What does head room refer to in framing a shot?

Head room refers specifically to the amount of space left above a person's head within the frame of a shot. This concept is vital in video production because it helps maintain a balanced composition and ensures that subjects are not cramped within the frame. Proper head room helps convey the intended emotion or focus of the shot, contributing to the overall aesthetic of the video. If there is too much space above the subject, it can create an awkward appearance, while too little can make the subject feel confined or lower the visual impact of the scene. Understanding and applying the right amount of head room is essential for effective framing in cinematography.