What is the left-right or right-left movement of a camera called?

The left-right or right-left movement of a camera is referred to as a pan. Panning involves swiveling the camera horizontally from a fixed location, allowing the viewer to follow action or showcase a wider perspective of the scene. This technique is particularly effective for capturing the environment around a subject or for following moving subjects to create a sense of motion.

In film and video production, a pan can establish context or lead the audience’s attention across different elements within the frame. It is a fundamental camera movement that enhances storytelling by providing fluid transitions and a dynamic viewpoint.

The other options denote different camera movements: a tilt refers to moving the camera up and down, roll describes the camera rotating along its axis, and a crane involves lifting the camera above the ground, often used for sweeping shots. Each movement serves specific purposes within cinematography, but panning distinctly applies to the horizontal left-right movement.