After watching (I'm sure quite too) many Star Trek episodes, I've noticed a number of occasions where the characters seem to step away or onto a more specific location to get transported, even if they are not anywhere near a transporter "pad."
Recently, I noticed this at the end of Deep Space Nine, Season 4, Episode 11, Paradise Lost - Part 2
where it's clear that Sisko steps slightly out of the way and closer to the group of other people to get transported, before he actually is ...
However, I've noticed this, to some extent in episodes of all 5 live-action TV series.
So, the question is ... is there there something inherent in transporter technology that requires people to be either:
- Closer together in proximity or ...
- In a certain location before normal transportation is possible?
Note: I realize this is sci-fi and an easy answer is "well it's a bit of a plot device, it depends ..." That's kinda weak, I'm looking for a more well-rounded anwser.