The 180° Rule

This image shows the rule as a whole, it shows the line of vision which shouldnt be crossed as will result in the charchters swapping position on screen.

 



 

 

The line of vision between two people should not be crossed if the rule is to work, otherwise the audience would be unsure where the positioning of each character is, and would then get confused.

This rule is essential for filming anything, especially conversations where the camera changes from one person to the other alternately.