Shot/Reverse Shot is a classic style of shooting a two-shot scene. It is in mid-shot, traditionally from over the characters shoulders (the same shoulder on each character every time). It's often used in conversation to better show facial expression.
Here is an example of a simple, shot/reverse shot conversation;
The shooting of the sequence is rather simple, it only requires the use of good timing. It is done by first setting up the camera to show the first character, who then proceeds with their side of the conversation, leaving gaps between answers. "Hello...How are you?...I'm good thanks...gosh! Must dash, I'm late...yes, see you soon" That done, the camera is then moved to show the other character from over the first's shoulder and they proceed with their side. "Hi...I'm good thanks, you?...glad to hear it...you'd better get a move on then!...Bye"
In editing, the two scenes will then be cut and merged together in chronological order to form the fluid conversation.
This method is used often in conversation to show in detail the character's facial expressions. In doing this the audience get a good look at the character, both their face and costume portraying how the audience would interpret them. The way the camera is set gives the impression of being involved with the conversation, adding a new level for the audience. It often stops conversation scenes from looking clumsy or odd.
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