Why Professional Video Editing Matters
Professional video editing is the backbone of compelling storytelling. It combines technical expertise with editorial judgement but above all, a creative, artistic flair. Once we have the editorial narrative in place we add cutaway picture sequences using B-Roll footage, paying particular attention to “the line” and continuity. These additional images reinforce the underlying editorial messaging. This is further enhanced with appropriate audio design using natural and foley sound. Music can then further enhance emotion. Crucially, the pace of an edit conveys emotion – fast paced edits with lots of quick short shots can be exciting and energetic. Slower paced edits can be more thoughtful or contemplative. Colour grading ensures the colour consistency and enables add a creative “look” to the finished product for additional impact.
Making the most of B-Roll and cutaways
B-Roll, also known as “cutaways” or “general views” performs many purposes. Their primary use is to visually reinforce the editorial messaging. During production, picture sequences will have been filming showing activities from multiple angles including wide shots and close ups. This often requires activities to be repeated many times. In the edit these shots are cut together which shows the activity happening from multiple angles. This allows us to extend or contract the sequence as necessary. Another key roll cutaways play is in masking audio edits in interviews which would appear to be jump cuts otherwise. Cutaway sequences may be used with “voiceover” or be used allow content to breath from a pacing perspective. They should always be relvent and add to overall narrative to deliver the result required.
Why is sound design so important?
Video consists of both pictures and sound. While some use cases do require a video to work if on mute, sound should be a key consideration both in production and in post production. In production we will have captured clear sound of those speaking in interviews along with natural sound of the environments we have filmed any B-Roll sequences in. Where it’s not possible to capture natural sound, such as when the camera is on a drone or we are filming something from a long way away, we will add sound afterwards in a process called sound design. We mix interview sound, natural sound, foley sound effects and music to create a sound track. At Dependable Productions, we never underestimate the impact of great sound which is why we consider it to be a crucial part of the post production process.