Camera TECHNIQUES
Camera shots and other film techniques are really important in not only this show, but many films in general. Different angels and views can set different moods or ideas in each scene. In this show they stick to mainly to only a couple different shots. Ariel Views (as shown above) are commonly used in transition scenes, mainly when on of the characters is heading to a different location. Close-ups are sometimes used when Shawn has his 'revelations' about something. Zooming is also used very wisely in this show. The producers mainly use it to zoom out reveling something dramatic happening to the person in the scene around them. Also they use it when shawn sees a clue that can help later in the investigation. (See example below)
flash backs
The flash back scenes are very important to the theme of the show. They help show what goes on in shawn head. When shawn is having flash backs certain effects are layered on top to give it an old-looking back feel. By doing this it gives up a clear vision that he is thinking back to a period of time.
Filters and music
The music used in the show gives us the mood and idea of the scene. The main places music are used in the show are during transition scenes. During that time music could already set the scene in your mind. For example, the producers and editors use lighthearted music when ever scenes are not serious or the characters are in a safe place. But when any of the characters find them selves in a bad situation or in danger (mainly Gus and Shawn) the music gives you a clue of the scene ahead of time, during the transition.