What is the 180 rule for interviews?

The 180-Degree Rule: Maintaining Visual Coherence in Interviews

The success of any interview, whether for a documentary, news report, or corporate video, hinges not only on the quality of the conversation but also on its visual presentation. A jarring, disorienting visual experience can undermine even the most compelling dialogue. This is where the 180-degree rule, a fundamental principle of filmmaking and video production, comes into play. It’s a simple yet powerful tool for ensuring visual continuity and a more engaging viewing experience.

Essentially, the 180-degree rule dictates that the camera should always remain on one side of an imaginary line connecting the interviewer and the interviewee. Think of this line as an axis, and the cameras are restricted to operating within a 180-degree arc on one side of that axis. Crossing this line, known as “jumping the line” or “crossing the axis,” dramatically alters the onscreen relationship between the subjects and disrupts the viewer’s sense of spatial orientation.

Imagine a simple interview setup: the interviewer sits to the left of the interviewee. If the camera is positioned to the interviewer’s right, and then a subsequent shot is taken from the interviewee’s right, the viewer will see the interviewer and interviewee appear to have switched places, creating a jarring visual discontinuity. Their positions relative to each other have essentially been flipped. This is a clear violation of the 180-degree rule.

Maintaining the 180-degree rule ensures that the subject’s gaze remains consistent on screen. If the interviewee looks to their left to address the interviewer (from the camera’s perspective), they should consistently look left throughout the interview within the established 180-degree arc. This creates a natural flow and prevents the viewer from becoming confused or disoriented.

The benefits extend beyond simple spatial consistency. Adherence to the 180-degree rule promotes:

• Improved Eye Contact: The perceived eye contact between the interviewer and interviewee remains consistent, enhancing the feeling of a natural conversation.
• Enhanced Viewer Engagement: A smoother, more coherent visual presentation keeps the audience focused on the content rather than being distracted by spatial inconsistencies.
• Professionalism: Following this rule demonstrates attention to detail and a professional approach to filmmaking.

While there are exceptions and creative choices that might necessitate breaking the 180-degree rule (like a deliberate shift in perspective or emphasis), understanding and applying this fundamental principle is essential for creating visually compelling and easily digestible interview footage. By carefully planning camera positions and adhering to this simple rule, filmmakers can ensure their interviews are not just informative, but also visually engaging and easy to follow.