Pan

What it is

A pan is a horizontal camera movement where the camera rotates left or right on its vertical axis, without physically moving its position.

Why it's important

Pans guide the viewer’s attention across a scene. It helps follow action, reveal new information, or establish spatial relationships in a scene - all without cutting. They’re simple yet powerful in maintaining continuity.

When/how to use

Use pans to follow movement, introduce a scene, or connect subjects across a space. Keep it smooth (tripod or gimbal) to avoid shaky shots, unless you want that handheld feel.

Best Practices

Move smoothly – Use fluid-head tripods or gimbals to avoid jerky pans.
Pan with purpose – Follow subject motion or reveal new information rather than panning aimlessly.
Control speed – Adjust pan speed to fit scene tone (slow for suspense, quick for energy).