Grammar of the Shot, 2nd Edition

The 30 Degree Rule

Grounded in the execution of the 180 degree rule is another important guideline called the 30 degree rule. Simply put, when you are seeking various angles on action for a variety of shot types within your 180 degree arc, you should ideally move the camera at least 30 degrees around the semicircle before you begin to frame up a new shot of the same subject. The angle of view or perspective on the same subjects is considered “different enough” when the camera is moved away from the previous setup by at least 30 degrees. Because each shot or view of the action is supposed to show new information to the audience, it makes sense that you would not wish to create two separate coverage shots that are too similar to one another. Following ...