Good Golly! What's a Dolly?

To ensure interest in a video production, a good cameraman will often use Dolly shots.

This involves using a Dolly of some type. Essentially, a Dolly is a set of wheels that can move the camera fluidly around the subject.

A Dolly can be a fixed track system resembling railroad tracks. A sled type fixture is placed on top of the tracks to move the camera and tripod about. Another example of a Dolly is a tripod with wheels.

Dolly shots can be made with any set of wheels, such as a skateboard, wheelchair or car.

When executed well it adds to style to a video production and creates an effect that stands out. It also provides a unique contrast when the production is made up predominantly of wide and medium shots and close ups.

Strangely enough, there is no connection to dolls.