Framing

The number of people in a shot is also used to help define a shot, and allows filmmakers to communicate clearly with each other. One-shot, two-shot, three-shot, four-shot, group and crowd-shot are the most commonly used.

These types of shots are defined by the number of character faces that are visibly present in the shot and generally, more crowded scenes are associated with wider angles unless the intention is to convey a claustrophobic feeling. These types of framings are among the most used shots in any film as they are focused on characters and what they are doing. In shots with two or more characters in the frame, the relationships and dynamics of them will also come to play.

One-Shot

When your shot captures one subject in the frame it’s known as a one-shot (aka single shot, solo). Single shots can be set and framed in any shot size, there should only be one character featured within the frame. It is an effective way to direct the viewer's attention to what is most important in the scene as the character is most likely the main point of interest.

It is a great way of showing a characters reactions and expressions.

Two-Shot

A two-shot (aka double) includes two characters in the frame. When two characters share the screen there is an inherent narrative statement of how they interact with each other. Where the characters are positioned gives geographic context to the viewer, but more importantly, it can visually represent the relationship dynamics between the two characters such as conflict, romance, friendship etc... This is because the viewer is prompted to compare and contrast the body language, facial expressions, costumes and all the other visual characteristics in more detail.

There is a multitude of ways to set up or block a two-shot such as a profile where each character is looking at each other (as above), side by side where the characters are facing towards or away from the camera and any other random placement of the characters.