What does establishing the relationship between the set/location and characters in an establishing shot help the audience understand?

Establishing the relationship between the set or location and the characters in an establishing shot fundamentally serves to provide the audience with the geographical context of the narrative. This type of shot is designed to give viewers an overview of where the action is taking place, and it often conveys important information about the setting, including its mood, atmosphere, and significance to the story. By clearly situating the characters within a defined location, the shot establishes not only where the characters are but also suggests how the environment might influence their interactions and the overall storyline. This contextual grounding is essential for audience comprehension, as it helps to frame the narrative's unfolding events, setting expectations for the story that follows.