The Shots That Make You Feel – A Letter from Ms. Lundblade
There are moments when I’m conducting an interview and I notice something particularly cinematic happening. Whether it’s a flicker of light across a table. A breeze that moves a curtain. A close-up of hands fidgeting…
With the help of an additional b-cam, I’m sometimes able to capture something… unexplainable. An additional connection to the emotion of the story. These are often my favorite shots to use in the edit when I’m trying to thread the story’s narrative and theme.
These types of shots don’t scream for attention. They don’t tell you what to think. They leave space. And in that space, something wild happens: People feel.
In this post, I want to explore what ambiguous b-roll is, why it matters, and how it can elevate your storytelling—especially when you’re trying to connect with an audience that’s a little weary of the obvious.
With creativity, Ms. Lundblade
What Is Ambiguous B-Roll?
Ambiguous b-roll refers to those shots that don’t have a literal connection to the action. They aren’t explanatory. They’re evocative. Think:
- Shadows moving across a wall
- A hallway with no one in it
- Someone’s hands shaking slightly
- A close-up of someone deep in thought
- Wind catching the corner of a curtain
It’s imagery that suggests emotion, tension, memory, mystery—without ever spelling it out.
These shots don’t always make the storyboard. But they should.
Why Does It Work So Well?
- It invites interpretation. Instead of handing the audience a clear meaning, ambiguous imagery gives them space to bring their own emotional experience. This makes your story theirs, not just yours.
- It creates rewatch value. Literal content tends to age quickly. Abstract, moody content invites repeat viewing because people find new meaning each time.
- It feels more honest. Real life doesn’t always come with a caption. The most human moments are often the least explained.
When to Use Ambiguous Imagery
- Between dialogue scenes to create mood
- During transitions to bridge tone or emotion
- In brand pieces where you’re aiming for a vibe, not just a message
- When you need B-roll flexibility across different projects (these shots are versatile!)
Tips for Capturing It Well
- Shoot handheld or with minimal direction. Let moments happen.
- Focus on texture, light, emotion and movement over action.
- Capture “accidental” footage—you’ll often find gems in what wasn’t planned.
- Stay curious. Film the in-between.
The Bottom Line
Final Thought – Make Room for the Mood
Ambiguous b-roll may never be the hero of your story—but it just might be its heartbeat.
Don’t be afraid to film what you can’t quite explain. Sometimes, those are the moments people remember most.