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Activity Forums Cinematography Question: Cutting between shots

  • Question: Cutting between shots

    Posted by Shane Copland on October 4, 2013 at 2:54 am

    Hi all!

    I’m in the editing phase on my first independently produced pilot!

    I was hoping someone out the had some tips on cutting between shots in a scene. Specifically, making the transitions from shot to shot smooth. I’m finding that when I cut from character to character in a conversation it just doesn’t flow. I have been using y-cuts to fix this, but wanted to know if anyone had any other techniques to flow from shot to shot?

    Thanks so much!

    Shane Copland replied 12 years, 7 months ago 2 Members · 2 Replies
  • 2 Replies
  • Mark Suszko

    October 4, 2013 at 1:52 pm

    Have you read any of Walter Murch’s books? That’s a good start.

    When I cut dialogue, I’m looking at the facial expressions, the eye blinks, the little inhalations before someone speaks. I also look for strong posture or limb position cues, like a flailing or gesticulating arm. I tend to favor two-shots and save the singles for key lines or reactions.

    You might also ask this question in the, you know, Editing forum:-)

  • Shane Copland

    October 4, 2013 at 4:48 pm

    Thank you, I will try both… as soon as I can find the editing forum.

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