
Remember that any camera movement or change in picture
angle should have a definite purpose. Avoid unnecessary or
half-hearted movements.
Camera moves
Use pans to record a landscape or follow a moving subject.
Decide the area you want to cover and stand facing the end of
your panning angle. Without moving your feet, turn your
waist to the starting position. Start recording, and after a few
seconds begin to turn slowly from the waist. Hold the final
image for a few seconds before you stop recording.
Tilt the camera up to exaggerate the height of the subject. Tilt
down from the top of a building, for example, as an
introduction to subjects at the bottom.
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Long shot
Medium shot
Close-up
Pan Pan
Tilt