Continuity Editing

What is the 180 degrees rule?

In cinematography, the 180 degrees rule, is set as a recommendation for how an object is spaced in relation to an reference object; this is known as spatial relations. The rule consists of a imaginary axis line; drawn from one object to the other. The rule explains about keeping the camera shots on the one side of the axis, and can only move to the other side, if the movement is shown in the editing. An film example of a 180 degrees rule used in a scene would be, 'The Dark Knight-Agent of Chaos' in this link it shows the scene in which Harvey Dent and The Joker are having an conversation; the camerawork uses a variety of different angles, however keeping in the 180 degree rule and not crossing the axis line.

Above is a diagram of 180 degrees rule.

What is, 'match on action'?

Match on action otherwise called cutting on action, is where (within editing process) the shots are cut from one scene to another view that has relation to the actions within the first scene. This gives an sense of continuous effect to the final cut, even if they were filmed days apart. This video editing technique of action carrying on naturally creates a visual bridge; getting the same action from different perspectives or angles, this draws the audiences attention away from issues of sharp cutting between shots. Unlike match cut or graphic match-which show separate shots- match on action creates a natural sense of movement between scenes. 'Iron Man-Handles Like A Dream', is a scene which represents the match on action technique perfectly of Iron Man flying around in his suit in different angles and perspectives.

Above is a diagram of Match on action. 

What is, 'Reverse shot'?

Reverse shot, is a type of shot used when two subjects/objects are facing opposite each other. This camera technique is highly used in conversations, or even an exchange of looks between an person and an object, this signified the importance of the object has in relation to the character. Reverse shot ties in with a previous technique; 180 degree rule. This has great importance as changing sides of the axis will cause the eye levels to be off, taking the realism out of the scene. At 0:00-0:20 and again at 0:50-1:34 the scene uses reverse shot within a conversation between the two subjects, this is from the movie Jurassic World-Alive.

Above is a diagram of reverse shot.