Editing Techniques

Editing Techniques

Continuity editing is editing that helps the viewer see what action is occurring in the shot. this is created by smooth cuts occurring to show a smooth flow from shot to shot. In continuity editing, establishing shots are used to establish the setting of the shots that are being shown to the viewer. Match on actions shots are also used in continuity editing. This may be used to show a path or journey that may be happening as their is a continuation of the same movement throughout the shots.

Non continuity editing is shots that are mismatched and non linear which may confuse the audience and not create a sense of reality. Jump cuts are used in this type of editing as an object may jump between shots which may show the passing of time between the movements which may disrupt linear time and sequences. Cross cutting, montages and flashbacks are other shots that can be used during non continuity editing.

Transitions is another editing technique that simply is the cutting of one shot to another. Usually a straight cut would be used to cut the two shots but transitions are available to film editors to create an effect between the shots. Fades, dissolves and wipes are different types of transitions that can be used. A transition such as a dissolve may mean/resemble something as the dissolve may be used to show a character dreaming.

Shot Duration/Pace and rhythm may also be used during editing. The duration of shots during a film may reflect the context of the film e.g. chase scene- quick fast shots. Long shot durations may create intensity during the film as facial expressions may need to be focused on during the film and this may be missed if a variety of shots were included.