180 Degree Rule

The Rule

The 180 degree rule is a rule concerning camera work which is followed in order to avoid confusing the viewers. An imaginary line called the axis (see above) goes through the two cameras concerned in the shot. The rule states that you cannot cross over the axis with a cut, and you must film just on the selected side of the axis. This will make it more easy to comprehend as it will make sure that one character is always on the right and the other is always on the left, and they will not switch. If you cross the axis, it is knows and crossing the line, or jumping the line.

Breaking The 180 Degree Rule

It is possible to break the rule, but it can be very difficult to do properly so in most circumstances it is easier to just conform to the rule. The most common way to break the rule is to simply move the camera round the axis by tracking.