What type of shot shows the subject from the waist to the head?

The medium shot is defined as a framing that typically captures the subject from the waist up to the head. This type of shot is commonly used in film and television to establish a good balance between the subject and their environment, allowing for facial expressions to be visible while also conveying some background context. It is versatile and effective for dialogues and interactions between characters, as it enables the audience to connect with the emotions and actions occurring in that space. In contrast, other types of shots serve different purposes: a long shot focuses more on the environment surrounding the subject, while a close-up centers on the face or other specific details, and the American shot, which is slightly different, generally encompasses the subject from the knees up. Thus, the medium shot is the most fitting choice for showing the subject from the waist to the head.