Push In

The Push in is a very subtle forward motion on the track, rousing a sense of attraction and fascination toward the subject. This effective tool mimics a 'leaning into' effect; it is as though we are listening into a private moment (eliciting our voyeuristic tendencies).
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EFFECT
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The push in creates the following effects:
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1. It Promotes Intrigue: The push in creates the impression of eavesdropping (drawing us into the drama). Our voyeuristic tendencies are roused by the motion of creeping in upon an exclusive moment. 
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2. It Arouses Wonder: Unlike a simple cut from a mid shot to a close up, the 'push in' is more magnetic, drawing us into the actor's performance and focusing upon a pivotal scene.  
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3. It Punctuates a Moment: The slow 'push in' tells the audience that this is an important moment, and when the track stops it acts like a full stop punctuating the scene.

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 EXECUTION
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Position the camera on a track facing the artist/s (either head on or in this case a profile). Aim to start from a wide angle such as a medium shot.

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In the following example the camera is slightly favoring the lady in the red top. This allows us to see more of her expressions as she seduces her partner.

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As the scene commences the camera begins to push in to a close up on the two artists, maintaining a slow creeping speed throughout.

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Unlike 'punching in' where you surge forward at speed, the 'push in' advances at a more gentle and gradual manner, (in may take as long as 30 seconds from the back of the track to the top of the shot).

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It is a very flexible tool that can be used to highlight all manner of activities and emotions. Here are some examples:

A Revelation:  A psychiatrist begins to recall his past with a client.
a) Push in - He remembers the boy telling him he see's ghosts, who often don't know they're dead. 
b) Stop + Punctuate - He suddenly stumbles in shock as he realises HE is a ghost!
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A Declaration:  A warrior rallies his kinsmen for battle:
a) Push in - He rouses them with words of encouragement and strength.
b) Stop + Punctuate - He roars at them with a fervent call to arms, "fight for your people, fight for FREEDOM!
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A Speech: A Defense attorney speaks to a white jury about a racist crime:
a) Push in - He asks them to imagine the trauma a little girl who was raped and beaten by drunks. 
b) Stop + Punctuate - He ends with a comment aimed at their own prejudices "Now imagine the girl is black" 
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Thanks for reading.