Multiple Exposure Method

a special-effects method in which several images are combined in a frame by consecutive photography of different objects on the same film. To accomplish this, the camera must have good image stability in the film gate, a reverse gear for unwinding the film, and footage and frame counters. Multiple exposure produces pictures in which some objects seem to show through others. This feature is used in motion pictures as a graphic method of depicting memories and dra’ ns and for a smooth transition from one scene to another.

Various types of masking methods, such as the use of a black background or fixed and traveling mattes, are used when making a multiple exposure to prevent double exposure of certain portions of a frame. Mattes and covers of the required shape are made of thick black paper or thin cardboard and are mounted in a special matte holder in front of the lens. In the simplest case, shooting against a black background, several images of the same object may be obtained in different parts of the frame. The use of a matte that is stationary in relation to the camera film gate makes it possible to photograph an actor in several roles and to combine in a frame a natural object with an illustration or model. Traveling mattes are also commonly used to solve complex problems of staging and portrayal during the filming of motion pictures.