What is the basis for always shooting on the same side of the action axis?

Shooting on the same side of the action axis is primarily intended to maintain directional continuity. This principle is fundamental in visual storytelling, as it ensures that the audience understands the spatial relationships and movement between characters or objects within a scene. By adhering to this rule, filmmakers help viewers intuitively grasp the flow of action without confusion regarding which direction characters are facing or moving towards.

When the action axis is respected, it keeps the camera angles consistent in relation to the scene's action, which supports continuity in how characters or elements are perceived. If the axis is crossed without purpose, it can create disorientation, potentially leading the viewer to misunderstand the sequence of events. Thus, maintaining this continuity is critical for clear and effective storytelling, ultimately enhancing the audience's engagement with the narrative.