What Is the 180° Rule?
The 180-degree rule refers to an imaginary line that helps keep cameras on one side of an axis to prevent viewers from becoming disoriented when watching an interaction between two or more subjects.
For example, in a scene where two characters are having a conversation with each other, an invisible line is drawn straight down the center of the scene and between each actor. It is this invisible line in which the cameras must choose one side to shoot from and remain on that side throughout the rest of the scene.
A wide establishing shot that includes both actors facing each other will set the orientation for the viewer so that during shots where only one character is on the screen, they always appear to be looking at each other by remaining on the same side of the screen as set by the establishing shot.
Watch this short explainer video below:
“The 180 DEGREE RULE in FILMMAKING | KaiCreative” by Kai Creative
The 180-degree rule is essential for filmmakers to follow for maintaining continuity and creating markers for spatial orientation to help viewers navigate around a location or setting. In another example of the 180-degree rule in action, if a scene shows a car leaving a house and traveling from the right side of the screen to the left, then it is immediately followed up with a shot of the same car traveling from the left side of the screen to the right, it indicates that the driver is going back towards the house.
Filmmakers can also break the 180-degree rule in order to create a new one. This is particularly useful when introducing a new subject to a scene. It can also be an effective method to create more action, movement, and chaos in a scene.
If you are looking for experienced camera operators who are familiar with the 180-degree rule, check out our online Nevada Production Directory to find professional camera operators in Nevada. You can also drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!
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