The camera stays put and only the field of view changes to magnify or shrink. Perspective doesn't change, so it looks flat.
When to use it
Documentary and reality-show tones, a retro look, pointing out an important subject.
Example videos
Zoom Out Shot - Barry Lyndon (1975) - Camera shot, Camera angle, Camera movement — Real: See a zoom out where the camera stays put and only the field of view widens, pulling back from a person to the landscape.How to Use a Zoom Shot — Why the Best Shots Work — Explainer: See the kinds of zoom and how, unlike a dolly move, perspective doesn't change.ALL Camera Movement Prompts in AI Filmmaking (38 Cinematic Moves) — AI: See smooth optical zoom in and zoom out made with AI.
Will AI handle it well?
Official preset available — Higgsfield 'Zoom In/Out', Kling and Runway 'Zoom', Luma 'Zoom in/out'
One-click prompt
Slow optical zoom in on a faded bakery signboard above a small street shop, the camera position stays fixed and only the focal length changes, giving a flat perspective, 24-70mm zoom lens, soft overcast light, quiet nostalgic mood, 5-second shot.
Tell the AI like this
slow optical zoom in on the sign, camera position fixed