In filmmaking, maintaining continuity is important. Continuity means that the shots flow together seamlessly, giving the audience the illusion that what they are watching is real life. When editing, one essential guideline that helps in achieving continuity is the 30-degree rule. This rule defines the degree of camera movement between two connected shots to ensure a smooth and logical visual narrative. Nothing is worse than confusing your audience, so learning the 30-degree rule is essential to growing your skill as an editor.
In this blog, we’ll define and then take a closer look at the significance of the 30-degree rule and discuss its influence on visual storytelling. And of course, we’ll delve into the considerations that editors should bear in mind to uphold continuity. You can learn more about the 30-degree rule in lesson four within EditMentor’s Art of Filmmaking – Intermediate course.
Understanding the 30-Degree Rule
The 30-degree rule is a fundamental principle of continuity in cinematography that governs the placement of the camera when cutting them together. It states that when transitioning from one shot to another, the camera should move at least 30 degrees from its previous position to maintain visual continuity. This ensures that there is a perceptible change in perspective, preventing jarring jump cuts or disorienting visual inconsistencies.
For example, cutting from a medium shot of a character, to a close of them without moving the camera left or right by 30-degrees would be a violation of the rule. The audience could feel like they “saw” the camera work, breaking continuity and the flow of the film.
Another reason to follow the 30-degree rule is because editors stitch together multiple performances (takes) when editing a scene. Because no actor can perform exactly same way in multiple takes, it may be difficult for the editor to find a perfectly matching moment where to cut. When editors follow the 30-degree rule, small errors in continuity are less noticeable.
How the 30-degree Rule Influences Visual Storytelling
The 30-degree rule plays a crucial role in visual storytelling by facilitating smooth shot transitions and maintaining a sense of spatial coherence. Here are some ways in which it influences the visual narrative:
Spatial Orientation
By adhering to the 30-degree rule, filmmakers can establish a clear sense of space and location within a scene. The movement of the camera helps the audience perceive the relationships between characters, objects, and the environment, enhancing their understanding of the story.
Visual Variety
The rule encourages filmmakers to vary their camera angles and perspectives, adding visual interest to the storytelling. By shifting the camera’s position, filmmakers can introduce different viewpoints, depths, and compositions, providing a fresh visual experience for the audience.
New filmmakers often overlook the importance of filming a lot of different angels (coverage). Some who know the significance of getting coverage forget to move the camera enough to make each shot unique and interesting, while still offering editors a traditional set of angles with which to edit (wide shots, medium, and close ups).
Emphasizing Importance
The 30-degree rule can be strategically broken to highlight significant moments or key story elements. A deliberate violation of the rule can draw the viewer’s attention and create emphasis on a particular subject or event, heightening its impact within the narrative.
For example, let’s say a character has a sudden realization. Cutting from a wide shot to a close up of their face just as they receive dramatic information will emphasize the moment to the audience.
What Editors Should Keep in Mind During Post-Production
While the 30-degree rule is primarily a guideline for cinematographers during the shoot, editors also play a crucial role in maintaining continuity during post-production. Keep these things in mind when editing your next piece of footage:
Shot Selection
Editors should carefully connect shots that adhere to the 30-degree rule when cutting between different camera angles. This ensures smooth transitions and helps avoid jarring visual inconsistencies that can distract or confuse the audience.
Visual Flow
Editors should be mindful of the flow and rhythm of the sequence. By aligning shots that adhere to the 30-degree rule, they can create a seamless visual progression that enhances the narrative’s pacing and emotional impact.
Creative Exemptions
While the 30-degree rule is a valuable guideline, editors can strategically break it to achieve specific effects or intensify dramatic moments. However, these deviations should be purposeful and justified to avoid disrupting the overall continuity and coherence of the scene.
Continuity Techniques
Editors should also employ additional continuity techniques, such as matching eyelines, shot sizes, and screen direction, to ensure smooth visual transitions. These techniques work in tandem with the 30-degree rule to create a cohesive and immersive viewing experience.
Wrap up
The 30-degree rule is a fundamental principle in filmmaking that contributes to the visual coherence and continuity of a scene. By adhering to this guideline, filmmakers can maintain a clear spatial orientation, introduce visual variety, and emphasize key story elements. During post-production, editors should be mindful of the 30-degree rule and its impact on continuity, while also having the creative freedom to strategically deviate from it when necessary. By striking a balance between adherence and creative flexibility, filmmakers can leverage this rule and keep their audiences engaged and stuck to the screen until the very end.
