What does 'zoom' refer to in film terminology?

In film terminology, 'zoom' refers to the amount of magnification applied to the content within the frame. When a shot is zoomed in, it essentially enlarges the subject of the scene, making it appear closer to the audience without the physical movement of the camera itself. This is achieved through the camera lens, which can adjust its focal length to bring the subject closer, allowing for a more detailed view. Zooming can create a sense of intimacy or urgency, depending on how it’s used within a scene.

The other options discuss different aspects of cinematography and shot composition, but they do not accurately describe what zoom specifically refers to. For instance, the angle used in a shot relates to how the camera is positioned in relation to the subject, and the movement of the camera from side to side pertains to panning rather than zooming. The type of shot used in a scene deals with broader categorization, such as wide shots or close-ups, rather than the mechanic of magnification that defines zoom.