Last week in Cinema Studies we looked at editing and filming techniques. One of the things we talked about was the 180 degree rule. Also known as the axes of action, this rule can be linked to continuity editing. This is because it creates an invisible line between to points on screen which the camera will not cross. The camera can be positioned anywhere within that 180 degrees but will not go beyond that. This therefore ensures that the characters or objects on screen to not switch sides.

For example, one character (A) and another character (B) are having a conversation. The axes of action is drawn connecting the two characters. Lets now say that character A is on the left and B is on the right of the screen. Now if the camera was to cross over the axes of action, character A would be on the right and B on the left. This can be very confusing for audiences because they can get lost and not know where the characters are in relation to the scene. Thus, the 180 degree rule intends to make it easy for audiences to follow the acting on screen.

Take a look at the bellow video by Lights Film School if you would like a more detailed explanation of the 180 degree rule as well as some other lighting and shot sequence tips.