Definition & Meaning of "dolly zoom"

What is a "dolly zoom"?

A dolly zoom is a camera technique that combines a zoom lens with a dolly, which is a wheeled cart or track system, to create a dramatic effect. As the camera moves closer or farther from the subject, the zoom lens simultaneously adjusts to maintain the subject’s size in the frame. This results in a visual effect where the background appears to change perspective or distort while the subject remains the same size. The dolly zoom is often used to create a sense of unease or emphasize a dramatic moment by altering the viewer's perception of depth and space.