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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, 10 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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